Exploring Sámi Culture in Northern Finland

Independently transfer to your hotel. Remainder of day at leisure to explore on your own. Helsinki is uniquely situated on the Baltic Sea where it has for centuries protected Finland from invaders coming from Russia in the east and Sweden in the west. Built upon this foundation, the city offers both historic sites like the sea fortress Suomenlinna, as well as modern art like the Sibelius Monument and the Kiasma Museum. The series of trams that cover the whole city make navigating simple for visitors. Overnight in Helsinki

Independently transfer to the airport for your flight north to Ivalo. Once there, meet your transfer for the half-hour ride from Ivalo airport to your accommodation in Inari. Don’t get too comfortable however, as this afternoon you will board a catamaran for a cruise on the beautiful Lake Inari. Stop at Ukko Island for a walk around what was the traditional sacrificial site for Sámi. Since the Midnight Sun will still be up during your visit, evenings are a great time to join a hiking excursion to the top of Otsamo Fell. Overnight in Inari

This morning is at leisure to explore Inari independently, or possibly travel to Lemmenjoki National Park to visit a local Sámi family and enjoy a riverboat cruise. This afternoon you will head to a husky farm. During the winter, huskies are busy pulling dogsleds and competing in different international competitions. Summertime is the downtime for the local huskies, so it is a great time to visit them and get to know these excited and friendly dogs in a relaxed environment. On your excursion today, the musher will introduce you to the dogs and tell you stories of the wonderful animals. Additional excursions are available this evening at an extra cost. Overnight in Inari

After meeting the huskies yesterday, today you will encounter the other famous Lapland natives: reindeer! This afternoon you’ll meet an Inari local and meet her friendly reindeer. Reindeer are an integral part of life in Lapland and your guide will tell all about this, as well as show you how the most essential part of Sámi winter clothing, fur boots, are made. Overnight in Inari

Visit the Sámi Museum, SIIDA, featuring information about Sámi culture, history, and Lapland’s fascinating nature. The outdoor exhibition gives you the opportunity to literally step into the world of the Sámi people of the past. Snacks and lunch are available at the museum’s restaurant, Sarrit. After you are finished, take the included transfer from your hotel to Ivalo airport. Arrive in Helsinki and independently transfer to your hotel for your last night in Finland. Overnight in Helsinki

Independently transfer to the airport for your return flight to the US – or extend your stay in Scandinavia!