Kayaking is suitable for anyone who wants to actively paddle through the different waters and experience the Swiss nature. Due to the incredible variety of rivers and lakes in Switzerland, countless different routes exist. For children and beginners, calmer routes or certain lake tours are more suitable, while for the advanced and adventurous, rushing rivers and raging waterfalls also await. Switzerland offers everyone a very special kayaking experience

You can even kayak as a non-swimmer with certain providers. However, even in a kayak: safety first. To ensure this, the guide should always be informed about any ailments or illnesses (especially back, muscles, joints or similar), as well as the swimming level. This way, the route and equipment can not only be customized, but also guarantee the best possible experience on the water.

Kayaking (kayaking) consists primarily of paddling and maneuvering. You can steer the small, maneuverable boat through a wide variety of water conditions. To do this, you use a double paddle when kayaking. You can kayak alone or in pairs, according to your own wishes.

On guided tours you will not only be shown the best and most comfortable technique for paddling. You will also be introduced to all safety structures, so that a safe and conscientious trip is guaranteed. The tours have difficulty levels according to the level. They lead over rivers and lakes, past dreamy shores or over steep waterfalls.

Whether leisurely or full of adrenaline, Switzerland offers people of all ages and all levels just the right kayak tour.

Confusion is usually caused by the distinction between canoe and kayak, although there is also the so-called "Canadian". Canoe is basically the generic term for the small, elongated boats under which kayaks and Canadians also fall. Nevertheless, Canadians are colloquially usually referred to as canoes

Therefore, in oral usage, one primarily distinguishes between canoe and kayak. First, the two types of boats can be distinguished based on their origins. The canoe originated in North Africa and was used by the indigenous people there for transportation and hunting. The kayak was used by the Inuit for fishing and sailing on the open sea

A kayak is much narrower and shallower than a canoe and is also not completely open toward the top, but has a sort of seat opening. A canoe, on the other hand, is completely open and therefore offers more storage space and the possibility of being able to sail while kneeling

The kayak is propelled and steered with a double paddle, the canoe with a single paddle. When it comes to effective driving on different waters, a kayak is preferred for sporting activities, such as whitewater rafting, river rafting or similar, because it is faster and more maneuverable.

Kayaking is a very safe sport. In fact, the BFU (Federal Agency for Accident Prevention) shows that simple measures can help make kayaking a completely safe and fun excursion. So, to ensure your safety during this breathtaking experience, you need to keep a few simple things in mind: To be able to paddle safely on the waters, you need training. Guided by a professional guide, you can really enjoy the fun of kayaking and stay safe. The Swiss Canoe Federation ensures that kayak guides are expertly trained and can introduce you to the safety structures of water sports

Especially in wild rivers it is important to wear a helmet and a life jacket. In Switzerland vests are compulsory anyway, appropriate equipment is essential depending on the type of tour. When kayaking, weather conditions and water level are also important factors that should be conscientiously checked and appropriately assessed before each kayak tour. On a guided tour, the trained guides ensure that you can indulge in this wonderful water sport in safe weather and water conditions and well equipped!

But of course! In recent years, water sports have also proven themselves in winter. In fact, in winter it is possible to enjoy the idyllic silence in the middle of a lake, while the snow-covered shores pass you by. At this time, the fewest water sports enthusiasts are still out and about, which is why you can experience incomparable tranquility on the water here. The icy temperatures and cold water are not a deterrent, because it's all a question of equipment!

You are wrapped in warm neoprene clothes, a dry suit, gloves and cap. Your feet are protected by warm and waterproof shoes. For provisions you have a warm tea or a delicious soup in your luggage. And you are ready to go. The preparations are a bit more time-consuming, but it's always worth it

To go kayaking in winter is a breathtaking moment. Nature and all its beauty are in harmony and you can experience the wonderful peace on the water. Of course, even in winter you should follow the safety rules:

• be sure to wear a life jacket
• do not paddle alone
• join a tour as a beginner
• pay attention to the weather conditions Then nothing will stand in the way of your winter magic on the water.

A kayak is very stable and it takes quite a bit of force to make it capsize. Nevertheless, it is of course possible for a kayak to tip over. But don't be afraid! It is always possible to get out of the kayak, even if it has turned. So if your kayak capsizes, it is usually a case of falling out and climbing back in. If you are in faster and windier waters, you should follow the previously learned instructions of your guide

This basically involves leaning into the life jacket and stretching your legs out. Lying on your back, you let yourself drift with the water until your guide reaches you. In such cases, you should definitely stay calm and trust the safety instructions of the professional tour guides. Again, if the safety instructions are followed, it is very likely that your kayak tour will be the best water experience of your life.