Ethno-tourism in the Arctic represents a promising sector that could become a key driver of economic growth for indigenous peoples. 'Tourism provides an opportunity to socialise people in the North. This is a significant advantage for both the youth and adults, as they understand that they can reside in their homeland, engage in their favourite activities and simultaneously coexist harmoniously with the rest of the world,' told Artur Agafonov, editor-in-chief of the Children of the Arctic portal. 

The Children of the Arctic project is committed to preserving the culture of indigenous minorities, the languages of northern peoples and broadly promoting the 'Arctic agenda.' The expeditions undertaken by the project team aid in spreading knowledge about the Arctic and its inhabitants, and travel blogs can provide suggestions on who to visit in the Polar region. We've compiled five ethno-tourist travel options, all vetted by the Children of the Arctic project specialists.

1. Visit the reindeer herders of the Komi people

A trip to the reindeer herders in the tundra is an authentic adventure. Travel from Vorkuta to the Komi people's camp is only possible via a multi-ton all-terrain vehicle or helicopter, as the Arctic expanses become a marshy swamp in summer. Transportation is typically included in the tour cost, with guests being forewarned about potential time conflicts. However, as repeatedly stated by various experts and Arctic business representatives, tourism in the Polar region cannot be mass-market; it's a unique proposition with inevitable challenges and unexpected events. The nearest comparison is mountain hiking, which requires physical fitness, a range of skills and an understanding that things may not go as planned.

Can one follow in the project's footsteps? Absolutely, yes! The Children of the Arctic showcased a traditional Komi reindeer herders' camp during the seasonal herd migration. The project team had the opportunity to participate in reindeer herding, visit a chum and interact with local residents. Such an expedition is accessible to the average tourist as well, the key is to arrange it in advance with the tour operator. There are also permanent ethno-camps, like the one in the Yustydor settlement. Reaching it is somewhat easier since it operates all year round at the same location. Guests can access a tent with traditional interior decor, participate in master classes and enjoy a comprehensive tour programme featuring stories about the lifestyle and livelihood of the region's reindeer herders.

2. Going boating with the Khanty and Mansi people

The annual oblas races in Ugra are a unique event attracting athletes from around the globe, not just skilled rowers from the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area. Maori from New Zealand and Native Americans from the United States have been participating in the swims for several consecutive years. An oblas is a traditional dugout boat of the Khanty and Mansi people, functionally and visually similar to a North American canoe. This small, agile and lightweight vessel has aided taiga fishermen and hunters in their river travels in pursuit of game for thousands of years. The race today is a large-scale event featuring group swims, individual races, relays, master classes, a cultural programme with guest artists and much more. The event is further enriched by the mandatory religious rituals of the Khanty and Mansi people who communicate with nature spirits, offer sacrifices and burn fragrant herbs to seek blessings and good fortune.

Logistics in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area and Ugra, recently incorporated into the AZRF, are more forgiving to travellers than in many other Arctic regions. The same applies to the infrastructure—guests can dine in restaurants and cafés in populated areas, where there are also hotels and museums, and reaching these places doesn't require an all-terrain vehicle.

3. Yamdat with the Nenets people

A journey to the Nenets in the tundra will span several days. First, you need to reach the capital of YNAA, Salekhard, and then embark on a lengthy journey by either an all-terrain vehicle or helicopter. The Nenets communities migrate annually along traditional routes, and while some are open to visitors, you can't approach the towns and settlements with reindeer. The Children of the Arctic project set out to meet members of one of the most preserved communities, Yamb To, which translates to 'Long Lake.' This time, the nomads were found not far from the Kara Sea shore, with the film crew flying in alongside supplies and packages for the community members.

The Nenets welcome guests, they don't serve tourists. A trip to them offers a full immersion into the nomadic culture, involving participation in traditional activities and pastimes. The locals show interest towards visitors from the mainland, happily showcasing their lifestyle and offering delicious food, but don't expect conventional service. This is authentic ethno-tourism, providing an opportunity to dive deep into the unique northern culture.

4. Lasso throwing in the Polar Urals mountains

There are numerous locations in Yamal that have been seen by only a handful of people till now. The remote mountains of the Polar Urals in the Arctic tundra possess the true beauty of untouched nature, requiring significant tourist experience to explore. This is a wild terrain where you can't venture without a guide and a firearm. However, there are also opportunities for less risky activities. After visiting a local reindeer herders' camp, the Children of the Arctic project participated in traditional sports games, which included tests of agility, strength and endurance. Indeed, winning them is almost an impossible feat, unless you've spent years mastering the art of lasso throwing, or you're a certified athlete in tug-of-war.

The locals, much like all those from the North, are extremely welcoming to visitors and enthusiastic about cultural exchanges. In the YNAA, there are various kinds of expedition tours available, some of which are quite budget-friendly. Tourists may be offered a trip to the tundra on an all-terrain vehicle that doubles as a mobile hotel on massive wheels. Alternatively, one could try their luck with a reindeer sledge or snowmobile, though these options come with a heftier price tag. Nonetheless, such a unique experience is typically worth the cost.

5. Identify the materials used to construct the karbass

The isolated settlements of the Arkhangelsk Region represent unique pockets of Pomor culture. An-2 planes operate weekly flights, and it's also possible to drive there if your vehicle is well-prepared (or if you're not too attached to it). On the coastal areas, fishing and hunting enthusiasts can lose track of time for weeks while chasing their catch. You can explore numerous rivers, lakes and even the White Sea itself, or take a ride on a karbass (a traditional type of Pomor sailing vessel). The locals are always happy to meet adventurous travellers eager to immerse themselves in the northern lifestyle.

The local culture is certainly worth exploring. The Pomors meticulously preserve their ancient traditions, and there are active rural museums and cultural-educational groups. You can find items there that have a history spanning over a century, and they are still in working condition and can be used as intended. Tourist bases are operational in some locations, while in others, you can typically rent a room in a house from friendly local hosts.