Best things to do in Saariselka

The historic pasture of the Siida - Sami Museum and Nature Center feeds herds of Sami reindeer native to the area. The Sami are an ancient community of people who maintain the tradition of nomadic reindeer herding through the pastureland. Their practices are protected by law and so are the lands through which they move the reindeer herds. The attraction serves as a meeting place to learn about the arctic cultures whose way of life depends of the migrating herds. The National Museum of the Finnish Sámi and the Nature Centre of Metsähallitu work together to preserve the natural surroundings and culture at the site. An open-air museum as well as indoor exhibits display the artifacts of everyday life, such as textiles, clothing, and cooking utensils. At the on-site restaurant, sample the local mountain berries and reindeer meat--staples of the Sami diet.