Kayaking Mreznica River (upper section) with waterfalls starting from Slunj
Paddle through the canyon of the Mreznica River, glide over 9 waterfalls and dive into crystal-clear nature during this kayaking excursion from Slunj.
Practical information
Embark on an unforgettable 2 to 3-hour kayaking excursion along the emerald waters of the Mreznica River, and discover its enchanting waterfalls.
Course of events
Please allow approximately 4 hours for this activity.
- Arrive at the meeting point
- Get your equipment and a safety briefing
- Receive paddling instructions
- Start your adventure on water (2–3 hours): optional jumps from 1 to 8 metres, swim or paddle behind waterfalls, glide over 9 out of 10 falls
- Return to the base by shuttle
- Return the equipment and get changed in dry clothes
- End of activity
Activity requirements
Please arrive 15 minutes before the departure time. if you anticipate being late, please call us as early as possible to let the instructor know.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Previous kayaking experience is not required. Knowing how to swim is not required, as each participant will be provided with a personal floating device (PFD) or buoyancy aid.
Special terms
Children's price is up to 12-years-old.
Photos and videos available on site at an additional cost, with the possibility of hiring a GoPro or a professional photographer on request. Participants may use their own smartphone or camera, safely stored in a waterproof barrel on the boat.
Since March 2025, picnic food and beverages are prohibited along the river by the public institution Natura Viva.
Plitvice Outdoor is not responsible for the loss or damage of personal belongings.
Pick-up from your accommodation is available for an additional fee. If arriving by bus from nearby cities, pick-up can be arranged from Slunj bus station.
If coming by car, use Google Maps directions to “Primislje village / Plitvice Outdoor”. Follow road signs marked “Plitvice Outdoor / Kayaking Mreznica Waterfalls”.
Activity location is within driving distance from Slunj, Grabovac, Ogulin, Plitvice Lakes National Park (entrance 1), Plitvica Selo, Korenica, and the main bus stations in Zagreb and Karlovac.
Included
- Parking
- Professional guide
- Insurance
- Return-to-start shuttle
- Wetsuit
- Splash jacket
- Paddle
- Life jacket
- Helmet
- Waterproof barrel (20L)
- Tandem kayak (sit-on-top)
Excluded
- Food
- Drinks
- Transfer (on request)
- Photos or videos (on request)
- Tips (optional)
Do not forget to bring
- Swimwear (synthetic fabric works best)
- Sport sandals (no flip flops) / water shoes / tennis shoes
- T-shirt (polyester/synthetic dries quickest) - long sleeve for sun protection if needed
- Sunscreen
- Personal medicine
- Towel
- Bottle of water
- Snacks
- Waterproof camera/phone
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Practical information
About the activity
Tucked away in a remote, forested area between Rastoke Village and Plitvice Lakes National Park lies the stunning Mreznica River. Known for its emerald waters, cascading waterfalls, and unspoiled wilderness, this protected natural monument offers a kayaking experience unlike any other in Croatia. Accessible only by kayak, the upper section of the river is a hidden gem, winding through a lush canyon home to brown trout, beavers, turtles, and a variety of bird species. Just 12 km (7.5 mi) from civilization, the river’s pristine source provides fresh, drinkable water. Locals affectionately call it “The Waterfall Playground”.
Your adventure begins in the small village of Primislje, far from the buzz of tourist hubs and unreachable by public transport. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed at the Plitvice Outdoor base, set in a sunny clearing surrounded by forest and hills.
After check-in, your guide will provide all the necessary equipment including a tandem sit-on-top inflatable kayak, paddles, buoyancy aid, helmet, and depending on the season, a wetsuit, splash jacket, and water shoes. You’ll also receive a waterproof container to keep your personal items safe and dry on the water.
Before setting off, there will be a detailed safety and paddling briefing. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, your guide will ensure you're well-prepared and confident for the trip. Solo travellers are welcome and may be paired with another participant or a guide, making this a great opportunity to meet fellow adventurers.
Once on the river, you’ll spend around 2 to 3 hours paddling through tranquil stretches and gentle rapids. The route includes 10 waterfalls, most of which you’ll glide over with your guide's assistance. There are several opportunities for swimming and, for the brave, optional cliff jumps ranging from 1 to 8 metres high. At one of the waterfalls, you can even swim behind the cascading water.
From July to September, water temperatures range between 17°C and 25°C (63°F to 77°F), while springtime from April to July offers a refreshing 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F). Even if you take an unexpected dip, you'll land in a gentle natural pool with no strong currents, and your guide is never far behind to lend a steady hand.
Throughout the trip, you’ll be immersed in breathtaking scenery and the peaceful sounds of nature. For those wishing to capture the moment, a waterproof barrel is provided for your phone or camera, and GoPro rentals or professional photography services are available upon request.
At the end of the kayaking route, a shuttle will be ready to whisk you back to base. Be sure to bring a towel and a change of clothes, as they'll be waiting for you post-adventure. Once you're back, take your time to unwind: change into something dry, grab a refreshing drink, and enjoy swapping stories with your fellow paddlers.
The base is in a very remote area, 15 to 30 minutes driving to town so the guides will be happy to recommend the best restaurants around serving local food. Parking is available at the base, which also serves as a local hangout with options for table tennis, football, or just relaxing in the shade.
Please note that as of March 2025, the local public institution Natura Viva prohibits picnicking and bringing beverages along the river.
No previous kayaking or swimming experience is required. All participants must wear a life jacket and guides will assist throughout the journey. A moderate level of fitness and a spirit of adventure are all you need.
It is recommended to wear a swimsuit or synthetic shorts underneath quick-drying clothes made of lightweight synthetic fabric, which will stay comfortable when wet. Footwear must be secure: closed-toe water shoes or strapped sandals are required, as flip-flops are not allowed. For your top, a polyester or other fast-drying T-shirt works best, and long sleeves are a great option for sun protection.
This is a unique opportunity to discover one of Croatia’s most beautiful natural wonders in a sustainable and thrilling way. Don't wait and embark on a kayaking excursion on the upper section of the Mreznica River departing from Slunj, Croatia!
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