Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension
With its enchanting medieval cities, turquoise waters and rugged mountains, Croatia is the jewel of the Adriatic Sea. This small Mediterranean country is big on adventure! We start inland- hiking and biking in and around Croatia's premier national park, Plitvice, with its exquisite series of 16 travertine lakes and more than 90 waterfalls. Continuing south, we paddle through the narrow canyons of two of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, the Zrmanja and Krupa, splashing through easy rapids and quiet pools. Stretch your legs on hiking trails in the primeval forests of Krka National Park and on the mountain ridgelines of Paklenica. Then we head to Croatia's magnificent coast for a day of sea kayaking on car-free Vrgada Island before heading to Trogir to tour the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as a finale to an extraordinary adventure.
Or, continue your journey with our 5 day Dubrovnik Hiking and Kayaking extension! Visit Diocletian's palace in Split, hike spectacular Biokovo Mountain, explore the beautiful old town of Mostar in Herzegovina, enjoy an active day trip to one of the lovely Elafiti Islands, and finish your adventure with a guided exploration of Dubrovnik's fortressed old town. With delicious Croatian fare and intimate lodgings throughout, it's easy to see why both Lonely Planet and National Geographic have called Croatia a "must do" destination.
Explore even more. See the Dubrovnik Hiking and Kayaking trip extension.
Important Notice: Day 1 is the day you should plan to arrive at the meeting point for the trip. This may require departing your hometown one or more days in advance and traveling on an overnight flight.
Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension Itinerary:
Day 1 Arrive in Croatia’s lively capital, Zagreb. Meet the group and guides for a welcome drink to discuss the upcoming adventure!
Day 2 Hike around the emerald pools of Plitvice Lakes National Park before retiring to the tiny riverside village of Korana.
Day 3 Bike the lovely pastoral countryside, passing by villages and the unspoiled landscapes around Plitvice Lakes.
Day 4 Kayak the clear, green waters of the Zrjmana and Krupa rivers. Waterfalls, easy rapids, and hidden pools make for a refreshing day!
Day 5 Hike in Paklenica National Park, with views of mountain and coastal scenery. Eat a traditional lunch from “under the bell.”
Day 6 Discover bays and beaches while kayaking around Vrgada Island. Enjoy a seafood lunch before heading to the romantic town of Skradin.
Day 7 We explore Krka National Park’s extensive waterways before moving on to Trogir, whose rich culture dates back over 2000 years.
Day 8 Say farewell to this magnificent country or continue exploring on the Dubrovnik Hiking and Kayaking extension.
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control.
Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip has the necessary minimum number of participants required to operate.
If you are traveling alone and specifically request single accommodations, you will be asked to pay the full single supplement noted above. If you wish to share accommodations, we will assign a roommate if one is available. If a roommate cannot be found, you will be asked to pay a reduced single fee, which is one-half of the full single supplement. Please be advised that there are a limited number of single rooms available. Single accommodations may not be available at the village stay.
All accommodations and meals as noted in itinerary; skilled bi-lingual guides; private transport throughout; park entrance fees; all activity gear as necessary including sea kayaks, rafts / river kayaks, and bikes; island ferry.
International airfare to/from Croatia; airport transfers; 3 dinners; cost of passport; alcoholic beverages; items of a personal nature and optional gratuities to your guide(s).
This trip is rated Moderate [3] and will be enjoyed by anyone who is physically fit and enjoys active days. Paddling on Day 4 (Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers) is typically an easy paddle requiring no prior experience however, you should be comfortable in water and able to swim. This is also true of the sea kayaking on Day 6 when you will be paddling in fairly protected waters along the island coastline. Although the hiking is not particularly long or strenuous, prior hiking experience is recommended. The hiking distances range from 5-8 miles over uneven terrain and in Paklenica Park there may be significant elevation gain as well. Several days have van transfers of 2+ hours.
Croatia's Adriatic coast is blessed with a Mediterranean climate. The summers are typically warm and sunny with average daytime temperatures around 80°F and nighttime temperatures falling to around 60°F. From May to June and September to October temperatures are usually a bit cooler but still comfortable for hiking, paddling, and swimming. Rain is always a possibility in Croatia so it is essential to bring adequate rain wear and a warm jacket in case of inclement weather.
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A full gear list and pre-departure information is sent upon sign-up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, this will help you and the field staff.
Weather
We have scheduled our departures to avoid mid-summer heat while still traveling during periods that typically offer abundant sunshine. Weather in Croatia in May, June and September is mostly warm and sunny, with average daytime temperatures around 80°F and nighttime temperatures around 60°F.
Gear Checklist
- Kayaks/rafts, life jackets and related gear
- 24-speed hybrid bikes and helmets
- Group first aid kit
- Valid passport
- Airline tickets
- Medium size duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase
- Daypack (1,600 – 2,500 cu. in.) to carry your camera, water bottles, lunch and extra clothing
- Luggage tags and luggage locks
- Passport or money pouch
- Bring a few lightweight, casual, easily washable items for travel and daily wear
- Hiking pants, light weight
- Hiking shorts, synthetic
- Long-sleeve shirts
- T-shirts (at least 2 synthetic)
- Hiking socks
- Liner socks
- Casual socks
- Underwear
- Swimwear
- Sun hat with brim
- Bandana
- Lightweight rain jacket, waterproof and breathable
- Light to mid-weight fleece jacket or sweater
- Lightweight hiking boots or cross-training shoes with a stiff sole for cycling, hiking, and walking
- Water sandals/shoes for rafting and kayaking
- Travel / casual evening shoes
- Two one-quart water bottles or hydration pack
- Watch with alarm or travel clock
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Sunblock and lip balm
- Lightweight travel towel
- Toiletry kit
- Personal first-aid kit
- Hand sanitizer gel
- Insect repellent
- Camera, memory cards and spare batteries
- Waterproof camera for kayaking
- Electronics/battery charger
- Spare contact lenses or glasses
- Reading and writing materials
- Travel pillow
- Ear plugs
- Several Ziploc plastic bags
- Electrical adapter plug / converter
Things to Consider
- Please remember to always pack essential items such as your passport, money, eyewear, a change of clothing, hiking boots and medications in your carry-on baggage, in case your luggage is delayed.
- Cotton is wonderful in warm weather. However, once it becomes wet from rain, water, or sweat, it will drain your body heat. Bring quick-drying synthetics such as Capilene, MTS and Thermax.
- Always test your layers before a trip. Your outer layer should fit easily over the inside ones without binding and bunching up.
- Make sure hiking boots are broken in. Bring moleskin for foot treatment. Thin liner socks worn under regular hiking socks may minimize the risk of blisters. The liner sock should be synthetic, not cotton. Test your sock combination before you go on the trip.
- Stuff sacks are great for sorting gear. Use different sizes/colors to differentiate contents.
- Laundry facilities are not readily available during this trip. We suggest hand washing quick-drying clothing items in your hotel room. Bringing individual detergent packets and a travel clothes-line is useful.
- When visiting some churches in Croatia, it is necessary to reasonably cover your arms and legs. Beachwear and tank tops are not appropriate attire; shorts should be of mid-thigh length or longer.
- Required gear for paddling and cycling is provided.
- If joining the Dubrovnik extension, there are no special or additional clothing needs
Feel free to give us a call at (800) 622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out www.rei.com/learn. The Expert Advice section on our "Learn" page has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
- Guides (24)
- Activity level (21)
- Food (21)
- Group camaraderie (21)
- Well organized itinerary (20)
Cons
- Accommodations (3)
- Activity level (3)
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Casual adventurer (19), Avid adventurer (9)
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active adventures (25), All the details planned for me (23), Destination (23), I liked the itinerary (21), Travel with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts (17)
Reviewed by 28 customers
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Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
We were lucky enough to have the excellent Robby as our guide. His professionalism, attention to detail, sense of humor and great overall personality really made the trip for the whole group. He led us through his country, showing us all the big and small treasures it has to offer and giving us the crazy convoluted history of the region, which only served to make us more inquisitive about the areas we visited. The hiking, biking, kayaking and canoeing were great (I have never been in such blue water). We were even treated to a day aboard a 44' catamaran sailing around islands in the Dubrovnik area--stopping for swim breaks, checking out caves and just relaxing (what an unexpected treat at the end of our journey). All the activities create such a team spirit which only enhances the overall experience. The side trips that are not on the itinerary were the best! The organization and care that we were all handled with was amazing. We never had to worry about a single detail (including our safety)--we just had to show up when/where told. And have I mentioned the food? Crazy fresh and good! I've been having withdrawals since I got home. And my #1 favorite thing--making a new lifelong friend in my assigned roommate (we're already researching our next REI trip together). Try as I might I can't think of a single negative (unless you count the fact that my vacation had to end). I HIGHLY recommend this trip to anyone/everyone interested.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Safety for solo traveler, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- First I looked at the types of activities I would like to participate in and the multisport seemed to fit the bill. Then I saw the photos of Croatia...you couldn't sign me up fast enough!
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- I can't pick just one. Each and every day had at least one very special moment/event that was different from all others.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- If your guide makes any suggestions for side trips and/or activities--DO IT--even if you're a little tired. You will not be disappointed.
Pros
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
I have traveled the world extensively, but this is only my 3rd group trip and I am glad I did it. It was well organized, well thought out from the locations, the food, the pace, etc etc. And our guides were excellent! It was a very stress free way to enjoy such a beautiful part of the world.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- All the Details Planned for Me, I Liked the Itinerary
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- TIming & location. My friend & I had a certain window of time to go, and she knew how stunning the coast was in Croatia. Plus, neither of us had the time to plan a trip.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The guides, and the local food/meals (grappa?!?) gave it a special flavor hard to get without a local connection. The other travelers in my group were also wonderful & made the trip more fun. Meeting so many local people was a highlight. A one lunch the two cooks not only shared the traditional cooking methods for the meal, but after the meal they sang us traditional Croatian songs!
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Be prepared to be part of a group. Ours group ended up being very social together, which was well received by the whole group. Even on nights where we could go out on our own, we often ended up at the same restaurants.Do not miss Dubrovnik. It's is a stunningly beautiful & interesting city.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
Croatia is a beautiful country of diverse landscapes and interesting history. Our guides were truly professional yet warm and we all felt very safe with them, regardless of circumstances. The food was much better than I had been expecting, with lots of fresh vegetables and homemade fare.
On occasion, the guides were unable to answer natural history-related questions (e.g., plant ID, geology).
Some of the sights I saw were unlike anything I had seen before.
This trip was the best of the four I have been on, yet each of the others was fantastic.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Actually, my husband selected the trip based on ratings, location, and activity level.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Although the entire trip was a highlight, the single event I will remember most is the laughing fit we had one night after dinner when B*** of our group came up to the van window begging for spare change.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Compared to Level 3 for Ireland, Greece, and Belize, this trip was slightly more demanding. Some of the beds in the lodging are quite low to the ground, so be prepared. Remember to bring your own facecloth and shampoo/conditioner as these amenities are not provided. If the guides recommend an activity not otherwise on the itinerary, do it! The Dubrovnik extension was WELL WORTH it.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
My favorite things about this trip were:
- The guides sharing their knowledge of the history of the area (also, the two that we had were teenagers during the war in Croatia and it was amazing to hear them recount it).
- The home-cooked food was incredible! I couldn't get enough!
- The landscape and scenery was amazing. Croatia has the best waterfalls I've ever scene and more history than I ever would have imagined.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- We were looking for a pre-planned trip to Croatia for our honeymoon, and thought it would be fun to spend it with other outdoor enthusiasts.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The homestyle food was incredible and the guides were wonderful. Everything was planned out to the letter, making it a very relaxing and fun-filled adventure.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Go on this trip - you won't regret it. A few packing tips - bring gloves for the kayaking...and an empty stomach. The food is AMAZING! Also, I recommend doing the Dubrovnik extension. Some of the best parts of the trip are on there -- Split, Dubrovnik, and island kayaking!
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
The guides were knowledgeable, affable and capable. There was a great group dynamic. The outdoor activities were excellent. It was not difficult to be vegetarian on this trip.
Did not feel that trips to the monasteries were not necessary. There was very little down time.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Have heard wonderful things about Croatia. Enjoyed my trip to Costa Rica so I figured it would be a great way to explore this country
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- kayaking in the Adriatic sea.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- bring plenty of sunscreen and a pair of bike shorts. Go on some long hikes and with significant elevation gains in preparation.
Pros
- Awesome sights and smells
- Didn't have to plan anyth
- Different sport each day
- Great guides
- No sleeping in
- Unbelievable food
- Unexpected surprises
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
Loved the food - although if you're a vegitarian the options are limited. All accomodations were very different offering different experiences- some more comfortable than other but ALL very clean and well cared for. The hosts for our meals, activities and accomodations were very warm and friendly. The guides did an expert job of preparing you for the following days activities and I didn't have to think about anything. I just showed up with sunscreen, backpack and water.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Croatia seemed an unusual destination. It offered so many different things to see and do. I love the multi-sport and being in the mountains one day and on the sea the next. The country is friendly and not too tourist-filled ..yet!
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The little surprise destination each day that wern't in the itinery. We seemed to "stumble upon" very cool hideouts, ravines,caves etc..
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Go soon - before Croatia becomes over-populated with tourists.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Home visits
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Transportation
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
- Broken bike flat tires
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
We had an unscheduled catamaraan trip to Korkula island which was a pleasant surprise. I took the last trip of the season, so we had too many heavy rain days. Earlier Sept. trips recommended. It would have been nice to have had one free/unplanned day between the main trip and the extension,(i.e. Split) to do whatever one wished.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Croatia is highly rated by adventure magazines. I'm a solo traveler. Since I didn't speak Croatian and wanted to do lots of paddling and hiking, I chose this trip because it was cost-effective, toured most of the main sights, and provided lots of adventure.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- Hiking in Paklenica National Park and visiting Mario's stone homestead was truly wonderful, as was Mario's traditionally-cooked meal and lively conversation. The next best highlight was traveling with two wonderful, humorous guides, Brandimer and Misca. The river paddles were especially fun....awesome scenery.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Take the Dubrovnik extension. Also plan to spend a day before the trip in Zagreb on a bike tour of the city. Rent a car and drive to Rovinj on the Istrian coast, see the Roman ampitheater in Pula and take a day boat tour to Venice.
Pros
- Beautiful scenery
- Group Camaraderie
Cons
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Day activities ended late
- Fell Short of Expectations
- Food
- Guides
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Too much time in van
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
Village accomodations were spartan and meals were served in a 2-sided outdoor hut in the cold/rain. Unable to bike due to rain (even though is stopped raining by lunchtime) and alternative activity was a 3 hour van ride to see bears in captivity (not an adventure, not a sport). Most daily activities took much longer than guides estimated so arrival at hotels and dinners were really late, leaving little time to see the towns. River kayaks were poor quality.
We have taken 2 other REI Adventure trips and they were much better values - great guides, excellent accomodations, too much great food, and activities were contracted out to outstanding providers.
I would highly recommend seeing Croatia. It is a must-see country. And I would do another REI adventure, but likely do more a more thorough investigation before signing up.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Commitment to Sustainability, Destination, Good Value, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- Wanted to see the country. It fit into our time schedule. Wanted a trip at Activity Level 3. Appealing mix of activities.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- The scenery - Croatia is a beautiful county.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Much of the itinerary you could do on your own. Croatia is a very friendly, clean, safe-feeling country.
Pros
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Quality Equipment Provided
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
The group dynamic and guides on our trip really enhanced the experience for me. I really enjoyed combining both trips as I really felt like I got to see a lot of the country.
Only 1 hotel had a blow dryer so you may want to bring your own if you need one.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, All the Details Planned for Me, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Travel with Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- I had seen a few travel shows on Croatia and had been wanting to go for a few years.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- There were so many!! All the beautiful parks and rivers we went to along with the charming and stunning towns (Trogir, Mostar, Split, Dubrovnik). The great group of travelers we had and the AMAZING guides, Roby and Branemir! The unique lunch places we ate at on this trip really stood out and were a highlight along with all the great food.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Do the Dubrovnik extention along with Croatia multisport. You really get to see a lot of the country that way.
Pros
- Accommodations
- Activity Level
- Exceeded Expectations
- Food
- Group Camaraderie
- Guides
- Once in a Lifetime Experience
- Well Organized Itinerary
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about REI Adventures Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension:
We enjoyed all of the activities. July is a warm time of year, but we did not miss out on any of the scheduled activities due to weather.
- Why Did You Choose to Travel with REI Adventures?:
- Active Adventures, Destination, I Liked the Itinerary, Recommended by a Friend
- Why did you choose this trip?:
- The itinerary fit what we were looking for; a friend had done the trip and Dubrovnik Extension two years ago and thought it was excellent. This trip met my expectations of a level 3 trip.
- What was the highlight of your trip?:
- There were several. The home cooked meals (lunches and the Korana Village stay) were fabulous. From an activity perspective, the hike in Paklenica national Park was outstanding.
- What would be your advice to potential travelers?:
- Be flexible. With a wide range of personalities and capabilities in the group, things are not always going to happen as you expect. Our guide was fantastic and made an effort to accomodate everyone.
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Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension Video
Croatia Multisport and Dubrovnik Extension
For guests booked on the Croatia Multisport adventure, we invite you to extend your trip to enjoy even more of this great area.
Dubrovnik Hiking & Kayaking Extension
Activity: Hiking, Sea Kayaking, Canoeing
Following the Croatia Multisport, continue your adventure with this active extension that showcases the natural beauty of Croatia's southern coast. Highlights include:
- Exploring Diocletian's Palace near Split
- Hiking in the stunning Dinaric Alps
- Discovering the stone city of Mostar on an excursion to Bosnia-Herzegovina
- Kayaking the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic
- Wandering the fortressed city of Dubrovnik, a World Heritage site with some of the best-preserved city walls in the world




















