Rafting in Sjoa river is a great getaway for a weekend from Oslo. Sjoa is the most famous white water rafting river in Norway.
Somehow I am very skeptical about getting into water in Norway regardless of season. When my friends organized a trip for rafting in September two things came into my mind: it must be cold and I cannot swim well! In the beginning, I thought I could go for hiking instead but after I saw the pictures, fast-flowing and frothing waters running over huge rocks and boats, I made my decision!
Here you go! Some practical information from a beginner
- It is suitable for all persons with no rafting experience with normal health who can swim(well, there were other people who cannot swim well like me)
- There are a lot of organizers in Sjoa. The program is almost same for each. Our trip organizer was Heidal Rafting
- Security is very well taken care. You will have an introduction in the basics and will learn all commands, paddle techniques and coordination
- Each boat has a guide. No worries, s/he will guide you when to do what
- Will you get wet? Yes, there is no other way! But wet-suit keeps you warmer than expected
- The level of the activity is easy, Some rough water, medium waves, some rocks, small drops, might require maneuvering. safely but enough to have fun and get in to the rafting feeling
- The weather as well as the river were cold. But you will be very busy paddling and this will warm you up
- Necessary equipment such as helmets, wet-suits, jacket and life vests are provided by organizer but It is recommended to have a woolen top and socks under the wet-suit, a towel and an extra warm woolen or fleece sweater to have on the bus home
- You don’t have to think about pictures if you don’t have gopro. you can buy pictures at the end of the trip
- Don’t fall into water! If you do, keep your feet up if you fall into the water 🙂
Feel safe and have fun in the raft 🙂
PS: Rafting experience can be combined with second activity for the stouthearted: Bridge Swing
