The first and most significant obstacle was rain. It radically changed our plans: instead of starting the route on the first day, we had to stay on the shore, waiting for the bad weather to pass.
We were only able to set off on the second day, but time had already been lost. Because of this, we had to cover twice the distance planned for the day, which was physically and mentally exhausting from the very beginning.
The situation was further complicated by the fact that, due to the wet roads, the support vehicle was unable to reach the designated meeting point.
We had to go even further than expected to reach another point where the car could meet us. And instead of enjoying nature, I focused mainly on one thing — endless rowing.
Another important aspect is the conditions of stay. Personally, I am uncomfortable in “wild” conditions, especially when it comes to spending the night.
In the evening, when you crawl into your tent exhausted, crawl into your sleeping bag, and all around you is rain, wind, and swarms of insects, it does not exactly create a feeling of safety or comfort.
There is a constant fear that something will leak, that your sleeping bag will get wet, or that insects will keep you awake. It seemed as if they were circling around my head even in my sleep.
And although I understand that this is part of hiking, I still lacked basic comfort and civilization.
Physically, this trip was also difficult for me. Rowing itself is a monotonous and very energy-intensive activity. Two movements: back and forth, for hours on end.
At first, it's just hard, then your whole body starts to ache: your arms, shoulders, back. I even had to put on gloves because the rubbing on my palms became so painful that it was impossible to hold the oar properly.
At some point, I was just counting the minutes until we stopped.
However, as is often the case in such adventures, towards the end, there were moments that slightly changed the overall impression.
We reached an area with picturesque hills, where wonderful views opened up.
There, we were able to take a short walk and visit interesting places, including the remains of a flooded village that preserves its history under the waters of the river. At moments like these, I truly contemplated the beauty that surrounds us for the first time.
Nature in the silence and tranquility after the rain looked truly mesmerizing.
In summary, I would not say that this trip was a complete pleasure for me. Rather, it was an experience that taught me a lot.
I got to know my limits better, understood how important comfort is to me, and why monotonous physical activity is not for me.
At the same time, I saw something new, appreciated the moments of silence and tranquility in nature, and felt the spirit of travel.
Perhaps I am not one of those who will go kayaking every year.
But now I know for sure: if you are going on such an adventure, you have to be prepared for everything — rain, insects, and sore hands.
And you should look for beauty even in discomfort, because it is in such contrasts that true experience is born.