DRINKING WATER

Lake water is drinkable (you can boil it if you wish). Since it contains natural microorganisms, many people prefer to bring bottled water for drinking and use lake water for cooking and washing.

MAKING A FIRE

In national parks, fires are only allowed in designated fire pits, which can be found at all campsites. Lighting a fire is strictly prohibited during forest or grass fire warnings.
Outside the national parks (e.g. in Joutenvesi), everyman’s rights apply, but open fires are not allowed. In these areas, a camping stove is recommended.

CAMPING

Camping in national parks is only permitted in designated areas marked on the map. Wild camping is prohibited. However, you can take breaks and eat anywhere that is not specifically restricted (avoid red-marked restricted zones on the park map).
Outside the national parks, camping is allowed under everyman’s rights for 1–2 nights in areas not close to private buildings or homes. Open fires are not permitted.

FISHING

No license is needed for hook-and-line fishing. For other types of fishing (e.g. spinning), you must have the appropriate permits (such as the national fisheries management fee).

SAFETY

The local waters are generally safe, and strong storms are rare. There are many islands, so it’s best to plan your route along the sheltered sides.
If you need help with route planning we recommend starting your trip in Oravi, where you can get route tips and check your plans with a guide. If you have questions or need weather updates, feel free to send a text or call Oravi. In case of bad weather, gear issues, or other problems, we can pick up paddlers from the lake with a motorboat.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR CANOE / KAYAK RENTERS

EQUIPMENT PICK-UP LOCATION

• If you booked from Oravi: Check in at reception, Kiramontie 27, 58130 Oravi.
• If you booked from Kirkkoranta, Kolovesi: There’s no staff on-site. All rentals must be paid in advance. You’ll receive the storage code and instructions by email the day before your rental starts.
  Address: Kirkkorannantie 200, 58180 Enonkoski.

USING & RETURNING EQUIPMENT

Rental includes canoe/kayak, paddle, life vest, map, dry bag, and a spray skirt (for kayaks).

• Always inspect the equipment before use and report any issues to the rental office.
• Return equipment to the same location, clean from sand and trash.
• Never leave equipment in the water.
• Make sure hatch covers are in place when returning kayaks – they are essential for safety and required for further rentals.
• Close the hatches to keep rainwater out.
• Return paddles and all accessories (including map) to the correct place.
  • If the Oravi rental office is closed, leave vests, spray skirts, and dry bags on the terrace.
  • In Kolovesi, always return gear to the locked storage.
• Report the equipment number and any damages or missing parts when you return it.

KAYAK & CANOE USE

• Choose a kayak suited to your size and experience.
• Avoid dragging the kayak on rocks or dropping it.
• Both Linnansaari and Kolovesi have many submerged rocks – be cautious in rocky areas.
• Hitting rocks may damage the kayak’s hull or rudder/skeg.
• Never carry the kayak by its ropes – they’re for rescue use only. Always carry it by the hull.
• Avoid carrying the kayak fully loaded to reduce strain on the bottom.
• Do not remove or modify deck rigging.
• If adjusting the seat or footrests, be careful not to lose any parts (pedals, screws, etc.).

KAYAKS WITH RUDDERS OR SKEGS

• Always lift the rudder/skeg before landing or in shallow water – they are easily damaged by impact.
• A bent skeg cable is a common issue and can’t be repaired on-site – it must be replaced.
• Do not paddle onto sand with the skeg down, or drag the kayak even if the skeg is up – the skeg housing may clog and stop working.
• Do not detach the rudder or tie knots in the steering ropes – they’re very difficult to undo.

PADDLING SAFETY

• Always consider the current weather, especially wind conditions, before heading out.
• Do not attempt routes that exceed your experience level in terms of distance, difficulty, or weather.
• Always wear a life vest while paddling. Dress appropriately for the weather.
• Make sure the kayak hatches are closed, and always wear the spray skirt. The handle of the spray skirt must stay visible.
• Bring enough drinking water and snacks/energy for the trip.
• Avoid boating lanes – if you must cross, do so quickly and at the narrowest point. Fast-moving boats may not see paddlers, especially in waves.

RENTER’S RESPONSIBILITY

You are responsible for any damage to or loss of rental equipment.
You are not responsible for normal wear and tear.
Following the given instructions helps prevent damage and reduces your liability.

CAMPING GEAR

TENTS

Inspect and approve the tent when picking it up, and inform us of any issues when returning it.
Let us know if the tent is dry or wet upon return so we can dry it if needed.

Pay extra attention not to lose the tent pegs.

TRANGIA STOVES

Trangias must be returned clean. In Oravi, you can wash them at the outdoor sink behind the service building. Take care not to lose the Trangia handle.

Empty the spirit fuel bottle or burn off the fuel after use. If fuel is left inside, it may spill during transport and ruin your food with a bad taste