Boating Routes on the Abava River

Boating on the Abava River

The Abava River is rightly considered a classic river for boating in Latvia. During the summer season, the river is calm along its entire boating route, without impassable obstacles or rapids, making it perfect both for families with children and for first-time boaters. The Abava is generally divided into two sections – the “civilized” and the “wild.”

The Civilized Section (50 km) stretches from Kandava to Renda. Here, the Abava flows through several settlements, and along its banks or nearby, there are small guesthouses and well-maintained campsites for overnight stays, as well as attractions to visit after a day on the water. The Abava is suitable for all types of boats – canoes, traditional wooden boats, kayaks, SUP boards, and inflatable boats.

Recommended Routes:

• Kandava – Renda, 50 km – 2 days

• Sabile – Renda, 26 km – 1–2 days

• Abavas Rumba – Renda, 21 km – 1 day

• Veģu Bridge – Renda, 15 km – 1 day

The Wild Section (43 km) runs from Renda to the river’s mouth at the Venta River, continuing to Lake Naba, where the boating trip ends. This section is usually done in 2 days with overnight camping in tents, allowing for a full nature experience. There are no settlements along this part of the river. Around the middle of the route, there are several campsites for overnight stays, mostly undeveloped and created by water tourists themselves.

As you approach the mouth at the Venta River, several impressive cliffs and rock formations appear along the riverbanks, including Zilumu Rocks, Galmici Cliff, Lējēju Cliff, and Muižarāji Cliff.

Recommended Route:

• Renda – Lake Naba, 43 km – 2 days