
Kayak and Hike Croatia in a Weekend
- Croatia
- 3 nights
Paddle remote turquoise waters and hike in Paklenica National Park on this wild, long weekend adventure
What's Included?
- Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
- Camping3 nights camping
- MealsAll breakfasts and dinners
- TransfersTo and from the airport (or Zadar main bus station) and everything in between
- GearKayaking and camping gear (not including sleeping bag)
- Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 8 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
Last few spotsFrom…excluding flights
Highlights
Kayak down the majestic canyons and cascades of the Zrmanja River, cooling off in idyllic waterfalls along the way
Hike the tranquil trails of Paklenica National Park, traversing forested valleys and a dramatic gorge
Set up camp by the river and spend evenings relaxing around the campfire, enjoying hearty Croatian dishes
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Croatia!
CampsiteTwin tentDinner includedShow Day 1 detailHide detail
Meet your host in Zadar, then drive to your campsite near the scenic Zrmanja River Canyon. Set up camp, relax and enjoy a home-cooked dinner while getting to know your fellow adventurers.
Day 2
Kayak the Zrmanja River
Kayaking4-5hrsCampsiteTwin tentBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 2 detailHide detail
Spend the day paddling, swimming, jumping off waterfalls, and enjoying the wilderness as you kayak a particularly scenic section of the beautiful Zrmanja River. Take a short hike to a 25-foot high waterfall for lunch and a refreshing swim, then return to the river to navigate some Class II and III rapids, while floating through limestone canyons and past lush vegetation. Head back to camp for the evening and enjoy a traditional Croatian meal.
Day 3
Hike the Paklenica National Park
Hiking4-5hrs · 5mi · 1312ft up · 1312ft downCampsiteTwin tentBreakfast and dinner includedShow Day 3 detailHide detail
Today you'll hike a beautiful path that will first take you through a wild and impressive canyon, and later through the gentle, forested valley of Velika Paklenica National Park. The trail starts uphill, following the course of the river crossed by small bridges, and along rocky walls carved by water and time. Continue on through beautiful beech and pine forests before reaching Paklenica mountain hut, where you'll stop for an optional hearty lunch before descending back to your campsite.
Day 4
Kayak to Jankovica Buk waterfall before heading home
Kayaking2-3hrsBreakfast includedShow Day 4 detailHide detail
Follow the Zrmanja River upstream all the way to its last waterfall, Jankovića Buk, spotting chamois on the cliffs and hidden coves as you go. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters while the falls provide a roaring backdrop. Paddle back to Obrovac, change into dry clothes, and then head back to the airport in time for your flight home.
Tales from the Trails
Real people, real adventures.
Getting There
- Nearest airport
- Zadar Airport (ZAD)
- Pick up
- Zadar Bus Station or Zadar Airport
17:30 or 18:00 - Drop off
- Zadar Bus Station or Zadar Airport
14:30 or 15:00
What is and isn't Included?
What's included
- Guided kayak along the Zrmanja River, plus a short hike to swim in a waterfall
- Guided hike through Paklenica National Park
- Guided kayak through a canyon in the Velebit Nature Park
- Sea kayaking to Jankovica Buk waterfall
- Expert, local, English-speaking guides
- 3 nights camping near the Zrmanja river
- All (3) tasty breakfasts
- All (3) hearty dinners
- Group arrival transfer from Zadar Bus Station or Zadar Airport on Day 1
- Group departure transfer to Zadar Bus Station or Zadar Airport on Day 4
- Transfers during the trip
- All your kayak gear
- Camping equipment (not including sleeping bag)
What's not included
Our trips do not include flights, trains or other travel to the start point and back from the end point.
Tips are not included in the trip cost; these are entirely at your discretion. If you would like to tip, the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality.
You know your own spending habits best, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals and drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures, and you'll need to provide your policy details before departure. Your insurance should offer adequate cover for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment, and the specific activities involved in your adventure. We also recommend ensuring your policy includes cancellation and curtailment cover, in case you're unable to join your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness.
Standard travel insurance may not cover all the activities included in your adventure, so it's essential to check the details carefully. There are adventure-specific providers that many travelers have used in the past, such as True Traveller (opens in new tab) (for those based in the UK or Europe), or Rise + Shield (opens in new tab), both of which offer cover for a wide range of adventurous activities.
Please make sure your chosen policy meets your individual needs and covers all aspects of your trip.
Visa requirements often change, and you are responsible for obtaining any required visas for this trip. Please check with your nearest embassy or consulate for up-to-date advice.
Where You'll Stay
Private room upgrades are not available on this trip due to the nature of the accommodation.

Camping
What You'll Eat
Croatian food is shaped by the country’s geography and long history of shifting borders and trade routes. Along the Adriatic coast and islands, you’ll find Mediterranean flavors built around olive oil, herbs and seasonal vegetables, with strong Venet…
Optional Extras
Equipment / Kit Hire
- Sleeping bag hire: 2 nights
- …
To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.
All extras must be paid before your trip starts.
This Trip is Graded Level 3
Ratings & Reviews
- 2 stars (0)
- 1 star (0)
Category rating
- Food
- 5.0
- Guides & crew
- 5.0
- Accommodation
- 4.0
- Itinerary
- 5.0
Latest Reviews
Customer Photos
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Departure dates
Thursday 13th May 2027
to Sunday 16th May 2027
…Thursday 20th May 2027
to Sunday 23rd May 2027
…Thursday 27th May 2027
to Sunday 30th May 2027
…
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Got a Group of 6 or More?
What to Pack

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.
FAQs
Can I store my excess luggage somewhere?
Yes, anything that you don't need for the trip itself can be kept securely ready to pick up once you've finished kayaking.
What should I do about drinking water?
The local tap water is safe to drink. Please bring along your own reusable water bottles (at least 1.5L) to fill up to avoid buying single-use plastic bottles.
Is there a weight limit for the kayaks?
The maximum individual weight limit for the kayaks is 309 lbs.
Who at Much Better Adventures designed this trip?
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamed of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 55 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
Can my dietary requirements be accommodated on this adventure?
At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.
Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form asap with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.
BACKGROUND
Croatian food is shaped by the country’s geography and long history of shifting borders and trade routes. Along the Adriatic coast and islands, you’ll find Mediterranean flavours built around olive oil, herbs and seasonal vegetables, with strong Venetian and Italian influence. Head inland and things turn heartier, drawing on Central European and Balkan traditions where cooler winters, livestock farming and well-stocked pantries bring slow-cooked stews, cured meats, freshwater fish, cabbage and beans, with paprika a strong influence on flavours.
SPECIAL DIETS
Vegetarian Vegetarian diets can be catered for on this trip, provided your host is aware in advance. There are plenty of appealing meat-free dishes to look forward to including blitva (Swiss chard with potatoes), risotto & classic pasta dishes. Traditional vegetable and pulse dishes, egg and dairy staples, and vegetable soups and fresh salads are also available.
Vegan Vegan diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance, but you should expect fewer options and variety that you may be used to, especially in more rural areas where meals are traditionally built around meat and dairy. Vegan-friendly choices are becoming more commonplace however - look for blitva (Swiss chard with potatoes), sataraš (a slow cooked pepper, tomato & onion stew), lentil or bean soups, and grilled seasonal vegetables.
Kosher Fully certified kosher options are limited in Croatia and are mainly found in larger cities. On this trip, kosher-supervised kitchens and ingredients are not available, so vegetarian or vegan meals can be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above, and plan ahead with your guide.
Halal Croatia is not a predominantly Muslim country so fully certified halal options are limited and are mainly found in larger cities. On this trip, halal-certified kitchens, meat and supply chains may not be available so vegetarian or vegan meals can be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above, and plan ahead with your guide.
INTOLERANCES
Gluten Free (for Coeliac, please see Allergies section below) Gluten-Free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. However, options may be more limited compared to those without dietary requirements. While your local hosts will do their best, it’s worth knowing that gluten-free provision may vary as it can be difficult to source specialist products and some kitchens may be unable to guarantee no cross-contamination, especially in rural areas. Therefore, meals will more-often be based on naturally gluten-free dishes rather than specialist substitutes. That said, many standard meals already include several options without gluten, even without special preparation, including grilled meats and fish, potato dishes, rice, eggs, soups and salads. Please do consider bringing your favourite snacks or food supplements from home to ensure that you always have enough fuel for your adventure.
Lactose Free Lactose-Free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance. Many traditional dishes are naturally lactose-free or can easily be prepared without dairy, such as vegetable dishes, pasta, rice and potato dishes, legumes, and salads.
ALLERGIES
Our host has confirmed that they are able to accommodate mild allergies to the 14 allergens identified by the UK Food Standards Agency, where these are disclosed in advance. However, if you have a severe or life-threatening food allergy (including Coeliac disease), please get in touch with our CX team prior to booking to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip. This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority.
*Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.
Can I book on my own?
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Who is running the trip?
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
What is the official travel advice?
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers review the practical information available on the UK Government’s FCDO website, where you can find up-to-date advice by searching for your destination(s).
If you are based in the United States, you can also check the latest travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State.
For customers joining from other international locations, we recommend checking the official travel advice issued by your country of residence, as guidance may vary.
What vaccinations do I need?
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
How are the trips priced?
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates daily, so prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
Why are your adventures only for adults?
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.
Who else will be on my trip?
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips typically consist of a mix of solo travelers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves, and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
What's the weather like?
On the Dalmatian Coast, the weather is a little warmer and drier than in Zagreb. Spring and fall temperatures range from 48 to 70°F with roughly 10 days of rain per month. Summer temperatures range from 61 to 86°F, with just six days of rain each month.
What's the carbon footprint for this trip?
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre program, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 42kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
- A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
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