Kautokeino Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and logistics for Kautokeino in Northern Norway with this detailed tour guide.


Kautokeino is a municipality located in the heart of Finnmark, Northern Norway. This region is known worldwide for preserving the Sami culture and traditions. Kautokeino is an ideal place for people looking to explore natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and traditional Sami culture. This comprehensive tour guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Kautokeino!

Introduction to Kautokeino

Kautokeino lies on the banks of Kautokeinoelva River, surrounded by mountains and vast areas of forest. The town prides itself on its Sami heritage, exemplified by the traditional clothing worn by many locals. Visitors can get a glimpse of the Sami culture at the many museums and historical sites around Kautokeino. The town is also famous for outdoor recreational activities like hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling.

List of Places to Visit in Kautokeino

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kautokeino Church: A stunning wooden church that dates back to 1701.
  • Sapmi Park: An interactive cultural center that offers a unique attraction to visitors with traditional Sami crafts, food, and music.
  • Juhls Silver Gallery: A high-end jewelry store featuring silver handcrafted by a famous artist, Frank Juhls.
  • Kautokeino Historical Trail: A hiking trail highlights Sami culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Kautokeino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kautokeinoelva River: One of the best Salmon-fishing rivers around Kautokeino. This river is also excellent for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting.
  • Kautokeino Mountain Plateau: This plateau offers fantastic views of the town. Hiking enthusiast can explore the peaceful surroundings or rent a snowmobile in winter months.
  • Lake Iešjávri: This picturesque lake is perfect for fishing and offers breathtaking views in the winter. From December to March, visitors can marvel at the Northern Lights and feel like they are on top of the world.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kautokeino

Kautokeino has scenic hiking trails for all fitness levels. From the rugged terrain of the mountain plateau to the serene valleys and forests, there is something for everyone. These are some of the popular hiking and biking routes to try:

  • Oksfjellet: An excellent hiking trail that showcases Sami history and culture.
  • Kautokeino Nature Trails: A series of scenic trails through rugged terrain that offer beautiful views of the valley below.
  • Kautokeino Biking Route: An excellent route to explore the town’s culture and history by bike.

Best Things to Do in Kautokeino: Activities and Tours

Kautokeino has plenty of activities to offer visitors, from exploring its Sami culture to enjoying the scenic views of nature.

  • Snowmobile Safari: An unforgettable tour through the snowy mountains to hunt for Northern Lights
  • Sami Cultural Exhibition: Learn more about Sami culture and traditions through interactive exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kautokeino

Kautokeino is a small town, but it has a lot to offer visitors. To make the most of your time in the region, consider this week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Kautokeino’s historic sites
2 Hike Oksfjellet or other hiking trails
3 Visit Sapmi Park for interactive exhibits about Sami culture
4 Experience local cuisine in Kautokeino
5 Kayak or canoe on Kautokeinoelva or Lake Iešjávri
6 Snowmobile Safari to find Northern Lights
7 Take a day trip to Alta for the Alta Museum and Northern Lights Cathedral

Food and Drink Scene of Kautokeino

Kautokeino has many local delicacies to offer visitors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bidos: A signature Sami dish made from reindeer meat and broth.
  • Suledrikk: A hot drink made from cloudberries.

Local Beverages

  • Muddler: A traditional Sami beverage made from sour cream and brewed beer.
  • Gahkku: A flatbread that pairs perfectly with sour cream and honey.

Where to Stay in Kautokeino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kautokeino has several accommodations options, from comfortable hotels to guesthouses. Here are some options:

  • Thon Hotel Kautokeino: A well-equipped hotel located in the town center.
  • Camp Kautokeino: A budget-friendly option offering minimalist yet comfortable rooms.
  • Garsnes Brygge: Located outside the town, a cozy family-owned guesthouse near Lake Iešjávri.

What to Buy in Kautokeino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some popular souvenirs from Kautokeino include traditional Sami clothing and handicrafts like knives and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Kautokeino

Kautokeino is proud of its Sami heritage and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of this culture and understand that some customs may differ from their own.

Best Time to Visit Kautokeino

The ideal time to visit Kautokeino is in the summer months between June and September when days are long and the weather is mild. However, the winter months from December to March offer stunning views of the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kautokeino

Do:

  • Respect and follow traditional customs of the Sami people.
  • Take a guided tour to learn more about the Sami culture and traditions.
  • Experience outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling.

Don’t:

  • Litter in natural areas or damage the local wildlife.
  • Trespass on private property or sacred sites.
  • Engage in any activities that may cause harm to nature or disrupt the peaceful surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kautokeino

Kautokeino is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors should take normal precautions.

  • When going on hikes, tell someone your itinerary and bring adequate gear.
  • Stay on marked trails and obey all safety signs.
  • Be cautious if driving in the winter months due to slippery roads and reduced visibility.

Health in Kautokeino

Kautokeino has a well-equipped health center, but visitors should still prepare for any emergencies by bringing adequate health insurance and medication.

Getting to Kautokeino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kautokeino is somewhat remote, but there are still several travel options available.

Airports Near Kautokeino

The nearest airport to Kautokeino is Alta Airport, located about 90km away. A car rental or taxi can take you to your final destination.

Bus Stations Near Kautokeino

Several bus companies operate daily trips to and from Kautokeino. Arctic Route and Boreal Transport are two of the most reliable options.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to drive to Kautokeino. Self-driving is the most convenient option, especially for exploring the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Kautokeino

The best way to explore Kautokeino and the surrounding areas is by car. Alternatively, visitors can rent a bike or snowmobile for a unique and exciting experience.

Where to Go Next from Kautokeino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Alta: Explore the Northern Lights Cathedral and Alta Museum, which houses the largest collection of prehistoric rock carvings in Northern Europe.
  • Karasjok: Visit the Sami Parliament and Finnmark’s largest handicraft center to learn more about traditional Sami culture and traditions.

Conclusion

Kautokeino is a hidden gem in Northern Norway, offering a unique blend of Sami culture and outdoor recreational activities. From museums and historical sites to scenic hiking trails and snowmobile tours, visitors can experience the region’s culture and natural beauty in many ways. This comprehensive guide will help you plan the trip of a lifetime to Kautokeino!

The Kautokeino river flowing through the centre of Kautokeino The Kautokeino river flowing through the centre of Kautokeino Costume exhibition at the Sámi theatre Costume exhibition at the Sámi theatre The open-air museum The open-air museum The church in Mázi The church in Mázi Čunovuohppi on the Nordkalottleden trail Čunovuohppi on the Nordkalottleden trail