Canoeing tour - beginner

We offer daily departures during the summer season. Unless otherwise agreed​,​ we will paddle down the Alta River. However​,​ we can also offer this adventure on calm lakes. In such cases​,​ we travel to Kvenvik west of Alta. Read more about this alternative near the bottom of this article. The Alta River by canoe The Alta River is best known as one of the best salmon fishing rivers in the world. There are few places on earth where the chances of catching a 10 kg salmon are greater than here in Alta. To try that you need a fishing licence and the chances of getting your hands on a fishing licence for the Alta River are virtually impossible! However​,​ you don’t need a fishing licence to paddle in the Alta River. This activity enables you to enjoy the nature and animal life as you paddle silently down the river. Perhaps we will meet a salmon angler who is able to end their fishing period at 12 noon or one who is waiting to start at 18:00 (6 p.m.). We will pick you up at your hotel and drive together up river where the paddling trip starts. We will pass many good fishing spots and it’s not improbable that we will see salmon jumping. Previous experience​/​instruction Previous paddling experience is not required to participate in this trip​,​ as all necessary instruction will be provided before we set off down the river. In many ways the Alta River is a “kind” river with many gentle sections​,​ which every so often give way to rapids. However​,​ accidents can happen to the best of us and canoes can overturn. All our participants wear life jackets and we start by going through what to do in various situations​,​ so this should be completely undramatic. During the summer the temperature is mild (up to round 16 °C) and the water level is low so the current isn’t so swift. Nature and animal life This trip takes us through the lower reaches of the picturesque valley of Altadalen and the Alta River. The landscape here is dominated by coniferous and broadleaf forest and cultural and agricultural areas. Paddling in a canoe provides a close-up encounter with the animal life​,​ such as white-tailed sea eagles​,​ various duck species and​,​ if you’re lucky​,​ the king of the forest​,​ the moose. A culinary journey The trip down the river is also a culinary experience. We aspire to serve good food​,​ preferably grilled over an open fire on the riverbank. Lunch is included on this trip will be prepared over open fire and served in the great outdoors. History The Alta River (or Altaelva as it’s known in Norwegian) plays a central part of the history of Alta and also forms an important part of the identity of locals of Alta. During the trip​,​ your guide will tell you about the history of the river​,​ organisation of fishing rights​,​ the damming of the river and construction of the hydroelectric power plant and the subsequent years. Flat water If the participants prefer​,​ we can offer a canoeing trip on a calm lake. In such cases we choose the Kvenvik area. We normally base the decision on the weather forecast. In many ways​,​ the content is the same. We experience majestic nature and have rich experiences​,​ but you will have to put in more effort as there is no current to help us. We can enjoy the flora​,​ fauna and geography en route. Age limit If the children are 8 years or younger​,​ the canoe trip is arranged on flat water​,​ as described in the section above. Then it will be a nice and safe trip for everyone. Depending on the weather and temperature​,​ it’s a good idea to wear waterproof​/​resistant or hiking pants​,​ and a sweater or jacket. If it’s really warm​,​ you can wear lighter clothing​,​ such as shorts. Always bring protective clothing as the weather can change quickly and the mosquitoes can be a nuisance. Remember that you may overturn: so you need to bring a complete change of clothes including shoes packed in a waterproof pack. (if you don’t have a water proof pack​,​ we will borrow you one for free) It’s also a good idea to bring a warm sweater​/​jacket and hat​/​gloves.