Laponian Area

Wilderness and Culture: Tourist Views and Experiences in the Laponian World Heritage Area

Tourists perceive the Laponian World Heritage Area as a pristine wilderness characterized by untouched nature, wild animals, and minimal human influence, even while acknowledging its use for Sami reindeer herding practices and tourism development. This study reveals that tourists do not view these uses as contradictory, highlighting a nuanced understanding of wilderness that balances natural preservation with cultural and economic activities. To explore these perceptions, researchers surveyed tourists about their views on landscape and the concept of wilderness, providing insights into how people interpret and experience protected areas in northern Sweden.