10 Indigenous Tribes Offering Unique Stays Where Culture Meets Conservation
In an era marked by a growing commitment to sustainable travel, eco-lodges have emerged as sanctuaries for conscientious adventurers. Beyond their eco-friendly practices, these lodges offer an opportunity to immerse in indigenous cultures, support their heritage, and absorb their profound wisdom. They enable you to step foot on sacred lands and learn about their legacy.
This blog post invites you on a global expedition spanning Australia, Ecuador, Guyana, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa, each boasting awe-inspiring landscapes and eco-friendly accommodations within indigenous tourism.
Kapawi Eco Lodge, Ecuador
One of the world’s most blissful indigenous destinations lies in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. The Kapawi is an award-winning ecotourism lodge that invites guests to a relaxing and hypnotic glimpse into the life of the Achuar people.
The Kapawi invites guests to participate in traditional ceremonies held by the Achuar people and even has an onsite museum that provides an extensive outlook on their intriguing practices and traditions.
Napo Wildlife Reserve, Ecuador
Covered by the blissful shade of the Ecuador-Amazon rainforest, Napo Wildlife Reserve is a spot that caters to naturalists and history lovers. It is just one of the many eco-lodges in Ecuador, but certainly a special one.
Run by the Napo Runa people, this sustainable destination is a way for guests to become one with nature while learning all about the natives. Guests can partake in traditional ceremonies, enjoy storytelling by indigenous leaders under the starry sky, or make a trip to the local museum to learn more.
Water’s Edge Eco Lodge, Canada
Hidden within the tall trees of the Meadow Lake Provincial Park in Saskatchewan, Water’s Edge Ecolodge is a stunning destination owned and operated by the Waterhen Lake First Nations.
At the ecolodge, First Nations elders host informational tours and occasional traditional ceremonies open to all guests. People staying at the ecolodge can also head to the local library, which provides an extensive account of the resort’s history. The First Nations tourism here is truly one-of-a-kind.
Haida House, Canada
Another stellar destination offering an extraordinary First Nations tourism experience, Haida House in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, Canada, is a dreamy adventure waiting to happen.
Haida House is a prime spot for those seeking to learn more about the First Nations; guided tours of the Haida villages and totem poles are among the most popular experiences. But guests are welcome to try their hand at fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and guided wildlife tours.
Nemiah Valley Lodge, Canada
An off-the-grid resort situated against the stunning backdrop of Chilcotin in British Columbia, the Nemiah Valley Lodge offers an all-inclusive wellness experience that truly encapsulates the spirit of First Nation tourism. Owned by the Xeni Gwet’in of the Tsilhqot’in Nation, the lodge is basically an amalgamation of luxury, modernity, and indigenous ecotourism.
Klahoose Wilderness Resort, Canada
A two-hour float plane ride from Vancouver transports you to the serene setting of Desolation Sound, where the Klahoose Resort awaits. Klahoose offers guests the opportunity to explore the stunning culture of Homalco Nations and the Tla’amin, making it one of a kind, even when it comes to First Nations tourism.
The resort offers an immersive experience where guests can interact with Mother Nature and learn about the indigenous tribes through guided excursions or participate in bear viewing or whale watching to get closer to nature.
Bulungula Lodge, South Africa
Imagine staring at a sky filled with billions of sparkling stars from the comfort of your bed. Perhaps a bit too dreamy, but that’s exactly what Xhosa’s Bulungula Lodge is all about. Run by the local Nqileni village, the Bulungula Lodge invites guests to experience the marvels of mother nature like never before. As guests connect with Earth, the lodge’s commitment to indigenous ecotourism provides them with an experience one can call ethereal.
Wilpena Pound Resort, Australia
Snuggling the Flinders Ranges in Adnyamathanha County in Australia, Wilpena Pound Resort offers an unparalleled experience of aboriginal tourism. Spread across the rugged terrains of the outback, the resort offers glamping tents, campgrounds, and resort rooms.
The resort pays homage to its aboriginal roots and offers an experience that stays true to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wilpena Pound offers exclusive learning tours about the Adnyamathanha.
Rewa Ecolodge, Guyana
One of South America’s most stunning indigenous destinations, Rewa Ecolodge is like a trip to the heavens. Perched onto the confluence of Rewa and Rupununi Rivers, the eco-lodge provides a panoramic view that truly brings you closer to mother nature.
Built with sustainable and solar-powered materials, Rewa Ecolodge truly commits to the role and supports local businesses. But let’s talk about how this community-based tourist destination enriches people’s hearts and souls. The resort offers an extensive insight into the culture of the numerous indigenous groups that reside there by hosting inclusive indigenous ecotourism activities.
Owhaoko, New Zealand
Taking off-the-grid literally, Owhaoko is only accessible by helicopter, making it one of the most secluded indigenous destinations you’ll find. Nestled between the Kaimanawa and Kaweka forests in New Zealand, Owhaoko is a charitable trust that preserves the culture of the Maori that first settled there.
It offers guests the chance to disconnect from life and enjoy simple activities like bird-watching, fishing, and hiking, but also introduces them to the indigenous culture that inspired the peaceful retreat.
More Eco-Lodges in Ecuador
The 10 Most Sustainable Eco-Lodges in Ecuador
More Eco-Lodges in British Columbia
The 13 Most Sustainable Eco-Lodges in British Columbia
More eco-lodges in Australia
The 15 Most Sustainable Luxury Australian Eco Lodges
More eco-lodges in South Africa
The 13 Most Sustainable Safari Eco-Lodges in South Africa that are located in a game reserve.
Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.