Setesdal, Evje: Family Rafting on the beautiful Otra river

Rafting on the Otra River near Evje in Norway offers a truly unique experience, especially for families with young children. This tour, tailored specifically for kids between 120cm and 140cm in height, provides a gentler, yet equally exciting alternative to traditional whitewater adventures. We’re excited to share that with a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 12 reviews, this activity strikes a wonderful balance between safety, fun, and stunning scenery.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how accessible and family-oriented this trip is. The focus on safety gear, the friendly guides, and the scenic backdrop of Southern Norway’s coastline make it a memorable outing for kids and parents alike. That said, it’s important to note that this is not a high-adrenaline whitewater experience; if your children are taller than 140cm or seeking more thrills, the whitewater rafting trip might be a better fit. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for families looking to combine adventure with a scenic water adventure that’s suitable for younger kids.

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Designed for children over 120cm and under 140cm, making it accessible for many young adventurers.
• Warmest river: The Otra River is known as one of Norway’s warmest, enhancing comfort during the trip.
• Inclusive equipment: Safety gear and waterproof clothing are provided, ensuring a secure experience.
• Scenic beauty: Enjoy stunning views of Southern Norway’s coast and lush surroundings.
• Short but sweet: The tour lasts around 3 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Additional options: Available extras include wetshoes, GoPro rental, and professional summer photos.

A Thorough Look at the Family Rafting Experience

What to Expect on the Trip

Once you arrive at TrollAktiv’s base in Evje, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and guided through a brief safety briefing. This is where you’ll learn about the equipment, safety procedures, and what to expect during the trip. The safety gear—comprising a splash and windproof jacket, PFD (personal flotation device), helmet, and wetsuit—are all designed to keep you comfortable and secure.

The actual rafting takes place on the Otra River, recognized as one of Norway’s warmest rivers, making it more enjoyable for families who might worry about cold water. The water level and rapids are gentle enough for children over 120cm but under 140cm, which means you’ll encounter some playful waves and small rapids but nothing too intense. As Freddy from a recent review mentioned, “Awesome! Fun to experience the different rapids,” highlighting that even younger kids can enjoy the thrill of moving water without the risk of large whitewater rapids.

The Itinerary & Route

The trip starts and ends at the same location—making logistics simple for families. After gear fitting and instructions, your group will hop into the raft, guided by experienced instructors who speak both English and Norwegian. They ensure everyone understands the commands and safety measures, which adds an extra layer of reassurance.

The journey itself is filled with moments of calm, where you can admire the stunning scenery of Norway’s southern coastline and lush greenery along the riverbanks. The guides will steer you through gentle rapids, where kids get to feel the thrill of splashing and splashing while remaining safe.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike more adrenaline-fueled whitewater trips, this family rafting adventure offers a gentler, more relaxed experience that appeals to families wanting a fun day out on the water without the worry of intense rapids. The experience is designed to be inclusive and engaging, ensuring children can participate fully, whether they’re paddling or simply enjoying the ride.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Reviewers have highlighted the overall value and fun of the experience. Freddy’s comment, “Awesome! Fun to experience the different rapids,” hints that despite the gentler conditions, there’s enough action to keep kids entertained. Families also appreciate the scenic views and the chance to play at the water park afterward, making this a full day of outdoor fun.

What’s Included & What to Bring

The tour includes all necessary safety equipment—a splash/windproof jacket, PFD, helmet, and wetsuit—so you won’t need to worry about bringing specialized gear. Optional extras like wetshoes, GoPro rentals, and summer photos are available if you want to capture the moments.

What you should pack: swimwear or wool underwear, a towel, closed-toe shoes (like sneakers or rented wetshoes), and thermal clothing for changing afterwards. Remember, sandals or flip-flops are not allowed on the raft, and safety regulations prohibit cellphones, alcohol, and bare feet during the activity.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which includes check-in, gear fitting, safety briefing, rafting, and a short break. The ability to reserve now and pay later provides flexibility to plan your trip without upfront commitment, which is especially helpful if your schedule might change.

Accessibility & Suitability

This activity is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg). Children should be between 120cm and 140cm tall. It’s perfect for families with kids eager to try something active, but who prefer a calmer river experience rather than intense whitewater. The guides are experienced and speak both English and Norwegian, making communication easy for international visitors.

Why Choose This Experience?

If you’re traveling with young children or family members who want to try rafting without the intensity of whitewater, this tour offers a perfect balance. The safety measures and gentle rapids mean you can relax and focus on enjoying the stunning Norwegian landscape. Plus, the included equipment ensures you’re well-protected against the elements, and the scenic backdrop makes for some fantastic photos.

The tour’s value becomes even clearer when you consider the small group sizes and the personal attention from guides. You’re not just on a generic ride—you’re getting a tailored experience with knowledgeable instructors who emphasize safety and fun.

Who Will Love It?

This activity is ideal for families with children over 120cm and under 140cm tall who are eager to explore Norway’s waterways in a safe, guided setting. It suits those looking for a scenic, active outing that combines soft adventure with beautiful views. It’s also excellent for families wanting to introduce young kids to water sports in a controlled environment, making it a memorable part of any Norwegian holiday.

Final Thoughts

The Setesdal family rafting adventure on the Otra River offers a fantastic introduction to water-based fun in Norway. With friendly guides, high-quality safety gear, and scenic surroundings, it provides a safe and enjoyable way for families to experience Norway’s natural beauty. The gently rolling rapids ensure the kids stay entertained without feeling overwhelmed, and the opportunity to play at the water park afterward adds extra value.

While it’s not suited for those seeking high-adrenaline whitewater thrills, this tour hits the sweet spot for family-friendly adventure. The high rating and positive reviews suggest it consistently delivers a memorable, fun-filled day. Plus, the flexibility to reserve in advance and pay later makes it easy to fit into your trip planning.

If you’re after a safe, scenic, and engaging adventure on Norway’s warmest river that the whole family can enjoy, this trip is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this rafting experience safe for children?
Yes, the trip is specifically designed for children over 120cm and includes all necessary safety gear such as helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits. Guides are experienced and prioritize safety throughout the trip.

What is included in the price?
Your booking covers a splash and windproof jacket, PFD, helmet, and wetsuit. Optional extras like wetshoes, GoPro, and professional summer photos are available for additional cost.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including check-in, safety briefing, the rafting itself, and a short break at the end.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear or wool underwear, a towel, closed-toe shoes (like sneakers or rented wetshoes), and thermal clothing for after the activity. Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or bare feet.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back issues due to safety concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

This family rafting tour on the Otra River combines safety, scenic beauty, and accessible fun, making it a great choice for families eager to explore Norway’s outdoors in a gentle, memorable way.