Those who have followed our adventures over the years will have noticed that we love to kayak from time to time. We’ve been fortunate enough to have some incredible stories after our kayaking adventures on the most amazing locations. Here are is our list of ultimate kayaking destination in the world that we’ve done or are still on our bucket list.
Glacier Bay, Alaska
Everything about Alaska is adventurous – from mountain peaks such as Denali and glaciers to forests and fjords. While grizzlies are inhabitating the Alaskan wilderness, there is quite some wildlife to be found in the fjords as well. Glacier Bay is a gem for wildlife watching. While paddling among icebergs and see glaciers calving, you can witness a humpback whale or orca in the water under you.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands are a hotspot for wildlife watching. However rules and regulations limit the number of tour boats that may access the national park, making it a expensive experience. But sea kayaking in Charles Darwin’s paradise will give you special access. An outfitter can help you with this adventure where the sight of giant tortoises, sea lions, penguins and marine iguanas are no uncommon sight.
The Amazon, Brazil
The Amazon rainforest is the habitat for thousands of species of wildlife and plants. The Amazon river meandering through the dense jungle is the perfect setting for an epic adventure. Exploring the rainforest by kayak is by far one of the most adventurous ways to explore this part of the world. Not only are you days away from civilization, but you will be passing villages of indigenous people and spot exotic wildlife such as capybaras, Golden Lion Tamarins, Amazon river dolphins, black caimans and anacondas!
Fiordland, New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. Fiordland is the place to explore if you want to feel the ruggedness of the Southern Alps. In this remote area you will find hundreds of fiords (called sounds), which are a kayakers paradise for their calm waters and lush rainforest surroundings.
Spitsbergen, Norway
Kayaking in the High Arctic? Yes it is possible. During the (short) summer, the fiords are ice-free making kayaking probably the best way to explore the archipelago. We’ve spent ten days in the Arctic wilderness and have been fortunate enough to kayak in the middle of a group beluga’s, to spot fin whales from a distance while paddling and lucky enough to even have kayaks with us when a polar bear invaded our camp.
Check out our e-guide to plan your own adventure in Spitsbergen
Patagonia, Chile
The snow-capped peaks of the Andes, glacial valleys and a rainforest create a wild setting for a kayaking journey. Patagonia is often named ‘the wild place at the end of the world’ and is a place for true adventurers. In the Andean fjords, there is a good chance of spotting marine wildlife such as dolphins, sea lions and penguins.
Soča river, Slovenia
The Soča river cuts its way through the Soča valley from its source in Trento in Triglav National Park. The river offers exciting paddling excursions for all abilities. Beginners can enjoy the beauty with an outfitter while experienced paddlers may take on the rapids that are graded 1-5.
Colorado River, USA
From the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico.The stunning scenery and the roughness of the water makes this 2000 kilometer long epic journey on the Colorado river an ultimate destination for kayaking. Highlight of the trip is the section that leads you trough the steep Grand Canyon, one of the natural wonders of the world.
What is your favorite kayaking destination?