A vast, lush forest landscape, with a river winding through the greenery. The trees are dense and varied, creating a blanket of bright green foliage. The river is a deep blue,
1 / 0
A deer stands on the bank, surrounded by lush vegetation, and a small yellow animal, probably a fawn, is nearby. The calm water reflects the verdant hues of the surrounding nature.
1 / 0
A tumultuous stream winds its way through rocky hills covered in dense forests. Pines and deciduous trees form a verdant landscape, while rocks emerge from the winding slopes of the
1 / 0
A serene natural landscape with a tranquil stretch of water surrounded by lush green woods. Hills covered with majestic trees, interspersed with conifers and deciduous trees, rise up to the horizon.
1 / 0
A peaceful natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by lush green woods. A variety of trees, from coniferous to deciduous, stand on the banks, while wooded hills rise up from the river.
1 / 0
A tumultuous river meanders through a rocky valley surrounded by dense forests. The banks are lined with lush green trees that stand on steep cliffs. Fl
1 / 0
A peaceful natural landscape with a stream meandering through lush vegetation. On the bank, several animals stand near a densely leafy grove. In the background, a steep cliff.
1 / 0
A natural landscape with a winding river surrounded by dense forests. The river, calm and reflective, winds its way through the lush greenery of the trees, while wooded hills rise up to the horizon.
1 / 0
A lush natural landscape stretches out beneath a cloudy sky. A winding river, its waters dark and reflective, crosses the scene, surrounded by banks planted with trees. The conifers
1 / 0
A serene natural landscape with a calm lake reflecting majestic trees in shades of gold and green. The edge of the lake is adorned with sand and grassy areas, while grey clouds dotted
1 / 0
A natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by dense forest. Colourful red and green kayaks are navigated by people, while lush vegetation lines the banks. Majestic trees make up the
1 / 0
A dense natural landscape with lush trees in different shades of green. In the centre, a tumultuous river meanders through the forest, with white waves indicating a strong current. Tree trunks, some
1 / 0
A soothing natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by woodland. Trees, mainly conifers and a few broadleaves, stand on either side, displaying golden autumn hues. Visit
1 / 0
A wooden chalet, raised on stilts, is surrounded by spreading trees with autumn-coloured leaves. The building has a rustic architecture, with visible logs and a small balcony.
1 / 0
A vast, lush forest landscape, with a river winding through the greenery. The trees are dense and varied, creating a blanket of bright green foliage. The river is a deep blue,
A deer stands on the bank, surrounded by lush vegetation, and a small yellow animal, probably a fawn, is nearby. The calm water reflects the verdant hues of the surrounding nature.
A tumultuous stream winds its way through rocky hills covered in dense forests. Pines and deciduous trees form a verdant landscape, while rocks emerge from the winding slopes of the
A serene natural landscape with a tranquil stretch of water surrounded by lush green woods. Hills covered with majestic trees, interspersed with conifers and deciduous trees, rise up to the horizon.
A peaceful natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by lush green woods. A variety of trees, from coniferous to deciduous, stand on the banks, while wooded hills rise up from the river.
A tumultuous river meanders through a rocky valley surrounded by dense forests. The banks are lined with lush green trees that stand on steep cliffs. Fl
A peaceful natural landscape with a stream meandering through lush vegetation. On the bank, several animals stand near a densely leafy grove. In the background, a steep cliff.
A natural landscape with a winding river surrounded by dense forests. The river, calm and reflective, winds its way through the lush greenery of the trees, while wooded hills rise up to the horizon.
A lush natural landscape stretches out beneath a cloudy sky. A winding river, its waters dark and reflective, crosses the scene, surrounded by banks planted with trees. The conifers
A serene natural landscape with a calm lake reflecting majestic trees in shades of gold and green. The edge of the lake is adorned with sand and grassy areas, while grey clouds dotted
A natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by dense forest. Colourful red and green kayaks are navigated by people, while lush vegetation lines the banks. Majestic trees make up the
A dense natural landscape with lush trees in different shades of green. In the centre, a tumultuous river meanders through the forest, with white waves indicating a strong current. Tree trunks, some
A soothing natural landscape with a calm river surrounded by woodland. Trees, mainly conifers and a few broadleaves, stand on either side, displaying golden autumn hues. Visit
A wooden chalet, raised on stilts, is surrounded by spreading trees with autumn-coloured leaves. The building has a rustic architecture, with visible logs and a small balcony.

Packraft

The wild rivers of Oulanka in packraft

August only
7 days| 6 nights
Level 3
Eco-score 1/5

What you will experience

Discover Finland's Oulanka National Park, one of the rare places where species from Europe, the Arctic and even Siberia come together and intermingle.
Perfect your packraft skills in the company of two local whitewater guides with a passion for major expeditions.
Overnight bivouacs in the heart of the Oulanka National Park, one of Europe's last wilderness areas.
A seven-day timeless expedition between packraft and unique biodiversity: reindeer, elk, bears, lynx and even wolverines.

Itinerary

DAY 1 / 7
Night
Gîte

We'll meet you at 4pm at Kuusamo airport. A transfer will take you to our base camp in Oulanka (40 min), where Caj and Katja, your two guides for this trip, will give you a warm welcome.


During this first evening, Caj and Katja will give you a final briefing around the fire in the Finnish Kota. This will be an opportunity to discover your equipment, which will be waiting for you on site, and to do your last shopping for snacks and extra food, with the expert advice of your guides.

DAY 2 / 7
Night
Bivouac
kayak
4h

Our adventure begins on the bridge in the village of Käylä, where we begin a theory session on navigating rapids, reviewing all the essential safety measures.


After this introduction, the expedition takes off. Our guides will lead you through an easy Class I rapid, followed by a majestic lake crossing to reach the start of the famous Kitkajoki River.


In the evening, enjoy a relaxing moment by the fire, an opportunity to revisit the day's teachings. Together, we'll prepare a convivial meal and camp near a riverside shelter.

DAY 3 / 7
Night
Bivouac
kayak
10km

The day begins with three successive small Class I rapids, offering an excellent opportunity to hone our navigation skills. We then venture through Peurakoski, a Class II rapid, for an extra challenge.


In the afternoon, we set up camp amongst the pine trees. Before wrapping up this long summer's day, we enjoy a final session of packraft, then relax by the camp, enjoying the calm surroundings.

DAY 4 / 7
Night
Bivouac
kayak
12km

Today's route takes us through a magnificent delta of small, tranquil lakes. After 6 km, we reach the Class II Niskakoski rapid. Descending its waters, we come to another lake, Jyrävänjärvi.


A short portage is required at the Myllykoski rapid, named after an old mill. We stop for lunch near the mill, before walking 1 km past the Jyrävä waterfall.


Afterwards, we pitch our tents near the Siilastupa hut and spend the night near the waterfall, for an experience as close to nature as possible.

DAY 5 / 7
Night
Bivouac
kayak
8km

Today we have the chance to cross the most beautiful stretch of river in Finland.


We paddle through various Class I canyons, taking time to stop and admire the breathtaking scenery before us.


Our paddle takes us to the Pähkänä shelter, which offers a breathtaking view over the valley. Before spending the night here, we take the time to stroll around and enjoy the natural surroundings.

DAY 6 / 7
Night
Bivouac
Distance
8km

The Kitkajoki River begins to calm down, turning into a wild river that meanders through a pine forest. We paddle for 8km to the confluence with another famous river, the Oulankajoki.


We now have a short paddling section to cover, paddling the rest of the Oulankajoki until we reach Huotinniemi.


A shuttle bus will be waiting for us there to take us back to the civilisation of Kuusamo, about 1 hour away.


Back in Kuusamo, you will return to your base camp from the first day. You'll have time to explore the town at your leisure and enjoy a meal together.

DAY 7 / 7

The expedition ends at 8am.


For those who wish, a shuttle is available to take you back to Kuusamo airport.

The guides who will lead your adventure

Guide Caj - Rescue III WRT

Caj

Rescue III WRT

FrenchFrench
EnglishEnglish

Katja and I (Caj) are nature guides and have been packrafting in the Nordic regions for almost 10 years. Some people call me the Finnish Viking because of my big beard. I like telling jokes and I have a rather quirky sense of humour, like most Finns. Katja and I are also packraft instructors and have taken the White Water Rescue Technician - Pro course.

Find out more about Caj

What's included in the price

Included

Supervision: You will be supervised for the 11 days by two local English-speaking guides, Caj and Katja. Our guides will look after your safety and share their technical expertise and knowledge of the region with you.
Packraft equipment: We include all the equipment needed for this adventure: lifejacket, 1 packraft, paddles, 1 rucksack, 1 seat, 1 backrest and 1 inflation bag per person.
Food: All meals are included with the exception of breakfasts and any snacks during the expedition. You will have the opportunity to buy snacks and breakfast at the base camp before your departure.
Local transfers at the start and end of the expedition.

Not included

Transport to and from the meeting venue
Bivouac equipment: the hiking tent, sleeping bag and mattress are not included. Don't forget to bring them with you or ask us, we can organise a hire for you!
Breakfasts and snacks are free and can be purchased from the base camp kiosk under the guidance of your guides. This gives participants the flexibility to choose from a variety of culinary options and enjoy a personalised meal experience during their stay.
Everything not included in the "price includes" section.

What level should you expect

Level 3
  • Walking 4km a day for 9 days doesn't scare you.
  • You're capable of making a physical effort for 6 to 8 hours a day for 9 days.
  • You can navigate in a straight line, turn, stop and generally control your kayak or packraft. You've already had the opportunity to use a paddle without having any advanced expertise.
  • Sleeping in a bivouac in an exceptional setting will bring stars to your eyes.
  • You can communicate in English with your guide.
  • You need to be able to swim for this expedition.

Getting there

Start: Kuusamo airport (16h)
End: Kuusamo airport (08h)

Transport

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If you don't have a car, you should know that we're encouraging car-pooling between participants by creating a WhatsApp group 15 days before departure: an opportunity to get to know each other before you even start your expedition!

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Flight from Paris and Brussels to Kuusamo (5h30).

A shuttle is organised from the airport to our base camp (40 min).

How to register

1

Step 1

Choose your departure date and number of participants

2

Step 2

Book online by paying a deposit or the full amount directly. It is also possible to book by telephone by calling +32 474 97 09 38 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
  • If the minimum number of participants is reached, departure is confirmed!
  • If the minimum number of participants is not reached, we will give you a full refund.
Departure is confirmed 15 days in advance for adventures lasting more than 4 days. Departure is confirmed 7 days prior to departures of less than 4 days.
3

Step 3

In the case of a deposit, the remaining amount will be debited from your account before departure.

Your reviews

The opinions of our participants who have placed their trust in us

Frequently asked questions

Will I have to carry heavy loads?

This trip is a travelling adventure, which means that you'll have all your gear with you when you go out in the packraft and when you walk to the various campsites. Most of the time, your gear will be on the packraft, so you won't have to carry it. During the portages, be prepared for bags weighing around 15 kg.

What will the climate be like?

Average temperatures in Finland in August range from 13°C to 21°C.

I'd like to pay in instalments. Is that possible?

Yes, of course. We can spread your payment for registration over 2 or 3 instalments. Don't hesitate to contact us via this link to receive information about payment in instalments.

⛈ What happens if the metreo is wrong?

If the weather is bad but does not represent a danger to participants during the expedition, the activity will continue. If the weather becomes dangerous, the activity will be cancelled and replaced by an alternative offered by our professional guides.

What is included in the price of a DiscoveRent shipment?

At Wildhartt, we attach particular importance to price transparency for our shipments. Our approach is based on a clear breakdown of costs, aimed at providing a better understanding of the elements included in the total amount. Here's how we allocate the percentages:

  • 30% for our guides: We believe that our experienced guides play a crucial role in the success of each activity. That's why we make sure we allocate a significant proportion to pay for their expertise and supervision.
  • 35% for accommodation and food: We consider comfortable accommodation and quality food to be essential elements of an enriching experience.
  • 10% for equipment and transport: The safety and comfort of our participants is paramount. With this part of the total amount, we can guarantee that the equipment required is in excellent condition and adequate for each activity. Transport costs also come into play when they are essential during an expedition.
  • 25% for expedition participation and running costs: These costs cover the logistical, administrative and organisational aspects of the expedition, as well as the overall management of the experience, from start to finish.

Our aim is to provide you with a trustworthy, high-quality experience, while being transparent about how the final cost of your shipment is shared. If you have any further questions about our prices, please contact us here.


Can I privatise this expedition for my group?

Yes, all our expeditions can be privatised for a group already formed on the dates of your choice. To make a privatisation request, go to the expedition of your choice and privatise it using the button under the "see departures" button.

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From € 1835 /pers.

Want to choose your own date with your own group?

Hassle-free from start to finish.

Full refund if departure is not confirmed
Free cancellation up to 30 days before departure
Instalment facility available

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