Zrmanja River

Explore the Zrmanja River with a guided rafting or kayaking tour. No previous whitewater experience is necessary and you can choose between gentle float trips and exhilarating whitewater adventures. Alternatively, you can hike to the Veliki Buk, an impressive waterfall that plunges over two successive limestone cliffs, from the trailhead in Muskovci or catch a glimpse of the Zrmanja from the peaks in nearby Velebit Nature Park.

• A must-see for nature lovers and watersports enthusiasts.
• If rafting the river, don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water shoes.
• In case of colder weather, bring along a long-sleeved shirt and rain gear.
• Most tours include round-trip transportation from Zadar.
• Zrmanja River kayaking tours are not wheelchair-accessible.

Tours of the Zrmanja River often include round-trip transportation from the village of Kaštel Žegarski or Zadar. Kastel Zegarski is 43 miles (69 kilometers) east of Zadar and is most easily accessed by car. A daily bus runs from Zadar to Kastel Zegarski; for the most efficient transportation, book a tour that includes round-trip transportation from Zadar.

Zrmanja River kayak and rafting tours are offered from mid-May through mid-October, but are weather dependent. Summer is the busiest time in Croatia’s Dalmatian region, so consider visiting late spring or early fall to avoid the crowds and save on accommodations. You can take in views of the Zrmanja River from the Velebit Nature Park any time of year.

The Velebit Nature Park is the largest protected natural area in Croatia. The Velebit Mountains are characterized by unique rocky landscapes, caves, deep underground lakes, and submarine springs. The area is popular with rock climbers, mountains bikers, and hikers and several hiking and cycling tours are offered at the park.