Activity description
The excursion begins with a meeting and, if needed, organized transport from Novalja to the village of Kaštel Žegarski, located on the banks of the Zrmanja River. Upon arrival, guides will introduce you to the itinerary and prepare all the necessary equipment. You will receive a waterproof bag for your personal belongings, as well as a life jacket, helmet, and paddle (a wetsuit and rain jacket are provided in case of cooler weather). Once ready, the guide will give you safety instructions and explain how to handle the kayak, and the adventure down one of Croatia’s most beautiful rivers begins. Paddling along the Zrmanja River takes you through calm stretches, gentle rapids, and stunning waterfalls all the way to the mouth of the Krupa River. Here, a break is planned for rest, swimming, and a picnic, with extra time to enjoy the surrounding nature. After the pause, the kayaking continues down the Zrmanja towards Muškovci, combining leisurely paddling with several refreshing stops for swimming. The total activity duration includes several hours of pleasant paddling, free time for rest and swimming, and the return to the starting point. This activity is suitable for beginners – paddling is neither strenuous nor demanding, and the river is warm and exceptionally clean during the summer.
Excursion itinerary
Starting Location – Kaštel Žegarski
Arrival at Kaštel Žegarski, right on the banks of the Zrmanja River. Guides welcome participants, distribute equipment (life jacket, helmet, paddle, waterproof barrels), and provide basic safety instructions along with a short kayaking demonstration.
Optional: organized transport from Novalja.
Start of the Kayak Tour
After preparation and boarding, the paddling adventure begins on the emerald-clear Zrmanja River. The first part of the route passes through calm stretches, perfect for warming up and getting familiar with the kayak.
Mouth of the Krupa River
A planned stop at one of the most beautiful spots along the river – where the Zrmanja meets the Krupa. Free time for swimming, resting, a picnic, and enjoying the waterfalls.
Continuation Towards Muškovci
The paddling continues through a combination of gentle rapids and calm sections of the Zrmanja. During the ride, short breaks are possible for refreshment, swimming, and photographing the picturesque canyon.
Arrival in Muškovci
The kayaking ends in the Muškovci area, a popular excursion site known for its waterfalls and clear river flow. A short break follows before the return journey.
Return to the Starting Location
If you arrived using your own transport, the excursion ends back in Kaštel Žegarski.
If you opted for organized transport, the final location of the excursion is the Sunturist tourist agency in Novalja.
Included in the price
Guide
Licensed kayak guide in English. Guides for German, Italian, French, and other languages can be arranged for groups.
Equipment
The price of the trip includes a kayak and paddle, waterproof bag, life jacket, and helmet.
Insurance
Parking
Transfer
Local transfer from the finish back to the start for participants who arrive by car.
Important Information
What to Bring?
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Shorts or a swimsuit
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T-shirt and sandals (or sports shoes you don’t mind getting wet)
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Towel
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Sunscreen
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Water and snacks
Responsibility for Equipment and Personal Belongings
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Each participant receives a kayak, paddle, waterproof bag, life jacket, and helmet at the start of the activity, which must be returned at the end.
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The organizer is not responsible for lost, damaged, or missing personal items.
If you are on any medical treatment, please bring necessary medication with you.
Required Skills
The activity is suitable only for swimmers.
Minimum Age
Minimum participant age is 6 years.
Children’s discount applies to kids aged 6–12 accompanied by an adult.
If parents believe their child under 6 can safely participate, they may do so with a signed parental consent form.
Route Changes
Depending on weather and operational conditions, the guide may change the order or duration of the activity for your safety and the safety of the group.
Total duration is approximate and may vary based on participants’ fitness, weather, group size, and other factors.
Activity Start Time
Please arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time.
Location of departure
Additional Information
Transfer
Return transfer from Novalja is available for an additional fee. Transfers from other locations can be arranged upon request.
Group Size
- Minimum 4 – maximum 30 participants per group.
- If fewer than 4 participants register but the client still wants the trip to proceed, the price will increase to cover the minimum group fee.
- Larger groups available upon request.
- The trip may be canceled after confirmation if there are not enough participants; alternative dates or refunds will be offered.