Who Are the Sámi? Learn More About the Natives of Lapland

When you try to picture Lapland in your mind, you are probably imagining snow-covered landscapes, gorgeous northern lights, and perhaps the jolly old Father Christmas. But long before Lapland became everyone’s favourite winter holiday destination, it was, and still is, the homeland of Europe’s only indigenous inhabitants - Sámi people. The Sámi people belong to the region spanning northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia's Kola Peninsula, which they traditionally called Sápmi.

Sámi children in front of a traditional tent

The Sámi have lived in this corner of the world for thousands of years. Their culture and way of life are deeply attuned to the rhythms of the land. Historically, Sámi communities spent a semi-nomadic life following reindeer herds across seasonal grazing grounds. They are still known for reindeer husbandry, though now more and more Sámi peoples are joining the burgeoning service and travel industry in Lapland.

Reindeer herding is the traditional Sámi occupation

There is a lot of diversity within the Sámi community. They speak several distinct Sámi languages, like Northern, Southern, Inari, and Skolt Sámi, each tied to different regions and communities. Community leaders have put in a lot of effort in revitalizing their language and culture, and have created immersion schools, media and cultural centers dedicated to passing knowledge to younger generations.

Sámi clothing is bright and intricate

The Sámi culture is as rich as their language. One of the most striking traditions is joik), a unique musical tradition that embodies the serenity and pristineness of the nature surrounding them. Traditional Sámi clothing, known as gákti, is bright and intricate. The colors, patterns, and jewelry can indicate a wearer's home region, family, and marital status. Handicrafts called duodji which include delicately carved wood and bone items, beadwork and silverwork, are passed down through generations.

For travelers visiting Lapland, immersing yourself in Sámi culture is one of the most unique experiences you can have. However, engaging thoughtfully is deeply important. Not every "Sámi experience" marketed to tourists is actually run by Sámi people or accurately represents their culture. To prevent participating exploitation and misrepresentation, you should seek out Sámi voices to learn from.

We recommend visiting institutions like the Siida museum in Inari which will offer you a complete understanding of the natural history and culture of Sápmi. Looking for tour operators and guiding services who are Sámi-led will help you leave a positive and ethical impact on the local economy. Don’t forget to buy authentic duodji directly from Sámi artisans, which you will find in abundance all over Rovaniemi and Lapland.

The Sámi are very welcoming to tourists in their homeland

Understanding the Sámi transforms a trip to Lapland from a purely scenic getaway into something more meaningful - an opportunity to learn and respect a culture wholly different from your own. It is important to remember to approach this land with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to listen.