OukOuka, the fluffy Samoyed, is more than just an Instagram star – he's a true adventurer. Together with his owner, Shams, he explores the world from a bird's-eye view with around 200,000 followers along for the ride
Off to the start
Shams and Ouka live in a motorhome with Lau and their 11-month-old baby, Ian. They are currently based in Åre in Sweden. The family's daily routine begins early in the morning. As soon as they wake up, Ouka is eager to go outside. He needs plenty of exercise – after all, his ancestors were sled dogs. Leisurely walks are out of the question with Ouka's boundless energy. This morning is no exception. Ouka is in a hurry and full of anticipation. Today's adventure for Shams and Ouka:
climbing a nearby mountain on foot, then flying back down with a paraglider. At the launch site Ouka greets the other pilots loudly then waits patiently while Shams lays out the glider. Finally, Ouka slips into his custom-made harness and off they go.
A tight-knit team
Anyone watching this unusual tandem at the takeoff is sure to be amazed. The two are perfectly in sync. Ouka positions himself between Shams' legs and waits intently. Then they run together, and soon they are soaring through the air. It took months of meticulous training to get everything running smoothly: building trust, getting used to noises, simulating takeoffs and much more. Today’s flight is pure pleasure. “Ouka enjoys the mountain panorama with its rivers and valleys. He loves observing everything around him — even when he’s on the ground,” Shams remarks later.
Moments of intense connection
The two glide effortlessly through the air. The PI is the perfect flying companion for them — easy to handle, safe, reliable, and lightweight. Ouka is relaxed, barely even wagging his tail. Rivers and forests glisten far below as the tandem circles overhead. Ouka always rests his front paws gently on Shams’ feet. For Shams, these are moments of deep connection: human and dog, wind and nature — all in perfect harmony. Then comes the landing, like a gentle little dance. As soon as Ouka’s paws touch the ground again, his wagging tail and bright eyes say, “More of this, please!” Shams releases Ouka from his harness. Then comes Ouka’s favorite part: cuddling, rolling in the grass and greeting everyone around him — eager to share the joy of a successful flight.
Ouka, the Insta Star
Back at the motorhome, Ouka lies contentedly in the shade — even though the temperature is below 0 °C! Shams starts going through the photos. Ouka’s enthusiasm for flying has made him a star. His Instagram community keeps growing steadily. Fortunately, he has no idea. For the four-legged tandem flyer, only one thing matters: the next adventure. Shams is often surprised by how curious Ouka’s followers are: “We’re not the first to fly, and we’re not the only ones. But it seems people enjoy seeing us in the air. Maybe it's because they're especially touched by our story. Anyone who sees Ouka fly understands right away — for him, it's pure life energy.
The Team
Shams
Filmmaker, digital nomad, adventurer: Adrien “Shams” Nisan is always on the move. Driven by curiosity and new perspectives—and almost never alone. His dog Ouka accompanies him on his travels and into the air when he goes paragliding.
Ouka
Shams adopted Ouka from a shelter in 2021. The lively dog had previously never found a real home because of his boundless energy. For Shams, who was struggling with depression at the time, Ouka became not only a loyal companion but also an important source of support. Today, the two share their adventures of freedom, nature, and flying together with a steadily growing community on social media.