5 Rivers the Augustów Lakeland kayaking trip – 8 days

Czarna Hańcza and Augustów Canal, Rospuda, Biebrza and Marycha Rivers – an organized kayaking trip, accommodation in Villa Skomanda, 8 days / 6 days kayaking – 94 km. '2024 DATES.

Discover the beauty of the FIVE rivers of Augustów Lakeland and their diverse characters. Now it is possible – in a single trip!

• The queen of Augustów Lakeland rivers – the Czarna Hańcza – meanders calmly along grasslands and woods of Augustów Primeval Forest. Take it easy, relax and enjoy the magnificent views and smell of the forest.
• Augustów Canal – a unique artificial waterway, on a European scale, which combines both natural forces of Mother Nature and the ingenuity of men.
• Marycha River meanders along the border area of Poland and Lithuania. In the final part, it meets Belarus. Due to its wild nature, on the route there are many natural obstacles in form of fallen trees that will ensure an unforgettable adventure.
• Slightly secluded river, lazily meandering through a marshy valley. Jegrznia River is exceptionally interesting for lovers of fauna and colorful landscapes.
• Wild Biebrza River runs through the boundless Biebrza Marshes – one of the biggest swamps in Europe. Lazy current, singing birds and fish splashing in the water ensure complete, blissful relaxation – excursion into unspoilt wildlife.
• Beautiful and surprising Rospuda River runs between high, steep river banks overgrown with trees. Along the river there are sections with rocky bottom and large boulders here and there, but there are also calmer ones, where the river is mild and surrounded by banks covered with bulrush. It also crosses several picturesque lakes. The waters of the famous Rospuda Valley are reachable only by a kayak!

Comfortable accommodation in Augustów; tasty, home-made meals; daily transports; extra attractions available on-site; comprehensive organization. The kayaking route is varied, some sections are moderately difficult; sometimes with rocky bottoms, boulders, fallen trees or inaccessible banks. The kayaking trip is available for beginners and kayaking with children, accompanied by experienced kayakers.

Accommodation: Villa Skomanda in Augustów – rooms in a bungalow; summer houses or a campsite.
Catering: HB – buffet breakfast, dinner

Shorter option of kayaking trip:  The BEST and the most beautiful kayaking routes of Augustów Lakeland – 6 days – check the offer

The five rivers and the canal – adventure, relaxation, emotions and wilderness

Program

1^st day

Arrival in Augustów, check-in    /possible from 3 PM till 11 PM/.

The SZOT Base (how to find us) is located on 8 hectares of land. There are Villa Skomanda – a hotel with a restaurant, bungalow – rooms with separate entrances from the veranda, 4-person summer houses. There is also the SZOT tourist office, kayak and canoes rental, a playground for children, a traditional wood-fired sauna, a sheltered barbecue area with a bonfire place, and a large car park. Everything in a fenced area, surrounded by a forest and a large green space.
We are situated in a picturesque part of Augustów town, close to Augustów Primeval Forest, Augustów Canal, and “Green Velo” cycle trail.

2^nd day

9:00   Transportation to the kayaking starting point – Wigry Lake. We start with a short individual sightseeing of the Post-Camaldolese monastery complex, a place where Pope John Paul II rested during his pilgrimage to Poland in 1999. From here extends admiring view on the panorama of Wigry Lake.
Before we start the tour, a short briefing will be provided (organizational and safety issues; kayaking instructions).

Czarna Hańcza kayaking route: Wigry – Maćkowa Ruda   /10 km

Our starting point is the area of Wigry National Park – Wigry Lake; Postaw Lake; Czarna Hańcza River meandering among tall reeds and water plants. While passing some small villages, the river occasionally divides, and thus we can see multiple small grassy islands along the way. Transportation from the ending point back to Augustów.

3^rd day

Transportation to the kayaking starting point.

Czarna Hańcza kayaking route: Okółek – Mikaszówka   /17 km

One of the most appealing and best known kayaking routes in Poland. The river is relatively wide, and it has a mild current that makes it easier to kayak. It meanders calmly along grasslands and woods of Augustów Primeval Forest. Its relaxing atmosphere is driven by the river’s gentle bends, curves, and fallen trees that are easy to pass. In general, the route is not difficult, suitable for beginners and families with children. The last two kilometers we kayak through the Augustów Canal regulated by historic, manually operated locks (must-see!). In Mikaszówka there is an old wooden church built in the traditional architectural style, a perfect match for the wilderness of old-growth forests. Transportation from the ending point back to Augustów.

Bonfire party with sausages in the evening.

4^th day

Transportation to the kayaking starting point.

Marycha kayaking route: Zelwa – Stanowisko  /20 km

Beautiful, wild and meandering river. It starts in the area of Kukle forest preserve, and then runs along the border area of Poland and Lithuania. On the route there are many natural obstacles in form of fallen trees. As an additional attraction, sometimes it is necessary to get out of the kayak and push or move it over the obstacle. The ending point is located 2 km from the place where three borders meet. Transportation from the ending point back to Augustów.

5^th day

Transportation to the kayaking starting point.

Jegrznia kayaking route: Wojdy – Kuligi  /15 km

Rarely frequented kayak route, it perfectly reflects the climate of the swampy Biebrza valley, of which it is a tributary. The trail is particularly interesting for lovers of fauna during the mating season and bird migrations. The Jegrznia river flows through a somewhat secluted and marshy environment, meandering among wild meadows and reeds, and flows through the Dreństwo Lake (1.3 km). The kayak route is typically lowland with a lazy current, not too difficult, colorful landscapes. A lot of swamp vegetation growing on the banks and partly in the riverbed. After the trip, return to Augustów.

6^th day

Transportation to the kayaking starting point.

Biebrza kayaking route: Sztabin – Jagłowo /18 km

This picturesque kayaking route, running through the Biebrza National Park, is particularly recommended for those seeking peace and quiet – excursion into unspoilt wildlife. Lavish flora, numerous species of birds and animals inhabiting the Biebrza Marshes. The low-intensity route, very easy and free of obstacles, with a mild current and numerous bends. Transportation from the ending point back to Augustów.

7^th day

Transportation to the kayaking starting point.

Rospuda kayaking route: Małe Raczki – Święte Miejsce  /15 km

Along the river there are sections with sharp curves, fallen trees and large boulders, but there are also calmer ones, where the river is mild and free of obstacles. In summertime the route is relatively easy. Surrounded by beautiful, picturesque scenery! On the route there are two unique spots to visit: the ruins of Pac Palace in Dowspuda, and Święte Miejsce nature reserve – cultural and religious site. Transportation from the ending point back to Augustów.

8^th day

After breakfast, check-out (till 11 AM), Guests departure.

Or extend your stay and: sightseeing Augustów, cycling trip (bike rental on site at Villa Skomanda), a cruise and many other attractions.

We also offer one-day trips: to the Suwałki- Augustów Lake district, to Lithuania – Vilnius and Trakai.

Reservation of excursions at the reception desk; pick-up of participants and return transport to Villa Skomanda.

Price

• 2539 PLN /person
• 1729 PLN /children up to 12, sharing a room with 2 people
• 2329 PLN /children up to 12, sharing a room with 1 person
• 1969 PLN /3rd person in a room
  BUNGALOW Option – in a 2-person room

• 2289 PLN /person
• 2089 PLN /children up to 12
  SUMMER-HOUSE Option – in a 4-person house

• 2479 PLN /person
• 2279 PLN /children up to 12
  SUMMER-HOUSE Option – in a 3-person house

• 2819 PLN /person
• 2619 PLN /children up to 12
  SUMMER-HOUSE Option – in a 2-person house

• 1939 PLN /person
• 1739 PLN /children up to 12
  CAMPSITE Option – SZOT campsite

Price includes

• seat in a double polyethylene kayak with paddling gear (paddle, life jacket, soft seat) – 6 days
• 7 overnight stays – depending on your chosen option
• 7 x HB catering (breakfast, dinner); children up to 12 – ½ servings
• bonfire with sausages
• daily transportations of people to the kayaking starting point and back
• lifeguard / kayaking instructor guidance – 6 days
• Biebrza and Wigry National Park tickets
• kayaks’ launching fees
• access to the grill, deck chairs
• free Wi-Fi
• accident insurance (EUROPA 20 000 PLN)
• Guarantee Fund contribution of 2 PLN
• Tourist Relief Fund contribution of 2 PLN

Nutritional needs, any diets, should be reported at least two days in advance at the Reception.

Parking lot during the kayaking tour – free.

For our regular guests we offer an additional discount.

In the backyard you will find:

• outdoor, wood-burning sauna
• volleyball court
• sheltered barbeque area with a fireplace
• playground for children
• rental office: kayaks, bikes, Nordic-walking poles
• parking area

Paid separately

• local fee (cash only) – 21 PLN/person/trip,
• locks on Augustów Canal (2 on the route) – 5,40 PLN/per kayak/per lock (payable on the spot; at the lock; daily operated till 7 PM),
• extra charge for the single bungalow room – 710 PLN/person/trip
• CAMPSITE option only – warm shower in SZOT Base – 5 PLN/shower
• renting a single CAROLINA/ CUSTOMLINE kayak or kayaking in a double kayak individually – 115 PLN/trip
• renting a waterproof bag (55l) or barrel (3,5l/10,4l) – 30 PLN/trip + deposit of 50 PLN
• sauna bathing – 250 PLN/2 hours/group
• possibility of increasing the insurance sum
• additional insurance against trip cancellation costs – 2,5% of the total price. General Insurance Terms and Conditions Cancellation Costs – EUROPA
• available to purchase in the SZOT office: maps, waterproof mobile phone cases, sun hats and raincoats.

Additional information

• If you want to spend your free time in an active way, you are more than welcome to join us and become a kayaker! No matter how old or fit you are, our kayakers are of different age and shape. They are families with children or students, couples and those kayaking on their own. Simply everyone who just wishes to spend their free time actively, in fresh air and surrounded by beautiful nature. Anyone who wants to meet new people, looks for an adventure, and who enjoys spending free time with family and friends
• Trip members must be in an appropriate state of health, which allows to participate in a kayaking trip. Kids and teenagers can take part in a kayaking trip only under supervision of their parents or legal age guardians
• Accommodation:
  • Bungalow (wooden) – 2-person rooms with an additional bed – folding sofa. Facilities: fridge, coffee and tea set, bedding, bathroom, shower
  • Summer houses – Designed for 4 persons; with a wooden terrace and bedroom in the attic. On the ground floor there is a living room with a bathroom.
  • SZOT campsite next to Villa Skomanda; toilets with sinks are available, showers are charged extra.
• In the backyard you will find: a playground for children, dry sauna, sheltered barbeque area with a fireplace, bicycles for rent
• Food: delicious, home-made meals with elements of regional cuisine in Villa Skomanda. Dinner is served on the first; breakfast on the last day of your stay
• We provide first-quality 1-, 2-, and 3-person kayaks
• The minimum number of participants: 8
• There is a possibility to book an extra night before or after the kayaking trip – with a discount
• We suggest you to take: comfortable, lightweight footwear – sandals/ slides/ water shoes, mosquito repellant, fleece sweatshirts, warm clothes suitable for night weather conditions, fingerless gloves, raincoats, and of course, a GOOD MOOD!

Attractions in Augustów; distances from SZOT Base:

• Cruises along picturesque lakes and Augustów Canal – 2 km
• Catamaran Port – 3 km
• Marian Shrine located on the island in Studzieniczna – 11.5 km
• Water ski lift on Necko Lake – 3.6 km / car – 3 km / walk
• Ride on the Narrow Gauge Railway in Wigry – 26 km
• Tennis courts – 3.5 km
• Municipal Aquapark (swimming pools, slide, jacuzzi, sauna) – 1.2 km
• Bowling club – 0.9 km

We are a licenced touroperator listed in the Central Register of Tourism Organizers No. 17/00/04 issued by the Marshal of the Podlaskie Voivodeship and the Insurance Guarantee of the Insurance Company EUROPA.

Get into a kayak and get inspired with us! 😉