4 routes from 7 to 17 km starting at Alle-sur-Semois and Poupehan, in the heart of the Natura 2000-listed National Park. Instant online booking.
All starting from Alle or Poupehan, with identical put-in and take-out points by kayak or canoe. Durations estimated from the current flow (2.2 m³/s): check the live Semois water level before booking.
Family
A perfect introduction to kayaking on the Semois. This 7 km route crosses the calm stretches of the National Park, ideal for families with children. You will pass beneath the legendary Laforêt wattle bridge, before landing at Vresse-sur-Semois.
Leisurely
Dive into the heart of the Semois Valley National Park. Between Alle and Membre the river meanders between wooded hills, with unique chances to spot grey herons and traces of the European beaver.
Panoramic
Admire the Frahan slate ridges from the water. This route offers spectacular views over Rochehaut and the most deeply cut meanders of the Ardennes Semois. Discover the story of these landscapes in our Semois Encyclopedia.
Adventure
A total immersion in the Membre-Bohan Nature Reserve. This wild 17 km route takes you far from any road, through dense forests, steep cliffs and the old Semois tobacco-drying barns. A must for nature lovers.
Kayak or canoe? The routes and put-in points are the same. The wider, more stable two-seater canoe reassures families, while the more agile kayak lets everyone set their own pace.
RTM Brio and DAG Optimo sit-on-top kayaks are unsinkable and self-bailing. On the day, you can track your position with GPS Semois, the river's « Waze ».
We renew the gear every season, give every paddler a certified life vest and include a return shuttle, so everything is handled and you can simply enjoy the river. Here is what to know before you put in.
We mainly paddle RTM Brio (two-seater) and DAG Optimo. These sit-on-top kayaks are unsinkable and self-bailing: maximum safety, even on a first try, plus good support over long distances for any build.
Every participant gets a certified life vest in their size (XS to XXL), compulsory for all, and a light asymmetric paddle that limits fatigue. The safety briefing and paddling technique tips are given at the start.
A minibus shuttle takes you back to the start or finish point after the descent. It comes with every booking, with no surcharge and no separate reservation.
Bring drinking water (1.5 L/pers.), sunscreen, a hat and a picnic. Dry barrels for your belongings are provided by us, and the routes are lined with plenty of rest areas and permitted banks for the lunch break. Take all your litter back with you.
Quick-drying synthetic clothing and closed shoes that can go in the water. Avoid cotton, since it stays cold once wet; in cool weather, a windbreaker comes in handy.
Paddle with torso rotation, not only your arms. Keep your back straight and your knees slightly bent so you become one with the kayak, and anticipate the bends. You will find all the details in our paddling technique guide.
Never leave your kayak in the middle of a strong current, and keep your vest closed. The Semois is shallow (often less than a metre): stand up, bring the kayak to the bank to empty it, then carry on.
The flow is often lively and nature bursts into green. This is the best time to watch nesting birds along the banks.
Calm water and refreshing swim stops make it ideal for families. It gets busy, so book ahead.
On a much quieter river, morning mists and the glowing colours of the Ardennes forests make an unforgettable sight.
To pick your date, read our guide on when to paddle down the Semois, month by month.
As a committed player in the Semois Valley National Park, we raise awareness of local biodiversity. Four simple gestures are enough to protect the river's fragile beauty.
The Semois is wilder and less busy than the Lesse. For a detailed analysis, see our full Lesse vs Semois comparison.
Yes, particularly at weekends and in summer. You will find more details on our full FAQ.
Absolutely. The Semois is a calm river, and the 7 km route (Alle → Vresse) is especially well suited to young children. Everyone must wear the life vest.
Yes, on board and free of charge. For more stability, we recommend placing your dog between your legs in a two-seater kayak.
Yes, the routes are lined with plenty of rest areas and permitted banks. Just be sure to leave with all your litter, to protect this listed site.
Don't panic: the Semois is shallow (often less than a metre). Stand up, bring your kayak to the bank and empty it, then get back in. In any situation, the vest keeps you afloat.
No. It is a leisure activity open to anyone in normal physical condition, and the current helps you along. For a first time, choose the 7 km route (Alle → Vresse).
A tip for the big day: you can track your position on the river with GPS Semois, real-time river navigation, the Semois's collaborative « Waze ».
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« A perfect family day on the Semois. The welcome at Kayak Belgique is warm, the equipment is spotless (the kayaks are modern and clean), and the free shuttle system is superbly organised. A must-visit in the Ardennes! »
« Beautiful kayak trip on the Semois starting from Vresse! Very friendly staff and excellent shuttle service. The riverside campsites along the Semois are also a must for nature lovers. »
« Superb 11 km kayak descent starting from Alle-sur-Semois. The wild nature of the Ardennes is magnificent in the spring sunshine. Very competitive prices compared to the competition. We'll be back! »
« Wonderful experience! The kayak tour on the Semois was perfectly organised. The team is very helpful and speaks good German. The scenery of the Belgian Ardennes is simply breathtaking. »
« Excellent kayak rental service and great campsite on the banks of the Semois. The prices are very fair and the atmosphere is friendly and family-oriented. The little terrace bar is perfect for a refreshing drink after the effort. »
« A fantastic last-minute welcome even though we hadn't booked in the middle of August. Life jackets and waterproof barrels are provided free of charge. Very safe descents, ideal with children! »
« Top-tier kayak rental on the Semois river. Extremely friendly staff, well-maintained kayaks, and a reliable shuttle. The viewpoints along the river are absolutely stunning. Highly recommend this local business! »