Soome · Lapimaa · On request · Moderate · 8000 € / group
Gold and Rapids — Adventure on the Ivalo River
Trip description
The Ivalo River was ground zero for Lapland's gold rush in the 19th century, and the landscape still bears the marks of that feverish era — abandoned cabins, rusting machinery and the very spots where the first nuggets were found. Even today, you may come across modern-day fortune seekers combing the riverbanks in hopes of a lucky strike. Anyone who fancies trying their luck can bring a small pan and give gold washing a go in the waters of the Ivalo.
All of this unfolds from the river itself. The Ivalo is riddled with rapids — 32 in total, some stretching for more than a kilometre. They are wilder and more exhilarating than anything Estonia's rivers can offer.
For much of the journey we are completely off the grid — no mobile signal, no internet. Nights are spent in wilderness huts or under canvas, while the polar day keeps the sky bright around the clock: not a single moment of darkness.
Why come?
- ●Discover the history of the Lapland gold rush and try your hand at panning for gold
- ●Navigate 32 rapids, some stretching over a kilometre in length
- ●Disconnect completely from the outside world — no internet, no mobile signal
- ●Experience the polar day — 24 hours of continuous daylight
Price includes
- ✓Services of certified whitewater guides
- ✓Rafts and all necessary on-water equipment (paddles, life jackets, helmets)
- ✓Communally prepared dinners and morning porridge
- ✓Packed trail lunches
- ✓Transport from Tallinn harbour to Lapland and back to Tallinn harbour
- ✓Ferry tickets
- ✓Assistance and advice in preparing for the trip
- ✓Accommodation in heated wilderness huts and forest lodges (a bed is usually provided, though in a small number of locations this may not always be possible)
- ✓An InReach satellite device for emergencies beyond mobile coverage
- ✓First aid if required
Price does not include
- −Travel insurance
- −Museum entrance fees
- −Personal snacks and beverages
- −Personal hiking and outdoor gear
Difficulty
Difficulty: moderate. If you are reasonably active and used to physical effort, nothing here is beyond reach. Not suitable for children.
Dates
No fixed dates yet — write to us for available dates and private groups.
Please note
The tour operator is AS Hansareisibüroo. The trip is sold and guided by Veeretked (OÜ Uugi Invest). The general terms and conditions of AS Hansareisibüroo apply. The organiser reserves the right to cancel the expedition if weather conditions are deemed dangerous (excessively high water levels, storms). Terms & conditions
Got your own packraft?
Want to paddle this route in your own boat?
Find the right packraft in our shop.
Price
8000 € / group
per group
Dates to be confirmed.
Register your interest and we will let you know.
We reply within 1 business day.