Vala Gylfadottir

I grew up in Iceland, where mountains, glaciers, and wide-open spaces shaped my love for adventure and the outdoors. Now living in Canada with my husband, son, two cats, and our dog Yoda, nature remains my favorite place to recharge and reconnect.

As a biologist and an outdoor enthusiast, I’m passionate about creating experiences that help others slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with nature, with themselves, and with what truly matters.

For me this venture is a beautiful opportunity to bring Canadians to Iceland and Icelandic people to Canada and introducing them to the gorgeous nature, kind people and inspiring culture of my two countries.

~ Vala

Kate Green

Nature has been a place of healing, growth, and clarity for me, and it’s where I feel most like myself.

I fell in love with canoeing and backcountry camping when I was 16, thanks to a subsidized spot at summer camp. That experience changed my life, and I went on to guide canoe trips for years in Northern Ontario, especially in Temagami and Algonquin. After meeting Vala, I started hiking more—and while I once joked “why would I want to portage the whole time?”, I’ve completely fallen for it. Killarney is now one of my favourite places in the world.

I live in London, Ontario with my husband, our three kids, a very enthusiastic dog named Aoife (who may join us in Killarney if we can train her not to greet everyone with face licks), and a small flock of backyard chickens. I’m currently training to be a yoga teacher and hold certifications in Wilderness First Aid, ORCA Level 2 paddling, and National Lifeguarding (NLS).

As a guide and facilitator, I’m especially passionate about introducing women to the backcountry—canoeing, hiking, camping—especially if it’s their first time. I know it can feel intimidating, but I want more women to experience how deeply peaceful and empowering it can be.

I believe in the joy of being embodied (yes, even if Vala and I joke about how often I say that). There’s nothing quite like swimming in a fresh lake, rising with the sun, moving your body with purpose, and sleeping outside after a good day’s work. It feels good—really good—to come home to yourself in the wild.

~ Kate

Aoife (EE-FAH)

Hi, I’m Aoife! I’m young, full of energy, and overflowing with love — for you, for my BEST BEST BEST friend Yoda, and even for the two cats I share my home with. I’m still figuring out how big I am, so don’t be surprised if I try to curl up in your lap after a long hike.

Did I mention I LOVE you? Because I do. Sooo much.

~ Aoife

Yoda

Woof, my name is Yoda and I will join some of the Ontario based adventures.  My life started as a street dog in the Cayman Islands before I was rescued by Save Our Scruff and brought to Canada.  There I live with my adoptive family Vala, Brad and Matthew and two stupid
cats that need not be named.

I am calm, kind and I love the great outdoors, especially chasing squirrels through the woods
with my friend Aoife.

~ Yoda