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The Full Story

About us

Welcome to Up North Sami Adventures, a family-run journey rooted in daily Sami life and culture.
We warmly invite you to share in our way of life, from everyday traditions to the vibrant, seasonal events that shape our community life.

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Who we are

We’re Ira Máre and Johan Ánte Bæhr, married and living in Kautokeino with our beloved dogs and reindeer herd. Family lies at the heart of Sami culture, and you'll soon discover why ours is no exception.

From grandparents to the youngest members, everyone plays their part in caring for our animals and preserving our heritage. Our herding dogs lead on the pasture while our hunting dogs help us find food and navigate the land. It’s a collective effort that binds us together.

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Our Heritage

Our family has called Kautokeino home for generations, tending to reindeer as tradition dictates. Johan Ánte inherited the herd from his father nearly ten years ago. He always knew this path was his destiny.
 

Reindeer herding isn’t just work; it’s a way of life defined by the herd, the seasons, and the wind. Twice a year, we embark on migrations across the Arctic tundra.

First toward the coast of northern Troms in spring, then back inland as winter approaches. This migration reflects the nomadic roots of Sami culture; we follow the herd, wherever it leads.

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Our Commitment

At Up North Sámi Adventures, the welfare of our animals is our highest priority. We uphold respectful, attentive care for our reindeer and dogs alike.
 

They are not just part of our livelihood, but cherished members of our family. Through every adventure we offer, we honor their well being and recognize their central role in Sámi culture.
 

Up North Sámi Adventures was created to support our reindeer herd and make our way of life more sustainable. By sharing our everyday work with a small number of guests, we are able to care for our animals properly while continuing reindeer herding in a changing world.


Step Into Our World

Come walk with us through the Arctic tundra, listen to stories passed down through generations, and experience reindeer herding from the inside.
 

Our adventures are not performances. They are real moments from our everyday lives, shared with honesty, responsibility, and care.
 

We believe that when people experience this life firsthand, they gain a deeper understanding of why it matters. Of why nature must be respected, animals protected, and traditional knowledge valued.

This understanding is what we hope guests carry with them long after they leave.

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