Activities

Sámi culture

Authentic Sámi villages

Experience the modern Sámi lifestyle

For centuries in Teno river valley, the life was based on a barter economy. Fishermen, hunters and farmers bartered their catch and quarry, agricultural products and reindeer meat by the riverside. The Arctic Ocean was the obvious direction for trading.

The nomadic Reindeer Sámi lived their lives following the age-old cycle of the reindeer. In April and May, they would accompany their reindeer herds to the calving areas by the shores of the Kalddas and Polmak rivers. When autumn came, the reindeer and the people would return to the winter grazing areas.

In the period from 1960 to 1980, the traditional sources of livelihood of the Sámi people were radically changed by the market economy. Snowmobiles, mobile phones and radar collars came into the picture. Reindeer husbandry remains an important source of livelihood to this day.

The Sámi villages of Utsjoki offer you an opportunity to experience modern, everyday Sámi culture: a culture you can live, see, hear, taste and feel. Utsjoki is a place where the traditional Sámi costume is still worn at a
number of festivals. 

The best way to learn more on the Sámi culture is through many of our Sámi entrepreneurs. You can also try the traditional way of transportation, reindeer sleigh, in Utsjoki. It’s an experience to remember.

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