Franz Plangger
Executive Director, Outdoor Council of Canada
Amanda Cora
Managing Director & Founder, Thrive Tours
Brad Robinson
CEO & Owner, Thrive Tours
Exploring Canada’s stunning natural landscapes with an Indigenous-led tour this summer can offer a unique and enriching experience.
With summer around the corner, why not take time to go outside and experience the best our country has to offer to all Canadians?
Summer is a time of increased energy and possibilities. The daylight hours last longer, going outside one’s home is much easier, and the spring in the step we see in most people seems to be contagious. It’s the perfect time of year to experience what Canada is known for internationally: its natural spaces.
Overcoming the intimidation of the outdoors
However, for many, going outside even in the summer can be intimidating. The place you visit can feel like a random mix of green, brown, yellow, blue, and other hues. Going to a new place in nature can feel scary. It’s not uncommon for the weather to change, turning a pleasant walk into an “I wish I was anywhere else but here” moment. Finally, with the increased number of people going into natural spaces, it can sometimes feel like you join a group of people who end up damaging the environment because of our collective impact.
Nonetheless, Canada’s world-class nature is a gift that keeps on giving. It’s not only a great item for a bucket list — time outside also fills up your buckets of physical and emotional well-being, quality time with those you share the experience with, and a personal connection to the land.
A unique and enriching journey
An easy way to overcome the challenges linked with going out in nature is to work with a professional Indigenous tour operator. Exploring Canada’s natural beauty through authentic Indigenous-led experiences offers a unique and enriching journey, deeply rooted in respect for the environment and Indigenous cultures. When looking for such authentic experiences, you’ll want to be looking for operators who are accredited under The Original Original standard set by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada.
Original OriginalIndigenous tourism operators such as Thrive Tours, located in Batchewana First Nation, Ont., excel in crafting these experiences, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and a profound connection with the land. Their offerings range from kayaking and canoeing to cultural wellness retreats, all designed to immerse guests in the teachings and traditions of Indigenous Peoples. This approach fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world and the rich heritage that has stewarded it for generations.
Contributing to reconciliation
Choosing operators like Thrive Tours means embarking on more than just an outdoor adventure — it’s an opportunity to engage with the land in a meaningful way, guided by the principles of sustainability and respect. It’s a chance to fill your bucket with not only the sights and sounds of Canada’s stunning landscapes but also the stories, wisdom, and spirit of the Indigenous cultures that have been stewarding this land for thousands of years. Through this immersive experience, guests contribute to a journey of reconciliation and gain insights into a living culture deeply intertwined with nature.
Indigenous tour operators like Thrive Tours provide high-quality, authentic experiences. To find a provider near you, you can contact the Indigenous Tourism Association in your province. If you struggle to find information on your provincial association, you can contact the Outdoor Council of Canada for help in your search.
Learn more at outdoorcouncil.ca
This article is a collaboration between the Outdoor Council of Canada and Thrive Tours.
