Respectful Travel on Indigenous Lands

North America has been home to Indigenous Peoples for thousands of years, and the Yukon is no exception. Today, the territory is home to 14 distinct Yukon First Nations, each with their own languages, cultures, histories, and deep relationships with the land. When you visit the Yukon, every step you take is on one of these Traditional Territories.

Respectful travel means recognising this ongoing presence and taking thoughtful steps to support and honour Indigenous communities. Here are a few tips to help you travel responsibly and respectfully on Indigenous lands (from someone who is always learning and growing themselves!)

Spend your money locally and support Indigenous-owned businesses:

Where you choose to spend your money matters. Seek out Indigenous-owned shops, restaurants, art, and tour operators. Your dollars can directly support cultural preservation, community well-being, and economic development! Look for authentic Indigenous-made goods and ensure artists and creators are properly credited and compensated!

My absolute favourite items I own are made by local indigenous businesses and friends. I have a pair of moccasins that I've worn daily around my house for 8 years, and they are the most comfortable and long-lasting pair of slippers ever! I was also gifted a pair of handmade beaded earrings by a friend, and they are going to be a family heirloom. They're so beautiful and I will treasure them for life! A great spot to find Indigenous made art is at the local cultural centres!

Learn from Indigenous voices:

Whether you're hiking, fishing, or exploring heritage sites, choose Indigenous-led experiences when you can. First Nations guides and storytellers offer a perspective rooted in generations of knowledge and connection to the land. These experiences can be much more fulfilling ways to learn about the Yukon and very respectful ways to engage with local culture.

I recently met an Indigenous man who had made spruce pitch salve and given it to us at work. I immediately asked him if he would be interested in teaching me to make some, and he was so happy to do so! We went outside and harvested spruce pitch in the forest in the rain. Then we looked through all the different kitchen products I need and all the steps on how to make it! I learnt so much more than I ever would have online, and I could tell he loved to share his knowledge of the land with me! :)

Respect Indigenous governance and stewardship:

Many areas in the Yukon are co-managed by First Nations governments, who continue to steward their lands according to traditional and contemporary practices. You should always obey any posted signs, stay on designated trails, and follow any guidelines about the areas you visit. This includes access restrictions, which may be based on cultural or environmental concerns.

I know it sucks sometimes to visit and see that a hike is closed, but Indigenous peoples have been managing the land for thousands of years, and their wishes deserve to be respected! They know what's best!

Ask questions respectfully:

It’s okay to be curious, but always approach conversations with humility and respect! :) Not all stories are yours to hear, and some knowledge is sacred or private. If you're unsure, ask permission, listen more than you speak, and avoid making assumptions.

Respectful travel isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you show up and how you leave the places you've visited! By honouring Indigenous Peoples and their lands, you help contribute to a more just, inclusive, and meaningful travel experience, and you will come away from your travels with a deeper knowledge about the land you travelled to!