b'NORTHERN TOURISMTHE CALL OF THENORTHI n d i g e n o u s t o u r i s m o p e r a t o r s i n C a n a d a s N o r t h b u i l d u p t h e s e c t o r a s m o r e v i s i t o r s s e e k o u t a u t h e n t i c e x p e r i e n c e s t h a t e m b r a c e I n d i g e n e i t yBy Kelly ParkerPhoto courtesy of Arctic Bay AdventuresW ith its vast tracts of boreal forest, tundra,level, explains Ryan Rogers, communications manager snow and ice, Canadas North is known forfor the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). the innate beauty of its landscape and theTheres no better way to do that than to talk to the original Indigenous people that have lived on thepeople of that land. pristine, rugged land for centuries. So it comes as no surprise that the North is gaining attentionSome of the Northern experiences drawing in tourists are among tourists, both for its unique beauty and immersivethose that have long been on offer, i.e., dramatic polar bear-Indigenous experiences.viewing tours. However, more recently, Rogers has noticed a growing interest in activities that provide deeper knowl-In response, Indigenous entrepreneurs are stepping up toedge and understanding of Indigeneity, and there are more the plate, developing and running successful tour opera- companies delivering them. I find that were getting a lot tions to meet this growing market need. Not only are theyof new Indigenous-owned and operated walking tours, in building a viable livelihood for themselves, but one that alsoboth urban and more remote areas, he says. You can take promotes their culture and their Indigeneity and delivers aa walking tour with an Indigenous guide wholl teach you valuable learning experience to all those who visit.about the land and the Indigenous peoples connection to that land. Thats just one example.A valuable learning experience is exactly what is high on the list of wants among visitors to Canada today. WeRogers notes that as of 2019, one in three international visi-find that peoples travel trends and travel perspectivestors [to Canada] wanted an Indigenous tourism experience, are shifting. People want a more soulful travel experience,and he believes that number has grown substantially since and they want to connect to the destination on a deeperthen. In turn, the number of Indigenous-owned businesses 68A CCIB PUBLICATIONFall 2024'