1 in 3 international travellers to Alberta seek authentic Indigenous experience [Video]

With interest in authentic, Indigenous-led tourism experiences booming, the province announced Friday that it’s increasing funding to Indigenous Tourism Alberta by $2 million.

Around one in three international travellers are interested in seeking out authentic Indigenous experiences, according to a media release issued by the province on Friday.

“Visitors are seeking deeper connections with the destinations they visit,” it said, “and Indigenous entrepreneurs across Alberta are taking the lead to offer unique opportunities to discover the rich histories, diverse traditions and natural wonders of Alberta through an Indigenous lens.”

The additional $2 million investment in Indigenous-led tourism brings the total investment in the sector since 2021 to $8.85 million.

The province said that Indigenous tourism is expected to contribute around $126 million to the provincial economy in 2024.

“This is the largest provincial investment in Indigenous tourism in the country, and we couldn’t be more thrilled,” said Indigenous Tourism Alberta …