Slovenia: Inflatable Kayak Whitewater Trip & Small Group

Summary

Inflatable kayaks on slovenian rivers for beginners & thrill seekers

You’ll paddle your own inflatable kayak down Slovenia’s lively river stretches—no experience needed—with a small group and a friendly local guide showing you every step. Expect splashes of whitewater, laughter over mispronounced snacks, and time to soak up river sounds between bursts of action. You might surprise yourself with what you can do out there.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about paddling solo. I’d only ever done rafting, always with someone shouting “left!” or “right!” at me. But this inflatable kayak trip in Slovenia — they call them “Guppy” or “Ducky,” which made me laugh — felt different from the start. The guide, Luka, had that calm way of explaining things, like he’s seen every kind of beginner panic and just shrugs it off. He showed us how to grip the paddle (apparently I was holding it upside down), and then we were off, wobbling a little as we pushed out onto the water.

The river looked gentle at first, but you could hear it chattering over rocks ahead. I remember the cold splash on my arms when we hit our first bit of whitewater — not scary, just enough to wake you up. There’s this odd rubbery smell from the kayak mixed with fresh river air and pine trees along the banks. At one point Luka floated by and grinned, “You’re steering better than most,” which probably wasn’t true but still made me feel good. The Guppy was surprisingly steady; even when I spun around by accident (twice), it didn’t tip.

We stopped for a break where the sun hit the stones warm underfoot. Someone tried to pronounce some Slovenian snack Luka brought — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Slovene; I’m sure I butchered it. The rest of the group swapped stories about falling out or getting stuck on rocks (nobody minded). It felt like everyone was rooting for each other in this low-key way. After that, back in the kayak, I noticed how quiet everything got between rapids — just water sliding past and birds somewhere overhead. That silence sticks with me more than anything.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Half day inflatable kayak trip

• Receive safety and comfort briefing
• Learn to manage your own kayak
• Choose Guppy or Ducky kayak
• Enjoy easy or intermediate whitewater kayaking

Top questions

Do I need kayaking experience for this trip?

No previous kayaking experience is needed; guides teach you everything on site.

What equipment is provided for the inflatable kayak tour?

All kayaking equipment is included: kayak, paddle, safety gear.

Is transport included to the river starting point?

Yes, transport by air-conditioned minivan is provided as part of the tour.

How many people are in each group?

The maximum group size per booking is 8 people.

Are changing rooms and showers available after kayaking?

Yes, changing rooms, toilets, showers, lockers and safe boxes are available at the base.

Can children join the inflatable kayak trip?

Infants and small children can be present if accompanied by an adult using a pram or stroller at base facilities; paddlers must be physically fit.

Is lunch included during the trip?

No lunch is included but there may be snack breaks depending on your guide.

Are there health restrictions for participants?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is required.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary kayaking equipment (inflatable Guppy or Ducky kayaks), professional local guides who’ll teach you everything onsite, transport by air-conditioned minivan to and from the river base, plus access to clean changing rooms, toilets, showers and secure lockers after your paddle session—just bring your energy and maybe a dry shirt for later.