In the lead-up to the 2025 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC), the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), in collaboration with Indigenous Tourism Québec, Bonjour Québec, Tourisme Montréal, and Tourisme Montérégie, hosted two incredible Pre-Familiarization (Pre-FAM) Tours showcasing the rich cultural and natural beauty of Indigenous tourism in Québec. Following these immersive experiences, all participating media and travel trade representatives attended IITC 2025, further deepening their connections with Indigenous tourism businesses and leaders.
Nibiischii Pre-FAM: A Journey into the Wild
This Pre-FAM tour showcased a The Original Original member, Nibiischii Corporation. Sales & Travel Trade Manager, Markus Kruse, and Andrew Germain, Marketing Advisor from Indigenous Tourism Quebec, welcomed media and travel trade from key markets for an immersive four-day experience in the heart of the Oujé-Bougoumou Cree Nation on Lac Waconichi, QC.
Participants engaged in traditional activities such as snowshoeing, boreal forest exploration, and trapping with local guides, alongside storytelling and fireside meals featuring duck, beaver, ptarmigan, and caribou. Hands-on workshops included crafting larch decoy geese and moose hide bags used for harvesting labrador tea. Evenings featured a snowmobile-accessible outdoor theatre, relaxation in saunas, and moments by the fire with Elders who shared stories of the land and Cree culture. The experience, delivered by an exceptional team, included accommodations in cozy log cabins and a visit to the Aanischaaukamikw Cree Cultural Institute—a must-see for understanding the rich history and culture of the James Bay Cree.
Southern Quebec Pre-FAM: An Urban and Cultural Exploration
Led by ITAC’s Communications Manager, Ryan Rogers, the Southern Quebec Pre-FAM provided media representatives with a dynamic exploration of Indigenous tourism in the region including immersive experiences in Wendake and Kahnawà:ke.
Participants explored Indigenous-owned businesses, sampled traditional and contemporary Indigenous cuisine, and met with local Knowledge Keepers who shared their stories. The itinerary included a stay at Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, a visit to Huron Wendat Museum, Bastien Industries, Ohnwa’ Lumina, Musée des Abénakis, La Maison des Peuples Autochtone, Purple Dragonfly Trading Post, Kanien’kehá:ka Onkwawén:na Raotitióhkwa Language and Cultural Center, and much more. These experiences were complemented by meals at La Traite, Sagamité, Screaming Chef Cuisine, and Garde Manger.
Joining these Pre-FAMs were representatives from Toundra Voyages, Jonview, Anderson Vacations, and Karavaniers, along with media professionals from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany.
Amplifying Indigenous Tourism on the Global Stage
These Pre-FAM experiences set the stage for IITC, giving media and travel trade representatives a taste of Indigenous tourism experiences before attending the conference. By engaging with international travel trade and media, ITAC continues to strengthen global awareness and appreciation for the authentic and sustainable experiences offered by Indigenous tourism businesses across Canada.
With all participants attending IITC 2025, the conversations and connections made during these Pre-FAMs will continue to inspire and drive meaningful partnerships within the Indigenous tourism industry.