Plitvice & Mreznica: Kayaking Waterfalls with Jumps & Shuttle

Summary

Kayak wild Mreznica waterfalls between Plitvice and Rastoke

You’ll glide through emerald-green water on a kayak day trip near Plitvice Lakes, try optional waterfall jumps (from 1 to 8 meters), swim behind cascades, spot wildlife like turtles or trout, and end up sharing laughs with your guide over cold drinks at the riverside terrace. It’s all gear-included — just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

Paddle dips into the water before I even realize we’ve started moving — our guide just grins and points downstream, where the canyon walls squeeze closer and the sound of falling water gets louder. This part of Croatia, somewhere between Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke village, feels like a secret you’re not sure you’re supposed to know. The river is this deep green that almost looks fake when the sun comes out. I could smell wet moss clinging to the rocks, and honestly, my hands were already cold from splashing around with the paddle (I’m not great at steering tandem boats — sorry, Marko).

We stopped below one of the bigger waterfalls — maybe five meters? — and our guide asked if anyone wanted to jump. I hesitated (he laughed and said “no pressure!”), but a couple of people just went for it. The splash echoed off the cliffs. There was this moment after when everything felt quiet except for birds and water dripping off my helmet. You can actually swim behind some of these falls; it’s colder than you’d think but kind of magical too, like being inside a curtain.

The whole day trip kayaking Mreznica waterfalls is more about feeling than ticking things off a list. We passed turtles sunning on logs (one slipped back in when we got too close), saw trout darting under the surface, even spotted an old beaver dam tucked into reeds. There’s a shuttle back to where you start — which is good because by then my arms were tired in that satisfying way. The mini bar at the finish had cold drinks and locals chatting on plastic chairs; I tried to order in Croatian but probably butchered it. Still think about that view upstream as we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayaking and waterfall adventure

• Receive paddling and safety instructions
• Start kayaking on Mreznica River
• Glide over nine waterfalls
• Swim behind cascading waters
• Optional waterfall jumps (1 to 8 meters)

Top questions

How far is Mreznica River from Plitvice Lakes?

The source of Mreznica River is about 12 km upstream from civilization and located between Rastoke Village and Plitvice Lakes.

Is kayaking on Mreznica suitable for beginners?

Yes, after safety instructions from your guide, beginners can join as long as they have moderate fitness.

Are there any age or health restrictions?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What equipment is included for kayaking?

You get a tandem inflatable boat, waterproof jacket, life jacket, helmet, neoprene wet-suit and shoes, waterproof barrel for storage, plus all fees covered.

Can I jump from waterfalls during this tour?

Yes! There are optional jumps ranging from 1 to 8 meters high along the route.

Is transport provided back to the starting point?

A shuttle takes you from finish back to start after kayaking.

Are there facilities at the meeting point?

You’ll find toilets, changing rooms, parking onsite, a terrace area and a local mini bar.

What’s included

Your day includes all kayaking gear (tandem boat, paddle, helmet), waterproof jackets and wetsuits for adults or kids, neoprene shoes so your feet stay warm-ish even if you fall in (I did), plus insurance and all entry fees. There’s parking at the location; after paddling you can use changing rooms or grab something at the riverside mini bar before hopping on the shuttle back to where you started.