Kautokeino
Norway · Finnmark · 300 m
Description
Kautokeino (Guovdageaidnu) is one of the most important centers of Sámi culture and reindeer herding in Norway, set deep in Finnmark on the vast Finnmarksvidda plateau. The Northern Sámi language and traditions shape everyday life, while the town is also a vibrant center of contemporary Sámi art and culture. Around Easter, the Sámi Easter Festival transforms Kautokeino into a meeting place for joik singing, reindeer racing, concerts, exhibitions, and the Sámi Grand Prix. The Juhls Silver Gallery combines Sámi craftsmanship with modern design. The 1852 Kautokeino uprising recalls the Sámi’s complex history and resistance to Norwegian authorities.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: March – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Sami Easter Festival (joik, reindeer racing, Sami Grand Prix) (March - April)
- North Sami reindeer herding on Finnmarksvidda
- Juhls' Silver Gallery
- Kautokeino Rebellion Museum
- Sami University of Applied Sciences
- Kautokeino Church
- Sami handicrafts and duodji
- Finnmarksvidda plateau
- Reindeer sledding (November - April)
- Snowmobile safari on Finnmarksvidda (November - April)
- Northern lights (September - April)
- Midnight sun (May - July)
- Finnmarksvidda hiking (June - September)
- Finnmarksvidda ski touring (March - May)(Multi-day trip)
- Alta River fishing (June - August)(Day trip)
- Sami language and everyday life in Guovdageaidnu