Sami Culture Activities

Sami Culture... The Sami are Europe’s oldest surviving culture. They inhabit the north of Scandinavia and their ancestral lands include Russia, Finland, Sweden and North Norway. There are around 100,000 Sami and 50% of them live in Norway.

The Sami have their own language, Government, Educational System and TV Station. They are a justly proud people who have managed well to retain their culture and identity and at the same time integrate well with European culture. Around 10% of Sami are still Reindeer herders, following the vast reindeer herds on their annual migration from central highlands in winter to the coastal lowlands in spring/summer. The cycle has been repeated for thousands of years.  To the Sami herders leading a semi nomadic lifestyle, the reindeer and freedom of movement are of critical importance, well recognised by today’s Governments.

The Sami are adept at winter survival, they are a close knit people who are extremely talented. Their art and various items derived from the reindeer, from dried meat to carved antlers and reindeer pelts can be purchased from time to time.

The Sami welcome respectful tourists and are a warm and hospitable people. The Troms region offers a unique opportunity to visit and interact with the Sami. Målselv is one such location and the White Spring is an ideal time. Here you can visit a traditional Sami Larvo (tent), drink reindeer soup, eat reindeer stew around a log fire, listen to Sami music and learn about their lifestyle and rich culture. It is possible to travel with them up to the high mountain plateau’s by skidoo and watch them feed and tend their reindeer herds. The reindeer live, feed and breed wild and are harvested only for what the Sami need. Its a careful and important balance that the Sami fully understand, respect and appreciate.

Music.. Many Sami are musically talented and a characteristic is the Joik, a melodious song sung with emotion, warmth, sorrow or anger. A joik can be sorrowful, joyous or mark a special occasion. Joiks can be dedicated to animals, birds or to special people. Musical instruments now often accompany a joik.

Enjoy the Sami Experience at Målselv in the White Spring.