Join us on our new Finland canoe expedition as we paddle down the Ivalo River, located in the far north of Finland, above the Arctic Circle. Suitable for those with some moving water experience, such as our River Spey trip which would be perfect precursor. Our descent takes five days on the Ivalo River, including a day trekking and exploring in the Hammastunturi wilderness area. This region of Lapland witnessed a 19th century gold rush, evidence of this can still be glimpsed as we pass through in our canoes. We will wild camp on the river bank, living and cooking over campfires. We will have the opportunity to fish and forage for funghi and berries. There will also be the opportunity to sample traditional Sami delicacies too. This 90km stretch of the Ivalo River features around 40 rapids of Grade 1 to 2 and is a perfect follow-on for those who have completed our Scottish River Spey descent.

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Arrive into Ivalo Airport. Transfers for flights landing on this day are included. Transfer to our group hotel in Inari for briefing. Visit Siida, the national museum for Finnish Sami culture. Evening meal back at the hotel, followed by packing for the trip ahead.

Day 2: Transfer from hotel to the start of the river descent where we will enjoy our first day of paddling as we slip away from civilisation. We will find our wild camp on the banks of the River Ivalo.

Day 3: We continue our descent of the Ivalo with a full day of paddling, heading deeper into the wilderness.

Day 4: Today we will stretch our legs and undertake a trek to explore some of the Hammastunturi wilderness area.

Day 5: We paddle for a full day, heading further along the Ivalo.

Day 6: Our last day on the river. We strike camp and pack our boats for the final time. We paddle until noon until we reach our egress. We transfer back to Inari to our group hotel for a farewell meal and overnight stay.

Day 7: Transfer to the Ivalo Airport in time for our flight. North Star Adventure services will end here.

At a glance:

Group size maximum: 7

Four days of paddling and one day wilderness trek

Join/End: Ivalo

Accommodation: 2 nights hotel, 4 nights wild camping

Meals included: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

What’s included: private airport transfers, all land transport, all meals as described above, an English-speaking qualified tour guide, a North Star Adventure expedition leader, activities mentioned in the itinerary including a tour of the Sami museum, tents and all paddling equipment.

What’s not included: international and domestic flights (we recommend travelling with Finnair), travel insurance, meals where not mentioned above, tips for staff, any required visas.

Accommodation: four nights wild camping and two nights comfortable hotel accommodation

Meals: 6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

Group size maximum: 7

Deposit: £200 (final balance payable 56 days before departure)

This trip is available as a private booking for those who wish to travel on different dates in their own group. Please contact us to discuss your needs.