Discover Hammerfest & Sámi Experience

by coach & on foot

Combine an introduction to the town of Hammerfest with an authentic Sámi experience.

Board your coach at the pier, and set off on a short drive to your first stop – the Meridian Column. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll gain an insight into this landmark which commemorates the measuring of the curvature of the earth.

Continue through Hammerfest and up to the viewpoint at Mount Salen, where you are treated to panoramic views over the town and surrounding islands.

The highlight of your experience will be a visit to the Mikkelgammen Sámi Camp, where you will learn more about the history and culture of Norway’s indigenous people. You will be welcomed into the lavvu (Sámi tent) by Sámi hosts, where dressed in their colourful national costumes, they’ll invite you to sit around the open fire in the traditional way, on springy birch branches covered with reindeer hides.

During your visit, you will be treated to a special performance of a joik. These mesmerising chants are dedicated to each individual member of the Sámi population. Joiks have no words, and each one is unique to the person singing it.

Afterwards, savour a platter of traditional produce, including cloudberries, smoked or dried reindeer meat and polar bread accompanied by tea or coffee brewed over the fire.

All too soon this memorable experience will be over, and it will be time for your to rejoin your coach for the drive back to the pier in Hammerfest.