Inari Sami people

We Inari Sami people has inhabited the area surrounding Lake Inari from times immemorial. Traditional livelihoods, especially fishing but also reindeer herding and berry picking are still part of the culture. Everyday life is guided by the changing seasons and nature is still a very important part of living in Inari. Nowadays this small minority of approximately 700 people is especially well known for their groundbreaking work to preserve and to revitalize their own language.

Inari Sami food culture is based on nature’s ingredients. Sami people lived long in self-sufficient economy and got everything they needed from the land and waters. Lake Inari was the source for fresh fish, meat came from reindeer and other game animals, potato and turnips were grown. Kultahovi restaurant Aanaar continues this down-to-earth tradition by obtaining the best ingredients from local fishermen, reindeer herders and other producers.