Ruta Tours
CroatiaMulti-Day Tour

Croatia Explorer: Hiking, Kayaking and Scenic Voyage

Explore trails across the karst heights, raft & swim in emerald waters and get a taste of Mediterranean tradition

ModerateApr-Jun & Sep-Nov8 days / 7 nightsGuided

Why You'll Love This

Wander the trails of Plitvice Lakes, both highlights and hidden routes. Raft or kayak the crystal-clear Mrežnica River with wild-swimming breaks. Savor mountain-style picnics and get a taste of authentic Croatian cuisine.

Hike all three stages of the legendary long distance Premužić Trail on Velebit – with an average gradient of just 10%, this route makes the mountain’s majestic scenery accessible even to those without extensive experience or peak fitness. Sea kayak and snorkel in the beautiful Adriatic Sea.

from 1200 €
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Day By Day Journey

Day 1 · Welcome to Croatia & Plitvice’s Emerald Lakes

Welcome to Croatia! Your host will meet you in Zagreb – either at the airport or in the city center. Join a transfer for the journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park, celebrated for its vivid emerald lakes and cascading waterfalls, earning UNESCO World Heritage status. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome drink and a delicious dinner.

Day 2 · Wander Among Plitvice’s Cascades and Hidden Pools

After a hearty breakfast, step onto the famous wooden boardwalks, feeling the mist from the thunderous Veliki Slap waterfall. Meander through the bustling Lower Lakes before ascending into the Upper Lakes, wrapping up with a serene electric boat crossing of Kozjak Lake.

Hike: ~13 km600m ascent600m descent

Day 3 · Paddle, Splash, and Journey to Velebit

Set off on a 1h drive to the Mrežnica River where you’ll paddle by kayak or team up for an exhilarating raft ride. Glide past emerald cascades and swim in hidden pools. Afterward, journey inland to the Velebit Mountains, your multi-day hiking playground.

Rafting or Kayaking: 3h

Day 4 · Northern Velebit: High Ledges and Alpine Panoramas

Drive up to Northern Velebit, the gateway to the legendary Premužić Trail. Follow the high-level ledge carved into rugged karst, passing the charming Rossijeva Koliba Hut for a refreshment stop and a picnic lunch beside limestone springs.

Hike: ~15 km400m ascent600m descent

Day 5 · Limestone Trails and Adriatic Horizons

Walk across a sweeping limestone plateau, dotted with alpine flowers, with the Adriatic shimmering on the horizon. Spot islands like Krk, Pag, and Rab, and on clear days, even the shores of Italy. Pause for a mountain-style picnic with breathtaking panoramas.

Hike: ~20 km200m ascent500m descent

Day 6 · Final Velebit Trek & Arrival in Coastal Split

Step into beech and fir woodlands, crest a low ridge for one last panorama of the Adriatic, and meander past old shepherd’s meadows. End your multi-day hike at Baške Oštarije before transferring to Split for a comfortable hotel and Dalmatian specialties.

Hike: ~15 km250m ascent300m descent

Day 7 · Sea Kayaking Through Secret Coves & Farewell Feast

Paddle through hidden coves, sheer cliffs, and wave-carved grottoes along the Adriatic coast. Stop on a sheltered beach for a picnic, and swim or snorkel in crystalline waves. In the evening, enjoy a traditional farewell dinner with hearty Dalmatian dishes and local wines.

Sea Kayaking: 4h

Day 8 · Until Next Time: Memories from Split

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey home, returning with a camera full of memories and plenty of tales to tell.

Key information

  • Guided activities each day
  • 7 nights accommodation: guesthouses, mountain huts & boutique hotels
  • English-speaking host & guides
  • Park entry fees & permits
  • Kayaking & rafting with full equipment
  • Delicious meals & Picnics
  • Ground transportation during the trip
  • Airport transfers

Moderate | Rue – Like the resilient Balkan herb, Rue represents balance. Expect a mix of effort and reward, with steady climbs and immersive experiences.

This adventure is designed to be comfortable and accessible, requiring no extensive prior experience. The longest hike is around 20 km, but with modest elevation gains and a steady, comfortable pace. The kayak and rafting sections are fully beginner-friendly.

Included

  • English-speaking host throughout the tour
  • 7-night accommodation in a double/twin-shared room
  • Meals: 7× breakfast, 5× mountain-style picnic lunch, 2× dinner
  • All transfers as per the itinerary
  • Guided hiking tour in Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Kayaking or rafting, guided tour on the Mrežnica river
  • Guided hiking tour on Velebit mountain (3 days)
  • Sea kayaking in the Split area
  • Entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes NP, Northern Velebit NP

Not Included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Single-room stay
  • Optional extras

You will be staying in charming family-run guesthouses and comfortable hotels: 2 nights in a 3–4★ guesthouse or hotel in Plitvice Lakes area, 3 nights in comfortable guesthouses in the Velebit region, 2 nights in a 3–4★ hotel in Split area.

Breakfast is included daily except arrival day, and we provide 5× mountain-style picnic lunches plus 2× welcome/farewell dinners showcasing local flavours.

Start: Your journey begins in Zagreb, with pick-up at Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG) or a central location in the city.

End: Your adventure concludes in Split, with a drop-off at Split Airport (SPU).

Group transfers are included throughout the tour; private transfers are available on request, at extra cost.

  • Daypack (preferably with a rain cover)
  • Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in)
  • Waterproof sneakers or sandals for rafting & kayaking
  • Lightweight, breathable rain jacket and pants
  • Wind-stopper or soft-shell jacket
  • Quick-dry clothing plus extra underwear
  • Swimwear and quick-dry travel towel
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Mosquito repellent

A detailed GPX map and route notes are provided upon booking.

Single-room available at extra cost (on request). Pre- and Post-tour: Accommodation, transfers, excursions, etc.

Q: How big are the groups?
A: Depending on the departure date, the maximum group size is 8 or 14 travelers.

Q: Who will be our guide/host?
A: From your very first pickup to your final drop-off, you’ll be accompanied by a friendly local, experienced tourism professional and avid outdoor enthusiast.

Q: What happens to my luggage during the tour?
A: You only need to carry a daypack with you for the activities. All other bags and luggage are transferred according to the itinerary.

Q: Can I join the tour solo?
A: Definitely! Many guests travel alone and quickly meet like-minded adventurers along the way.

Q: Is insurance included in the price of the tour?
A: No, insurance is not included. We highly recommend arranging travel insurance when you book your trip.

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