All-Inclusive Algonquin Backcountry Canoe Experience
5
All-Inclusive Algonquin Backcountry Canoe Experience
By Driftwood Paddle Algonquin
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About
Lowest price guarantee
Ages 0-65
Duration: 2 days
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English, Spanish
More
- Dinner
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Snacks
- Canoe, Tent, Sleeping Bag, Cooking Supplies, Packs and any other gear you my require for the experience
What's not included- Personal Clothing/Towel, Headlamp/Flashlight
- Start:
- Driftwood Paddle Algonquin, Access Point, 1 Lake Kawawaymog, Algonquin Park, ON P0H 1Z0, CanadaOur laneway is marked by a bright yellow "Kelly Road" sign on the left. Follow it down to our Base Camp.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Pushchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats available
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 186004P1- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 186004P1
From
ÂŁ630.38
per adult
Select date and travellers
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- ryank3970 contributionsLife Changing People and PlaceI have toured Algonquin park via the Kelly brothers for 9 years and cannot recommend them enough for both new and old visitors to the park. To write a true and complete review for their services would require a small novel. So let me try briefly to paint a picture of my experience, and what could be yours, with them. My first trip was 9 years ago, a younger me searching for meaning and belonging in the ever-changing world. I requested a trip that would test me and my abilities and help me find answers to the questions on my mind. Chris mapped out a personalised 5 day trip for me with this in mind. I was pushed physically and mentally in a way that helped me grow and I was forever changed by this trip. I learned about the park, myself, and how the two interrelate in a way that applied to my wider world. 3 years later and Chris guided another trip for me, my focus was simple this time - disconnect from my everyday and help me to realise the future direction of my life. I needed clarity on work and life and was offered another more relaxed route with the opportunity to discuss my thoughts and cruise the many lakes of Algonquin park. He provided the clarity I needed to move ahead with my work goals and to push forward with my personal relationship. Jump ahead 5 years and my most recent trip with Chris included my wife and 1 year old son. Chris provided us with a safe and relaxing experience that strengthened our bond and introduced the rest of my family to a place that is now a part of me. Chris and his brother provide and excellent service, but be prepared for them to become so much more than service providers. They have fundamentally changed the way I move in the world and I cannot recommend their services enough. Your life will never be the same, whatever stage of life you find yourself in, the Kelly brothers are compassionate and understanding, they will see your journey and help you move to where you need to be, all the while immersing you in the magic that is Algonquin Park. 5 stars, will continue to bring my growing family to them and Algonquin for years to come.Written 24 March 2024
- 497clintg0 contributionsDisconnect to reconnectI am so grateful to have connected with Chris and have him as a guide. The first thing I noticed about Chris is that he is filled with knowledge and love! Love for nature, love for self, and love for others. I knew I was in good hands heading out on this adventure. It was an amazing experience being disconnected from technology and dialed right into mother nature. I also got to connect with many other beautiful souls and share thoughts and stories throughout this trip. Chris guided us through movements, breathwork, and meditation, and really allowed me to settle in and listen to the inner voice that I sometimes let get flooded with everything going on in my life. I felt like I knew Chris for a long time and since returning home I have been able to sit and reflect on some of the insights he provided me and I feel like I have reached another level in my own growth. He has also instilled a greater appreciation for nature and I am forever grateful that I had this experience.Written 24 September 2023
- NaturalMobility0 contributionsBreak through your illusion and connect with the real world with kind, passionate and deeply experienced guides.Such an amazing experience. Kind and knowledgeable guides with their whole heart deeply integrated into what they do. I would recommend Driftwood Paddle to anyone who wants to step out of the illusion of our society and integrate with the real world. Nature is the real world, and the life we return to is the illusion. Getting into nature with trustworthy and passionate guides makes us feel safe and supported while connecting with the essence of what makes us human. We are not visiting nature when we go on an adventure like this, we are returning to our source, and experiencing how we are a part of this world, not apart from it. 🙏Written 18 October 2022
- O2975JJjordane0 contributionsIncredible experience!Rented a canoe from driftwood paddle for a long weekend adventure. Chris welcomed us with a load of enthusiasm and was extremely helpful getting us setup and providing recommendations about our destination. That’s to his input, we ended up getting an incredible campsite. I would HIGHLY recommend using driftwood paddle - I certainly will be using their services again. Next time I’ll make use of the ping pong table before dropping in the canoe!Written 18 September 2022
- ellahO6924UV0 contributionsAmazingGreat customer service! We had a wonderful trip. Canoes and tent were optimal for our purposes. Would rent again!Written 26 July 2021
- Captzog0 contributionsThe WildernessIf you are lucky enough to find this page on Tripadvisor, book a trip immediately. My first portaging trip with Chris and Driftwood paddles changed my perspective on life. Chris takes you to where we should be, where we're naturally meant to be. The wilderness. The downside is that vacation packages to Mexico or cruise liner trips through the Caribbean will make little to no sense when you return. ZogWritten 22 July 2021
- EverWander20 contributionsBeautiful!Such a lovely trip! The food was so tasty and the views were even better! Chris and Kieran are so kind and welcoming, from the moment we got there they made it feel like we belong where the wild ones are. Don’t forget to pack extra socks and watch the sun rise! You’ll have a blast.Written 23 February 2021
- MattBaraniecki0 contributionsKieran Kelly is a perfect guide for any group.I was in the park with a friend for a weekend adventure when we met Kieran. We sparked up a conversation while Kieran was fishing near our site and invited him to our fire. We ended up having him come visit each night to converse and talk a lot about the park and backcountry camping. He taught me quite a bit about using the stars and how to find different constellations that I now use to impress my friends. He ended up telling us about his business and passion for the park. If you're someone who is looking for a guide who truly has a plethora of knowledge about interior camping and the outdoors I cant recommend anyone better. Kieran has an ability to make you laugh, to feel very comfortable and is extremely professional. We had a blast sharing stories and its no surprise to hear he has people who come back to him each year to go explore Algonquin without the headache of planning every aspect of a trip. You are in good hand if you choose Kieran Kelly and the services of Driftwood Paddle Algonquin.Written 15 October 2020
- vijayh20190 contributionsDive into the wildMy wife and I wanted to experience back country camping / portaging but neither of us had much experience with camping or any gear. We booked this 2 days before it left and we're so glad we did, it was an amazing experience, Keiren really knows the park, and his organization with food and gear is impressive, we thought we'd be eating canned food or something but he made solid dinners over the fire every night. I'd say going with Keiren, we saw so many things we wouldn't have if we did this on our own. As for the park, it's stunning, you really have to see it with your eyes.Written 20 August 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
58 reviews
Excellent
57
Very good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Jack M
1 contribution
May 2024 • Friends
The experience with Driftwood Paddle Algonquin was a once in a lifetime experience, CK and his team are true professionals at their craft. Their knowledge and passion came through in their attention to detail, planning, and excitement.
Preparation was made very easy with the detailed packing list provided by CK. Delicious meals were prepared on a daily basis. Our group spent the days exploring various portage routes in the park and making deep connections with the other members of the party.
I grew up having completed many remote hiking and paddling trips in my youth, and I have a great deal of respect for the work and preparation required by CK and his team to facilitate these types of experiences, especially with our large group size (15+).
This was a very transformative journey, bringing me back to my roots. The experience with Driftwood Paddle Algonquin was beyond 5 stars, and I can't wait to return. I would highly recommend a guided tour with Driftwood Paddle Algonquin for anyone considering it.
Preparation was made very easy with the detailed packing list provided by CK. Delicious meals were prepared on a daily basis. Our group spent the days exploring various portage routes in the park and making deep connections with the other members of the party.
I grew up having completed many remote hiking and paddling trips in my youth, and I have a great deal of respect for the work and preparation required by CK and his team to facilitate these types of experiences, especially with our large group size (15+).
This was a very transformative journey, bringing me back to my roots. The experience with Driftwood Paddle Algonquin was beyond 5 stars, and I can't wait to return. I would highly recommend a guided tour with Driftwood Paddle Algonquin for anyone considering it.
Written 4 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom C
Toronto, Canada4 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
I feel so blessed to share my father/son camping experience with Driftwood Paddle Inc. The trip got off to an interesting start when I arrived mistakenly one full day in advance of my trip by error! No problem, they strategized, packed up, and we were canoeing and portaging in no time without the guilt or turning back. Their attention to detail and investments in top of the line gear including some beautiful Swift Kevlar canoes making the portage a breeze. Our guide Chris takes pride in offering a timeless memory in the backcountry. His cooking is out of this world! I cannot recommend this company enough for organizing your next trip in the great Algonquin wilderness. My ten year old "techie" boy grew up a lot on this trip without wifi. Chris captured his attention wowed him knowledge about how to thrive in the wilderness. Keep paddling and book confidently with Driftwood Paddle Inc.
Written 27 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andre-Michel C
9 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
You know when things just align so perfectly that you must now do it, this is exactly what happened for Zarina and I when reaching out to Chris for a solo, 1 night portaging trip.
He took us to a very special spot called the Oasis in which we had our own very private lake with 2 loons singing to use all night long, so beautiful. Chris took his time asking us what we wanted to experience and how we wanted to feel. His expertise is so very natural and blends it in so nicely to guide, educate, share stories, and make this an adventure of a lifetime!
He had EVERYTHING we needed to make the trip extremely comfortable, especially for Zarina (who is basically a city girl, hopefully she doesn't read this)
But most importantly, Chris' presence to the small details and the awareness he brings to these experiences is the present itself.
I highly recommend for any level of aspiring or advanced camper to join Driftwood Paddle Algonquin for a trip, you won't regret it!
We're so grateful for you Chris to share you passion and love for nature and exploration in the wilderness.
Thank you! We'll see you again soon!
He took us to a very special spot called the Oasis in which we had our own very private lake with 2 loons singing to use all night long, so beautiful. Chris took his time asking us what we wanted to experience and how we wanted to feel. His expertise is so very natural and blends it in so nicely to guide, educate, share stories, and make this an adventure of a lifetime!
He had EVERYTHING we needed to make the trip extremely comfortable, especially for Zarina (who is basically a city girl, hopefully she doesn't read this)
But most importantly, Chris' presence to the small details and the awareness he brings to these experiences is the present itself.
I highly recommend for any level of aspiring or advanced camper to join Driftwood Paddle Algonquin for a trip, you won't regret it!
We're so grateful for you Chris to share you passion and love for nature and exploration in the wilderness.
Thank you! We'll see you again soon!
Written 8 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mitch B
Region of Waterloo, Canada28 contributions
What a trip! The incredible team at Driftwood Paddle guided our group of 10, including four children under 10 years old, through a canoe and camping trip in Algonquin Park for three days and two nights. What made this trip truly special was our incredible host/guides that were some of the most welcoming people you will meet and also exceptional at their craft and also cooking in the bush! Would highly recommend it for a different experience and to recharge by getting away from all distractions both digital and social. Can’t say enough about the Driftwood Paddle organization and we will definitely be back.
Written 14 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara S
Toronto, Canada10 contributions
Sept 2021 • Friends
My fly-in canoe trip into Temagami's backcountry with Chris and Kieran (The Kelly Brothers) from Driftwood Paddle was epic beyond belief. It was so well organized and despite it being their first trip into Temagami, I felt very safe. I was so impressed by the amount of research and planning that was put in beforehand to ensure the trip exceeded all our expectations. Considering the trip being completely remote, without any cell signal, and only an emergency device to contact the outside world, I fully trusted them and their itinerary. The Kelly Brothers are worldly, wise, and very personable. Together we shared great conversations, lots of laughs, and daily accomplishments (which they always made a point to celebrate). They were truly just as excited as us to be out there exploring. The meals were fantastic, we were hungry, and well-fed every day. The route was planned perfectly for my ability and I was able to learn how to portage with a canoe and a backpack which made me feel strong and capable. The portages were really challenging, but such a great way to push outside my comfort zone. A perfect amount of thrill, challenge, and fun. The experience Driftwood Paddle provides is transformational. These guys can take you anywhere!
Written 21 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ignaz F
Bern, Switzerland1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Couples
This trip was just perfect. We couldn' have been in better hands for this fall tour. Kieran was the ultimate guide. His planning of the 7-day loop, the selection of the campsites, his cooking and his company made our trip an outstanding experience that we shall remember for a long time. His experience, commitment, people oriented attitude and his love for nature made us feel secure and comfortable.
There isn't any better choice to experience outdoor and the lakes of Algonquin Parc.
There isn't any better choice to experience outdoor and the lakes of Algonquin Parc.
Written 14 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tammy L
6 contributions
Aug 2021
Spent an amazing three days in Algonquin Park, expertly planned and executed by Driftwood Paddle. I always felt completely safe, thanks to our guide Chris' vast knowledge of the park – both on land and in the water. The equipment provided was in excellent condition, especially the comfortable mats and cozy sleeping bag liners provided for our tents.
Chris’ ability to prepare a gourmet meal over a campfire blew us away! The portions were very generous, and the taste was truly sublime. He took us for a walk in the forest to point out various tree and shrub leaves that can be used to make tea - my fav was Sweet Gale.
Chris is very approachable and never tired of our endless questions and requests. He worked hard to make our trip special and memorable – he even took the time to teach me how to steer the canoe, which was greatly appreciated. Can’t recommend this company enough for anyone looking to unplug and experience a great adventure in one of Canada’s most beautiful settings.
Chris’ ability to prepare a gourmet meal over a campfire blew us away! The portions were very generous, and the taste was truly sublime. He took us for a walk in the forest to point out various tree and shrub leaves that can be used to make tea - my fav was Sweet Gale.
Chris is very approachable and never tired of our endless questions and requests. He worked hard to make our trip special and memorable – he even took the time to teach me how to steer the canoe, which was greatly appreciated. Can’t recommend this company enough for anyone looking to unplug and experience a great adventure in one of Canada’s most beautiful settings.
Written 16 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Megan M
Toronto, Canada53 contributions
Aug 2021
Amazing backcountry experience. Our trip was Friday-Sunday and I was not ready for it to end. Our guide, Chris, led 8 of us out for the weekend. From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, the experience was top notch and stress free. We paddled out from Kawawaymog Lake, down the Amable du Fond River, then onto North Tea Lake in Algonquin Park. We had 2 nights in one campsite and used it as a basecamp while exploring other places on the lake. Chris also taught us some basics of foraging.
I needed a holiday where I could just show up and enjoy nature. Aside from my clothing and toiletries, everything else was provided. The gear was in great shape. The food was impressive and exceeded expectations. Chris is a great cook and very creative. Water and snacks were always available to us.
From a nature perspective, we saw a bald eagle, great blue heron, mergansers, loons, Canada geese, cormorants, many smaller birds, and even a beaver.
I would highly recommend Driftwood Paddle for an amazing outdoor experience (especially if you don't have time to plan one on your own.) I also think everyone in our group (ranging in age from 14-76) felt stronger and more self-confident by the end of the trip.
I'm looking to recruit some friends to try out their winter camping!
I needed a holiday where I could just show up and enjoy nature. Aside from my clothing and toiletries, everything else was provided. The gear was in great shape. The food was impressive and exceeded expectations. Chris is a great cook and very creative. Water and snacks were always available to us.
From a nature perspective, we saw a bald eagle, great blue heron, mergansers, loons, Canada geese, cormorants, many smaller birds, and even a beaver.
I would highly recommend Driftwood Paddle for an amazing outdoor experience (especially if you don't have time to plan one on your own.) I also think everyone in our group (ranging in age from 14-76) felt stronger and more self-confident by the end of the trip.
I'm looking to recruit some friends to try out their winter camping!
Written 23 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ali A
1 contribution
Sept 2023 • Friends
The Kelly brothers have an inspiring ability to both share the beauty of their backyard and to help their guests experience their own inner beauty as journeyers into Algonquin.
I went for my first portage with Driftwood in September. It was extremely easy to prepare for with a detailed packing sheet and itinerary sent in advanced. I immediately felt welcomed on arrival, Chris grounded us in the forest and together we set our intentions for our foray into the park together.
On this trip I was encouraged to explore the limits of what I previously thought myself capable of, the environment and activities lent well for making deep human connections that just don’t happen in everyday life.
My journey with Driftwood was transformative, and I’m grateful for Chris and Kieran’s thoughtful guidance along the way. I am looking forward to returning back again, and I know that even when I’m ready for an unguided trip, I’ll have great friends waiting for me at the landing on my return.
I went for my first portage with Driftwood in September. It was extremely easy to prepare for with a detailed packing sheet and itinerary sent in advanced. I immediately felt welcomed on arrival, Chris grounded us in the forest and together we set our intentions for our foray into the park together.
On this trip I was encouraged to explore the limits of what I previously thought myself capable of, the environment and activities lent well for making deep human connections that just don’t happen in everyday life.
My journey with Driftwood was transformative, and I’m grateful for Chris and Kieran’s thoughtful guidance along the way. I am looking forward to returning back again, and I know that even when I’m ready for an unguided trip, I’ll have great friends waiting for me at the landing on my return.
Written 19 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Keith P
3 contributions
Jul 2021
An amazing family trip!
I am very late in writing this review. Last summer, Chris from Driftwood Paddle took 6 of us (4 adults & 2 kids) on a 5 day back country canoeing trip in the beautiful Algonquin park. He curated every part of the trip, taking into consideration our level of backcountry skills and catered to 2 food allergies. The campfire cuisine exceeded our expectations with lots of variety, tastiness and volume given we were famished at the end of each day. Since 4 of us flew in, Chris provided everything piece of equipment we could possibly need we were wanting for nothing except a few more days in Algonquin! I would highly recommend a trip to anyone as I continue to look back at one of the best family bonding experiences to date. Keith
I am very late in writing this review. Last summer, Chris from Driftwood Paddle took 6 of us (4 adults & 2 kids) on a 5 day back country canoeing trip in the beautiful Algonquin park. He curated every part of the trip, taking into consideration our level of backcountry skills and catered to 2 food allergies. The campfire cuisine exceeded our expectations with lots of variety, tastiness and volume given we were famished at the end of each day. Since 4 of us flew in, Chris provided everything piece of equipment we could possibly need we were wanting for nothing except a few more days in Algonquin! I would highly recommend a trip to anyone as I continue to look back at one of the best family bonding experiences to date. Keith
Written 9 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
No questions have been asked about this experience
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.