Kichiota Indigenous Destinations is a first-of-its-kind partnership between Whitecap Dakota First Nation, Wanuskewin, and Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation. A coming-together of peoples and cultures, Kichiota is committed to building the profile and impact of Indigenous tourism in Saskatchewan. For more information, please contact info@kichiota.ca
IMMERSIVE, AUTHENTIC INDIGENOUS EXPERIENCES
By combining the strengths of each partner, Kichiota offers tourists of all ages and interests the opportunity to experience Saskatchewan anew.
- Outdoor Activities
- Tours and Hospitality
- Cultural Immersions
Our offerings are under development, but we look forward to traveling the path with you soon.
KICHIOTA (kee-CHEE-OH-tah)
Like our partnership, our name is a coming-together of Indigenous languages, creating a whole greater than the sum of its parts.
The name Kichiota has roots in both Cree and Dakota languages, representing two of the partner First Nations and their peoples. Both dialects use the words KICHI and OTA differently; in joining these words within and between dialects, they acquire layered meanings.
Loosely translated, Kichiota becomes:
Cree + Cree: Here is important, here is special Dakota + Dakota: Many are with Dakota + Cree: Lots of importance Cree + Dakota: Here with
These meanings are a direct reflection of a dynamic partnership built on significance and shared experiences. While this new name doesn’t have an exact translation - the future of this new partnership will start to define what the meaning of the name can be: Special places for many peoples.
Beardy’s & Okemasis’ Cree Nation
The experiences offered at Beardy’s and Okemasis’ Cree Nation shed light on the post-contact history of Indigenous peoples in these territories. We will offer a variety of ways to engage with our people and our land, from glamping to making bannock and learning to dance.
From the historic signing of Treaty 6 and the Riel Resistance to the pass system and Indian Residential Schools, these significant moments in our shared history have defined ahkemayimok —the resilience of our people. We want our guests to come away with a deeper understanding of the history of our people, our province, and our nation.
bofn9697.comWanuskewin
Since 1992, Wanuskewin has served as a cultural beacon in our country, a gathering place for Indigenous Nations of the Northern Plains. Today, Wanuskewin remains an important gathering place, welcoming guests from around the world to share in the immersive cultural experiences we offer.
A two-time winner of the Tourism Industry Association of Canada award and a selection for the UNESCO World Heritage Site tentative list, we are the site of Canada’s longest-running archeological dig and feature bison jumps, tipi rings, and the most northerly Medicine Wheel in the world. Through guided tours, dance presentations, culinary experiences, and visual arts, we help bring the stories of this land to life.
wanuskewin.comWhitecap Dakota First Nation
Whitecap Dakota First Nation is part of the larger Dakota Nation, whose traditional governance structure was called the Seven Council Fires or Oceti Sakowin, and whose traditional lands extended into both Canada and the United States. The Dakota have a longstanding relationship with the British Crown, dating back to wampum ceremonies in 1762.
From generation to generation, Whitecap Dakota First Nation has continued with a Spirit of Alliance and hospitality. That Spirit is strong and present in the experiences and amenities we share with visitors to our Nation. Come experience Dakota hospitality at the Dakota Dunes Resort. Walk the land, share our food, and learn about our culture.
whitecapdakota.com