Kayaking on Upper Mreznica River

If you’re looking to see a different face of Croatia — away from the crowded beaches and bustling towns — a kayaking trip down the Upper Mreznica River offers a perfect escape. This guided adventure combines the thrill of adrenaline-pumping waterfalls with peaceful stretches of paddling through pristine nature. It’s a fantastic option for families, beginners, or anyone craving an active day immersed in Croatia’s wild beauty.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of excitement and scenery — you get to jump into warm pools beneath waterfalls, ride natural waterslides, and glide past glowing travertine cascades. Plus, the included local transfers mean you don’t have to worry about finding your way; everything is taken care of. However, it’s worth noting that the tour’s popularity means you should book at least a month in advance if possible.

This experience is especially suitable for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable in water, including children from age 6. If you’re searching for a fun, active way to explore Croatia’s lesser-known natural wonders, this kayaking tour hits the spot. Just be prepared for a day packed with action, water, and scenic surprises.

This experience made our article of The 6 Best Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Key Points

Stunning Waterfalls: Paddle past up to 15 waterfalls, including the highest at 8 meters, with options for swimming, jumping, or riding in your kayak.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for kids from 6 years old, making it an excellent choice for family adventures.
All Equipment Included: No need to bring your own gear; everything from paddles to neoprene suits (if needed) is provided.
Hassle-Free Transfers: Included local transportation saves stress and time, making the trip smooth from start to finish.
Balanced Experience: The tour offers a mix of action-packed waterfall drops and peaceful paddling sections.
Highly Rated Guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable, attentive guides who ensure safety and fun.

The Journey: What to Expect

While in Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are other experiences we've covered

Arriving and Getting Ready

Your day begins at the Kupa Sports Kupa base in Tounj, where friendly staff will equip you with all the necessary safety gear, paddling instructions, and neoprene suits if needed. This prep time ensures everyone feels confident before hitting the water. The guide will give clear instructions, especially for those new to kayaking or canyoning, and offer safety tips for navigating waterfalls and rapid sections.

The Drive to the River

From the starting point, a short drive takes you to the river’s edge, saving you from complicated public transportation or the hassle of self-driving. The included transfer is especially valuable if you’re not familiar with the area or just want a stress-free start to your adventure.

Paddling and Waterfalls

Once on the water, you’ll glide through a wild canyon filled with spectacular waterfalls, some of which are natural waterslides, while others you may choose to jump from into the inviting pools below. The river’s natural beauty is astonishing — water cascading over travertine formations creates pools in various shades, making this a colorful, lively environment.

The tour features 15 waterfalls, with the highest measuring 8 meters. The middle section offers calmer, more peaceful paddling where you can soak in the scenery and listen to the sounds of rushing water and birds. As one reviewer notes, “The trip was awesome. Great mix of going over small waterfalls, drops, and rapids,” demonstrating how varied the experience is.

Canyoning and Water Fun

Not just kayaking — this trip offers a canyoning element: riding water slides, jumping into pools, and even walking through some sections of the canyon. Several reviews mention how these activities add an exciting layer to the day, especially kids and wading beginners. One reviewer appreciated how guides help and supervise jumps, making everyone feel secure: “Our guide Dennis helped by Alex was very patient, friendly, and knowledgeable.”

While you're exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Finish Line

After approximately 3 hours on the river, you’ll be driven back to the base. Here, you can change into dry clothes and reflect on the day’s highlights — whether it was the waterfalls, the wildlife encounters like turtles and dragonflies, or the thrill of riding natural waterslides.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

For $64.74 per person, this experience provides a comprehensive outdoor adventure packed with fun, scenic beauty, and professional guidance. The included equipment and transfers mean fewer expenses and less planning hassle. It’s especially appealing because the tour balances action with relaxation: peaceful paddling sections break up the adrenaline, allowing for time to take photos or simply enjoy the environment.

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who ensure safety while allowing plenty of room for personal daring. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere, which many find enhances the experience.

What Some Travelers Mention

While the overall ratings are stellar—5 out of 5 from 177 reviews—a few comments highlight the importance of managing expectations. One reviewer mentioned that the guide was “not very engaged,” possibly reflective of larger group sizes or variability in guide attentiveness. Conversely, many praised guides like Denis for their attentiveness and encouragement.

The natural beauty receives consistent praise, with reviewers describing the waterfalls and pools as “amazing,” “beautiful,” and “perfect for swimming.” Families and beginners especially appreciated the safety measures and supportive guides.

Practical Details

The tour is easy to book, with most travelers reserving about a month in advance. It’s suitable for most ages, including children from 6 years old, making it a versatile family outing. The tour is about 3 hours long, with flexible start times based on the season.

What’s missing? The tour doesn’t include lunch, bottled water, or photos, so plan accordingly. Many bring snacks or water bottles, and you might want to capture your adventure with your camera — just remember that photos are not provided.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This kayaking adventure is best suited for active travelers eager to explore Croatia’s lesser-known natural wonders. Families with children from age 6 will find it accessible and fun, especially with guides attentive to safety. It’s also a good pick for those who want a mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and authentic outdoor fun, away from crowded tourist spots.

If you value well-organized, small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides and stunning natural scenery, this tour delivers. It’s a chance to encounter Croatia’s wild side — paddling past waterfalls, swimming in warm pools, and enjoying a sense of adventure in a pristine canyon setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from 6 years old are welcome, making it a family-friendly outing. Just ensure they are comfortable in water and enjoy outdoor activities.

Are all equipment and safety gear included?
Yes, all necessary gear, including paddles, safety equipment, and neoprene suits if needed, are provided. This ensures a safe and comfortable experience.

How long does the tour last?
The kayaking tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including driving to the river, paddling, and returning to the base.

Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No, beginners are welcome. The guides provide paddling instructions, and the experience is suitable for novices.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a water bottle. The tour does not include lunch or bottled water, so plan accordingly if needed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, local transfers are included from the meeting point to the river and back, saving you from navigating public transport.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided kayaking trip on the Upper Mreznica River offers an authentic, beautifully scenic Croatia adventure that combines exhilaration with natural splendor. Whether you’re seeking family fun, outdoor thrill, or peaceful paddling, it’s a well-rounded choice for those wanting to experience Croatia’s wild side in a safe, organized setting.