Levi: River Rafting Adventure with Car Tyre — A Unique Arctic Thrill
If you’re looking for a way to spice up your Arctic holiday in Levi, Finland, this river rafting adventure in a spinning car tyre offers a memorable mix of excitement and scenic beauty. While it might sound unconventional, it turns out to be an exhilarating and surprisingly safe way to enjoy Lapland’s wild waters.
What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes white-water fun for nearly everyone — with expert guidance and all necessary gear provided. Plus, the chance to float along the Ounasjoki River, surrounded by Lapland’s pristine landscapes, adds a lovely natural backdrop to the adrenaline.
One thing to keep in mind is that this activity isn’t suitable for children under 7, non-swimmers, or those over certain size and weight limits. But if you’re a thrill-seeker or just eager for a new outdoor experience, this adventure might be just the ticket.
This tour suits those who love adventure, outdoor fun, and trying something truly different — particularly travelers who want an active day outdoors without the need for previous rafting experience. It’s also a great choice for groups looking for a shared adrenaline rush or families with older kids ready for some splashy fun.
Key Points
- Unique Experience: Float down the Ounasjoki River in a spinning car tyre, an activity you won’t find elsewhere.
- All-Inclusive Equipment: Helmets, wetsuits, life jackets, and other gear are provided, ensuring safety and comfort.
- Expert Guidance: Guides teach you how to control the tyre, making even first-timers feel confident.
- Duration: The activity lasts about 2.5 hours, including transport, making it a manageable addition to your day.
- Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants, which means more personal attention and a friendly vibe.
- Not Suitable for Some: Not recommended for children under 7, non-swimmers, or taller and heavier individuals over 200 cm or 110 kg.
An In-Depth Look at the Levi River Tyre Adventure
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sirkka.
An Unconventional Way to Experience Lapland’s Waters
This tour is billed as a “river rafting in a car tyre”, which sounds slightly quirky but works wonderfully. The idea is simple: instead of traditional rafts or kayaks, you’ll be riding and spinning in a sturdy car tyre. It’s a playful, fun way to navigate the foaming rapids of the Ounasjoki River, especially suited for those who want a dose of outdoor adrenaline without the technicalities of traditional rafting.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
Your adventure begins at the Polar Star Travel office, where you’ll meet your guide and gear up for the activity. The staff provide everything needed: helmets, wetsuits, life jackets, knee pads, flippers, and all safety equipment. After a short safety briefing, you’ll board a transfer vehicle that takes you to the river, a quick ride that gets you into the right mindset for adventure.
Once on site, you’ll jump into the river upstream of the rapids. Here, your guide will demonstrate how to control the tyre — a key skill that ensures both safety and fun. Expect some initial splashing and giggles as you get comfortable navigating the spinning tyre in the water.
The actual downstream journey involves tackling the steeper, foaming sections of the river. The guide will lead by example, going first, giving you a clear impression of how to handle the tyre in challenging waters. As you follow closely behind, you’ll enjoy the thrill of riding through rapids, feeling the rush of the cool, clear water splashing all around.
The Value of Expert Guidance and Safety Measures
Despite the wild reputation of river rapids, this tour emphasizes safety. The guides are experienced and instruct you thoroughly before hitting the water. They teach you how to control the tyre, and the safety gear — including helmets and wetsuits — ensures you’re protected from splashes and minor bumps. The activity is designed to be accessible for everyone who loves to have fun, with clear instructions and supervision.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic and Refreshing Outdoor Fun
Since the activity takes place on a free-running section of the Ounasjoki River, you’ll be immersed in Lapland’s landscape, which is stunning even during the summer months. There’s something satisfying about feeling the rush of cold water in the middle of peaceful nature, and it makes for a great story afterwards.
Authenticity and Group Atmosphere
With a small group size capped at 10, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and tips from your guide. Many reviews mention how friendly and professional the guides are, which adds to the overall sense of security and fun.
The Tour’s Practical Aspects
Timing-wise, the activity lasts around 2.5 hours — a perfect time frame for a half-day outdoor adventure. The tour includes transfer from and back to the meeting point, but not hotel pickup, so travelers should plan accordingly.
Cost-wise, you’ll want to consider the value. This isn’t just about the thrill — it’s about the experience of trying something genuinely different, especially in a setting as breathtaking as Lapland. The equipment, guiding, and safety gear are all included, making it a hassle-free adventure.
Reviews and Feedback
Reviewers have praised the activity for being fun, exhilarating, and well-organized. One noted, “We loved the way the guide explained everything clearly and made us feel safe,” emphasizing the importance of good guidance. Others mentioned how refreshing and invigorating it was to be on the water, with some saying it was a perfect way to beat the summer heat.
Who Would Enjoy This?
This activity is ideal for adventure lovers, families with older children, and groups seeking a shared adrenaline rush. It’s particularly well-suited to those who want a lighthearted yet exciting outdoor activity that’s different from the usual hiking or sightseeing.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Bring swimwear and a towel to dry off afterward.
- Wear the provided wetsuit — it keeps you warm and protected.
- Plan for a full 2.5-hour window to include transfer, gear-up, the activity, and return.
- Not suitable for children under 7 or non-swimmers.
- Tall or heavier participants should note the size restrictions (over 200 cm or 110 kg may not be accommodated).
The Sum Up
The Levi river tyre rafting tour is a clever twist on traditional water adventures. It offers a fun, safe, and memorable experience for those eager to try something new amidst Lapland’s stunning natural scenery. It’s accessible, well-organized, and provides a genuine adrenaline boost without needing prior experience.
This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want to share a fun experience with friends or family, or simply crave a break from more conventional sightseeing. It’s a chance to laugh, splash, and make lasting memories in a setting that combines the thrill of rapid water with the tranquility of Lapland’s wilderness.
If you’re after an activity that’s both unique and exciting — and don’t mind getting a little wet — this tyre floating adventure is a solid choice.
FAQ
Is the activity suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, as it involves navigating rapids in a tyre and requires some physical agility.
Do I need to know how to swim?
While the water is quite clear and the activity is guided, non-swimmers are advised against participating for safety reasons.
What should I wear?
Bring swimwear and a towel. The tour provides wetsuits and other safety gear, ensuring you stay warm and protected.
Are the group sizes small?
Yes, the activity is limited to a maximum of 10 participants, which helps ensure everyone gets personal attention and a fun, friendly atmosphere.
What happens if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible in case your plans change.
Is transportation included?
The tour includes a transfer to and from the meeting point at Polar Star Travel, but hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.
What is the duration of the activity?
Expect about 2.5 hours total — enough time to gear up, enjoy the rapids, and relax afterward.
Can I book now and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which offers flexibility for planning your trip.
In the end, this Levi river tyre rafting tour offers a fun, authentic, and refreshing way to experience Lapland’s waters. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a memorable outdoor activity in a stunning Arctic setting.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Sirkka
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