Originally featured in National Geographic Traveller (UK), this piece highlights the unique experiences in Sámi country, Sweden.
The Sámi people, indigenous to Sápmi (known as Lapland), have been reindeer herders for over 7,000 years, predating the borders of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Central to Sámi culture, reindeer herding faces challenges from climate change, mining, and cultural appropriation. In Sweden, 20,000 Sámi reside, with a significant number leading nomadic lives in Laponia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sweden’s Arctic North. The rest preserve their heritage through traditional practices and storytelling. Explore five thrilling activities to experience Sámi culture.
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Cross-Country Skiing Adventure
Lennart Pittja, a Sámi from Sapmi Nature Camp, offers cross-country skiing in Laponia. He shares insights into the land of his ancestors, showing hidden Sámi settlements under the Lule River’s snow-covered spruces, including remnants like cooking areas, bells, and a boat abandoned since the 1960s. -
Reindeer Encounters
At Jukkasjärvi’s Nutti Sámi Siida, visitors can ride reindeer sleds and feed them. Sámi guide Klara Enbom hosts meals in a lavvu tent, discussing Sámi challenges and enlightening visitors about herding and wind farms’ impacts. Thea-Olivia Persson Fjallman, a herder, continues her family’s 7,000-year tradition. -
Sámi Museum Visit
The Ájtte Museum in Jokkmokk delves into Sámi history and culture. Amidst Laponia’s melting glaciers revealing ancient artifacts, the museum displays Sámi spiritual beliefs, crafts, and survival skills through items like drums, traditional attire, and a lavvu tent. -
Sámi Craft Shopping
In Jukkasjärvi, purchasing local crafts like baskets, kuksa cups, and silver jewelry supports the economy and honors Sámi culture. Thea-Olivia explains the use of reindeer materials in creating practical yet beautiful items. -
Ice Fishing Experience
At Arctic Retreat, chef Emanuel Swärd guides ice fishing in Överstbyn, cooking the catch for guests. Emanuel, a record-holder and fishing influencer, uses his expertise to locate ideal fishing spots in the Råne River and Vitträsket lake.
Exciting Winter Trips in Sámi Areas
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Sweden
A trip to Swedish Lapland includes reindeer races, dog-sledding, snowmobiling, and a moose safari, with opportunities to meet Sámi herders. Offered by Laponia Adventures, it costs SEK 21,900 per person for a full-board five-night stay. -
Finland
With Arctic operator 50° North, experience ‘Lapland as a Local’ including ice fishing, skiing, and reindeer farm visits near Äkäslompolo. Priced at €1,530 per person, it includes six nights’ stay and various activities. -
Norway
The Visit Natives Sámi Reindeer Herding Experience in Norway involves lassoing, feeding reindeer, and enjoying local folklore and music. Priced at NOK 26,557 per person, it includes a comprehensive package of accommodation, activities, and transportation.
Published in the Winter Sports guide of National Geographic Traveller (UK)’s December 2023 issue.
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Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sámi winter adventures
What are the top winter activities to experience in Sweden’s Sámi country?
Sweden’s Sámi country offers unique winter activities such as cross-country skiing led by local Sámi guides, intimate reindeer encounters, visits to the Ájtte Museum showcasing Sámi history and culture, shopping for traditional Sámi crafts, and ice fishing experiences with expert guides.
Can visitors interact with reindeer in Sámi country?
Yes, visitors can interact with reindeer at places like the Nutti Sámi Siida lodge in Jukkasjärvi, where they can ride reindeer-drawn sledges and feed the animals, offering a close-up experience of Sámi herding culture.
What insights into Sámi culture can be gained from these activities?
These activities provide insights into the Sámi way of life, including their traditional practices, challenges faced due to modern developments, and the significance of reindeer herding. Visitors also learn about Sámi history, spiritual beliefs, and survival techniques through museum visits and storytelling.
Are there any guided tours available in Sámi country?
Guided tours are available, such as cross-country skiing expeditions in Laponia and ice fishing adventures. These tours are often led by Sámi guides who share their knowledge and heritage, making for an educational and authentic experience.
How does participating in these activities support the Sámi community?
Participating in these activities, especially purchasing local Sámi crafts, supports the local economy and helps preserve Sámi culture. It also raises awareness about the challenges faced by the Sámi people due to climate change and cultural appropriation.
More about Sámi winter adventures
- Sapmi Nature Camp
- Nutti Sámi Siida
- Ájtte Museum in Jokkmokk
- Laponia Adventures in Swedish Lapland
- Arctic operator 50° North in Finland
- Visit Natives Sámi Reindeer Herding Experience in Norway
- National Geographic Traveller (UK) Subscription