In Canada, Winnipeg’s indigenous population is the largest in the country, with numerous indigenous-owned and -led tour operators offering a variety of authentic cultural experiences. From dog-sledding adventures through old forests to cultural workshops and culinary treats, Winnipeg, Manitoba, offers a unique opportunity to engage with indigenous traditions firsthand in all four seasons.

© Travel Manitoba

Nanuk Operations offers an Aurora Snowshoe Adventure, with visitors dressed warmly and trekking through the forest in search of the Northern Lights. These life-changing experiences are led by indigenous storytellers such as Katie de Meulles, offering her interesting cultural and historical insights. Participants in this adventure can indulge in traditional fry bread and enjoy the cozy warmth of a yurt while contributing to sustainable ecotourism.

Wapusk Adventures presents a thrilling dogsledding adventure through the boreal forest, the ancestral homeland of the Métis and Cree peoples. Owned by indigenous musher Dave Daley, Wapusk Adventures welcomes guests to a cozy cabin for captivating stories of European explorers, the fur trade and the emergence of Métis culture.

© Travel Manitoba

In Winnipeg, one can participate in ancient Métis traditions through workshops hosted by Borealis Beading, including two-needle beading, quilt-making and finger weaving. Led by artist Melanie Gamache, participants can create beautiful crafts while learning about native flora and its medicinal properties.

These adventures require hearty Canadian meals, available at Feast Café Bistro located in Winnipeg’s West End. Chef Christa Guenther presents a culinary journey into indigenous foods, from bison meat to Bannock (original Indigenous Canadian bread), celebrating local ingredients and Peguis First Nation culture.