River Lakaja – River Žeimena (up to Liūline km.)

The Lakaja is one of the most beautiful rivers in Eastern Aukštaitija. It is the most watery tributary of the Žeimena, winding its way through the Labanoras Forest. The Lakaia area has been declared a landscape reserve. It is particularly rich in nature, with a flourishing diversity of flora and fauna. Clear water, coastal meadows, pine forests, sandy cliffs, sparse villages and cosy stopping places. The main disadvantage of this route is that the start and end of the Lacaye route are far from the main roads, which means that you have to spend time on gravel roads.

The route starts in the small village of Žukaučizna, at the bridge there. After a short swim, you will reach Lake Lacayo. Although initially wide, the lake narrows in the middle. The coastline begins to meander, forming small peninsulas. The narrowing of Lake Lakaya is about ~1 km away. From the narrows, swim along the lake until you see two narrows (left and right). You need to take the left-hand side, as this is the source of the Lacaye River.

Once you enter the Lacaye River through the narrowing gorge, you will have ~17 km to go before the finish. From here, take the Lakaya kayaks downstream.
Next is the most beautiful and romantic part of the canoe trip on the Lakaya River – for the remaining 17 km, the Lakaya River will flow through forests. You can enjoy coastal and forest views that can only be seen by kayaking down the river. Near Argirdiškis, you will find a rest area where you can take a temporary break.

We strongly urge everyone – please do not leave rubbish behind. They can be disposed of at the overnight stay or at the finish line.

From the tributary of Peršokšna (on the left side of the Lakaja) you will swim ~7.3 km to reach the confluence of the Lakaja and Žeimena. Once in Žeimenė, you will say goodbye to the winding Lakaja. After ~1.5 km on the Žeimena, you will reach the village of Liūlinė, where you will reach the finish. Immediately after crossing the concrete bridge, disembark on the right hand side and you will be met here – the finish.