Kayak and Hike Croatia in a Weekend

Another fantastic trip with Much Better Adventures in which the activities were well-suited to all members of the group, the guide was really friendly and helpful throughout the trip, and the location was stunning. This is a really fun and relaxed trip. The kayaking was fun and explored the beautiful Zrmanja river. On day 1, we used the inflatable pack rafts so this was where we went over small stream-like rapids. On the final day, we were using sit-on rafts so this was on a much calmer part of the river. The hike was 8km each way but this was very relaxed and we took our time to make our way through the park as a group. Food was great as we had breakfast provided on the campsite and sat together as a group each morning which was a great way to start the day. For lunch, we made sure to buy snacks in advance as we were kayaking/hiking in quite remote areas where we couldn't be sure where the next opportunity to buy food would be. And in the evenings, we went to a different restaurant each night in the local town. I would highly recommend this trip as it's not overly challenging and the guides are fantastic. I can't wait to try another trip with Much Better Adventures

Just returned from a fantastic long weekend. Absolutely loved the experience , perfect location , great people, surpassed my expectations. The guide Adam was a genuinely nice guy, couldn't do enough for us

Kayaking and Hiking in Croatia. Well what can I say? This was an awesome trip. Was it our fantastic tour guide Andreja or was it maybe the scenery? Was it the company of friends I had only just met, the bonding, the sarcasm and banter? I don’t know but with only a fraction of the fun I had, you will have a brilliant time. Andreja (AKA Big Cheese) was so accommodating and took his guiding and teaching role seriously whilst being extremely good fun. He involved everyone in decision making, whether that was whether to do the extra long mountain loop, how long to stop for lunch, what time to go for dinner or any other choices available. Everyone on the trip bonded really well from the start, encouraging and helping each other. We all had nicknames by the second day! The first night gave us violent thunderstorms over the campsite, which seemed to bother nobody but started our adventure with a bang. The first day kayaking started in the rain but everyone was in good spirits as we started our paddling adventure. The rain gave way to sunshine pretty quickly though as Big Cheese took us to a large waterfall, with the opportunity to swim, which everyone took. It was truly magical. After lunch there, we paddled on down the river – full of laughs, banter and mini rapids. We all also went down the slightly larger rapids although Big Cheese always gave us the opportunity to miss them out. After returning to the campsite for a quick freshen up, we were then taken for another lovely dinner where we could watch the sun set.

The second day was hike day. Big Cheese picked up litter all the way up and told us about the nature in the area whilst encouraging us onwards He was a great, great person. We hiked up to a lovely little hut, where we could either buy their food and drink or eat our own picnic. They were very hospitable. Then we had a choice – take the mountain loop, adding a tough 4km to our trip, or return down the same track. We all opted for the longer route and we set off. It was so rewarding to have done the extra, although it was not easy (for me). Big Cheese kept us pressing on, eventually returning to the minibus just before the park closed. What a day. Dinner was again provided – this time an outdoor feast at the kayaking centre. Well – we all agreed that we had not laughed and joked as much on that evening as we had for a long time, despite being strangers only 3 days before. The following night in the tent was very windy and I was wondering how the kayaking was going to go the next day. At breakfast, Big Cheese presented us with a choice. Do the planned kayaking , which would be tough in the wind, take a flat hike or take a steeper but short hike. We opted for the steeper hike and off we set after packing up our accommodation. It was a shortish hike down to a beautiful picnic spot surrounded by waterfalls. It involved crossing an 18th Century bridge, built to link villages, so history and culture was not far away. After picnic lunch, we hiked back up and off we set to the airport. It was quite sad that it came to an end. I would like to thank my great travelling companions. Each one of you added to the fun. (Big Cheese is the one with the grey helmet!)

What a brilliant trip! Andrija our guide was absolutely brilliant, great knowledge, great sense of humour and very flexible. The group was brilliant, everybody gelled so quickly! All of the activities were incredible. I’m struggling to articulate how brilliant the whole organisation was. The restaurant choices were fabulous, campsite was rural and very quiet which was lovely. The Croatian people were all so friendly and so hospitable. I would highly recommend this trip. I traveled with my husband, there was another couple two friends and a couple of solo travellers, but everyone blended so well, it felt like being with friends so quickly! Don’t hesitate to book, it’s an awesome adventure that felt very special. Big thanks to our guide!!

From start to finish, this trip to Croatia was nothing short of incredible. I was lucky to be part of such an amazing group, the kind of people who instantly feel like old friends. The highlight? Without a doubt, the waterfalls – absolutely breathtaking and something I’ll never forget.

Special thanks to Roggi for suggesting a slight detour; without his advice, we would have completely missed this hidden gem. That moment alone made the trip even more magical.

Every detail was spot on, the itinerary, the experiences, the company, everything was simply perfect. I couldn’t recommend this trip more. If you’re thinking about visiting Croatia, stop thinking and just go!

If you're dreaming of an adventure that ignites your spirit, tests your limits, and leaves you grinning from ear to ear, look no further than Much Better Adventure Holidays in Croatia. This was, hands down, one of the most unforgettable trips of our lives.

We kicked things off with rapids and waterfalls Croatia’s wild rivers delivered thrills in full force. The liitle whitewater was exhilarating, the waterfalls breathtaking, and the rush absolutely unforgettable. Our expert guides made us feel both safe and unstoppable, adding just the right mix of skill and encouragement.

The hiking was equally phenomenal. We explored Croatia’s lush forests, winding mountain trails, and panoramic viewpoints that looked like something from a dream. The landscapes are so diverse and cinematic, it’s hard to believe they’re real, until you’re standing there, soaking it all in.

What sets Much Better Adventures apart isn’t just the incredible activities, it’s the heart behind it all. The team creates an atmosphere of camaraderie, fun, and pure connection with nature that stays with you long after the trip ends.

This wasn’t just a holiday, it was a wild, joyful, and life-affirming journey through one of Europe’s most stunning countries.

🔥 11/10. Croatia, we love you. Much better Adventures we’ll be back.

What a fun adventure! The kayaking & rapids were great and the hiking through the national park was incredible, if not a bit hot & sweaty! The camp was clean and quiet, with a great local breakfast provided and our meals each evening had great choice. Everyone we met was lovely and I would highly recommend the trip to others as a great few days in the beautiful Croatian countryside!!

Our guide Eugen made sure to make the trip memorable for us, even though we were a small group of only two guests! He went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time.

We went rafting the first day instead of kayaking because the water levels of the river were too high to safely do it in a kayak and I think that made it even better, the rapids were a great adrenaline boost.

We stayed in a different campsite than on the photos of the MBA website and had dinner in restaurants instead of BBQ, which made it a little less “wild” than I thought it would be, but it was still great and the restaurants were very good.

It was an amazing experience! I went with my partner, there was another couple and the others were on there own. It was a great group! The tour guide (Eugene) was brilliant, he became part of the group.

I've not done kayaking in years and never done double kayak before. It was a great laugh.

We went in September which was the last experience of the year, so we didn't have the usual campsite or the bbq/campfire but the restaurants we went to served some really nice food so didn't notice it too much.

It was a great weekend, particularly the first day of kayaking and Sara was a lovely host

I thoroughly enjoyed my time with MBA in Croatia. The scenery was stunning, the activities were challenging but not overly strenuous and were as described on the website. There was a good amount of chill time in the evenings too. I loved the group I was with and will definitely remain in contact.

The adventure began at the airport with glorious warm weather and great coffee. Our guide Eugen was prompt and helpful. We had been kept updated on pick up times throughout. We were taken to a shop to get snacks, very important! We then put up our tents in a nearby campsite, a luxury, as Eugen explained that the normal camp cook was on leave. We had a bbq that evening at a local restaurant while we got to know the other adventurers. Breakfast the next morning was fab, including local homemade pancakes which were greatly appreciated every morning! The kayaking was glorious, blow up kayaks so as not to cause damage to the river or ecology’. Friendly and helpful guides all down the trip. Eugen made sure we were all safe and amused. We were treated to hidden waterfalls and swim spots along the trip, and had lunch while watching the more daring amongst us jumping from the waterfall! The weather was amazing and the journey on the river great. After a snack at a local cafe we went back to camp prepare for dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake. Amazing. The trek in the national park the next day was perfect. The trek wasn’t the easiest, but moderate fit people would cope fine. I had poles which helped. Donkeys are used to convey goods up the canyon and we got to see them in action. The pace was fine, Eugen was informative, as he is local to the area. Lunch and a local tot at the top was memorable, as was swimming in a swim pool just below the cafe! Dinner after the trek was in the local town, as Eugen had told us about a local festival and asked if we wanted to go along, which we did! Local music, local wine and beer and good company made for a great evening. Kayaking the next day in solid kayaks was great. We paddled through a canyon, passed wildlife and birds, kingfishers and spoonbills! At the waterfall we had more jumping escapades, lunch, swimming in fresh and sea water, pools, and enjoyment. I suspect that our guide thought we were a bunch of kids but it was fab. Eugen even joined in jumping! It was hard to leave this spot, knowing that we were heading for the end of the adventure, but Eugen showed us some beautiful scenic spots on the way to Zadar, and took us to a lunch spot in Zadar, ate with us before leaving us. I felt totally secure on this trip, enjoying the feeling that Eugen had it all in hand, we got to experience local culture and cuisine and people, and have our adventure. We are definitely going to book our 3rd adventure soon!

Excellent organisation and communication prior to the trip. Kit information was spot on although you could probably manage with trainers or trail shoes on the hike rather thank lugging walking boots about. Our guide Roji (sorry if I spelled that wrong!) was lovely - informative, helpful, knowledgable and one of the group joining in with everything. . With a cross section of ages from 26 to 60 our group gelled instantly and we had lots of fun. The camp site was well equipped and food very good. The scenery was spectacular. The weather was perfect except for a huge thunderstorm on the first night so make sure your tent is secure! All in all highly recommended

My first trip with Much Better Adventures will certainly not be my last. It was great. I enjoyed both the kayaking and the hike. Our guide, Eugen, was excellent, in both his advice and helpfulness.

Three great days with a lovely group of people. Our guide, Eugene, is an absolute star and so is the cook who fed us delicious breakfasts and dinners. The kayak down the canyon to the sea was beautiful and truly memorable.

Having made a last-minute booking and not sure what to expect, I was really impressed with the trip. The camping is basic but being next to a river to swim in, and with toilets, showers, a fridge and electric points 100m away, was really nice. Definitely bring bug spray and a torch.

The first day kayaking was great fun, with little "waterfalls" to go over on the kayak, and a detour to a larger waterfall to swim in/jump off. Eugen was a fantastic guide, not in a hurry, happy to help and enjoy the trip with us, including feeding us some fresh figs. The inflatable kayaks were pretty much impossible to tip, so it all felt very safe and relaxed.

Despite the heat in August, the walk was great as it was through a canyon so out of the hot sun. Not too hard work either, if you're used to a bit of walking in the countryside.

The last day kayaking from the town to the sea offered something different to the first - amazing views, salt water, 16km kayaking. It was definitely less exciting in some ways, but Eugen again made it a fun trip and gave us opportunities to stop and relax on the edges of the canyon or swimming in the water. Very exposed this day, so loads of sun cream was needed.

Food was great - there was so much breakfast that we tended to take some for lunch too. Everyone brought more snacks than they ended up eating!

Such a great trip. This was my first MBA trip and my first time solo travelling in years - I needn't have worries. Group dynamics were great and we discovered many beautiful swimming spots as we kayaked. Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and nothing was too much trouble. The stars at the campsite were incredible.

Great guide (Eugen) lovely small group and the kayaking was fantastic. Amazing scenery. Loved swimming in the rivers and waterfalls. The canyon kayak on the last day was spectacular.

Really lovely weekend trip with swimming, waterfalls and kayaking. So relaxing

Great trip, food, kayaking and hiking were fab.

Highly recommend

First time solo traveller and this experience was perfect for that. Everything was organised for us, food was amazing and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly.

Highly recommend this trip and will be looking at other Much Better Adventures in the future. From start to finish, getting picked up, the site, the food, the activities, couldn't fault it. We had a lovely group of people and friendly guide and had an amazing time.

Such a great trip… We were a small group of four and it was perfect. The hiking was really enjoyable, beautiful scenery and the chance to take a dip in the mountain stream… ‘refreshing’, though well worth it! The two days kayaking were outstanding. One day paddling down a stunning ravine towards the sea, the second some river and whitewater paddling. Both fun and relaxing - the perfect antidote to a busy life at home. The food was amazing - freshly cooked, hand-made breakfast and dinner in the sunshine with a camp fire to end the evening. Our guide, Rene, supported by the equally lovely Eva, was a real star. Knowledgeable, interesting and thoughtful. He read the group so well and nothing was too much trouble. I’ll certainly look to book future trips with MBA in the future… thank you for a fantastic break! Jon

Travelled as a group of 3, and we had an amazing time. Croatia is beautiful, the trip takes you to some amazing place, we loved the kayaking and hiking, and the camp site was lovely. Great wood fire, nice that tent was set up, fun to shower in the river, unique to have your own spring, grateful there was a charging point. Level was pretty easy the (although we three are pretty active). Food, breakfast and dinner, was really good and plentiful. Guide was funny.

I was lucky with the people in the group, they were fun. The Croatian hosting company is also just great, their guides are really friendly, as well as the programme is very good and the right balance of pleasure and difficulty.

Had the most amazing weekend break in Croatia. The activities and our guide Eugan were second to nine, Eugan absolutely made the trip for us. He is a credit to Much Better Adventures.

Leader - Eugen was absolutely fabulous - and made the trip memorable!

Place - Croatia was wonderful and Eugen took us to some fabulous places!

Campsite - was okay - good spot - basic facilities.

First day of rafting amazing. Second day terribly boring.

The tour was great. DD was a good host, I enjoyed hearing about some of Croatia's past. Day one was definitely my favourite and included jumping off a few waterfalls (optional) which was amazing. The first part of the river was filled with waterfalls and blue/green water. No litter at all and so beautiful. The second day was shorter and through a more desert-looking canyon. Which contrasted strongly with day 1. You don't need to bring too much for lunch as breakfast is quite substantial. But bringing lunch did cause some confusion about how much to bring.

Technically it's absolutely fine for beginners although I have a decent amount of experience kayaking. Some level of fitness for day 2 makes it easier as there was less natural river flow.

Overall, definitely recommended!