Latvia · CANOES & KAYAKS
The Gauja runs slow and shallow past cliffs and pine forest, which makes it a river beginners can handle. These 5 paddling trips are compared on distance, transfer time from Riga and what gear the price covers.
Kayak Riga for about 3.5 hours with included gear and dry bag. Paddle canals and Daugava, choose routes, or go with a guide.
“It is a very nice experience! You can get some amazing views of the old town through the canal.”
8-hour guided kayaking in Latvia’s Gauja River valley from Riga, with pickup, small group paddling, cliff views, and local snacks.
“The experience was truly amazing. Everything was perfectly organized. We enjoyed all aspects of the tour, the kayaking, the mesmerizing views of the cliffs from the river as well as the tasty picknick. However, the best part was the professional accompaniment by Rolands who impressed us with his profound knowledge of Latvian nature as well as all other subjects of interest.”
Paddle the Gauja River Valley from Riga to Sigulda in a small group, with expert guidance, sandstone cliffs, and time in Gauja National Park.
“We had such a wonderful time kayaking down the Gaujda River, the kayaking took ~4 hours, we got lucky and it was just the 2 of us. Our guide, Ronalds, made the experience extra special—he is so knowledgeable about the ecosystem and river, and he shared fascinating details about the cliffs, water levels, and wildlife along the way. He also took us to see parts of the cliffs you’d never notice unless you were on the river, which made the whole experience feel unique. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the atmosphere was so peaceful. Ronalds made sure we set the pace, which kept the trip stress-free and fun. To…”
Kayak rental in Riga city centre with life jackets, waterproof bags, and route tips. Paddle 2-3 hours from Andrejostas iela 3A.
“Easy to book, the guys were very friendly and gave me everything I needed… a quick safety chat and equipment handed over, then some advice on some good routes. I went through the canal, then back along the river. Not many big boats so was easy to navigate and gave a brilliant new perspective of the city.”
Sunrise or sunset SUP or kayak in Riga bogs, with pickup, gear, and English guidance. Small group, about 4 hours, from $121.
“Das war für uns ein wirklich toller Morgen, Krista war sehr bemüht, die Kommunikation per WhatsApp schnell und unkompliziert, wir wurden mit Getränken versorgt. Es war an diesem Morgen sehr kalt (ca. 1 bis 2Grad), sie hat mir sofort ihren langen Pullover geborgt, ich hatte damit nicht gerechnet, Handschuhe habe ich auch bekommen, es ging nämlich zeitig um 3.30 Uhr los ab unsrerem Hotel. Auch für Leute geeignet, die so etwas noch nie gemacht haben, kein Problem. Mit dem ortskundigen Führer auf dem Wasser waren wir gut unterwegs und mehr als gut versorgt! Ich würde das wieder machen! Die Aussicht mit der Vogelkolonie, dem Nebel über dem Wasser bekommen wir…”
An hour in the Old Town, or a full day on the road south.
