TORONTO — Intrepid Travel has signed a partnership agreement with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), committing $500,000 over the next five years to support the growth and promotion of Indigenous tourism across Canada.
Through the partnership, Intrepid will increase the number of Indigenous-led experiences across its Canadian itineraries, co-develop community-led products and co-create new signature Indigenous-centred adventures.
By the end of 2026, 75% of Intrepid’s Canadian tours will include at least one Indigenous experience with a long-term goal of 100% inclusion across all itineraries.
Tapping into ITAC’s network of accredited Indigenous tourism experiences, each offering will be authentic, meaningful and designed to benefit the communities that host them, said Christian Wolters, President of Canada at Intrepid Travel.
“The vision is simple. Every traveller who visits Canada with Intrepid should leave with a deeper connection and understanding of Indigenous culture” said Wolters.
The announcement was made at IMPACT, North America’s conference on sustainability and innovation in tourism, held in Victoria, B.C., the traditional territory of the Lekwungen-speaking peoples of the Songhees Nation and Xwsepsəm Nation, and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples.
“Demand is higher than ever, yet Indigenous-led businesses continue to navigate challenges around limited funding and infrastructure,” said Keith Henry, CEO and President of ITAC. “Partnerships like this create tangible opportunities and ensure communities gain direct economic and cultural benefits, while supporting our vision of Canada becoming a world leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030.”
According to Destination Canada’s 2024 Traveller Segmentation Program, more than 60% of highly engaged travellers are now seeking Indigenous‐led experiences.
The partnership between Intrepid and ITAC is structured into two key areas: development and promotion. Over the next five years, Intrepid will invest $50,000 annually into the Indigenous Tourism of Canada Destination Fund to support ITAC’s work in the development of Indigenous-led tourism businesses and community-driven experiences across Canada.
“For over 30 years, Intrepid Travel has used small-group adventures to empower communities around the world,” Wolters continued. “Now, as we embark on our biggest expansion in Canada, we’re excited to help travellers connect more deeply with Indigenous cultures here and ensure tourism creates meaningful benefits for communities.”
The announcement is part of Intrepid Travel’s wider expansion plans in Canada.
This year the company will also open a new operational hub in Squamish, B.C. to boost local hiring in Canada and broaden the range of travel experiences offered nationwide. At the heart of this growth is this new partnership, designed to create lasting economic opportunities for Indigenous communities.
Intrepid, a certified B-Corp and world leader in responsible travel, has long championed Indigenous and community-based tourism around the world. In 2026, the company will offer more than 100 experiences with Indigenous communities globally.
More details about ITAC can be found at indigenoustourism.ca. Intrepid Travel’s Canadian tours are at intrepidtravel.com/canada.
Lead image caption: Intrepid Travel’s partnership agreement with ITAC includes a commitment of $500,000 over the next five years to support the growth and promotion of Indigenous tourism across Canada (photo courtesy Intrepid and ITAC)
