Altaelva /Alattionjoki /Kautokeinoelva

The Altaelva, also known as Alattionjoki or Kautokeinoelva in its upper reaches, rises on the expansive Finnmarksvidda plateau near the Finnish border and flows some 240 kilometres northward through Finnmark. It carves the spectacular Sautso canyon, one of Europe’s largest with sheer cliffs rising up to 420 metres, before emptying into the Altafjord at the town of Alta. Characterised by lake-like stretches, rapids and the shift from open tundra to forested valleys, the river provides ideal habitat for large Atlantic salmon. Recreational pursuits centre on its prestigious and strictly regulated salmon fishing, highly sought after worldwide, along with canoe trips and traditional riverboat excursions through the dramatic canyon scenery.