Sapmi Nature Camp

Sapmi Nature Camp sits in the untrammelled wilderness of the Laponia area, a protected region of mountains, lakes and rivers which is still looked after by the native Sami people, who herd their reindeer here. There are no more than 10 guests at a time, guaranteeing a secluded, immersive adventure. 

The tepee-style lavvu tents feature comfy double beds and furnishings and decor in the traditional style of the local Sami people. Wicker chairs, covered with warm reindeer hides, offer a cosy place to sit back and relax by the warming stove, while candles and lanterns provide atmospheric lighting – there’s no electricity in the camp, which only adds to the experience.

Mealtimes at Sapmi are a sociable affair – you can even muck in and help prepare meals if you choose to – and are enjoyed in the log cabin. The food is traditional Sami fare, which means fresh fish, reindeer meat, various other game and berries. Meats are often smoked or cured, and the most prized local fruit is the golden cloudberry, which is something of a superfood.

The homely log cabin is the social hub of the camp, where you can hang out with your fellow adventurers and warm up after a day in the great outdoors with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. This is a great place to dry off any wet clothes after a day exploring the snowy hills and rivers, and you can warm up in traditional Sami style by the wood-heated sauna.

You’ll spend most of your time here enjoying the great outdoors. Wildlife-watching trips will see you searching for Siberian jays (local birds of the forest), golden eagles and moose as you traverse the snowy surroundings on a walking ski tour.

You’ll also have the chance to try your hand at reindeer herding and foraging for food, while the night sky is often lit up with the stunning Northern Lights – would-be photographers can take lessons from Lennart, the camp owner, to create the perfect photo memento.