Rafting in Hell

Experience Southern Finland’s wild side: a genuine Wild Hikes Finland packrafting adventure.

Max group: 8 persons | Minimum age: 18

Overview

Rafting in Hell is a long weekend packrafting and wild camping adventure set in the dramatic landscapes of Helvetinjärvi National Park in Southern Finland. Travelling mostly by water, the route combines easy packrafting, short portages, and nights spent camping in remote lakeside locations.

This is a fully guided, all-inclusive wilderness experience designed for small groups. Lightweight packrafts, clear instruction, and a relaxed pace make the program accessible even for beginners, while still offering a genuine expedition feel. The journey takes you through narrow canyon lakes, forested shorelines, and iconic locations such as the Helvetinkolu gorge and the long, quiet Helvetinjärvi lake.

Tour facts:

• Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
• Group size: 2–8 participants
• Season: May–October
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Languages: English
• Minimum age: 18 years

Journey & Daily Rhythm

The trip begins with a convenient pick-up at Helsinki–Vantaa Airport, followed by a transfer of approximately three hours to the Helvetinjärvi area. On the way, we stop at a local grocery store where guests can purchase personal snacks and drinks for the weekend. The guide will also take care of supplies for the first evening’s barbecue dinner.

Each day on the water is unhurried and flexible, combining relaxed paddling with short carries between lakes. Lunch breaks are taken outdoors along the route, and there is time to explore shorelines, swim in clear lakes, or simply enjoy the quiet of the surrounding wilderness.

Camping & Wilderness Experience

Accommodation throughout the trip is based on wild camping at scenic lakeside locations. Camps are set up in peaceful spots close to the water, and evenings are spent cooking outdoors, relaxing by the campfire, and enjoying the calm of the forest and lakes.

The pace of the trip allows time to disconnect from everyday routines and settle into the rhythm of nature. No previous packrafting experience is required, and all necessary equipment is provided as part of the guided experience.

Sauna & Finish

After several days immersed in nature, the adventure concludes with a traditional Finnish lakeside sauna, heated with wood and located right by the lake. For those who wish, a refreshing (and often cold) swim is possible straight from the sauna.

The journey ends with a well-earned restaurant meal before returning to Helsinki–Vantaa Airport in the afternoon.

Who Is This Trip For?

Rafting in Hell is suitable for anyone with reasonable general fitness who can swim and enjoys being outdoors. The trip runs already with two participants, making it ideal also for smaller groups and private bookings. No previous packrafting experience is required.

What’s Included

• Packraft, paddle, PFD and all necessary paddling equipment
• Camping equipment (tents, cooking gear)
• All meals during the trip
• Professional guiding throughout the journey
• Transfers from and back to Helsinki–Vantaa Airport
• Traditional Finnish sauna and final restaurant meal

What’s Not Included

• Personal clothing and footwear
• Snacks and drinks purchased during the grocery stop
• Travel insurance