Reindeer and Sami culture tours in Tromsø, Norway

Reindeer sledding, reindeer feeding and cultural sessions around an open fire in a traditional lavvu are among the activities you can book in Northern Norway (and Tromsø).

You can choose to visit these camps in the evening, sleep there, and, if you are lucky, see the Northern Lights!

These experiences generally include a classic Sami meal, bidos (reindeer stew), and an introduction to Sami history and culture.

This provides an opportunity to learn about their traditions, myths and legends and the symbology of their clothes.

Who are the Sami?

You may have heard about the Sami people living in the north of Europe, but how much do you really know about them?

The Sami were the first indigenous people of Northern Europe and Scandinavia.

Their presence extends from Norway to Sweden, Finland, and Russia.

Studies suggest that they have inhabited these northern areas for more than 9,000 years, suggesting that they were the first people living in the Arctic after the Ice Age!

An estimated Sami population of between 60,000 and 100,000 is spread around the world.

An estimated 40,000 live in Norway, 15,000 to 25,000 in Sweden, 6,000 in Finland and 2,000 in Russia.

The Sami people are best known for their semi-nomadic reindeer herding lifestyle.

Their life is organised around the reindeer migration – up into the mountains during winter and back to their community often near the coast during the summer.

Facts about Sami reindeer herders

Nature and Sami were always closely linked.

For many centuries, the Sami had strong connections with hunting, fishing and reindeer husbandry.

In modern times, most Sami people have other types of jobs just like you.

However, as the Sami people move with their reindeer herd to summer grazing areas, most of the activities related to the Sami and their reindeer are offered during winter (October to March).

Settlements exclusively for Sami people no longer exist.

However, you can visit some nice Sami and reindeer camps around Tromsø and choose from many different activities.

From feeding the reindeer, hearing and learning about the fascinating Sami history and culture, trying reindeer sledding, tasting an authentic Sami meal or even staying overnight in a traditional Sami tent.

The choice is yours!

Reindeer – the Sami’s best friend

The animal that best represents the Sami is the reindeer!

It plays an important role in Sami food, storytelling, myths and legends, clothes, and even souvenirs that are made from reindeer hide and antlers.

The Sami identity is closely linked to reindeer husbandry, which forms an important part of their history and culture.

It’s estimated that there are roughly 250,000 semi-wild domesticated reindeer in Norway.

These are social animals that live in big groups.