Indigenous tourism on the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is booming as ITAC and CCCT join forces

Posted on November 1, 2025

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast (CCCT) and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) have renewed a collaborative Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to drive the growth of indigenous tourism across the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region. This vital partnership, reaffirmed at the Cariboo Chilcotin Tourism Summit in Quesnel, will focus on enhancing local tourism offerings and supporting local communities throughout the region.

At the heart of this initiative is the recognition that local tourism is not just an economic opportunity but a means of cultural exchange, education and shared growth. Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC, emphasized that this renewed Memorandum of Understanding will provide the framework necessary to enhance tourism opportunities and deliver lasting benefits to the indigenous communities in the region. “Our partnership with CCCT is key to expanding indigenous tourism in British Columbia“Through joint initiatives, we aim to foster a sustainable tourism economy that will uplift local communities and celebrate Indigenous culture,” Henry said.

The impact of tourism on the Caribou and Chilcotin Coast region

The signing of this renewed MoU is an important moment for the region, as local tourism has already been identified as a driving force in the region’s tourism industry. Both organizations are committed to supporting a thriving tourism sector that respects and showcases Indigenous traditions, knowledge and expertise.

The region itself, globally recognized as a Certified Biosphere Destination by the Institute for Responsible Tourism, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and extensive outdoor tourism opportunities. From adventure tourism to cultural experiences, the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast offers unique travel experiences. In this context, the renewed Memorandum of Understanding between ITAC and CCCT is of particular importance, as it seeks to elevate indigenous tourism experiences and create pathways for local economic growth.

In her remarks, Amy Thacker, CEO of Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism, highlighted the tremendous value of indigenous tourism as a major contributor to the region’s visitor economy. “The tourist experiences here are really unique,” ​​Thacker said. “This renewed MoU will strengthen our region’s local tourism offering and help us share these amazing experiences with more visitors, while ensuring benefits for all communities.”

Common goals of cooperation

The cooperation will focus on a variety of initiatives, including joint marketing, promotion of local tourism businesses, and organizing tourism media events. Much of the partnership will also include workforce development initiatives aimed at helping local local businesses recruit and retain employees, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the tourism sector.

Through this Memorandum of Understanding, both Etac The CCCT aims to showcase indigenous tourism in the Chilcotin Cariboo Coast through various platforms, both in Canada and internationally. These efforts will help boost the visibility of local businesses, attract more tourists, and generate local job opportunities. Working together, ITAC and CCCT are promoting a stronger, more interconnected tourism industry in British Columbia.

Building a future of sustainability and prosperity

The impact of this partnership will be seen not only in the growth of local tourism, but in the long-term benefits it will bring to the entire Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast region. With the increasingly important role that tourism plays in the local economy, such initiatives are vital to ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth.

For the region’s indigenous communities, this renewed MOU symbolizes more than just economic opportunity; It is a recognition of the value of their cultural heritage and the potential of tourism to create shared prosperity. By working with ITAC and CCCT, these communities can continue to share their traditions with the world while gaining new opportunities for economic self-determination.

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast is a place where nature and culture intersect in meaningful ways, and the partnership between ITAC and CCCT will continue to amplify the stories and experiences that make the region so special. As both organizations move forward, their commitment to working with Indigenous communities to build a sustainable tourism economy remains a primary focus.