Last modified on March 12th, 2022 at 10:22 am

7 Most Exciting Kayaking Destinations of the World

Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports in the world. People around the world not only consider kayaking as a sport but also as a medium of relaxation and recreation. Moreover, some people travel around the world, focusing on one thing: kayaking. Kayaking is one of those sports activities which are more fun and adventurous when you do it in new places. There are amazing places around the world for kayaking. Every one of them is unique and breathtaking. But there is always a top 7. Here I made a list of top 7 most exciting kayaking destinations of the world that every kayaker must visit.

Amazon River

Amazon River is the second longest river in the world. The river is filled with hostile wildlife like crocodiles, piranha fish, anacondas, and many more. So it may sound scary to paddle through the Amazon River. But these scary surroundings with deep jungle on both side of the River will definitely be the most adventures and breathe taking kayaking experience of your life. The tropical sounds of the rainforest will add a new dimension to your journey.

Kayaking in the Amazon River is a massive adventure, so it’s better to form a team with proper planning. There is no way you can kayak the entire Amazon River. There are certain parts of the River which are relatively safe for kayaking. Moreover, you will find plenty of kayak tours that can guide you while you are kayaking in the Amazon River.

The French Alps

The French Alps are very popular kayaking destination among the kayakers. Either you are a beginner or an expert level kayaker you will find the French Alps very enjoyable. If you are a beginner, then you can kayak on the Ardèche. The Sunshine Run on the Durance is for the intermediate and expert level kayakers.

This kayaking destination is perfect for the learners as you can practice with different size and style of kayaking before considering the style that suits you. The rivers of the French Alps are quite close to each other, so you can easily switch to different rivers while paddling. Moreover, the stunning mountains and clean, clear water will make your kayaking journey more pleasant.

Glacier Bay, Alaska

Glacier Bay of Alaska is UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, and there is no better way of enjoying them than kayaking alongside them. You’ll be in absolute amazement while kayaking beside the snow-capped mountains, temperate rainforest, whales, seals, otters, deep fjords, etc. At Glacier Bay of Alaska, you can paddle past massive glaciers, and if lucky, you might see the enormous pieces of ice falling from glaciers into the water. Trust me; if it happens, it will be the most amazing and memorable experience of your life. Besides, you may also see the bears and moose in the forest shores steering at you with inquisitiveness.

Cotahuasi and Apurimac Rivers, Peru

If you are a whitewater kayaking lover, then Cotahuasi and Apurimac Rivers of Peru will be the best whitewater kayak destination for you. This place is very renowned for its canyon views, and the Rio Cotahuasi flows through the deepest canyon on earth with continuous class III-IV whitewater. Unfortunately, this kayaking destination is only for intermediate-to-advanced kayakers. There are six different classes of rapids:

  • Class I
  • Class II
  • Class III
  • Class IV
  • Class V
  • Class VI

Class III and Class IV rapids mean you have to maneuver your kayak through large waves, rocks, and drops. So kayaking in Cotahuasi and Apurimac Rivers will be a very adventurous experience for you.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

If you want to experience New Zealand’s untainted wild, then head to Milford Sound. Milford Sound of New Zealand is famous for its most diverse locations, and the atmosphere is warmer than arctic destinations. Whatever you want in a kayaking destination, Milford Sound has it. If you love simple paddling, then North Island will be the right choice. Kayakers who love more adventure and extreme water choose Fiordland. While kayaking, the natural beauty of Milford Sound will amuse you. The mountains, waterfalls, clear blue water, fishes beneath you, dolphins swimming beside you, everything will increase your kayaking experience to a different new level.

Sermilik Fjord, Greenland

Sermilik Fjord of Greenland offers some of the best sea kayaking experience out there. If you love to kayak in the sea, then this destination might be a great adventure for you. Here I am talking about Sea kayaking in the Arctic! Sound insane, isn’t it? Well, Sermilik Fjord gives you a chance to experience Sea kayaking in the Arctic in high summer when hundreds of icebergs breakdown from rocky region’s huge ice zone every year. While exploring and navigating through the floating ice chunks of Sermilik Fjord, you may see some whales or seals along with some breathtaking scenarios.

Sognefjord – Western Norway

Norway has some of the world’s most outstanding landscape, and for kayaking destination, it is also very famous. There are a lot of world-class kayaking and whitewater kayaking spots in Norway, Sognefjord is one of them. It is Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. The Sognefjord is 204 kilometers long and 1308 meters deep, perfect for an extreme level kayaking experience. Sognefjord is listed as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Sognefjord has three branches:

  • Nærøyfjord
  • Fjærlandsfjord
  • Lustrafjord

Kayaking in Sognefjord will give you the perfect whitewater kayaking experience. You will experience the adrenaline-pumping waterfall drops and the big rapids with the strong wind will increase the adventure of your ride.

Conclusion

Not every kayaking destination is for you. Remember every kayaking spot requires a specific set of skills. So before you set out on the water, make sure your skill level is good enough for that destination.

I hope this article helps you find a new place for kayaking. Let us know what you think about this article and share your experiences if you have visited these places. Happy Kayaking!

James A. Rockey

James is a professional kayaker, and fishing is his hobby. He has more than five years of fishing experience, and he loves using Kayaks while outing as well. Based on his experiences with the different type of Kayaks; he is sharing his opinion about kayak reviews and fishing so that a beginner can get started right away.