Tourexpi
The
report showcases the sector’s role in driving economic growth, particularly in
remote regions, and its vital contribution for cultural preservation and
community empowerment.
Indigenous
Tourism: A Driver of Economic Growth
Indigenous
tourism is rapidly emerging as a key economic driver. It creates jobs and
economic value in remote areas. It promotes and protects Indigenous people’s
cultures, languages and lands. And gives visitors a unique opportunity to
experience and learn about Indigenous history and tradition.
With
the global Indigenous tourism market set to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% over the
next decade to reach $67BN, this sector is empowering communities to take
control of their economic futures.
Interest
and participation in Aboriginal tourism experiences continues grow in Western
Australia, with the highest results recorded to date this year. According to
Visitor Experiences and Expectations Research (VEER), almost nine in 10
visitors are interested (87%) and more than a third (36%) participated in
Aboriginal tourism in WA in 2023-24. The economic contribution of Aboriginal
tourism businesses continues to improve, with this sector adding $63,8 million
to the Gross State Product in Western Australia in 2021-22.
In
Canada alone, the Indigenous tourism sector supports nearly 2,000 businesses,
and over 39,000 jobs, contributing CA$1.7BN to the economy in 2017.
Similarly,
in Panama’s Guna Yala region, tourism is the primary economic driver,
sustaining the Guna people and their culture while creating a self-sufficient
economy.
This
economic boom is fuelled by increasing demand for authentic cultural
experiences, in countries such as Canada, Australia, and the United States,
amongst others.
In
Australia, more than 1.4MN international visitors engaged in Indigenous tourism
experiences in 2019, marking a 6% year-on-year growth since 2010.
Speaking
at the global tourism body’s 24th Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia,
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said: "Indigenous tourism is not
only about showcasing rich cultural traditions; it’s about empowering
communities, creating sustainable jobs, and ensuring that Indigenous people are
in control of their own stories and economic futures.
“This
report demonstrates the immense potential of Indigenous tourism to drive
economic growth, particularly in remote regions, while preserving invaluable
cultural heritage. As global demand for authentic experiences continues to
rise, it is crucial that we support Indigenous businesses and ensure they have
access to the resources and funding needed to thrive.”
Western
Australia Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC) CEO Robert Taylor
highlighted the importance of authentic Indigenous experiences. WAITOC has
worked closely with Tourism Western Australia to develop an action plan to
support the continued development of Indigenous tourism in the state. The Jina:
Western Australia Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan 2021-2025 supports new
businesses and encourages more Aboriginal people to work in the tourism
industry.
“Western
Australia is well on its way to becoming the premier destination for authentic
Aboriginal experiences in the country,” Mr Taylor said.
“Our
Camping with Custodians is just one example of the continued growth of
Aboriginal tourism in Western Australia. This Australian-first program
develops high quality campgrounds on Aboriginal lands,” he said.
“In
May, we celebrated the launch of the seventh site. Located in Lombadina, on the
Dampier Peninsula north of Broome. These campgrounds are owned and
operated by the respective Aboriginal community, bringing funding and
employment opportunities.
“We
are also seeing a strong growth in product offerings, including several
womens-only experiences,” he said.
Preserving
Culture Through Tourism
The
report, Supporting Global Indigenous Tourism, shows how Indigenous tourism also
plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage, languages, and
traditional practices.
The
Sámi people of Northern Europe, for example, have developed certification marks
such as "Sámi Duodji" to protect their rich traditions, while Peru’s
innovative Kipi robot helps preserve endangered languages like Kukama, spoken
by just 2,000 people.
By
incorporating these elements such as these into tourism, Indigenous communities
can safeguard their cultural identities.
Sustainable
Career Paths and Inclusivity
Indigenous
tourism is also a sustainable career path, exemplified by Canada’s Indigenous
Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), which empowers communities to control of
their futures through tourism.
Meanwhile,
countries like Australia and the U.S. are increasingly incorporating Indigenous
experiences into national tourism marketing, ensuring authentic representation.
Access
to Funding and Growth
Despite
the growth of Indigenous tourism, many operators face challenges in securing
funding, but efforts such as Canada's Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund
(ITDF) aims to raise CA$2.6BN by 2030, to create 800 new Indigenous businesses
and over 21,000 new jobs.
These
funds are critical to ensuring Indigenous communities benefit fully from the
booming tourism industry and can continue to grow sustainably.
WTTC
is committed to lending its voice to this important conversation and support
the efforts of Indigenous peoples worldwide in shaping their own tourism
narratives and ensuring Indigenous tourism remains a thriving, self-sustaining
industry that benefits everyone.
Please
visit the WTTC
Research Hub to read the full report
Image
Credit: © WTTC
The most interesting news
World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism Heads to Bahrain to Focus on Economic Diversification
The 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will take place in Manama, Bahrain, on 18-19 November, with the theme “Gastronomy Tourism: A Driver of Economic Diversification and Inclusion.”
Post-pandemic travel boom, driven by youth, brings to light new global trends
Young travelers exploring lesser-known destinations, event-driven trips like concerts growing, says CEO of Trip.com
Cruise Saudi to enter Mediterranean with first tailor-made Arabian excursion
Aroya Cruise to set sail with unique focus on Arabian market, marking significant step in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 tourism strategy, CEO Lars Clasen tells Anadolu.
Embark on a Journey of Holistic Wellbeing at Banyan Tree Dubai's Brand-New Spa
Offering seven private ensuite treatment rooms featuring jacuzzis and showers, the spa provides the ideal retreat to unwind, complemented by vitality pools, heated loungers, and the signature Rainforest experience.
Lufthansa Group awarded ‘Best Airline App 2024’ worldwide
The Lufthansa Group has been awarded the prize for the world's best airline app 2024 at the World Aviation Festival (WAF).
Seabourn Unveils New 2026 Voyages With Over 200 Destinations In Nearly 40 Countries
Now open for sale: The ultra-luxury cruise line unveils voyages to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Japan, and Canada and New England between March and December 2026.
Six Senses Awarded MICHELIN Keys in Europe and Asia
The MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural hotel recognition program, MICHELIN Keys, has awarded Two Keys to Six Senses Yao Noi and Six Senses Samui in Thailand and One Key to Six Senses Rome and Six Senses Kyoto.
Holland America Line's 2026 Canada and New England Season Features More Cruises
Two ships offer extended season from April through October; New Legendary Voyage showcases natural grandeur of Canada, New England and Iceland.
The Destination by Hyatt Brand Reaches New Peaks with Cheyenne Mountain Resort in Colorado Springs
The mountainside resort will complement the diverse collection of Destination by Hyatt hotels through immersive year-round guest experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Middle East resilience, adaptability to drive tourism recovery
Experts highlight strength of regional tourism, ability of airlines to adapt, keep industry afloat despite regional conflict.
Younger generations drive record cruise growth globally
Millennials, Gen X now make up nearly half of cruise passengers while industry sees surge in first-time travelers, multi-generational family trips, head of top sectoral body tells Anadolu.
WTTC launches ‘Together in Travel’ to empower Small and Medium Enterprises
Global initiative aims to strengthen support for SMEs and foster sustainable growth.
Condor also responds to increased costs in Hamburg: 13 percent fewer flights in summer 2025
Due to significantly increased costs in Hamburg, Condor is also adjusting its schedule for summer 2025.
Business Travel Set to Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels to Reach a Record US$1.5 trillion in 2024
A new report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed that business travel is set to surpass pre-pandemic levels this year, faster than previously predicted, to reach a record US$1.5TN.
Kempinski Signs Agreement to Manage the Most Exclusive Branded Residences in Azerbaijan
Rising above the steel-blue waters of the Caspian Sea, Kempinski Residences Bayil Bay will become the most coveted address in the Azerbaijani capital when it opens in 2025.
Inaugural MICHELIN Keys recognize IHG Hotels & Resorts
14 Prestigious MICHELIN Keys awarded to properties within IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury & lifestyle portfolio.
Mammoth move: Kenya transferring dozens of elephants to quell human-wildlife conflict
Kenyan authorities are expected to soon complete the transfer of dozens of elephants in the Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park to protect humans and wildlife from escalating conflict as the tusker population booms
World’s domestic tourism market to reach $7.5T in 2033: Tourism association head
Türkiye’s aim to reach 60M tourists is feasible, says president of tourism investors association.
Turkey plans to build a railway on 3rd Bosphorus Bridge in Istanbul
World Bank and international lenders showing keen interest in project, says Abdulkadir Uraloglu.
First Saudi Protected Area Listed on IUCN Green List
Ibex Reserve, just south of Riyadh, joins global gold standard for protected and conserved areas.
Oceania Cruises Unveils 2026 Collection of Voyages with a World of Discovery
Experience the Magic of Small Ship Voyages Exploring Lesser-Known Ports, Iconic Cities, and Vibrant Resort Towns.