Kayaking in Sjoa – Learn, Explore & Camp by Norway’s Wildest River

Whitewater paddling on a world class river

Welcome to Mad Goats Sjoa! Top-level whitewater kayak instruction and guided trips on world-class rivers, and more!

Experience some of the world’s most famous whitewater rivers: The Sjoa, Lågen and Otta. The Sjoa River in particular is renowned around the globe for its world-class rapids, ranging from grades 1 – 5, meaning that there is something suitable for every skill level. If you want to join us rafting, camp at our raft base in Heidal, or use our amazing Sjoa river sauna, you can read more here! 

Our goal at Mad Goats Sjoa is to get you from an absolute beginner level to be able to competently and safely paddle class 2 – 3 rapids, thus maximising your enjoyment on the river.
The key to this is to have a systematic step by step process, tailored to the individual so that you can learn at your own pace and in a way best suited to your learning style.
We pride ourselves on not only being highly competent kayakers, but also patient teachers, and easy-going individuals. At the end of the day, we want you to feel safe, happy, and welcomed, so that you can have a totally awesome time on the river together with us… catch you on the water!

Read more about our courses and tours:

Don’t see the date you want? We also offer private courses and guided tours for individuals and small groups. Or get in touch by email at kontakt@madgoats.no and we will try to help.

Tours and courses include: Kayak and equipment, including wetsuit and dry top; transport by minibus from our base to the rivers where we paddle – Sjoa, Lågan and Otta; NPF våttkort on completion of any NPF course.

Special offer: 25% off all our courses and tours at Mad Goats Sjoa during the Sjoa River Festival – get in touch by phone or email to get your code!

What to bring: 2 x layers of thermals, a towel, swimwear and a warm change of clothes.

Private group option: You can also book any course or tour as a private group. 

Gift cards: All of our activities can be purchased as gift cards. Just choose the “gift card” option during the booking process.

Our location: Mad Goats Sjoa, Heidalsvegen 834, 2677 Nedre Heidal https://goo.gl/maps/zd1yQ8jZP32saG3x7

Getting here: Train to Otta (the fastest train is with SJ Nord) then bus to Faukstad – see https://innlandstrafikk.no/ If you are driving, we have some space for parking at the kayak school.

Accommodation: We offer camping options from 99 kr per person per night or a basic cabin for rent (249 kr per person per night, min 2 and max 4 people). We also have an onsite sauna – a day pass is only 299 kr per person, and you can use it as much as you like! More info about our cabin and camping facilities at Mad Goats Sjoa.

For other accommodation in the Sjoa and Heidal area, you can also try following:

 

Rescue 3 Norge

For all river users, we also highly recommend doing a course with Rescue 3 Norge.

These are internationally-recognised river safety courses taught by very experienced instructors and where we go for our own staff training.

Why Kayak in Sjoa?

The Sjoa River is legendary among kayakers worldwide, known for its clear water, technical rapids, and stunning canyon landscapes. Whether you’re new to whitewater or looking to push your skills further, kayaking in Sjoa offers a unique mix of challenge, progression, and beauty. The variety of sections – from gentle flows to powerful rapids – makes it the perfect classroom and playground for paddlers at every level.

Sjoa Kayak Camp – Learn Whitewater Skills

Our Sjoa Kayak Camp is designed for those who want more than just a quick course. Over several days you’ll train on different sections of the river, enjoy the camp atmosphere, and connect with other paddlers. With expert instructors, high-quality gear, and a supportive community, you’ll build the confidence to handle moving water safely while still having plenty of fun. The camp is also a chance to relax by the river, share meals, and enjoy evenings around the fire.

Beginner to Advanced Kayak Courses

Never been in a whitewater kayak before? No problem! We offer structured courses for complete beginners through to advanced paddlers. Beginners learn the basics – strokes, balance, wet exits, and simple rapids – while experienced kayakers can focus on advanced maneuvers, rolling, and river safety. By the end, you’ll feel more capable and ready to explore the exciting world of whitewater kayaking in Sjoa.

Multi-Day Kayak Trips in Heidal & Beyond

For those who want to go deeper into Norway’s wild rivers, we run multi-day kayaking trips that combine skill-building with exploration. Paddle through the canyons of Sjoa, camp in the Heidal valley, or extend your adventure into nearby rivers and lakes. These trips are ideal for groups or individuals who want the full immersion – paddling by day, campfire dinners by night, and memories that last a lifetime.

Sjoa River – Nature, History & Community

The Sjoa River flows through Heidal in Gudbrandsdalen, a valley rich in culture and history. Heidal is famous for its traditional log houses, farming heritage, and strong outdoor community. The river itself has shaped the area for centuries, from fishing and transport to becoming Norway’s premier whitewater destination. Today, kayaking in Sjoa connects you not only to the thrill of the rapids but also to a tradition of living closely with nature.

Where We Are – Heidal, Gudbrandsdalen Valley

Our base is in Nedre Heidal, Gudbrandsdalen Valley, right in the heart of Norway’s outdoor paradise. Only a few hours’ drive from Oslo, Heidal offers easy access to the Sjoa River, Jotunheimen National Park, and countless hiking and biking trails.

It’s the perfect hub for combining kayaking with other adventures – from rafting and packrafting to mountain trekking and exploring local culture. If you want find some great hiking and biking opportunities in Heidal you can read our blog here. 

Nice water and river kayaking course Sjoa, Try rafting Sjoa like seen on the image.
learn to whitewater kayak sjoa
Mad Goats Sjoa (The Sjoa Kajakksenter)
Cliff jumping in Sjoa Norway