Published 20th Feb. 2024
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In recent years, there’s been a growing global recognition of the importance of protecting the rights of indigenous communities, and it’s a trend we’re very much on board with. Indigenous people safeguard some of our planet's richest forms of cultural expression. From the Samburu people of Northern Kenya to the First Nations Haidi citizens in Canada, these communities have a profound relationship – both physical and spiritual – with their traditional lands and do all they can to protect them. Meeting these communities is both an enlightening and humbling experience, whether it’s taking part in traditional practices together or staying in accommodation run by indigenous groups. The key behind it all? Facilitating interactions that are sensitive and mutually beneficial. Read on to discover some of our favourite indigenous experiences around the world.
A historic referendum in Australia has secured greater recognition for Aboriginal rights, returned swathes of land to their owners and empowered people to share their heritage with visitors. Indigenous experiences here include guided tours in hotspots like the Daintree Rainforest or the Great Barrier Reef. You can learn to spearfish, identify indigenous plants and learn of the relationship the Kuku Yulanki people still have with their land.
Image by Christopher Churchill/Gallery Stock.
The Samburu people of Northern Kenya offer a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known world. While staying in the community-run Sara Conservation, experience unrestricted game drives with Samburu guides, walking safaris, fly camping under the stars and a visit to the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. This sanctuary is owned and run by a Samburu community, who rescue orphaned and abandoned elephant calves with the aim of releasing them back into the wild.
Europe’s only surviving indigenous people, the Sami, live in a land of unspoilt Arctic wilderness. These people embody a deep connection to the land, and you can engage in their traditions by visiting the remote Swedish village of Flakaberg. Each activity reveals parts of their rich heritage, from ice fishing and foraging for shellfish to cheese making and reindeer feeding.
Over in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, you’ll find our final indigenous experience. This land has been home to the indigenous Ainu people for centuries, and visiting here allows you to immerse yourself in Ainu history and culture. Take part in one of the yearly 1,200 festivals to experience their religious beliefs, unique language and traditional dances. Alternatively, explore the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, the sole site in Japan focused on Ainu culture. Designed to safeguard and celebrate Ainu heritage, a visit to this museum promises both education and enjoyment, allowing Japan's indigenous communities to continue to thrive.
Header Image by Mikko Ryhänen / Visit Finland.
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
You might let the rhythm lead the way on the dance floor, but how about giving it guidance over your travels, too? From jammin’ jaunts through the American South to orchestral odysseys in Germany, there are plenty of ways to tune in (sorry) to the melody on your next trip. And, in our expert opinion, there’s nothing like tangoing with the locals or belting your heart out in a traditional karaoke room to immerse yourself in another country’s culture.
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One of the joys of travel is encountering new cultures and ideas. From ancient traditions to modern philosophies, the world is rich in beliefs with the power to expand our outlook. We’ve spun the globe and cherry-picked some of our favourites, from the conviction that every activity should involve a little fun, to the celebration of joint effort over individualistic action. Read on for our shortlist of life concepts around the world and prepare for a conceptual circumnavigation of the globe.
5th May 2026 - Culture
As Tom Holland (the esteemed historian, not Spiderman) so succinctly put it in the first edition of our magazine, Original Traveller, ‘Egypt is where tourism began’. And the next chapter in the history of tourism in Egypt is about to begin. We’re always looking for a reason to shout about this captivating country, and this November, we have the perfect excuse: the long-awaited opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
3rd November 2025 - Egypt Culture
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