Indigenous Experiences: immerse yourself in First Nations cultures

Would you like to add deeper meaning to your travels? Would you like to avoid the classic tourist traps and meet the original nations that made the land their own for millennia? Good news: Quebec and Ontario are overflowing with rich indigenous experiences that both reach back into distant history and are anchored in the living present. Here are 10 ideas for an authentic immersion in the art, food, traditions and social lives of First Nations cultures.

Traditional Huron-Wendat site – Wendake (near Quebec City)

Just a hop and a skip from Quebec City, plunge into the universe of the Huron-Wendat Nation. Wendake offers you guided visits, a longhouse, storytelling, craftmaking workshops and even indigenous restaurants. Feel and experience a complete cultural immersion!

Musée Abénakis – Odanak (Centre-du-Québec)

A little museum with a big heart. The Musée des Abénakis in Odanak recounts the history, culture and resilience of the Abenaki First Nation. Contemporary exhibitions, traditional objects and living programming: you’ll leave with a broader perspective on the world. Worth the detour!

Mādahòkì Farm – Ottawa

A one-of-a-kind location to discover contemporary indigenous culture while enjoying a moment in Ontario nature. Mādahòkì Farm regularly hosts festivals, artisanal markets and shows. You can also see the endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses – the only indigenous horse breed – and savour revisited traditional dishes.

Micmac Fishing Camp – Gesgapegiag (Baie des Chaleurs)

Looking for an experience that’s immerses you in both culture and nature? Camp Micmac offers guided fishing tours that follow Micmac traditions. Learn to fish for salmon on Gaspésie rivers, grill up your catch, and discover an inspiring relationship with the land.

Gespeg Micmac Interpretation Site – Gaspé (L’Anse-au-Griffon)

Exploring Gaspésie? Stop by this centre that reconstitutes a traditional Mic Mac village of the Seventeenth Century. You’ll discover the know-how, the world view and the relationship to the land of the Mi’gmaq Nation. It’s a fulfilling visit to combine with your passage to Forillon National Park or the Griffon Adventure Hostel.

Daphne indigenous art centre – Montreal

Founded by and for indigenous artists, this centre in Montreal offers contemporary exhibitions, artistic events and residencies. Perfect to see how First Peoples are currently expressing themselves artistically, the centre is open, inclusive and inspiring.

Pow Wows throughout Quebec and Ontario

Keep on eye open during your travels for summertime pow wows. These large gatherings are festive, vibrant and open to everybody. They feature singing, dancing and drumming as well as handicrafts and traditional food. Respect the protocol by listening, observing and asking, if you’re not sure what’s going on, and appreciate the sacredness of the pow wow. Consult Destination Indigenous to find out more!