North Island First Nations Cultures and Adventures

Responsible tourism means that the experience creates a positive impact for all involved–not just the traveller. Responsible Indigenous tourism in BC means that travel includes consideration of all which is of value to Indigenous Peoples–their communities, languages, and cultures; water, animals, and lands.

Day 1 - From Victoria or Nanaimo drive to Port McNeill

Upon arrival in Port Hardy, pick-up your car and travel south to Port McNeill, in the land of the Kwakiutl people. Listen to the waves break on the northern shoreline from your home for the next three nights: a comfortable cottage near the ocean’s edge at the Cluxewe Resort. Awaken to the haunting sound of loons or the screech of a bald eagle and enjoy vivid summer sunsets over Broughton Strait.

Day 2 - Exploring Alert Bay

This morning you will travel by ferry from Port McNeill to the welcoming village of Alert Bay on the small and hilly island known as Cormorant Island, inhabited mainly by the people of ‘Namgis First Nation. Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre and learn about the potlatch system, as well as traditional and spiritual practices from Kwakwaka’wakw guides. See and hear how the living Kwakwaka’wakw generation is reconnecting to the ways of their ancestors.

While in Alert Bay, visit the Indigenous owned and operated Culture Shock Interactive Gallery  for one-of-a-kind Indigenous art, jewellery, woven cedar pieces, and articles of contemporary design.

Day 3 - Grizzly Bear Viewing

From Port McNeill, embark on a full day excursion by boat into the beautiful territory of the Musg̱a̱makw Dzawada̱’enux̱w with Sea Wolf Adventures. Eagles soar overhead, and wolves roam the shell-strewn beaches where ancient villages were once occupied by the Musg̱a̱makw Dzawada̱’enux̱w. Enjoy a continental breakfast as the boat navigates waters favoured by migrating orcas, and listen to your guide’s Indigenous interpretation of local landscapes.

Your adventure continues to wherever the best bear viewing opportunities are. In June and July, it’s best to stay on the boat and view grizzly bears foraging on the shore as you explore the beautiful coastline that the Kwakwak’awakw have always known. In August through October, guests can respectfully and quietly wait at a safe distance with experienced guides for the grizzly bears who fish salmon in the river.

After lunch, your Indigenous guides chart past old village sites, shell middens, and culturally modified trees in the Broughton Archipelago. Listen to stories about the historical and cultural significance of Indigenous use and occupation of the area. This genuinely unforgettable wildlife experience ends in the Broughton Archipelago and Queen Charlotte Strait, where you might encounter migrating humpback whales, the gentle giants of the Pacific.

Day 5 - Exploring Port Hardy and Cultural Adventures

In Port Hardy, experience a boat tour with Coastal Rainforest Safaris who offer guests an immersive nature experience told from a unique Indigenous perspective that explores the connection to the land and sea, the wildlife, and the deep historical roots that make this part of the world so special.