Planning a family adventure in Norway? If you’re looking for a memorable way to enjoy the landscape and get active together, family rafting on the Otra river could be just the ticket. Offered by TrollAktiv in Evje, this experience promises a gentle yet exciting introduction to Norway’s waterways, designed specifically for families with children between 120cm and 140cm tall.
What we love about this trip are two key things: first, how accessible it makes white-water fun for younger kids, and second, the chance to explore one of Norway’s warmest rivers, making the whole experience more comfortable. On the flip side, some might find the duration—around three hours—just enough for a full adventure but perhaps a bit quick for those wanting a day-long outing.
This rafting trip suits families with children who are a bit shy of the typical white-water rafting heights, but still eager for a splashy, active day. It’s perfect for those who prefer a gentler, more controlled introduction to river adventures without sacrificing the thrill. If your kids are taller than 140cm or you’re craving more intense rapids, a white water rafting trip might be better. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for families wanting a safe, scenic, and memorable day on the water.
Key Points
- Suitable for children over 120cm and under 140cm tall, offering a safe yet fun experience.
- Enjoy Norway’s warmest rivers, making the water comfortable even on a cooler summer day.
- Includes all essential safety equipment, like wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets, ensuring peace of mind.
- Stunning views of the Norwegian landscape add a visual treat to the adventure.
- Optionally rent wet shoes, GoPro, or professional summer photos to capture your trip.
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip.
Introduction to the Experience
If you’re traveling with children who are eager to splash around but not quite ready for full-on white-water rapids, this family rafting experience provides a fantastic compromise. TrollAktiv’s trip on the Otra river in Evje offers a gentle yet lively ride suited for kids between 120cm and 140cm — a rare opportunity in Southern Norway to enjoy water-based fun designed specifically with families in mind.
Two things immediately stand out when considering this experience. First, how accessible and inclusive it is—no prior rafting skills needed, and safety briefings are thorough and clear. Second, the beautiful scenery you’ll see along the river, which is considered one of Norway’s warmest and most inviting. The trip is well-regarded for its family-friendly atmosphere, making it more than just a thrill ride; it’s a shared adventure that leaves lasting memories.
A small consideration is that if your children are over 140cm or you’re craving more adrenaline, this trip might feel a bit tame. In those cases, TrollAktiv’s white-water rafting offers a more challenging alternative. But for most families looking to enjoy Norway’s outdoors in a safe, structured way, this tour hits the spot.
This activity is best suited for families with children over 120cm who want to experience water sports without the intensity of full white water. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a relaxed, scenic, and social day on Southern Norway’s coastline.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Evje.
What Makes the Tour Special?
A Scenic and Scenic-Accessible Ride
The Otra river is often called one of Norway’s warmest rivers, which means water temperature isn’t a barrier to having fun. The trip offers a chance to see stunning Norwegian landscapes, with lush greenery and rocky shores framing your ride. The water’s gentle current allows kids to enjoy playing and splashing without the worry of strong rapids, which is perfect for families new to river adventures.
Safety and Comfort Are Prioritized
Safety gear — wetsuits, helmets, PFDs, splash jackets — are all included, which removes much of the hassle from packing for a day on the water. The trip is designed for all skill levels, from first-timers to those with some experience, and the guides provide clear safety instructions. The fact that all activities start and end at the same point adds convenience, especially for families juggling children and gear.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Perfect Balance of Fun and Relaxation
Unlike adrenaline-pumping white-water trips, this outing emphasizes fun, scenery, and social bonding. It’s ideal for families wanting a gentle introduction to rafting, with enough excitement to keep everyone engaged. Plus, the option to rent additional equipment like wet shoes or a GoPro allows you to customize your experience and capture those special moments.
Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Check-in and Orientation
Your adventure begins with a check-in at TrollAktiv’s base in Evje. Here, you’ll be welcomed by friendly staff who will provide all necessary safety equipment and a briefing on what to expect. Expect to receive a clear short safety talk in English or Norwegian, emphasizing the importance of following instructions for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Launch and the Ride Begins
Once geared up, you’ll board your raft and set off on the mighty Otra. The trip is about three hours long, including preparation, the ride itself, and some time for photos or possibly a water park if available. You’ll float past stunning Norwegian scenery, with plenty of opportunities to play and splash in the water. The calm stretches are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the landscape, while small rapids — described by one reviewer as “different rapids” — add a splash of excitement.
Fun and Photos
Throughout the trip, guides will point out interesting sights and ensure everyone stays safe. If you rent a GoPro or professional photos, this is when you might capture moments of kids laughing or getting drizzled with water. Some reviews highlight how beautiful the views are—an important part of the memory-making.
Return and Wrap-up
The trip wraps up at the starting point, allowing for a quick change of clothes, especially if your kids get splashed a lot. You can also rent additional gear or buy photos if available, making this a flexible and convenient outing.
What’s Included & What to Bring
Included in the price ($61 per person):
- Splash and windproof jackets
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Helmet
- Wetsuit
Extras available for rent:
- Wet shoes
- GoPro
- Professional summer photos
What you need to bring:
- Swimwear or wool underwear (for under wetsuits)
- Sneakers or rent wet shoes
- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Thermal clothing
- A sense of adventure
Important to note: Sandals, flip-flops, alcohol, drugs, chewing gum, cellphones, or bare feet are not allowed for safety reasons.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Timing and group size matter. The tour generally lasts about three hours, but check availability for specific start times. It’s wise to arrive a bit early to get fitted with gear and hear safety instructions. Since the trip is suitable for children 120cm and up, it’s perfect for families with younger kids who want to experience Norway’s outdoors in a safe setting.
The booking process is flexible—reserve now and pay later—which gives travelers peace of mind and the chance to adjust plans if needed. Cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Safety Considerations
Participants are asked to declare any medical conditions, injuries, or pregnancy that might affect safety. The guides will brief you on safety protocols, and adherence is expected. The trip is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg).
Additional Information & Practicalities
- Languages spoken: English and Norwegian.
- Not suitable for children under 120cm or under 3 ft 9 in.
- The tour is a social activity, making it a great way to meet other families or travelers.
- The experience is rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 12 reviews, with many praising the fun rapids and stunning views.
The Sum Up
For families eager to enjoy Norway’s waters without the intensity of full-on white-water rafting, this trip on the Otra in Evje offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, safety, and fun. The inclusion of all safety gear, the opportunity to see one of Norway’s warmest rivers, and the chance to splash around in a controlled, friendly environment makes it a standout choice for those traveling with children.
It’s especially suited for families with kids between 120cm and 140cm who want an activity that’s exciting yet manageable. The trip’s relaxed pace, scenic surroundings, and social atmosphere make it more than just a water adventure—it’s a memorable day that brings everyone closer together.
If your family enjoys outdoor fun, scenic views, and a safe introduction to Norway’s waterways, this river rafting experience offers excellent value for the price. It’s a wonderful way to make the most of your time in southern Norway, with plenty of brag-worthy moments to share afterward.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed specifically for children over 120cm and under 140cm tall, making it a safe and fun option for families.
How long does the trip last?
The tour duration is approximately 3 hours, including check-in, safety briefings, the ride, and wrap-up.
What safety equipment is included?
All necessary gear—wetsuits, helmets, PFDs, and splash jackets—is included, helping to ensure a safe experience.
Can I rent additional gear?
Yes, wet shoes, GoPro cameras, and professional summer photos are available for rent.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear or wool underwear, sneakers or rent wet shoes, a towel, change of clothes, and thermal clothing. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or bare feet.
Is the trip suitable for non-swimmers?
While the tour is designed for safety, comfort, and fun, participants should be comfortable in water and follow safety instructions.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option.
What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Norwegian, ensuring clear communication.
Is this experience good for non-adventurers?
Absolutely. It’s a gentle ride suitable for families wanting to enjoy Norway’s natural beauty without extreme rapids.
This family rafting adventure on the Otra in Evje offers an authentic, scenic, and safe taste of Norway’s waterways. Whether your kids are just starting to enjoy water fun or you’re seeking a relaxed outdoor activity, it combines stunning views with a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere.
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