Oulankariver lower parts canoeing

Experience Oulanka National Park from the river – easily, safely and entirely at your own pace.

Paddle the beautiful Oulankajoki River in Kuusamo, Northern Finland, and discover one of Europe’s most enchanting canoeing routes. This self-guided canoe trip is suitable for beginners, families, active couples and independent nature travellers.

The full paddling route from Mataranniemi to Jäkälämutka is 25 kilometres and usually takes about 6–7 hours. The route follows a gently flowing river with beautiful wilderness scenery and small, manageable rapids.

You can also choose the shorter section from Mataranniemi to Nurmisaarenniemi. This 8-kilometre route takes around 2–3 hours and is ideal if you want a first glimpse of the beauty of Oulankajoki.

If you are hiking the Karhunkierros trail, the shorter paddling section is a great way to experience Oulanka National Park both from the river and from the hiking trail.

What to expect

This is a self-guided experience. You will receive your canoe or kayak, paddles, life jackets, dry bags, map and safety instructions at the starting point. After that, you can paddle at your own pace and enjoy the river, forest and silence of Oulanka National Park.

There are several places along the route where you can take a break, get out of the canoe and rest. For a deeper nature experience, we recommend adding an overnight stay and setting up a tent along the way.

Price includes

Canoe or kayak, paddles, life jackets, dry bags, map, safety instructions and return transportation to the starting point.

Good to know before you book

Paddling along the gently flowing river, resting in peaceful nature and experiencing the unforgettable scenery of Oulanka makes this a unique Finnish wilderness adventure.

Book your self-guided Oulankajoki canoe adventure and experience Oulanka National Park from the water.