The Nibiischii Corporation highlights Cree culture through tourism
Nibiischii means land of waters, the place where the great natural waters of the north are born.
Photo credit: Indigenous Services Canada
The Nibiischii Corporation, an organization of the Cree Nation of Mistissini, located in the magnificent boreal territory north of Chibougamau, offers year-round tourism experiences that highlight the area's natural resources as well as the pride, generosity and culture of the Cree people.
With the support from Indigenous Tourism Quebec Initiative and Indigenous Services Canada, the corporation is working towards achieving financial self-sufficiency by developing 4-season tourist attractions. All attractions and tours are based on the principles of sound management and responsible eco-friendly development that focuses on fauna and flora conservation.
Discovering Nibiischii Corporation
While visiting the lush 24,000 km2 natural playground, tourists can enjoy a variety of outdoor and cultural activities like summer water sports including swimming, guided boat tours and fishing. They can hike the nearby trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Photo credit: Indigenous Services Canada
Other attractions include:
- astronomical observatory for star gazing and watching the northern lights
- outdoor movie theatre on the water or ice. The theatre is accessible by watercraft in warmer months and by snowmobile or snowshoes in the colder months
- craft workshops led by members of the Mistissini community, such as beading and making traditional items
- relaxation activities such as yoga
- Indigenous story and legend telling evening events
- guided tours about traditional Cree stories and legends
- variety of lodgings including camping facilities and floating accommodations
- winter packages available that include accommodation and activities, such as snowshoeing
Some of the many islands in the territory are equipped with a fish smokehouse and have a dining area accessible to fishermen and Cree families living in the territory.
Mireille Gravel, Executive Director of the Nibiischii Corporation, explains: "We try to work with the families on the territory. For us it is important, because we want them to develop a sense of belonging with the Nibiischii Corporation."
The Nibiischii Corporation continues to promote Cree culture and to expand its tourism by developing new activities that will please adventurers and nature lovers.