WHAT TO EXPECT

Zrmanja Canyon – Hike, Paddle, Bike is an immersive 6-day adventure that showcases the raw beauty, rich history, and untouched landscapes of the Dalmatian hinterland. Designed for active travelers, this tour blends canyon hiking, river paddling, and scenic cycling into one unforgettable journey. You’ll explore hidden valleys, wander ancient footpaths, and visit centuries-old sites like the Krupa Monastery, all while surrounded by dramatic cliffs and emerald waters. The Zrmanja and Krupa rivers guide you through peaceful stretches, fun rapids, and breathtaking viewpoints before opening into the Novigrad Sea. Between activities, enjoy local cuisine, small rural villages, and the warm hospitality of the region. This is the perfect escape for anyone seeking adventure, nature, and authentic Croatian culture—far from the usual tourist routes.

 

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT ?

  • Three adventures in one – Hike, paddle, and bike through Croatia’s most spectacular canyon landscapes.
  • Authentic cultural experiences – Visit the 7th-century Krupa Monastery and meet locals who keep traditions alive.
  • Legendary landmarks – Walk across Kuda’s Bridge and marvel at the Deveterci waterfalls.
  • Crystal-clear rivers – Paddle the Zrmanja from canyon rapids to the calm Novigrad Sea.
  • Perfect mix of activity & relaxation – Scenic trails, refreshing swims, and delicious homemade food throughout the week.

ITINERARY

Explore the Zrmanja River area in detail! Here is how your adventure will look like:

Meeting Point: Zadar

  • 5:00 PM – Zadar bus station pick-up
  • 5:30 PM – Zadar airport pick-up

Sample itinerary:

DAY 1 – Arrival to Kaštel Žegarski

  • Transfer from Zadar airport, harbor, or bus station
  • Settle into the campsite and meet your guides
  • Welcome dinner and briefing for the week ahead

DAY 2 – Trekking the Krupa Canyon

  • Short drive to the canyon trailhead
  • Visit Kuda’s Bridge and the Deveterci (Niners) waterfalls
  • Swimming and picnic lunch break
  • Continue hiking to the Krupa–Zrmanja confluence viewpoint
  • Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight at the campsite

DAY 3 – Packrafting the Zrmanja River

  • Homemade breakfast at camp
  • Gear preparation and safety briefing at the rafting base
  • Paddle through calm stretches and fun rapids
  • Free time for swimming and relaxing in Muškovci
  • Dinner in a local family-run restaurant and overnight at camp

DAY 4 – Kayaking from Canyon to Sea

  • Transfer to Obrovac
  • Safety talk and preparation for the day
  • Paddle through the Zrmanja Canyon into the Novigrad Sea
  • Finish at Meka Draga village
  • Dinner and overnight at camp

DAY 5 – E-Cycling to Krupa Monastery

  • Morning safety briefing and start of the cycling route
  • Ride through rural villages and natural springs
  • Visit Krupa Orthodox Monastery with a guided tour
  • Picnic lunch and swimming at a hidden local spot
  • Cycle back to Kaštel Žegarski for a farewell dinner and overnight at camp

DAY 6 – Departure

  • Breakfast at camp
  • Transfer back to Zadar airport, harbor, or bus station
  • Finish of the trip

Please note:

This itinerary is subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather, water levels, special events of interest, etc. Raftrek Guides and Trip Leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for their clients without compromising safety at any time. This may mean changing the original itinerary to avoid discomfort or risk which could be caused by exceptional situations. Raftrek reserves the right to alter the itinerary without prior notice. On day two, rafting boats are used in case of high-water levels.

TRIP NOTES

Add ons:

  • sleeping bag 11€ for 5 nights
  • additional transfers (outside Zadar region) – calculated on request

 

Included

  • Accommodation:
    • 5 nights in the campsite (tent, pillow, and sleeping mat included)
  • Meals:
    • 5 × breakfast and 5 × dinner (special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice)
  • Activities:
    • 4 days of organized activities (hiking, packrafting, kayaking, e-cycling)
  • Equipment:
    • Use of all equipment necessary for organized activities
  • Guiding:
    • Skilled guide and full assistance throughout the tour
  • Transportation:
    • Private transportation throughout (pickup and drop-off at Zadar airport, port, or main bus station)
  • Fees & Insurance:

    • Local taxes, nature park fees, and insurance included

 

Not Included

  • Flights to/from Croatia
  • Lunches, snacks, and drinks
  • Sleeping bag (available to rent)
  • Personal items and optional gratuities to your guide

 

What to Bring

  • Lightweight easily washable items for travel and daily wear
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Sun hat with brim and sunglasses
  • Thin trousers and long sleeve for the evenings (just in case)
  • Lightweight rain jacket (waterproof and breathable)
  • Water shoes or other sport shoes that you don’t mind getting wet
  • Light hiking shoes or similar sport shoes suitable for hiking
  • Sleeping bag
  • Water bottle or hydration pack
  • Sun block and lip balm
  • Personal first aid kit (including any medications you use)
  • Small backpack
  • Dry bag (if wanted)
  • Camera, film/memory cards and spare batteries

Optional Add-ons

  • Sleeping bag rental: €11 for 3 nights
  • Custom transfer options outside Zadar region – upon request

Group size:

Minimum 4, maximum 16 people

Minimum numbers apply

Larger private groups available upon request

Please note:

There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund. In case the minimum number of participants is not met but the guest/s still want to do the trip, the price increases by a percentage depending on the final number of participants.

PRICES

All prices are per person in EUR.

Low: May 1 – June 12; September 7 – September 30

High: June 13 – September 6

PERIOD LOW HIGH
PRICE  850€
 960 €