The kayaks are loaded, the tents packed, and we set off onto the water. Three days of exploring the archipelago of Pihlajavesi lie ahead. We paddle between islands, cross open stretches of water, and look for suitable landing spots along the way. The route may change slightly depending on the weather and conditions — out in nature, not everything needs to be planned in advance.
Our days are spent on the water. The kayak glides steadily forward as the scenery slowly unfolds. We stop for coffee or lunch on a rocky shore; at other times, we paddle a longer stretch before taking our next break.
In the evening, we look for a place to pitch our tents. The kayaks are pulled ashore, our gear is laid out to dry, and dinner is cooked. Once the day's paddling is done, there is nowhere else we need to be. Around the evening campfire, we can sit quietly or share stories from the day. In the morning, we pack up camp, load everything back into the kayaks, and continue our journey.
Over three days, we settle into the rhythm of a paddling expedition: the first strokes of the morning, the wind and waves, the landings, the search for a campsite, and the moment when the last piece of gear is finally tucked inside the tent.
Why join? Four good reasons
1. Three days in nature
Leave everyday life behind as the days unfold on the water and the nights are spent under canvas.
2. The Pihlajavesi archipelago
A maze of islands, rocky shores, narrow straits and open stretches of water — the scenery changes as we paddle along.
3. The rhythm of the journey
There is no rush to reach the next destination. We paddle, take breaks, and stop whenever we find a good place.
4. Camping in the wild
We set up camp ourselves and spend the night surrounded by nature.
Discover Pihlajavesi
Pihlajavesi is one of the best-known and most scenic areas of Saimaa area. It is particularly well suited to kayaking, thanks to its countless islands, rocky islets, narrow passages and sheltered bays.
What makes it such an interesting place to paddle?
The beauty of Pihlajavesi lies in its variety. One moment, we are paddling through a narrow, almost motionless strait; the next, an open expanse of water stretches out before us.
Kayaking also allows us to reach places that motorboats do not visit in quite the same way. Small islands, rocky shores and winding waterways make this three-day expedition feel more like an exploration than a single long paddling trip.
The Saimaa ringed seal
Pihlajavesi is particularly important for the Saimaa ringed seal, a rare freshwater seal found naturally only in Lake Saimaa. The Pihlajavesi area is one of its key habitats.
When paddling in seal habitats, we keep a respectful distance from any animals we encounter. We also avoid landing on small islands and islets, particularly in spring, when seals are especially vulnerable to disturbance.
You might catch a glimpse of a seal resting on a rock or surfacing briefly before it disappears as quickly as it appeared.
Trip details
Location: Pihlajavesi, Lake Saimaa, Finland
Dates: 11 - 13 June 2027
Duration: Three days of kayaking
Difficulty: Easy 
Group size: 3–4 participants
Price: 390€ per person
Included in the price: Professional guiding. Kayak and paddling equipment. Tent. Transport from Helsinki or from a convenient pick-up point along the route
Not included:Travel insurance (participants are responsible for arranging their own insurance)Food and meals during the expedition
