A white reindeer with light brown spots stands in snowy woods, tethered by an orange rope. Behind it, trees and wire fencing are visible, creating a winter scene.
A person in a yellow jacket kneels by a rocky riverbank, handling fish they've caught. Three large fish lay on the stones near the clear water.
A woman crouches beside her dog, overlooking a serene lake and distant mountains at sunset. The sky reflects golden hues, creating a peaceful, tranquil scene.
A woman and a small child sit in a wooden structure, gazing out at a scenic, mountainous lake landscape under a cloudy sky, sharing a quiet moment.
A man and woman relax outdoors in snowy mountains, wearing sunglasses and winter clothing, sitting on animal skins by a campfire with food, under a blue sky.
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Join our family and experience Sámi culture in the Arctic nature of Lakselv, Norway

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Country info

IF you are not a Norwegian or EU citizen and are planning to visit to work, volunteer or study, YOU WILL NEED THE CORRECT VISA / AU PAIR PERMIT (if applicable). To find out more information please contact the embassy in your home country BEFORE travelling.

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Availability

  2026 

 Min stay requested: at least 1 month

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Details

  • Description

    Description

    We (Sara (34) and Simon (33)) are a family living in Porsanger in Finnmark, Northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle. We are both teachers and reindeer herders. Our family consists of two adults, a two-year-old boy, twins born in March 2026, and our friendly family and working dog.

    Our home is located along the famous Lakselva River, one of Norway's best-known salmon rivers. We are surrounded by pine forests, mountains and beautiful Arctic nature, enjoying a peaceful lifestyle close to the outdoors. Depending on the season, visitors can experience the midnight sun, northern lights, fishing, hiking and authentic Arctic life.

    We are looking for friendly, responsible and independent people who would like to become part of our family for a while.

    We prefer Workawayers who can stay for at least one month, as this gives everyone time to settle in, become part of the family, and get the most out of the experience. Longer stays are always welcome.

    Our main reason for hosting Workawayers is to get an extra pair of hands in everyday family life. With three young children, full-time jobs as teachers, and responsibilities connected to our traditional Sámi lifestyle, we especially appreciate help with childcare, preparing meals, household tasks and helping to keep daily family life running smoothly.

    Reindeer husbandry is an important part of our lives and identity. As part of the cultural exchange, guests may have opportunities to accompany us during family activities related to Sámi culture, outdoor life and reindeer husbandry. These experiences are offered as opportunities to learn about our way of life and Arctic culture rather than as work responsibilities.

    Throughout the year, guests may gain insight into different aspects of life in Northern Norway. Depending on the season, this can include spending time outdoors, visiting our mountain cabin, fishing, experiencing the northern lights or midnight sun, and learning about traditional Sámi culture and reindeer herding.

    We are proud to continue a traditional way of life with a modern twist – balancing reindeer herding, family life and our work as teachers.

    Both at our home and at our mountain cabin, Workawayers will have their own private accommodation. We want our guests to feel part of the family while also having their own space and privacy.

    In return, we offer accommodation, meals, cultural exchange and the opportunity to experience everyday life in Arctic Norway.

    We look forward to welcoming people from different cultures and sharing our home, our lifestyle and our corner of the Arctic with you.

  • Types of help and learning opportunities

    Types of help and learning opportunities

    Animal Care
    Babysitting and creative play
    Creating/ Cooking family meals
    Help around the house
  • Interests

    Interests

    Pets
    Culture
    Gardening
    Cooking & food
    Hitchhiking
    Animals
    Nature
    Camping
    Winter sports
    Sailing / Boating
    Mountain
    Water sports
    Outdoor activities
    Hiking
    Cycling
    Adventure sports
  • UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN sustainability goals this host is trying to achieve

    UN goals
    No poverty
    Zero hunger
    Good health and well-being
    Quality education
    Gender equality
    Clean water and sanitation
    Affordable and clean energy
    Decent work and economic growth
    Industries, innovation and infrastructure
    Reduce inequality
    Sustainable cities and communities
    Responsible consumption and production
    Climate action
    Life below water
    Life on land
    Peace, justice and strong institutions
    Partnerships for the goals
  • Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    Cultural exchange and learning opportunities

    We believe that cultural exchange is one of the most rewarding parts of hosting Workawayers. By staying with us, guests will experience everyday life in Arctic Norway as part of a local family.

    We are happy to share our knowledge of Sámi culture, reindeer husbandry, outdoor life, fishing, Arctic nature and local traditions. Depending on the season, Workawayers may accompany us during family activities connected to reindeer husbandry, spend time at our mountain cabin, go ice fishing, enjoy hiking in the mountains, gather around the campfire and experience life in the Arctic throughout the changing seasons.

    We also enjoy learning about other cultures, languages, traditions and ways of life. We hope our guests will share stories, recipes, customs and experiences from their own countries.

    Our goal is that Workawayers leave not only with memories of Northern Norway, but also feeling like part of our family.

  • Au pair

    Au Pair Help

    This host is looking for Au pair help.

  • Help

    Help

    The main focus for Workawayers staying with us is helping with everyday family life. With three young children, including twins born in 2026, an extra pair of hands is greatly appreciated.

    Typical tasks may include:

    * Helping with childcare and playing with the children
    * Preparing simple meals and helping in the kitchen
    * Light household tasks such as tidying, laundry and cleaning
    * Helping with everyday family routines
    * Spending time outdoors with the family
    * Helping care for our friendly family dog

    As part of the cultural exchange, Workawayers may have opportunities to accompany us during family activities related to Sámi culture, reindeer husbandry, outdoor life and life in Arctic Norway. Depending on the season, this may include visiting our mountain cabin, spending time in nature, learning about reindeer herding traditions, fishing, and experiencing everyday life in the Arctic.

    We usually do activities together and enjoy sharing knowledge about Arctic life, reindeer husbandry, outdoor activities and local culture. No previous experience is required, but a positive attitude, flexibility and an interest in nature, family life and cultural exchange are important.

    We are especially looking for people who enjoy being around children and who are comfortable living in a family environment.

  • Languages

    Languages spoken
    English: Fluent
    Norwegian: Fluent
    Sami: Fluent

    This host offers a language exchange
    This host has indicated that they are interested in sharing their own language or learning a new language.
    You can contact them directly for more information.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation

    Workawayers will stay in a caravan located next to our home or at our mountain cabin, depending on the season and where we are spending most of our time. The caravan has electricity, heating, Wi-Fi, a comfortable bed and the facilities needed for a pleasant stay.

    Although guests will have their own private accommodation and space, they are always welcome to use the facilities inside our home or cabin, including the kitchen, bathroom, laundry facilities and common living areas. We want our guests to feel part of the family while still having privacy whenever they want it.

    As a family with three young children, our evenings are usually quiet after the children have gone to bed. We enjoy spending time together, but we also value personal space and understand that Workawayers may want time to themselves after a busy day. We believe a healthy balance between family life, shared experiences and personal time creates the best experience for everyone.

    All meals are included, and we usually share meals together as a family whenever possible.

  • What else ...

    What else ...

    PLEASE READ BEFORE APPLYING

    We live in a rural area, so enjoying nature and a quiet lifestyle is important. Lakselv has shops, cafés, a gym, a swimming pool and all basic services, but this is definitely not a big city experience.

    A driver's licence (manual or automatic) is a big advantage, but it is not required. We are happy to help with transport when possible.

    Life with our family can be busy, active and sometimes unpredictable. Much of our life follows the seasons, the weather, family life and Sámi traditions. Flexibility and a positive attitude are important.

    If you are planning a trip north of the Arctic Circle, it is important to come prepared for Arctic weather and outdoor life. While we have some spare clothing and equipment available in certain sizes, we recommend bringing your own suitable outdoor gear. You should be prepared with:

    • Wool base layers
    • Warm mid-layers
    • Waterproof rain gear
    • Warm hat and gloves
    • Durable outdoor footwear
    • A hat or head net for protection against insects during summer
    • Outdoor clothing that can handle rough use in Arctic nature and outdoor environments

    Please do not bring your favourite expensive outdoor clothing. Children, weather and outdoor activities can be hard on equipment.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    • At least one previous Workaway experience
    • Valid driver's licence (manual or automatic)
    • Comfortable around young children
    • Positive, outgoing attitude
    • Good physical condition
    • Strong communication skills
    • Reliable, practical and willing to help where needed
    • Open to eating the same meals as the family, including reindeer meat which is a regular part of our diet
    • Happy to help with everyday household tasks when needed
    • Able to take initiative and help out with everyday family life without needing constant direction
    • Comfortable with changing plans, weather conditions and seasonal activities

    We appreciate open communication, flexibility and a positive attitude. We understand that cultural differences exist and believe the best experiences come from mutual respect, curiosity and a willingness to learn from each other.

    We hope our guests will feel at home with us and become part of our family during their stay.

    TO APPLY

    Please start your message with:

    "I have read your entire profile."

    Then tell us:

    • A little about yourself and where you are from
    • Why you would like to stay with our family
    • Your preferred dates and length of stay
    • Previous Workaway or volunteering experience
    • Any experience with children
    • Whether you have a driver's licence
    • Any allergies, dietary restrictions or important information
    • Whether you are available for a video call before arrival

    If you are interested in Arctic nature, Sámi culture, outdoor life and family life in Northern Norway, we would love to hear from you.

  • A little more information

    A little more information

    • Internet access

    • Limited internet access

      Limited internet access

    • We have pets

    • We are smokers

    • Can host families

  • How many Workawayers can stay?

    How many Workawayers can stay?

    One

  • My animals / pets

    My animals / pets

    Ce

Host ref number: 742876317749

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Photos

A person in a yellow jacket kneels by a rocky riverbank, handling fish they've caught. Three large fish lay on the stones near the clear water.
A woman crouches beside her dog, overlooking a serene lake and distant mountains at sunset. The sky reflects golden hues, creating a peaceful, tranquil scene.
A woman and a small child sit in a wooden structure, gazing out at a scenic, mountainous lake landscape under a cloudy sky, sharing a quiet moment.
A man and woman relax outdoors in snowy mountains, wearing sunglasses and winter clothing, sitting on animal skins by a campfire with food, under a blue sky.
A white reindeer with light brown spots stands in snowy woods, tethered by an orange rope. Behind it, trees and wire fencing are visible, creating a winter scene.

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