Sami Culture
Experience the Sámi people of far-northern Europe and their remarkable native culture.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience a traditional Sámi camp
- Learn about their traditions
- Hear Sámi joik
- Try lassoing reindeer
The Sámi are indigenous people living on Europe's northern fringe. They are known for herding reindeer, their distinctive handicrafts (duodji) and affinity for nature. The Sámi homeland (recognised and protected under the international conventions of indigenous peoples) is named Sàpmi and extends from the middle of Norway to north-western Russia, including northern Sweden and northern Finland. On this excursion, we learn about the challenges faced by today´s reindeer herders, as well as how traditional ways can remain relevant in the modern world.
Sámi reindeer herders symbolise the culture and are dependent on vast areas of wilderness. They still live a nomadic lifestyle, following the reindeer migrations from the plains to the coast in April and back again in September. On this excursion you meet a herding family and their reindeer at summer pasture on the Nordkyn peninsula. They invite you to a close and evocative encounter around the fire in their traditional lavvo (teepee) while reindeer graze outside. The members of the family are reindeer herders, artisans and heralds of Sámi traditions.
They provide insight into the challenges that reindeer herders and Sámi culture contend with. Through stories, chanting (joik), handicrafts and reindeer broth, you get a genuine taste of Sámi culture.
Practical Information
- Disembarking port: Kjøllefjord
- Embarking port: Mehamn
- Southbound or Northbound: Northbound Available
- Approximate arrival/departure times: 17:00 - 19:30
- Period: 06 May - 05 September
- Transportation: Bus
- Meals on the trip: Coffee/Bouillon
- Clothes/Footwear: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing.