Cetina River: Outdoor Activities

The Cetina River is a stunning natural wonder located in southern Croatia that runs from its source in the Dinaric Alps to the Adriatic Sea. With emerald-green waters and dramatic canyons, Cetina River tours offer visitors an incredible opportunity to try out a variety of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, rafting and swimming.

The river also boasts several picturesque waterfalls, including the popular Gubavica waterfall, and is also surrounded by lush forests and striking cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for nature enthusiasts.

Here's all you need to know about Cetina River, one of the most exhilarating destinations for outdoor activities in Split.

Where is the Cetina River located?

The Cetina River is located to the northeast of the city of Split in Croatia. The river flows through the rugged countryside of the Dalmatian hinterland, passing by the town of Sinj before reaching the Adriatic Sea near the city of Omiš. Split is approximately 25 kilometers southwest of the Cetina River's estuary, making it an easily accessible day trip destination for visitors to Split.

What are the best things to do in the Cetina River?

The Cetina River is a thrilling playground for outdoor enthusiasts and there is no shortage of adventurous experiences on offer.

Canyoning

Canyoning in the Cetina River near Split is an unforgettable adventure that combines adrenaline-pumping activities with stunning natural surroundings. The Cetina River is one of the most beautiful rivers in Croatia, with crystal clear waters, steep canyons, and cascading waterfalls.

The canyoning experience in this river involves hiking, swimming, jumping, and abseiling down cliffs and waterfalls. It's an ideal activity for nature lovers and adventure seekers who want to get back into nature in the most thrilling way possible.

River Rafting

Rafting in the Cetina River near Split is an exciting and unforgettable experience for adventure seekers. The river's rapids range from Class II to Class III, providing a thrilling ride while still being suitable for beginners and families. The journey takes you through a picturesque canyon surrounded by imposing cliffs and lush vegetation, offering breathtaking.

Along the way, you can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters and exploring hidden caves. Rafting tours are usually led by experienced guides who provide safety equipment, instructions, and interesting information about the history and geography of the area.

Ziplining

Ziplining at the Cetina River in Split is a thrilling way to experience the unparalleled natural beauty of the area. Soar high above the river and through the surrounding canyon, feeling the adrenaline rush as you zip past the trees and cliffs, with the emerald green waters of the Cetina River rushing below. There is no better way to soak in the views of southern Croatia than with this bird’s eye view.

ATV rides

ATV tours and buggy rides can be fun for the whole family as you hit the backroads of Croatia. The drive takes you along the banks of the Cetina River, the perfect way to experience this glorious body of water without getting your hair wet. Head out to the remote corners of Southern Croatia that would otherwise be inaccessible on foot to see the true splendor of the country’s unspoiled nature.

What are the best tours to visit the Cetina River?

Rafting adventure on the Cetina River

This action-packed tour of the Cetina River will get your blood pumping in no time. Half-day rafting tours to the Cetina River include a chance for cliff jumping to test your nerves even further. Transportation to and from Split is often offered for optimal convenience.

Rush down rapids, past waterfalls and into caves as you explore one of the most beautiful rivers in Croatia.  Some tours allow for leisure time to walk around Zadvarje village to shop for some souvenirs and enjoy a riverside barbecue for lunch.

Canyoning along the Cetina River

Scramble over boulders, slide down rapids and walk through tunnels on an exhilarating canyoning adventure along the Cetina River. A comfortable shuttle will take you to Zadvarje to get suited up in a neoprene wetsuit, life vest and helmet. You will get a safety briefing and be whisked away to the starting point for the adventure.

Begin by hiking down the trail and taking in the impressive views of the rock formations and clear pools along the way. Navigate through the canyon by swimming through the pools and clambering from rock to rock. Descend small rapids to access the tunnels that lead to the highest waterfall on the Cetina River - Velika Gubavica. Even more swimming, jumping and climbing awaits before you make your way to the finishing point where a driver waits to take you back to Split.

Cetina River kayak safari

Kayaking down the Cetina River is the perfect way to indulge in the spoils of nature without the inevitable rush of adrenaline that comes with regular outdoor activities. The 3-hour kayak adventure takes you past hidden villages and right to the heart of nature, untouched and unspoiled. The guide offers to tailor the route to suit your needs, including the length and river conditions.

ATV tour at the Cetina River

Head for the mountains outside split and take on the rugged terrain with an ATV buggy or quad bike. This unforgettable adventure can be a private tour or as part of a group adventure and you can choose transportation from Split as an extra service for even more convenience.

Before your ride starts, you will receive quality safety instructions as well as safety gear to wear. Private tours even include lunch at Eagle's Rock mountain hut overlooking the Cetina region. Other highlights on the ATV tour include Zelovo, Lucane, and Sinj all promoting the charm of the Croatian countryside.

Ziplining tour of Cetina River

This enthralling experience gives you a wholly new perspective on Croatia and the Cetina River. Join a small group of zipliners to soar to 8 platforms spread across the valley.

A guide will kit you out with safety equipment and teach you proper ziplining techniques, so even beginners can join in on the fun. There is even a training line to test your skills before you take to the sky. The line is roughly 150 meters in the air, offering you unmatched views served with a healthy dose of adrenaline.

What are the prices of Cetina River tours?

Kayaking tours on the Cetina River typically cost €30 per person, with an extra €10 fee for transportation. Rafting tours cost between €35 and €40 per person, or around €55 with transportation from Split.

For a half-day canyoning tour of the Cetina River, expect to pay €70 per person or €95 including return transportation to Split.

ATV and buggy tours along the Cetina River are typically priced at €100 per person for the group activity or €190 per person for a private tour.

Zip lining tours, which include transportation, usually cost €110 per person.

Where do Cetina River tours start?

There are different meeting points for the adventurous activities on the Cetina River. You will most likely meet at the tour operator’s office or the starting point for the activity, but some tours offer transportation from Split as an optional extra.

When is the best time to visit the Cetina River?

The best time to visit the Cetina River is during the late spring, summer, and early fall months (May to October), when the weather is warm and pleasant. For water-based activities, the ideal time to visit would be between June and August, when the water levels are usually higher, and the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you might encounter larger crowds.

If you're more interested in hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area, you might prefer visiting in late spring (May) or early fall (September and October). During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, which could make for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.

Travel tips

• Plan ahead the activities you want to do, such as rafting, canyoning, or hiking, and make any necessary reservations in advance. This ensures that you have a spot, especially during peak season.
• Many activities around the Cetina River can be physically demanding. Make sure you're in good physical condition before participating and always follow safety guidelines provided by tour operators.
• Bring enough water and snacks for your day trips, especially when engaging in outdoor activities, to maintain your energy levels and stay hydrated.
• Although the weather is generally pleasant during the peak season, it can still be unpredictable. Pack a light rain jacket and dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions.