A week of slow adventure in Finland’s wild lake district paddling from island to island, wild camping under endless light, and cooking over the fire each evening.
This is a brand new route we’re exploring across Lake Saimaa, one of the largest lake systems in the world. Think quiet waterways, pine-covered islands, hidden camps, and long golden evenings where time stretches out.
No huts. No crowds. Just water, wilderness, and a small group moving through it together.
The experience
Each day we paddle between islands, navigating through sheltered channels and open stretches of water, carrying everything we need for the week.
Evenings are where this trip really comes to life, landing on remote islands, setting up camp, lighting the fire and cooking proper meals together. Our guide is an expert in cooking over fire, so expect something far beyond your average expedition food.
With the midnight sun, the days never really end. There’s no rush, just slow travel, good food, and time outside.
Trip Date 2026
21-28th July (Limited places available)
£1750 - Includes all accommodation, transfer, food, gear and guide
Lake Saimaa | Finland
We’ll be based around the Saimaa archipelago near Oravi, with access to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the lake.
This is a flexible, exploratory route and part of the adventure is figuring out the best lines, camps and crossings as we go.
A typical day:
Paddle 10–20km
Stop for swims, snacks, and breaks on islands
Arrive at camp mid/late afternoon
Set up tents, gather wood, cook over the fire
Slow evening under endless light
No two days will feel the same.
What’s included
2 nights in a hotel (first & last night)
5 nights wild camping
Kayak & camping equipment for the duration
All meals during the expedition
Fully guided experience with qualified wilderness Guide
Fire cooking each evening
Group transfer to/from Helsinki
What’s Not Included
Flights and travel to Helsinki
Sleeping bag (available for hire)
Personal insurance
Personal clothing and equipment (full kit list provided)
Reserve your place
TRIP DEPOSIT
Secure your place on this trip with a £300 deposit. The full amount will then be due 6 weeks before the trip departs.
EQUIPMENT & CLOTHES
A detailed recommended packing list for personal items to bring will be sent with your booking documentation.
For some handy tips on what you might want to pack click here
FULL T&CS
For full booking terms and conditions please click here.
Any other questions? (FAQ)
WHERE do we meet?
We’ll meet in Helsinki and travel together to the lake at 11am on the first day. Full details will be shared after booking, but you can either join our group transfer or meet us directly in Oravi.
IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?
This trip is great for everyone, No previous kayaking experience is needed so It’s ideal for beginners and advanced kayakers, and can be easily adjusted to your ability. You just need a good basic level of fitness to paddle between 10-20km a day and an adventurous attitude.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
For some handy tips on what you might want to pack click here
WHERE DO I FLY TO?
The best place is Helsinki Airport and you can join our group transfer at 11am on the first day or make your own way to Oravi where we spend the first night. You will then be dropped back off in Helsinki at 2pm on the final day.
WHAT IF I'VE NEVER KAYAKED BEFORE?
That’s not a problem, the kayaks we use are are great for beginners and our guide will teach you everything you need to know. This is a great way to learn to explore on the water by kayak in a safe environment.
WHAT WILL THE GROUP SIZE BE?
We keep our groups nice and small, so we run the trips with a maximum of 8.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
Yes, travel insurance is a must. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance to cover you for all aspects this trip, including cancellation.
CAN I COME ON MY OWN?
Yes, our trips are perfect for solo travellers so this is perfect for you to join like-minded people.
HOW FIT DO I HAVE TO BE?
You need to have a good level of fitness and be used to moving for 5-6 hours a day. Some days are more challenging than others.
ANY MORE QUESTIONS?
Feel free to give us a call or send us a message if you want to know anymore about our trips.
Any more questions?
Feel free to send us an email or a message if you want to know any more about our trips.
