In the northern parts of Norway, Finland, Sweden and the Kola Peninsula in Russia is an ethnic group that is known for living with the basics. They are known as an ethnic group whose main source of income is reindeer husbandry. If you are a hiker, the large wilderness area will astound your senses. The expedition to these areas will require you to turn off your city mind set. This is the culture that will make you see that despite of the lack of technology, we can still be able to survive, not to the extent of drinking piss by Bear Grylls though.
Visiting and exploring the Sami Culture can make you experience one of the tours you will never forget. You can participate in their festivals that feature more of how they live. You can even join the Sami working with the reindeers but if your guts are holding back a little, you can arrange a tour perhaps with fishing. Since reindeers are their first source of income, the people follow the reindeer’s form of migration. The Sami people do their seasonal migrations through having a winter village, a summer village and even mobile homes. To complete the experience, you should not miss the exotic kind of living. You can request to dress in quasi-Sami clothes and perform rituals. That is only with your preferences.
How to get to Sapmi area?
There are a few airports that will lead you to the destination. You can land on the places of Finland and Sweden and ride a coach to the places that will introduce you to the Sami Culture. If you find luxury of travelling in a car, you can always do so. Just remember to be ready with maps and GPS since the difference between the shortest and the longest route are quite confusing. You have to consider as well the driving conditions especially in the winter. If you want adventure, you can ride a bike but it will require you a lot of dedication. The ways to the tourist spots are long but taxis can be a viable option.
The Sami region is not well populated due to extreme weather conditions. In a good perspective, you can enjoy your wide spaces. However, do not be caught in snowstorms without proper equipment. Always pack your bags according to the places you will travel. You will never know what could happen so it is necessary to prepare.
How do I communicate?
Most Sami people have adapted different cultures through marriage across cultural borders so it is not hard for people to communicate with you as long as you speak Basic English. There are several Sami languages but Northern Sami is widely spoken and understood.
A quick look at Sami’s culture will make you become more interested most especially on their means of living. They go from one place to another. Even though some families have settled in permanent homes, there are still existing Samis who live the traditional way. Do not work too hard by the way on looking for the originals because they are way too long cross-cultured.