The River Soca is one of Slovenia’s most impressive natural features, renowned for its emerald waters and rugged scenery. It’s a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of tours that turn an ordinary visit into an adventurous experience. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting, a relaxing kayaking trip, or a scenic day excursion, River Soca delivers. We’ve waded through the options to bring you the best tours, each with its own flavor of fun. I personally love the half-day rafting tour because it combines stunning scenery with accessible adventure, making it a perfect introduction for families or first-timers. For a more relaxed vibe, kayaking tours provide a gentle exploration of the valley’s hidden spots, while the full-day trip to Triglav National Park offers a comprehensive taste of Slovenia’s breathtaking landscape.
If you’re craving action, the whitewater rafting options are unbeatable. But if you prefer a slower pace, there are scenic day trips and beginner courses. Whatever your style, these tours showcase the Soca River’s incredible setting, from soaring mountain peaks to quiet pools that invite a swim.
Quick Overview
Our list features five standout tours in River Soca, ranging from quick half-day adventures to full-day explorations. You can choose between whitewater rafting (Slovenia: Half-Day Rafting Tour), kayaking (Soca: Kayaking Experience), and full-day trips that combine sightseeing with active pursuits (Ljubljana: Soca Valley and Triglav Park). For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Bovec whitewater rafting tour is highly rated, while beginners will appreciate the Bovec: Soca River 1-Day Kayak Course for its comprehensive instruction. Each tour offers a different slice of Soca’s natural beauty, so you can pick based on your fitness level, time constraints, and thrill appetite.
1. Slovenia: Half-Day Rafting Tour on Soca River with Photos
For around $79 per person, this half-day rafting adventure offers a solid taste of Slovenia’s most famous river. It lasts about 3 hours, making it perfect for travelers with limited time but who still want to experience the thrill of whitewater. The tour starts at Likona on the Soca River, where a professional guide will give you a safety briefing before you hit the water. The itinerary includes about 1.5 hours of rafting through exciting rapids, with plenty of chances to swim in the crystal-clear waters or jump off rocks—something that many reviews highlight as a real highlight.
What makes this tour stand out is its accessibility; it’s suitable for the whole family, including kids, and provides a great introduction to river adventures. The scenery is breathtaking, with views of the Julian Alps providing a perfect backdrop. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their professionalism and ability to make everyone feel safe, even during the more exhilarating parts. The activity offers excellent value, especially considering the included photos that capture moments you’ll want to remember.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a quick, fun, and scenic rafting experience with family-friendly options and expert guidance.
2. Soca: Kayaking on the Soca River Experience with Photos
Priced at $79 per person, this 2.5-hour kayaking tour is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to explore Soca’s stunning landscape. The trip uses easy sit-on-top kayaks, making it accessible even to beginners. You’ll paddle through gentle rapids and explore the valley’s hidden spots, enjoying the peaceful moments that contrast with the river’s more thrilling sections.
This tour is especially good for travelers who want to challenge themselves with fun kayaking challenges organized by the guides. The scenery is spectacular, with views of the surrounding mountains and tranquil pools ideal for taking photos. It’s a great way to experience Soca from a different perspective, with some reviewers mentioning that the guides keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed. Many describe it as a perfect balance of adventure and tranquility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners or those seeking a laid-back yet engaging river experience, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Soca’s beauty at a leisurely pace.
3. Bovec: Soca River Whitewater Rafting
At number 3, the Bovec whitewater rafting tour offers a 3-hour adrenaline shot for $82 per person. Known for its more intense rapids and scenic boulders, this tour is perfect for thrill-seekers ready to tackle more challenging waters. The experience begins at Sport MIX before heading into the river, where guides will help you navigate the powerful rapids and explore the deep emerald pools. Along the way, you’ll encounter spots where you can marvel at boulders and spot Soca trout, adding a touch of nature to the adventure.
Reviewers rave about the magnificent scenery and the opportunity to make new friends while working as a team. The guides are experienced and fun, ensuring safety while keeping the energy high. The trip is slightly longer and more intense than the half-day tour, making it suited for active travelers with a taste for adventure.
Bottom Line: This is the perfect pick for travelers who want to experience the full adrenaline rush of Soca’s rapids in a safe, guided setting.
4. Bovec: Soca River 1-Day Beginners Kayak Course
Costing $108 per person, this full-day kayaking course is designed for beginners eager to learn the basics of paddling in a fun, supportive environment. The course covers essential techniques and features paddling on the challenging rapids as well as practice in calmer waters, helping build confidence for future adventures.
The instructor’s experience and friendly approach make this a top choice for those new to kayaking, with many reviews noting how much they learned and enjoyed the team atmosphere. It’s a great value for anyone looking to turn a day of learning into a memorable adventure. The scenic backdrop of Soca’s valley adds to the experience, making it not just about skills but also about soaking in the breathtaking views.
Bottom Line: This course suits beginners who want a comprehensive, educational experience and the confidence to paddle Soca independently later.
5. Ljubljana: Soca Valley and Triglav National Park day trip
For $125, you get a full 10-hour day exploring the Soca Valley and Triglav National Park. This tour is perfect if you want more than just water sports—it’s a comprehensive outdoor experience. It begins in Ljubljana and includes a scenic drive over the Vrsic Pass (at 1611 meters), offering stunning panoramic views. You’ll stop at the WWI Museum in Kobarid, then enjoy free time in Kranjska Gora and at Lake Jasna, soaking in the mountain scenery.
The highlight is the small-group rafting on the Soca River, which provides a thrilling ride amid incredible emerald waters. The itinerary balances active river time with sightseeing and cultural stops, making it suited for travelers who want an immersive day of nature and history. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace but still want to see the best of Slovenia’s mountains and rivers, this trip hits the mark.
Reviewers mention how the drive across Vrsic pass and the stops at scenic spots add significant value, providing a well-rounded experience of the area’s natural beauty and history.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a full day of scenery, cultural insights, and river adventure.
$125 per person
How to Choose
When selecting your Soca tour, consider your fitness level, time availability, and thrill preference. For those with limited time who want a taste of river fun, the Half-Day Rafting Tour offers quick access to Soca’s excitement. If you’re a beginner or want to learn kayaking, the Bovec: Soca River 1-Day Beginners Kayak Course provides structured instruction with scenic views. For adrenaline junkies, the Bovec whitewater rafting guarantees a more intense experience. Those looking for a mix of adventure and sightseeing should consider the Ljubljana: Soca Valley and Triglav National Park, which combines river fun with cultural stops.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and time. Also, check the weather—many tours operate only under certain conditions—so plan accordingly.
To sum it up, River Soca offers a range of tours that suit various interests and fitness levels. For pure adrenaline, the Bovec whitewater rafting makes a splash, while families or beginners might prefer the half-day rafting or kayaking. If you want a full immersion into Slovenia’s mountain scenery, the full-day trip combines nature, history, and adventure.
Whatever you choose, River Soca guarantees a memorable experience—so get your gear, book early, and prepare for some spectacular sights and thrilling rides.