River Kupa Rafting & Kayaking: 10 km of white-water rapids

Float through jungle-like rapids on the Kupa's wildest section, only 15 km from the source

Rafting and kayaking on the upper River Kupa in Croatia takes you down 10 km of white-water rapids through steep forested mountains, 15 km downstream from the source. You paddle in stable 2-3 person kayaks or larger rafts depending on water level, guided by an experienced paddler who handles the navigation while you float the calm rapids. The 3-hour trip includes all equipment, dry boxes for your gear, transfer back to the base camp and digital photos from the run.

The experience

The upper Kupa flows through a wild section that feels like paddling through a jungle: steep forested mountains rise on both sides and the water reacts directly to rainfall in the Gorski Kotar highlands above, so the river changes character between seasons. Spring and autumn bring the best conditions. You don't need paddling experience: the guides handle the technical work while you float the calmer rapids and take in the landscape. On higher water days after rain, you'll ride bigger 6-8 person rafts with a skipper. When the water drops, the group switches to 2-3 person kayaks, which are easier to maneuver around rocks and more fun in the shallower sections.

The run covers about 7-10 km starting only 15 km from the river's source, so you're paddling one of the Kupa's most dramatic stretches. A photographer travels with the group and shoots the best rapids. You get the pictures by email after the trip. The route includes a break for cliff jumping and swimming in a rapid pool. Once you reach the finish, you change into dry clothes and the operator drives you back to the base camp where you started.

What’s included

• All paddling equipment and dry boxes for your belongings.
• transfer to the starting point and back to base camp.
• a live guide in English, German or Croatian.
• digital photos from the trip sent by email.
• a break for swimming and cliff jumping in a rapid pool.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDeparts at 10:30

AgesAdult (13 to 70 years) · Child (4 to 12 years) · Under 4: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 30

Live guideEnglish, German and Croatian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Kupa Sports White Water Adventure

Is this one for you?You paddle yourself in a shared group, so it suits anyone who wants to be active on the water rather than watch from a boat. The equipment switches between kayaks and rafts depending on the day's water level, which means the intensity and the feel of the run change with the season. Book in spring or autumn when the Kupa runs highest and wildest.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, German and Croatian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 12 years). Under 4: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How far downstream do we actually paddle on the River Kupa?

The rafting section covers about 7-10 km of the upper Kupa, starting only 15 km from the river's source in the Gorski Kotar highlands. The steep forested mountains on both sides create the wild landscape that makes this stretch distinctive.

Do I need to know how to paddle before I book this?

No paddling experience is necessary. The guides handle navigation and you float the calmer rapids. The kayaks and rafts are stable and easy to control. The trip suits families, school groups and anyone in normal physical condition.

What's included in the price and what do I need to bring?

The price covers all paddling equipment, dry boxes to protect your personal gear, transfer to the starting point and back to base camp, a live guide in English, German or Croatian, and digital photos from the rapids. Bring a change of clothes and a towel. Water and snacks are available at the base camp for a small fee.

Can we stop to swim or jump during the run?

Yes. The route includes a break at a rapid pool where you can swim and cliff jump if you want to. The photographer is there to capture the moment and you'll receive those shots by email after the trip.