Lithuania for thrill seekers: kayaking in Minija River

The perfect time of the year to visit Lithuania just came - flowers are blooming, the grass is lush green, and the sky is so bright as it can be. But what to do in Lithuania besides sightseeing and laying on the beach? Lithuanians know that the spotlight during the summertime in Lithuania comes to the seaside region. And it is worth it. Samogitia (so-called seaside territory of Lithuania) has plentiful of nature parks, lakes, rivers, and the sea. So, there are many reasons to go there. But for true nature lovers and thrill seekers - kayaking in Minija River is a real adventure.

About Minija River

The Minija is 202-kilometer long river stretched in western Lithuania and a tributary to the longest river in the country Nemunas. The Minija also plays an integral part in the country’s infrastructure since 1873, when a channel “Vilhelmo kanalas” was built to connect the Minija directly with the Klaipėda port.  Nowadays, Minija River is one of cleanest in the whole country. That’s why kayaking is so popular there. The Minija flows alongside old villages, ancient oaks and nature reserves. 

Time for adventures

So, for real adventure seekers kayaking in Minija River can become a thrilling experience, especially during the late spring and early summer, when the water flow is the strongest. Sometimes, during the hot summers and drought (in July), the water level in the river can be critically low, hence in some parts of the river can be a bit harder to kayak.

Usually, the kayak tours start from villages near the Kretinga town -  Kartena,  Cigonaliai, or  Aleksandravas. In these villages, there are many kayak tours providers. Usually, the price for a double kayak is around 16 euros per day on working days and 25 euros on non-working days. Also, it is possible to choose between a one-day trip or two-three days kayaking tours. Usually, people who want more extended tours opt for camping. 

Kartena town

Minijos g. 32, 97340 Kartena, Lithuania

Cigonaliai village

WHR7+XV Dauginčiai, Kretinga District Municipality, Lithuania

Aleksandravas village

3224 13, 90390 Aleksandravas, Lithuania

Routes

The most popular and most comfortable way is 13 kilometers long kayaking route starting from Kartena and ending near the Raguviškiai village. The duration of this trip can vary between 3 and 5 hours. The longer route (24 kilometers long) includes visiting the Salantai Regional Park, where you can expect to observe unique nature and some historical mounds. Taking this longer route, starting from Aleksandravas and ending at Kartena, you will be kayaking near the shores were any human activity is strictly forbidden, and where all the beauty of the forest and authentic plants will be in front of your eyes. 

Salantai Regional Park

3HWC+PP Šaučikiai, Kretingos rajono savivaldybė, Lithuania

Why is it worth it?

So, finally, the answer why is it worth it. If you want to go far from the throws of city life and become more familiar with Lithuanian nature - this is the experience you need to look for. Also, Lithuanian nature can surprise you, especially with its beautiful forests and villages. During the kayaking tour, there will be many camping places positioned near the villages. So, for perfect legs rest time, take a little walk and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the communities. Although the towns in Lithuania modernize fast, some smaller villages still have their authentic architecture. So, it is worth exploring them.

If you are a nature lover and a thrill seeker, you will find kayaking in Minija River a challenging experience. It is a perfect activity for your health and a marvelous break from your regular city life in Lithuania.