Welcome to the home of the Naa’Waya’Sum Gardens, the IISAAK Learning Lodge, and the čukʷaa haʔuk Café.

The Tofino Botanical Gardens has entered a new phase of life. In 2021, ownership of the 12-acre site was transferred to the Clayoquot Indigenous Conservation Innovation Centre (CICIC) – and renamed the Clayoquot Campus. The unique space, established in 1997, has shifted to a focus on supporting Indigenous-led conservation.

The Clayoquot Campus is a space for place-based, collaborative learning in the Ha’houlthee of the Tla-o-qui-aht Ha’wilth. It is part of the Pacific IPCA Innovation Centre.

Major renovations and construction at the Clayoquot Campus are complete!

The gradual reopening of the campus and gardens is currently underway…stay tuned for more information about ways that you can engage and enjoy our facilities as we work our way up to a full reopening in 2026.

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Naa'Waya'Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens

"Naa'Waya'Sum" means 'the transfer of knowledge from one generation to another' in the Nuu-chah-nulth language.

IISaAK Learning Lodge

The IISAAK Learning Lodge is a place for organizations, business and individuals to host educational programs related to Indigenous-led conservation.  The IISAAK Learning Lodge (formerly the Ecolodge) is an educational space that includes accommodation for those participating in on-site classes and programs. The focus of all educational programs is Indigenous-led conservation with specific attention to Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs).

With support from Infrastructure Canada, the Lodge is undergoing a deep energy and accessibility retrofit. Updates will transition the facility to net-zero energy use and make the building more inclusive to those of all ages and abilities.

The Lodge is not currently available for bookings. Our doors will re-open in 2025.

The IISAAK Lodge is an educational space, and accommodations are reserved for those taking or hosting programs related to Indigenous-led conservation. We will no longer be accepting nightly bookings.

The Clayoquot Campus is dedicated to supporting Indigenous-led conservation initiatives in Canada and beyond. Our programs aim to provide guidance on the establishment, governance, and management of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs). As the first land-based campus of the Pacific IPCA Innovation Centre, we are proud to provide educational experiences that specifically highlight Nuu-chah-nulth teachings and worldviews on how to care for our communities and ecosystems.

čukʷaa haʔuk Café

The café is a space under development. Stay tuned for updates!

News & Articles

Tofino Botanical Gardens Has Transformed

Tofino Botanical Gardens has transformed to honour Indigenous knowledge and conservation. The Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens will provide place-based education and inspiration to support Indigenous-led

Pacific IPCA Innovation Centre

Anchoring a New Movement of Indigenous-led Conservation By Monica Shore, Executive Director & Co-Founder, IISAAK OLAM Foundation & Eli Enns, Co-Founder & President, IISAAK OLAM