Split or Zadvarje: Cetina River Canyoning & Waterfall Rappel

Summary

Swim hike and rappel through wild Cetina canyon landscapes

You’ll scramble over boulders, swim through deep green pools, and rappel down Dalmatia’s highest waterfall on this Cetina river canyoning day trip from Split or Zadvarje. With a local guide leading every step and all gear included, you’ll experience both adrenaline and quiet moments in wild nature — plus that feeling afterward when you can’t quite believe what you did.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel nervous until I heard the river before I saw it — that low, steady roar echoing off the rocks just outside Split. We met our guide, Luka, in Zadvarje (he’s got this easy grin and doesn’t seem fazed by anything), then squeezed into wetsuits that felt weirdly tight at first. The air smelled like wet stone and pine needles, which I still catch myself remembering sometimes.

Cetina river canyoning is more than just floating along — you’re scrambling over slick boulders, sliding into cold pools, sometimes laughing because someone (usually me) slips and splashes way too loudly. Luka pointed out little things I’d have missed: dragonflies skimming the water, the way the sun hits the mossy walls around noon. At one point we stopped for a breath and all you could hear was dripping water and our own shivering — honestly kind of peaceful.

The big moment is Great Gubavica waterfall. Fifty-five meters looks even higher when you’re standing right above it with a rope in your hands. My heart was pounding so hard I thought everyone could hear it. Luka went first (of course), making it look easy. When it was my turn, I hesitated but he just nodded — “You’ll be fine.” And somehow I was, even if my legs shook the whole way down. Afterward we sat on warm rocks in the sun, letting our wetsuits dry a little before heading back to Split in the minivan, tired but sort of proud. Not sure I’ve ever slept better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canyoning adventure on Cetina River

• Start from Split city center
• Hike along Cetina river canyon
• Swim and float in green pools
• Rope lowering on Great Gubavica waterfall
• Spend time enjoying nature

Top questions

How long does Cetina river canyoning take from Split?

The activity operates as a day trip from Split city center; plan for several hours including transport.

Is transport included for the canyoning tour?

Yes, transport by air-conditioned minivan is included when booking the transfer option.

Do I need previous experience for Cetina canyoning?

No prior experience is needed but travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness.

What is the highest waterfall on this tour?

The tour includes rope lowering down Great Gubavica waterfall, which is 55 meters high.

Are guides provided during the canyoning activity?

Yes, both a local guide and professional guide are included for safety and support.

Is lunch included in this Cetina river canyoning trip?

No lunch is mentioned as included; bring snacks if needed.

Can pregnant travelers join this canyoning tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

Where does the tour start: Split or Zadvarje?

You can join from either Split city center or directly in Zadvarje village.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned minivan if you choose transfer from Split or Zadvarje, plus all fuel surcharges covered. You’ll be guided by both a local expert and a professional host throughout your time hiking, swimming, floating along Cetina river canyon, and rappelling down Great Gubavica waterfall before returning tired but happy at day’s end.