Packrafting, basic course 2 days

Program

We go through basic techniques and safety for paddling in flowing water. We mix theory, practice, and spend a lot of time in and around the water. The course is suitable for both beginners and more experienced paddlers who want to venture into flowing water. We cover the following parts and moments:

• Dangers in flowing water
• Throw line and its uses
• Active/passive swimming technique in flowing water
• Hydrology (waves swirls backwaters)
• Line choice in rapids
• Basics of paddle technique and tactics in rapids

Day one (approx. 7-8 hours)

• As soon as we go through introductions, safety briefing, and equipment, we jump into the water for a swim. An excellent way to build confidence in the water.
• After lunch, we load the car and head out on a trip, our first paddling tour (one of our absolute best and most friendly routes for beginners) and soon we feel our first waves and paddle all the way back to Kajaktiv.
• At the end of the day, you can relax in our wood-fired sauna and spa pool.

Lunch is included during the day.

Day two (approx. 6-7 hours)

• Paddling tours in easier class II rapids
• We learn to read water and find the best line down the rapids
• Course summary

Lunch is included during the day.

Included

• Two nights’ accommodation (hostel standard)
• Experienced instructor with high competence in white water paddling
• Personal equipment
• Group equipment
• Lunch at a restaurant both days
• Discount at Kajaktiv’s store

What you need to bring

• Sleeping bag or sheets and pillowcase (if you stay overnight)
• Swimwear and towel
• Base layer top/bottoms. Several tops are preferable
• Neoprene shoes, sneakers, or sports sandals
• Neoprene gloves (can be nice if it’s cold, spring and fall)
• Straps for glasses or extra contact lenses
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Breakfast, dinner, etc.

NOTE! The course structure may vary depending on the condition of the rapids, the participants’ skill level, and plans for returning home on day 2. The instructor will go through all of this during the introduction on day 1.

Times

You are welcome to arrive the day before the course starts for overnight stay.

• Start: 09:00
• End: 17:00

For whom?

For those who want to learn basic techniques and safety for paddling in flowing water with us:

• You should be able to swim.
• We usually have an age limit of 14 years in the company of a guardian up to 18 years. If there are younger persons than 14 years who wish to participate in the course, you can contact us.
• We take a maximum of 6 people on the course to ensure everyone receives personal coaching.

About our instructors

Our instructors all have extensive experience and stay up to date with the latest in education, first aid, and safety. But perhaps most importantly, their enthusiasm for white water paddling and the opportunity to introduce others to this world. Some of our instructors started their paddling careers here with us many years ago. Maybe the same will happen for you.

Find us at Kajaktiv

Kajaktiv is located in the heart of Dalarna, approximately three hours by car from Stockholm and five hours from Gothenburg. For those coming from further away, we can offer overnight accommodation in our course housing. You can also pitch a tent next to our facility if you prefer.

Train and bus connections

You can take the train to Borlänge or Djurås from most major cities in Sweden. From there, you can take a bus to Dala-Floda. You can also contact us for possible options to be picked up in Djurås.