TRIPS

WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE CAN I EXPECT?

Desire to Discover trips are intended to be a place to learn and get out of your comfort zone. We facilitate an adventure where each participant takes part in the various tasks of the expedition, learns to steer their boat, read rapids (on river expeditions), cook on the fire and set up tarps. It is an expedition to learn, value yourself, realize your potential, but also to relax, disconnect, forge great friendships and discover the magnificent Quebec waterways.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE A MINOR INJURY, PAIN OR LIMITATION?

Firstly, this expedition is not intended to be one of intense physical exertion although it can be for some. The distances we cover per day are around 10-12 km, and we work together to overcome the obstacles. Whether it's lining, portaging or paddling rapids, we use each other's strengths and consider each other's limitations to ensure a suitable experience. It's very important that you describe your limitations, whether physical or mental, on your health form, and that you take the time to discuss your well-being with your instructors/guides before and during the expedition. It's a shared responsibility.

GEAR

DO I NEED MY OWN PADDLING AND CAMPING GEAR?

Désir de Découvrir provides group and canoe equipment, you only need to provide the equipment present in the Personal Equipment List . Do not hesitate to contact us for any items missing from this list, we have some additional equipment at our base that you can borrow depending on availability.

CAN I USE MY OWN PADDLING GEAR?

You may use your own paddle, life jacket (PFD) and helmet during the expedition, however we will check the condition of these safety equipment before leaving on the expedition. However, we are not responsible for the loss or breakage of your equipment.

FOOD AND DRINKS ON TRIP

SHOULD I BRING MY OWN SNACKS?

Please do not bring any food or drinks in your personal bags to avoid possible complications with allergens or even with wild animals. We assure you balanced and sustained meals, as well as snacks in sufficient quantity throughout your stay.

WILL YOU ACCOMMODATE MY DIETARY RESTRICTIONS AND/OR FOOD ALLERGIES?

Yes, we will accommodate your dietary restrictions and/or allergies. We ask that you be specific about your needs when filling out the forms provided. For more information, visit our Food + Equipment page.

WHAT ABOUT BEVERAGES?

We will have hot beverages available (tea, coffee for adult expeditions, hot chocolate). We choose not to consume alcoholic beverages during our expeditions. We emphasize taking time to take care of yourself and strengthen the community.

TOILETS AND CAMP

HOW WILL WE DISPOSE OF OUR NEEDS ON THE EXPEDITION?

Depending on the remoteness of our expeditions, toilet comfort will change. For river expeditions, we bring along everything needed to make toilets in the forest. For ZEC expeditions and shorter stays, many destinations have open pit-style toilets. We'll bring along the necessary toilet paper for the group and a small shovel for your use when we're on the move.

SPECIAL NEEDS FOR MENSTRUATION?

You may have tampons, pads or even a menstrual cup for the trip. We will dispose of these items appropriately. Your guides will take time to durther discussion on trip.

WHATE ABOUT PERSONAL HYGIENE?

It is crucial to preserve our precious bodies of water by not dumping soap directly into them. We often go swimming to cool off during these hot summer days. You could have a biodegradable soap made from goat's milk for example that will be used to wash yourself a little further from the watercourse in the forest.

TRANSPORTATION

WHERE DO I DROP OFF AND PICK UP A PARTICIPANT?

Specific details will be communicated to you by email in the participant's guide. We are based in Chicoutimi, QC and most of our trips are within a 2 hour radius of Saguenay.

IS THERE A DESIGNATED PLACE TO PARK MY VEHICULE WHILE I AM ON TRIP?

Typically, we park our vehicles in parking lots designated by the territory managers (ZEC, Sépaq, wildlife reserves). We will indicate the specific location in your participant guide.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO CARPOOL WITH SOMEONE TO GET TO THE MEETING POINT?

Certainly! We encourage you to carpool. A few weeks before the expedition, we'll hold a video conference to answer your questions and help you make carpooling connections.

PRICE AND TIPS

WHAT ABOUT TIPS FOR YOUR GUIDES?

Tips are not mandatory nor included in the amount of the expeditions, they are however greatly appreciated. The guides put a lot of energy and time into making these expeditions memorable for our participants, it is a simple gesture that allows them to show your appreciation and support in their outdoor career. (Ex: $10-15 per day).

TECHNOLOGY

CAN I BRING MY CELLPHONE?

You won't need it! We ask that you leave all technology at home (cell phone, iPod, iPad, speaker, smart watch, watch, etc.). This will allow you to fully appreciate nature and the people around you. You will also give your eyes and mind a much-appreciated break from screens. (Waterproof) cameras are welcome.

SAFETY AND REQUIRED PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

WHAT IF I TAKE MEDICATION EVERYDAY?

No problem, make sure to bring a duplicate of the medication needed for the trip just in case. We will need to be updated on your medication information during a simple phone call with Désir de Découvrir managers before departure. The instructors will keep the minors' personal medications, while adults will be responsible for their own.
own medication in their expedition.

DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO SWIM?

You don't have to be a water person to participate in our expeditions, BUT if you are afraid of water, we strongly suggest you choose a lake expedition. You will wear personal flotation jackets for all aquatic activities in the river, including swimming. In the lake, it will be at the discretion of each person and your guides.

DO I NEED TO HAVE CANOEING OR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE?

No, these expeditions are designed to give you that experience. We will start with short training sessions during the preparation days to provide a common foundation before leaving. Then, there will be plenty of learning opportunities suggested by your instructors throughout the trip to help you feel more comfortable and confident on the water and in the field. Finally, for river expeditions, we suggest starting with a beginner's expedition or even a canoe course if you want to have a more gradual progression.