Jokkmokk is the unofficial capital of the Sami people, the indigenous people of Lapland. There is a modern museum of Sami culture, and the area is known for its rugged landscapes and unspoiled nature.
The village was founded in the place where the Sami people ran a trading post in the 17th century. To this day, at the beginning of February, a great fair is held here, the traditions of which date back to 1605. During it, you can buy local handicrafts, see performances of folk bands, watch reindeer and dog sled races and taste local dishes.
The biggest attraction of Jokkmokk is Ajtte - the Swedish Museum of Mountains and Sami Culture. It is one of the most modern museums in Sweden, showing the life of the inhabitants of Lapland, their customs and relationships with nature. There is a Mountain Garden at the museum with plants typical of the Lapland region.
Jokkmokk is surrounded by wonderful wilderness where reindeer herds graze and where nature rules. There are bare, harsh mountains, tundra-covered areas, meadows and pristine lakes. They are protected in several national parks, Stora Sjöfallet National Park, Sarek National Park and Padjelanta National Park.
In summer, the area surrounding Jokkmokk is perfect for hiking in the wild. In winter, you can go on a trip on snowmobiles, dog sleds or admire the northern lights.
