Harkan 2026 – Sweden’s Wild Side, DIY Style
We’re ridiculously excited to add this expedition to our DIY list for 2026. It’s a beauty: paddling from Valsjöbyn to Lit, through vast open lakes, gentle river sections, and a few spicy Grade 2 (maybe 3 if it’s feeling lively) rapids. Expect stunning scenery, good company, and just the right amount of faff.
Whether you’re after solo serenity or tandem teamwork, this trip has options for both. You bring your sense of adventure — we’ll bring the boats, the backup, and the banter.
✈️ Getting There
We’ll scoop you up from Östersund Airport (or town, if you fancy arriving early for a bit of Swedish mooching). From there, we head to the campsite for the sacred ritual of kit faff. That night, you can camp with us at Lit or treat yourself to a hotel/cabin if you want one last night of comfort before things get gloriously wild.
🚐 The Journey
Next morning, we board the shuttle to our start point in Valsjöbyn. From there, it’s around 90km of paddling through lakes, rivers, and forested magic. Each night we’ll be wild camping — tarp, hammock, tent, bivvy bag, or full Viking setup. Your call.
Expect a mix of open water, gentle flow, and a few cheeky rapids to keep things interesting. We’ll guide you on the river, support you in camp, and offer coaching if requested — whether you’re building confidence or brushing up for leadership.
🛶 Solo or Tandem?
Each trip offers the choice of solo canoe or tandem.
• Want to paddle solo and soak up the silence? Go for it.
• Prefer to share the load (and the laughs)? Tandem’s your friend.
We’ll match you with the right craft — or bring yours if you’re precious.
🍳 Food
Totally up to you.
• Join the communal cook-up and split costs
• Go solo and chef it your way
• Bring snacks and barter for hot water
We’ll have stoves, fuel, and a few shared essentials. You bring your culinary flair (or your finest boil-in-the-bag).
🏁 The Finish
We land back at Lit Campsite. You can camp with us (about £20/head), or upgrade to a cabin/hotel if you’re done with damp socks and pine needles. That evening we’ll head out for a celebratory meal — join us for food, drinks, or just a toast. Or skip it entirely if you’ve had enough of our faces.
Next morning, we’ll shuttle you back to Östersund town or airport. Easy.
💰 Logistics
Cost: £1100 per person
What’s included:
• Loan of one of our boats (solo or tandem) — or transport of your own craft
• Guiding on the river and support in camp (coaching if requested)
• Collection and return to Östersund airport or town
What’s not included:
• Flights to Sweden (~£200 from London, as of July 2025)
• Food and drink
• Accommodation before and after the expedition
We can also transport your paddling/camping kit if you want to travel light — or tag this onto a road trip if you’re feeling adventurous. We’re flexible.
📅 Expedition Dates
Trip 1 4th – 10th September 2026 One place left
Trip 1a 15th -21st September 2026 New Date added
Trip 2 16th – 22nd September 2026 Full – waiting list available
📩 Want to know more?
Drop us a message and let’s have a chat. We’ll talk boats, bugs, and the best snacks to survive Sweden. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just fancy something a bit wilder than your usual week off, we’d love to have you along.