Nature Highlights of Croatia

Discovering masterpieces of nature

Croatia Hiking Highlights

HIKING TOUR | 8 days | from 1.020€ | Explore Croatian National Parks and discover masterpieces of nature in Inland Croatia. Fun-filled family holiday.

Croatia boasts remarkably diverse landscapes, from the magnificent natural phenomena of Plitvice Lakes and Krka Waterfalls to the awe‑inspiring and massive Velebit mountains. A wide variety of wildlife habitats — from dense forests and clear lakes to winding rivers and rugged mountain ranges — awaits your exploration.

This unique hiking tour is designed to showcase the breathtaking natural highlights of inland Croatia, including five national parks and their surrounding landscapes: Risnjak, Plitvice Lakes, Northern Velebit, Paklenica, and Krka Waterfalls.

The tour itself is an easy-to-moderate hiking tour accompanied by an experienced licensed guide.

During the tour, our stopovers will take us through the lush surroundings of the Mrežnica, Kupa, and Krka rivers, known for their many rapids and waterfalls.

ITINERARY

Arrival in Zvečaj, green oasis in Gorski Kotar

Day 1 - Arrival in Zvečaj, green oasis in Gorski Kotar

When you arrive in Zagreb, we’ll pick you up from the airport or train station and take you to your accommodation in Zvečaj, a small village on the Mrežnica River in Central Croatia’s Gorski Kotar Region. The area is well-known for its lush river valleys and forests filled with beech and hornbeam trees, as well as wild mushrooms and fruits. You’ll stay at a family-run hotel that has welcomed guests for many years and offers a beautiful view of the Mrežnica River and its waterfall. The hotel sits above an old mill, which now generates electricity. Each room has a private bathroom, and most have a balcony. The hotel serves traditional Croatian specialities, including freshwater fish from its own ponds, homemade dishes, and produce from local farms. In the evening, we’ll gather on the terrace by the river for dinner and a brief introduction to the tour, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow travellers. Van ride: one hour from Zagreb airport. Accommodation: Zvečaj Hotel on the Mrežnica River. Meals: dinner.

Risnjak National Park with great views of the Kvarner Bay

Day 2 - Risnjak National Park with great views of the Kvarner Bay

On our first hiking day, after having breakfast, we will explore Risnjak National Park, located in Gorski Kotar – a green region in the Inland of Croatia, where the hilly terrain and forested countryside are ideal for starting our hiking tour. The Park Risnjak covers an area of 63,5 km2. Its name comes from the animal name ris, which means lynx in Croatian. We begin our hike in the village of Vilje, heading toward our destination—Veliki Risnjak (Big Risnjak), the highest peak in the range, which rises to 1,528 meters above sea level. Schlosser’s mountain hut, situated 100m below the peak of Veliki Risnjak at 1,418 m, is probably one of the most beautiful mountain huts in Croatia. Once at the top, you can expect a great view of the peaks of Gorski Kotar, the Adriatic Sea, and the Alps. After resting, we will descend slowly back to the village of Vilje and return to our hotel in the late afternoon. Accommodation: Zvečaj Hotel on the Mrežnica River. Van ride: 1.5h-2h each way. Hiking: 3-4 h. Terrain: easy/moderate, well-marked paths. Meals: Breakfast (dinner on your own).

Hiking National Park Northern Velebit

Day 3 - Hiking National Park Northern Velebit

After breakfast, we’ll head to Northern Velebit National Park, a protected forest covered wilderness known for its rich biodiversity and dramatic karst landscapes. Forests cover nearly 80% of the landscape. This rugged region is home to the park’s most iconic wildlife—brown bears, wolves, and lynx—which still find a safe refuge here. Among the many hiking routes, the Premužić Trail stands out as the most famous. Built in 1933 and named after its creator, it leads through some of the park’s most stunning and diverse terrain. Numerous surrounding peaks offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, its islands, and the inland mountain ranges. From here, we drive towards the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the natural wonderland Plitvice Lakes National Park. Accommodation is provided in family guesthouses in Korana Village, a picturesque village on the Korana River. The houses are small and traditional with simple rooms. The locals have always lived in symbiosis with nature and the river. There is no pub, restaurant, or shop. The peaceful atmosphere makes the village an ideal base for exploring the surrounding area. Accommodation: Private guesthouses in Korana Village. Van ride: 2.5 hours each way. Hiking: 4 – 5 h. Terrain: easy/moderate, well-marked paths. Meals: breakfast and dinner (packed lunch on your own).

Walking in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 4 - Walking in Plitvice Lakes National Park

After breakfast, we’ll set out to explore Croatia’s most stunning national park, the Plitvice Lakes. With its 16 emerald‑green travertine lakes, more than 90 cascading waterfalls, and numerous caves, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a true masterpiece of nature. Wandering through its beech and pine forests along wooden walkways and bridges suspended above crystal‑clear streams is an unforgettable experience. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by untouched nature. Later, a panoramic boat and a tourist train will take us across the lake and back toward the park’s exit. After our visit, we’ll return to the village, where the rest of the afternoon can be spent swimming in the refreshing Korana River. Accommodation: Private guesthouses in Korana Village. Van ride: 15 min each way. Hiking: easy, 4-5 h. Terrain: easy, well-marked paths. Meals: breakfast and dinner (picnic lunch on your own).

Free day

Day 5 - Free day

For participants who chose a 5-day tour, this is the end of their holiday. After breakfast, you are welcome to schedule your homeward transport for any time (transfer to Zagreb airport is included in the price). The rest of the group continues their adventure. The motto for the fifth tour day is "free and easy", offering the participants a choice between staying active or relaxing by or in the river in front of their accommodation. Some of the options include a self‑guided cycling tour in and around Plitvice Lakes National Park, scenic walks, excursions to nearby towns of interest, as well as beach trips and general sightseeing. Accommodation: private guesthouses in Korana Village. Van ride: max. 2 hours one way. Meals: breakfast and dinner (lunch on your own).

Hiking in National Park Paklenica

Day 6 - Hiking in National Park Paklenica

After breakfast, we will leave the Korana Village and continue south to Paklenica National Park. The park is a part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and a favourite hiking and climbing destination. It lies on the southeast slopes of the Velebit Mountains over the Adriatic coast. Many visitors are drawn to the striking natural features of the Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons, with their deeply carved 400‑meter cliffs and numerous caves. The surrounding peaks offer superb panoramas of coastal and mountain scenery. There are several wonderful hikes through beech and black pine forests to choose from. The most popular is the trail leading to Borisov Dom, a mountain hut popular among hikers. After descending to the sea, we drive to the romantic city of Skradin for an overnight stay. Accommodation: 3* Skradinski Buk Hotel in Skradin. Van ride: 2h+1h. Hiking: 4-5 h. Terrain: moderate, well-marked paths. Meals: Breakfast (packed lunch and dinner on your own).

National Park Krka with its extraordinary waterfalls

Day 7 - National Park Krka with its extraordinary waterfalls

On the last day of our hiking tour, we will explore the National Park Krka, known for its extraordinary waterfalls and lagoons of the Krka River. We will explore the park’s vast network of waterways and uncover its rich history, which stretches back to the late 10th century and the era of the first Croatian kings. One of the options is a visit to Skradinski Buk waterfall. A boat will take us to the small, picturesque island in the middle of the Krka River - Visovac Island, and its mystic monastery founded by the Franciscans in 1445. From here, we return to the hotel in the late afternoon. While a well-deserved dinner is being prepared, you can discover the Old Town of Skradin, the small town protected as a cultural monument. Accommodation: 3* Skradinski Buk Hotel in Skradin. Hiking: 3 hours. Terrain: easy, well-marked paths. Meals: breakfast and dinner (lunch on your own).

Departure from Town of Skradin

Day 8 - Departure from Town of Skradin

After breakfast, transfer to Split Airport and flight home. Meals: breakfast. Van ride: one hour to Split Airport.

- Note on the itinerary:

This itinerary and the duration of the activities are subject to change due to group abilities and preferences, weather conditions and forecasts, water levels, special events of interest, etc. Our guides and trip leaders will do their utmost to ensure the best possible experience for our clients without compromising safety at any time. This may require adjusting the original itinerary to avoid any discomfort or risk arising from exceptional circumstances. Inlandia.com reserves the right to modify the itinerary without prior notice.

Price information & additional costs:

 Tour dates 2025:

8-day tour

5-day tour

 Tour dates 2025:

8-day tour

5-day tour

 3 - 10 May

 1.020 €

670 €

 14 – 21 June

1.180 

730 

 10 - 17 May

 1.020

670 €

 28 June – 5 July

1.180 

730 

 17 - 24 May

 1.020

670 €

 6 – 13 September

1.020 

670 €

 7 - 14 June

 1.180 

730 €

 20 – 27 September

1.020 

670 €

  • All prices are per person.
  • Minimum occupancy per room: 2 persons.
  • The tour price is based on a minimum of eight (8) and a maximum of sixteen (16) participants in a group.
  • Individual guests can join an existing group.
  • Definite departure will be confirmed to participants by e-mail.

Additional costs:

  • Arrival transfer after 6 pm (Central European time): 30 € /transfer
  • Single-use supplement: 20%

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

  • Experienced local English-speaking guide and assistance.
  • 7 nights accommodation (sometimes two rooms share one bathroom).
  • Meals: 7x breakfast, 1x lunch and 4x dinner (as noted in the itinerary).
  • Use of hiking poles (with advanced notice).
  • 5 days of organized activities.
  • National Parks entrance fees.
  • Local taxes and river permits.
  • Saturday arrival transfer from Zagreb airport/meeting point.
  • Saturday departure transfers to Split airport.
  • Ground transportation.
  • Basic insurance and costs for the organization and realization of travel.

NoteArrival and departure transfers: several group transfers between airport and destination depending on arrival/departure time.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE  /  Additional costs:

  • International airfare to/from Croatia.
  • Drinks and meals not indicated in the itinerary.
  • Optional excursions on a free day. Approx. 40 – 70 € per person (based on a min. of 4 participants).
  • Tips and other personal expenses.
  • Additional health insurance and cancellation insurance, which can be arranged by email to info@inlandia.com
  • All other expenses not covered by the programme.

Remarks:

  • Maximum number of participants: 16 guests per group. Larger groups upon request.
  • Minimum age: 12 years if accompanied by an adult.
  • Accommodation type: rooms in family-run hotels and private guesthouses. Each house in Korana Village has 2-4 bedrooms, and sometimes two rooms share one bathroom.
  • Sharing a twin room with another person is possible in case there are other guests interested in sharing.
  • Arrival and departure transfers: Several group transfers will be organized throughout the day depending on group arrival times from the Zagreb meeting point and Zagreb airport. Waiting time may take up to 3 hours. Arrivals after 6 pm may be subject to a surcharge of 30 EUR per person. If flying out of Zagreb please do not book a departure flight before 1 pm due to the long driving time from the accommodation
  • Optional excursions can be booked on the spot and are dependable on suitable weather conditions. The price is payable on-site.

You need to bring:

Sturdy hiking shoes, sunglasses, sun cream, water, appropriate spare clothes in accordance to the weather conditions (fleece/jumper, rain gear), camera.

Please inform us in advance (at the time of your booking, by e-mail) should you require hiking poles.

  • Explore Risnjak National Park over the Kvarner Bay
  • Enjoy the natural beauties of Plitvice Lakes
  • Discover the magnificent wilderness of Velebit Mountain
  • Experience impressive Krka waterfalls
  1. Risnjak National Park is located in the heart of Gorski Kotar, 15 km from the Adriatic Coast and in the vicinity of the City of Rijeka. The park spans 64 km² and encompasses the Risnjak and Snježnik massifs, as well as the source region of the Kupa River. The highest point of the park is Veliki Risnjak (1.528 m), which offers breathtaking views of the Kvarner Bay, Istria and the Julian Alps in neighbouring Slovenia. The lowest point is the area around the source of the Kupa River (313 m). The summers are pleasantly warm with an average temperature of up to 22°C; springs and autumns are rainy, and the winter is long and snowy with an average snow depth of between 122 and 448 cm.
  2. Plitvice Lakes National Parkis a misty natural wonderland. A spectacular chain of turquoise lakes linked together with cascading falls and travertine pools. Plitvice Lakes is one of the oldest national parks in Southeast Europe and the largest in Croatia.
    It has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, due to its exquisite series of 16 emerald green and opal blue travertine lakes, more than 90 waterfalls and numerous caves. The lakes are surrounded by beech and pine forests and are home to a vibrant world of wildlife. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful natural sights in Europe.

  3. Velebit Mountain Nature Park is one of the wildest parks in this part of Europe. The vast and majestic Velebit Mountains stretch along much of the coast, offering a true alpine atmosphere. Owing to their exceptional natural value and vital role in preserving global biodiversity, Velebit Nature Park has been included in UNESCO’s network of international biosphere reserves. It offers visitors a spectacular panorama of the Northern Adriatic Sea and its numerous islands. There are many historical roads and well-marked hiking trails. The park has 2 national parks: Northern Velebit and Paklenica. The must-see places in Northern Velebit National Park are the Zavižan Botanical Garden (with an elevation of 1.645 m), and the mountain ranges Hajdučki and Rožanski Kukovi. Paklenica Canyon, located within Paklenica National Park, is a renowned destination for hiking, trekking, and rock climbing.

  4. National Park Krka is a monument of nature of the highest category, protected as a part of the world's natural and cultural-historical heritage. The travertine cascades of the Krka River form seven magnificent waterfalls — including Skradinski Buk, the highest and most beautiful in Croatia — as well as ten lakes and a single lake spring. The wildlife here is quite rich, with as many as ten endemic fish species inhabiting the area. There are 225 bird species in the area. too, making the Krka River an ornithological area of extraordinary value. There are also six medieval fortresses and the ruins of two large ancient cities.

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