How long is the guided tour?

The entire experience, including transport and walking, takes about three hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly with easy walking distances and engaging exhibits.

Are the tours conducted in English?

Yes, guided tours are offered in English for international visitors.

Where does the tour start?

Pick-up begins at Wilderness Hotel Juutua before walking to the museum.

Can I buy souvenirs at the museum?

Yes, the Siida gift shop sells locally made handicrafts and authentic Sámi products.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?

Photography is generally allowed, but guests should respect museum rules, especially around sensitive exhibits.

Sámi Culture Journey with Wilderness Hotel - Juutua | Guided Tour | History Tour

Situated in the heart of Inari, Lapland, Finland, the Wilderness Hotel - Juutua offers an immersive visit to Siida - Sámi Museum and Nature Centre—a standout destination that brings the region’s indigenous Sámi heritage and Arctic natural landscape vividly to life. This recently renovated museum, honored with the European Museum of the Year and Finnish Museum of the Year awards in 2024, provides a comprehensive view of Sámi culture, history, and their enduring connection to the northern environment.

Guests begin with a gentle one-kilometer walk alongside the pristine Juutua River, a scenic introduction that pairs tranquil waters with boreal forests, setting the tone for the day. Inside the museum, the permanent exhibition “Enâmeh láá mii párnááh – These lands are our children” showcases the eight seasons of Lapland through Sámi eyes, revealing the intricate relationship between people, wildlife, and landscape. The open-air museum extends this narrative by featuring over fifty authentic heritage buildings, offering an intimate glimpse into traditional Sámi life.

What makes this experience exceptional is its grounding in local authenticity combined with expert English-language guidance, making complex cultural narratives accessible and engaging. Visitors can finish the tour by browsing Siida’s gift shop, which features handcrafted items made by local artisans—a perfect way to support Sámi craftsmanship and bring home a meaningful souvenir.

Wilderness Hotel - Juutua’s connection to the surrounding wilderness makes it a vital gateway to Lapland’s outdoor adventures. This museum tour enriches any Lapland itinerary, deepening travelers' appreciation for the land and its indigenous stewards, while providing a carefully curated cultural experience that is both thoughtful and accessible. Whether you are passionate about history, nature, or the unique stories of the Arctic, this visit is an essential chapter in understanding the northern wilderness.

About Wilderness Hotel - Juutua

Wilderness Hotel - Juutua is a hospitality and activity provider based in Inari, Lappi. The business organizes a wide range of Arctic tours and experiences that highlight Lapland’s natural environment and Sámi culture. Offerings include Northern Lights viewing trips such as Aurora Camp, Aurora Snowshoeing and car-based Aurora Hunts; active adventures like snowmobile safaris, snowmobile adventures, and e-fatbike tours; animal encounters including husky farm visits, husky safaris, reindeer sleigh rides and meet-the-reindeer visits; as well as traditional activities like ice fishing on Lake Inari, foraging for Lappish wild food, and Finnish sauna experiences with a jacuzzi. Cultural programs include visits to Siida — the Sámi Museum and Nature Center — and the Inari Cultural Day with a cruise to Ukko Island.

Trips are presented with practical briefings, guided routes and opportunities to enjoy open-fire meals, hot drinks and storytelling. Seasonal options span autumn special events such as Autumn Aurora Camp and Autumn Reindeer Visit, and winter-focused activities like snowshoeing and ice fishing. One experience, Husky Experience with Wheels, operates from September to mid-November. The hotel emphasizes safe, small-group experiences suitable for a range of ages and abilities. Photographers, families and nature enthusiasts will find varied itineraries. All descriptions are based on the current activity list for Wilderness Hotel - Juutua.

Activities include visits along the Juutua River to Jäniskoski Rapids and boat trips to Lemmenjoki National Park. Guests can combine cultural visits, wildlife encounters and outdoor activities to build personalized itineraries that reflect seasonal conditions and local traditions and logistics.