The Canoe Trip

Go on a canoe holiday in Sweden and discover untouched nature like never before.

Highlights
  • Explore the Swedish lakes on your own.
  • Go wild camping in nature.
  • Follow various mapped routes
  • Experience ultimate freedom
  • Reconnect with each other

Canoeing through the Swedish Wilderness

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW STARTING AT €265

Since 2017, we’ve been taking you to what we consider the most beautiful canoeing area in Europe to fully disconnect. Immerse yourself this coming summer in the serenity of Nordmarken, an untouched maze of hundreds of lakes and islands on the border with Norway.

You’ll start and end at our base camp Outpost North for a journey back to the essence: paddling across glassy waters, wandering through dense forests, and camping at the most unique spots in the wilderness. Sometimes you’ll leave the water to carry your canoe overland to the next lake; the perfect moment to stretch your legs and feel the freedom with your travel buddy. Join us into the wild and connect with nature like never before.

Set your own course: Choose your ideal route

At The Canoe Trip, you set the pace of your adventure. Whether you're looking for total relaxation or a sporty challenge: you simply choose the route that best suits you from our carefully curated expeditions.

From our central Basecamp Outpost North, various loops depart that take you deep into nature. We've done the groundwork and mapped out the most beautiful routes for you. This way, you can paddle worry-free past the absolute highlights—from glassy lakes to the most idyllic wild camping spots.

  • All routes form a loop that starts and ends at the base camp.
  • The routes can be customized, extended, or shortened according to your preferences.
  • Choose the route that suits your pace on-site.
  • Whichever path you choose, nature is equally breathtaking everywhere.
route

Start dreaming away with these highlights!

Always included in your trip

Canadian canoe (2-person)

You'll always get a traditional Canadian canoe for 2 people from us. This canoe can only be paddled with two people; you can't do it alone. Made from sturdy aluminum, it's strong and nearly indestructible, yet light enough to easily carry in and out of the water.

Of course, you'll always receive 2 paddles and life jackets with the canoe.

Canoe wheels

“Wheels?” I hear you thinking, “I’m going kayaking!”

Not every lake is connected by water. Sometimes you have to walk a bit through the forest or along the road to reach the next, even more beautiful lake. With these sturdy wheels under your kayak, the land transport turns into a pleasant walk through stunning scenery – the ultimate way to stretch your legs.

Waterproof barrel + large dry bag

While we’re hoping for bright sunshine, we want to keep your stuff nice and dry. In the sturdy barrel, you can safely store your valuables and electronics, while the spacious dry bag is perfect for some clothes and a sleeping bag. That way, your campfire outfit stays dry, no matter what happens.

The waterproof barrel has a capacity of 55 liters.
The large dry bag has a capacity of 40 liters.

Keep in mind that not all your items will fit in the dry bag and waterproof barrel; they are really meant to keep the essentials dry.

Trangia Cooking Set + sponge and biodegradable soap

Cooking in the wilderness has never been easier. These iconic Swedish cook sets are compact, tough as nails, and always work, even when the wind picks up. After your meal, you can quickly clean everything up with the eco-friendly soap and sponge we provide.

The cook set includes:

  • a burner
  • 2 cooking pots
  • a pan/lid
  • a clamp
  • a fuel bottle

Don't forget to bring your own long lighter!

Trail Map with route description and camping spots

Getting lost is not an option, unless you want to. Our detailed maps will guide you to hidden gems, the best shelters, and the most challenging routes. Use the Travelbase app for quick navigation, or go 'old school' with the waterproof physical map on your lap.

Nature Conservation Card

With this digital pass, you're officially a guest in the Swedish wilderness. Enjoy unlimited access to over a hundred DANO overnight spots. These are unique locations, often featuring a campfire area and a simple shelter, specially designed for canoeists and other adventurers.

Thanks to the Nature Conservation Card, you're also contributing to the maintenance of the region and the protection of nature. Our partner organization DANO takes care of the maintenance of the shelters, regularly builds new ones, supervises the safe use of campfire sites, and ensures smooth waste management in the area.

Sluizen Passage Pass

With the Sluizen Passage Pass in your pocket, you enjoy unlimited and free access to all the locks in the region. Passing through a lock is much more than just a practical way to overcome a height difference; it's a true attraction in the heart of nature.

As you sit comfortably in your canoe, the water lifts you up or brings you down, surrounded by historic mechanisms and the stunning Swedish wilderness. It’s the perfect moment to relax, chat with the lock keeper, and enjoy this unique spectacle. A technical marvel that adds an adventurous and memorable touch to the natural tranquility of your trip!

Note: During the low season, the locks are closed. You will then need to take your canoe out of the water and walk around the lock to the next lake.

Dutch briefing & support during the trip

You’re going into the wild, but you’re never alone. Before you hit the water, you'll receive a thorough explanation of canoe techniques, the route, safety, and equipment. Our rangers know the area like the back of their hand and are available every day if you need assistance.

Join us on an adventure!

Choose a Monday or Thursday if you want to travel by plane.
Choose a Monday or Thursday if you're taking your own transport.
Choose a Saturday or Wednesday if you want to travel by bus.

Those who book early can enjoy the temporary Early Bird prices, which are valid for 24 hours and have Superflex booking conditions. This allows you to change or cancel your booking free of charge until April 1, 2026.

  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Example trip
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info

THE CANOE TRIP EXPLAINED

When

The Canoe Trip takes place in 2026 from mid-May to the end of September. The start dates of the trip depend on the transport choice and travel duration.

Prices

The base price for this trip starts at
€275 per person for a week trip 
€175 per person for a 3-day trip

The package always includes:

  • 2-person canoe + paddles & life jackets
  • Canoe wheels
  • Large waterproof barrel + dry bag
  • Map & route description
  • Exclusive Canoe Trip smartphone app
  • Nature Conservation Card for using the shelters
  • All passages through the locks
  • Trangia cooking set + cleaning materials
  • Dutch-speaking guidance

Optional:

  • Flight + airport shuttle from € to be determined
  • Airport Shuttle from Oslo Gardermoen on Monday or Thursday €95 per person
  • Parking ticket Outpost North €70
  • Värmland Express – Night bus from Brussels, Utrecht or Hamburg on Tuesday or Friday evening €145 per person
  • Survival Foodpack (vegetarian or with meat) €125 per person
  • Camping gear (tent for 2 people, mat, sleeping bag, and liner) €70 per person
  • Upgrade your last night at our basecamp – Sleep in our glamping tipi € 50
  • Extra night before or after the trip €12 per person
Food

The pack allows you to prepare easy and nutritious meals during the canoe trip. It includes three main meals per day plus snacks. You can find an example of last year's foodpack here.

We will also provide a Trangia cooking set to prepare your meals. This set includes:

  • 1 burner
  • 2 cooking pots
  • 1 pan
  • 1 handle
  • 1 bottle of spirit

*Do you have allergies? Please bring your own food. Unfortunately, we cannot provide a customized foodpack.

Where will I sleep?

During the canoe trip, you will sleep in locations surrounded by nature. You can choose the most beautiful camping spot every day, on a private island or hidden in the forest, as wild camping is allowed in Sweden.

In the Canoe Trip app, you will find all the shelters where you can enjoy a campfire and meet fellow travelers. You will always find a dry toilet there as well.

On the last night of your trip, you will sleep at the basecamp, where you will have access to a toilet and a hot shower.

Need camping equipment? You can easily rent it from us! For every 2 people, you will receive 1 tent, 2 sleeping bags, 2 liners, and 2 sleeping mats.

Equipment & Packing List

All the canoeing gear you'll need for the trip will be provided by us. Curious about what you need to bring yourself? We've put together a packing list that includes all the must-haves for your adventure.

It's important that you don't bring too much luggage, as everything needs to fit in the canoe. The less you bring, the easier both canoeing and land transport will be. A weight of up to 20kg per person is ideal!

How do I get there?

Our base camp is located in the middle of nature, 15 km from Bengtsfors and 33 km from Årjäng.
The address is:

Outpost North
Lindekullen
666 93 Gustavsfors

Parking costs €70 per week. Keep in mind that you should budget around €370 for fuel for the trip to Sweden. Actual fuel costs will depend on your car model.

Want to arrive smoothly and well-equipped in Sweden? Choose a trip with our tour bus from Brussels, Utrecht, or Hamburg, which departs twice a week for most of the summer. Our direct night bus will get you to Sweden in no time. This way, you travel cheaply, comfortably, and ecologically to our base camp Outpost North.

Discover the different ways to reach our base camp and choose the one that suits you best.

magazine canoe trip Sweden

Download your magazine

Discover our new magazine and learn all the ins & outs about the trip, the basecamp and the region, the different routes, and much more.

EXTRA OPTIONS

During the booking process, you can choose to add the following options to your trip.

They had the time of their lives

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this adventure for?

Everyone looking for a good dose of adventure is welcome on The Canoe Trip.

The average age of our travelers is 30 years, with the majority being in their twenties (60%). Couples of all ages, groups of friends, and colleagues book this canoe holiday every year! In the last edition, the participants mainly came from the Netherlands & Belgium.

Generally, people sign up in groups of 2 or 4: a mix of friends and couples.

 

Can my dog come along?

We love animals! So your dog is more than welcome to join this canoe trip. You don't need to inform us in advance. However, please note that your dog can only come along if you are traveling by private transport. Dogs are not allowed on buses and airplanes.

On the campsite and in nature, the dog must always remain leashed.

We also strongly recommend bringing your own dog life jacket, as we only have life jackets for humans available.

Please be aware that dogs are not allowed in rented camping equipment. Therefore, we ask you to bring your own camping gear if you are bringing your dog.

What if I can no longer join my booked trip?

Do you want to be fully covered until the moment of departure? Then choose our regular cancellation insurance (€ 59) when booking.

You can find all the terms and conditions of our cancellation insurance here.

Did you book early and receive our Superflex booking conditions for free? Then you can change or cancel your booking for free until April 1, 2026 without having to provide a reason.

Where can I park?

Parking at the basecamp is available and costs €70 for a week. If you arrive the night before, that's not a problem; we don't charge any extra fees for that.

There are limited parking options, so try to carpool as much as possible. This way, we can all contribute a little to a cleaner planet. 🌿

What time do I need to be at the base camp?

Are you coming by your own transportation? Then the briefing starts at 9 AM. You'll head straight to the water after the briefing, so you'll still get to enjoy a full day of paddling.

Make sure to arrive on time for the briefing. It's possible to sleep at the basecamp the night before if needed.

Are you taking the airport shuttle? Then an extra briefing will be organized in the afternoon when you arrive at the basecamp.

Can we participate with an odd number of participants?

The Canoe Trip can only be booked with an even number of people. The reason for this is that our canoes are specially designed for two persons. If you're in an odd-numbered group, you can always post a request for an extra travel buddy in our Canoe Tripper Facebook Group. There might be someone who wants to join you.

Is this canoeing vacation a group trip or a self-guided trip?

During our canoe holiday, you are completely free to make your own route. You don't have to consider anyone or anything and navigate yourself using the map we provide.
You'll also receive a sample route with tips for places to stay each night. You're not required to follow this route and can also wild camp at other locations.

There is always a ranger present at the base camp, who is available for questions or in case of emergency.

 

Is there cell phone reception on the water?

In almost the entire area, you have regular phone coverage. So you can always reach the rangers in case of an emergency or simply call home from time to time. Just make sure to bring a good power bank, as you won't have access to electricity to charge your phone during your trip.

Can I go fishing?

Fishing is allowed in the entire region with a fishing license. You can purchase a fishing license here. With this license, you are allowed to fish in all lakes. Without the license, fishing is not permitted. Additionally, you can purchase a fishing license for 200 SEK or 20 euros at our basecamp upon arrival. Fishing equipment can also be rented there.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

In case of a medical problem or other emergency, you can always contact the on-site ranger. The app contains an SOS button that notifies the ranger. In life-threatening situations, we recommend calling 112.

The ranger will either come to you to provide assistance or send a medical service.

When you make a booking, you can choose to add travel insurance to your reservation. This way, you don't have to worry if something happens during the trip. You can find the exact terms of the insurance here.

What about sanitation facilities?

Showers and toilets are only available on the arrival day and last night of The Canoe Trip at the basecamp.

During The Canoe Trip, nature is your bathroom. We will provide you with a small bottle of eco-friendly biodegradable soap. Make sure to bring your own as well, so we can keep the nature intact.

There is always a dry toilet available near the shelters for you to use.

Do I have to pay immediately after registering?

We kindly request a down payment of 30% of the total trip cost to be made within 5 days after registration. The remaining amount must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.

Offsetting CO2 emissions

Give back to nature via Greentripper

The planet gives us so much beauty to admire, but if we want to continue enjoying it for a long time, we need to protect it today. That's why we make extra efforts to minimize the impact of our trips, and in the booking form, you can reliably offset the CO2 emissions of your trip throughGreentripper.

By contributing to their certified climate project "Wildlife Cambodia", you help protect beautiful forests and their wildlife, support local communities, and plant enough trees to convert the equivalent of your CO2 emissions into oxygen. If you choose CO2 offsetting, Travelbase will also offset the emissions on-site, and you will receive an official carbon credit certificate after your trip.

Learn more about our efforts at travelbase.world/sustainable-travel.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

For the rental of the equipment (canoe, cooking set, etc.), we require a deposit of €200 per canoe. If you return everything as you received it, the deposit will be refunded within 15 working days after the end of the trip.

Can I do The Canoe Trip on my own?

For safety reasons, it is not possible to book The Canoe Trip alone. Additionally, our canoes are specially designed for two people.

When does the bus depart and how long is the journey?

If you booked a trip with an arrival date on Saturday, the bus departs on Friday at 11 a.m. from Brussels, 2.30 p.m. from Utrecht and 9 p.m. from Hamburg. The return from our basecamp to home takes place on Saturday evening. The bus arrives on Sunday, late afternoon or evening.

If you booked a trip with an arrival date on Wednesday, the bus departs on Tuesday at 11 a.m. from Brussels, 2.30 p.m. from Utrecht and 9 p.m. from Hamburg. The return from our basecamp to home takes place on Wednesday evening. The bus arrives on Thursday, late afternoon or evening.

The bus journey to our basecamps takes approximately 20-22 hours (from Brussels), including breaks. The exact travel time naturally depends on the pickup location, weather, and traffic along the way.

How can I get drinking water?

In Värmland, not all lake water is drinkable. You can always boil the water with your cooking set before refilling your bottle. If you're unsure, bring water purification tablets for extra safety.

Are there charging stations at Outpost North?

Unfortunately, we currently do not have charging stations at the base camp, so you won't be able to charge your electric car during your trip. You can easily find the nearest charging point using the Elton app or Chargefinder.

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