Our Tours

Algonquin Peoples History

This program shares an understanding of the living history of the Madaoueskarini Algonquin People, intertwined with a general scope of Indigenous history across what is now known as Canada. This experience offers an understanding of the impacts of colonial settlement on unceded Algonquin territory and the continued impacts on land and people. This is a two-hour land-based program offered in various locations across unceded Algonquin territory.

Amik (Beaver) in Nature
& Culture

Amik, the beaver, occupies key niches in the ecology, economy, history, and culture of unceded Algonquin lands and waters, a land now also known as Eastern Ontario. This two-hour land-based program examines the impact of this fascinating aquatic mammal in the past and present. This tour includes visits to current and past beaver habitats, an introduction to the beaver’s significance in Indigenous and settler cultures, and a discussion of the beaver’s role in our ecological environment. This program may also speak to comparative North American and European perspectives, if requested.

Medicinal Plant Walk

Our climate is quickly changing, and conversations surrounding the health of the natural world are more crucial than ever. This hands-on experience will encourage participants to develop a deeper respect for and understanding of the plants found in Algonquin territory that have been used to encourage health and well-being by Algonquin people for thousands of years. This workshop will also explore the concepts of Indigenous food systems and Indigenous food sovereignty. This is a two-hour land-based program offered in various locations across unceded Algonquin territory.

How “Indian” is “Indian Summer?”

Europeans and other settlers consciously and unconsciously impose their own rules, understandings, and meanings on Indigenous lands and beings, including European designations of geographical features, birds, mammals, plants, and other creatures and phenomena. For example, the affectionate name “Whiskey Jack” for the Canada Jay is derived from Wiisakedjaak, the Algonquin name for a prominent trickster figure in our ancestral stories, which honours the playful nature of these birds.

But how do these names, practices, and assumptions affect the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups and individuals? How can an honest exchange of understandings contribute to a more respectful, informed, and positively shared present and future? This two-hour land-based program is facilitated through a discussion between a Madaoueskarini Algonquin woman and a cultural historian with European roots. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and actively participate in the discussion.

Omàmiwinini Wiigwas Chiiman (Algonquin Birch Bark Canoe) Along the Madawaska

Walk along the Madaoueskasibi, now also known as the Madawaska River, to learn more about Algonquin birch bark canoes, the significance of the birch tree, canoe craft, and the role of the canoe across the living history of Algonquin people. This two-hour land-based program follows the abandoned Canadian National Rail line from the hamlet of Whitney.

Full Moon Guided Hikes

Join Waaseyaa Cultural Tours for a 2h full moon guided winter hiking adventures in either Whitney, Ontario, Canada or at Mew Lake, Algonquin Park at the Old Airfield. Experience the magic of a landscape illuminated in only moonlight, all while learning some of the stories held by this land.

These hikes are guided by moonlight only (no flashlights unless absolutely needed!), though participants are welcome to bring them along. All ages are welcome to join these adventures.

Whitney
Moderate hike, approx. 3.5km (up & down hills, footpaths in the woods)

Under the moonlight we'll wind our way through snow-covered coniferous and deciduous forests, navigating using well-packed footpaths and groomed sections of the old Ottawa, Arnprior & Parry Sound Railway. Together we'll visit the shore of Kakinogamak ("Long Lake," now also known as Galeairy Lake) and reach a height of land home to a significant sugar maple forest. Along the way, stories will be shared about the people who call this place home, both Algonquin and settler.

Mew Lake
Easy hike, 3.5km (flat, groomed trails, open landscape)

Watch the moon rise over Lake of Two Rivers as we make our way through the Old Airfield at Mew Lake. We'll discuss Algonquin and settler histories of this area, including logging history, and how they are all tied to the Madawaska River, which flows into this lake at two places - hence the name, Lake of Two Rivers.

Note: Most tours are also offered in German. Please reach out for more information.

Rates

  • • Adult - $95.00 per person + HST

    • Senior & Youth (24 and under) - $65.00 per person + HST

    • Children under 6 – FREE

  • • $3000 + HST

    • Maximum 40 people

    • 50% deposit required

  • • Private tours are available upon request.

  • • We love dogs! Dogs are welcome, though they must be on a leash at all times.

    • Waaseyaa Cultural Tours is not responsible for permits or parking charges.

    • 25% discount for Indigenous and 2SLGTBQIA+ community members. Nation and/or community affiliation required.

    • Wherever possible, we appreciate tours booked at least two weeks in advance. However, bookings may be accepted up to 2h pending availability.

    • Depending on location, mileage may apply.

    • Liability waivers are required for all participants. Participants under the age of 18 require guardian consent.

  • Wherever possible, please cancel at least 48h in advance.

    Deposits are non-refundable if cancelled less than 24h in advance.