The Zrmanja River Canyon is one of Croatia’s most spectacular natural wonders and one of the most beautiful endings of the rivers in Croatia. This canyon is famous for its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations. Located in the Dalmatian hinterland, Zrmanja Canyon has attracted many adventurers, nature lovers, and even filmmakers through the past decades.
I used to work as an adventure guide on the upper part of the Zrmanja River, the part where kayaking and rafting tours are being organized. On a few occasions, I had a chance to kayak the lower part of the Zrmanja River, straight through the canyon we’re writing about in this article. And if you were to ask me what part of Zrmanja I like more, I would need a few moments to think about the answer. Still, it would be hard for me to answer this question since both parts of Zrmanja are unique and present you with a totally different landscape.
The upper part of Zrmanja is narrow and has rapids as well as calmer sections. This section is perfect for all kinds of adventure tours such as kayaking or rafting. On the other hand, the lower part of the Zrmanja River is wide, and high canyon cliffs rise from both sides of it.
It’s something magnificent to witness. Let’s explore it further.
Where is the Zrmanja River Canyon Located? The Zrmanja River Canyon is located in the Zadar County region of Croatia, about an hour’s drive from the city of Zadar. The lower part of the canyon stretches toward the Adriatic Sea near the town of Obrovac, while the upper section meanders through untouched nature and has lots of rapids and waterfalls. This diversity of the Zrmanja River makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and bit of adventure.
The Zrmanja River finally meets its end in the Adriatic Sea near the town of Novigrad. I had a chance to kayak from Novigrad to the Zrmanja River mouth on a few occasions and this also is a great kayaking adventure and a way to explore the Zrmanja River Canyon.
Why Visit the Zrmanja River Canyon? From the images we attached to this article, you’ll immediately see why Zrmanja River Canyon is a popular destination among many different groups. It simply attracts with its landscape and opportunities for many different activities.
Here’s what to expect if you plan to visit this marvel of Croatian nature:
Stunning Scenery : The Zrmanja River Canyon is renowned for its rising cliffs, turquoise water color, and overall serene environment. Its beauty has earned it the nickname “The Hidden Jewel of Dalmatia.”Filming Location for Winnetou Winnetou movies, which were based on Karl May’s novels. Fans of the films can recognize iconic spots where scenes were shot and many of them visit this canyon because of it. There are many other nearby locations that served as a backdrop for this famous movie.Varied Activities : From peaceful boat tours to more adrenaline-based kayaking adventures, the Zrmanja River is an activity for anyone.Rich Biodiversity : The river and its surroundings are home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. For a long time, there was a playful dolphin living at the Zrmanja River Mouth and it was a usual sight for anyone passing by a boat.
The Lower Zrmanja Canyon: Serene Boat Tours and Breathtaking Views The lower part of the Zrmanja River Canyon is characterized by its still waters and rising limestone cliffs. It’s an excellent location for relaxing boat tours that allow visitors to soak in the natural beauty through the panoramic ride.
Highlights of the Lower Canyon
Rising Cliffs : The main attraction of the Zrmanja Canyon is its cliffs, which rise steeply directly from the riverbanks.Sandy beaches on the banks : The Zrmanja River is famous for its clean water, and river banks are easily accessible if you want to take a swim. From the images we attached, you’ll see that the Zrmanja River is deepest in the middle of the canyon while it’s pretty shallow on the banks.Filming Locations : Explore the sites where Winnetou was filmed and try to find the exact parts of the canyon which were used as the backdrop for this movie.
Zrmanja Canyon Boat Tours Boat tours through the lower canyon are a perfect way to experience the beauty of this landscape. Tour operators typically offer panoramic boat trips that last for 1-2 hours, and pass through the most scenic sections of the river.
What to Expect :
Relaxing panoramic boat rides with opportunities to take photos and just enjoy the environment from the best perspective.
Stops at points of interest, such as waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.
Tips :
Book your boat tour in advance, especially during the summer season since it’s a popular activity to do in the area.
Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Take a swimming suit with you too and enjoy the fresh water of the Zrmanja River.
Featured Zrmanja boat tours
The Upper Zrmanja River: A Haven for Kayaking and Adventure The upper part of the Zrmanja River is a bit different than its lower part. It is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and I have worked as a kayaking guide for one season there. I kayaked down the upper part of the Zrmanja River more than 70 times and trust me when I say that it’s one of the best activities to enjoy in whole of Croatia . Upper Zrmanja River has fast-flowing rapids, cascades, and stunning surrounding landscape, and it’s particularly popular for kayaking and rafting tours. Packrafting on the Zrmanja River is a novelty and another great way to enjoy this beautiful river.
Highlights of the Upper Zrmanja River
Zrmanja Kayaking Adventures : Kayak through thrilling rapids and calm stretches, all that while being surrounded by untouched nature and one of the most stunning natural wonders in Croatia .Waterfalls and Cascades : The upper river features several small waterfalls (and a few larger ones) that add excitement to the journey and make this river even more beautiful.Biodiversity : Keep an eye out for native wildlife while kayaking or rafting on the Zrmanja River, including birds and fish.
Kayaking Tours on the Zrmanja River As I already mentioned, I had a chance to spend one summer working as a kayaking guide on the Zrmanja River and it was among the most unique summers of my life. Each day consisted of kayaking down the Zrmanja River and spending all of my time living by the river and of the river. This season was something that started our story with an adventure travel agency in Croatia .
Nowadays, numerous tour operators offer guided kayaking experiences on the upper Zrmanja River . These tours are open to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers so don’t worry if you have no previous kayaking experience. Zrmanja is easy and you’ll have a lot of fun kayaking down it.
What to Expect :
Zrmanja kayak tours usually last 3-4 hours and include all necessary equipment.
Professional guides take care of your safety and provide interesting insights about the area.
All kayaking and rafting tours on the Zrmanja River start at Kaštel Žegarski near Obrovac
Tips :
Wear quick-drying clothes and water shoes.
Bring a swimsuit, hat, sunscreen and a lot of water.
Book these tours in advance to secure a spot during the busy summer months.
Winnetou Movie: A Cinematic Legacy The unique landscape of Zrmanja River Canyon gained international fame as a filming location for the Winnetou movie series which were based on Karl May’s novels about the Wild West. These films were produced in the 1960s and brought the American Wild West to life using the stunning landscapes of Croatia as a backdrop. The lower part of the Zrmanja River Canyon, with its high cliffs and turquoise waters, provided the perfect backdrop for some of the most iconic scenes in the movies.
Today, fans of the movies can visit these filming sites and relive the magic of the famous Winnetou . Guided tours often include insights into the filming process and behind-the-scenes stories, making it a must-visit for movie lovers.
Best Time to Visit the Zrmanja River Canyon Zrmanja River Canyon is a great location all year round. Since there is almost no vegetation in the canyon, its nature is almost identical throughout the year. Still, some periods are better than others, depending on what you’re looking to get out of your visit. If you want to book a boat tour through Zrmanja Canyon, for example, then winter is not the best option for you since the boat tours are not being organized at this time. The same goes for the kayaking and rafting tours on the upper part of the Zrmanja River.
Here’s what to expect out of each season:
Spring (April to June) : The river is at its fullest after rains and snow melting. This makes it ideal for kayaking and rafting tours on the Zrmanja River.Summer (July to August) : Warm weather and calm waters are perfect for boat tours and swimming in the lower part, as well as for kayaking or packrafting tours in the upper part.Autumn (September to October) : Perfect for enjoying cooler temperatures and less visitors, with the beauty of autumn vibrant colors.
How to Reach the Zrmanja River Canyon Zrmanja River Canyon stretches from the city of Obrovac (a bit northern from the city) to the Novigrad sea (Novigradsko more) and there are many different spots you can visit in order to enjoy the magnificence of the Zrmanja landscape.
By Car : The Zrmanja Canyon is easily accessible by car from Zadar (approximately 1 hour) or Split (approximately 2 hours). The most famous locations and viewpoints are marked on Google Maps and there are parking spots available nearby.Public Transport : Buses to the nearby town of Obrovac are available, but with very limited schedule. Even then, you need some other kind of transportation in order to explore the rest of the canyon. If you are arriving by bus to Obrovac, then there are some tours that start in Obrovac and explore the Zrmanja River so you can book them there.Guided Tours : Many operators organize day trips to the Zrmanja Canyon from popular tourist places like Zadar and Split. These are great if you want to enjoy a carefree experience of the Zrmanja River and canyon.
Tips for Visiting the Zrmanja River Canyon As we reach to the end of this article and you have fallen in love with the Zrmanja Canyon, here are just few more things to think about when visiting it.
Dress Comfortably : Wear proper shoes for walking to the viewpoints and bring swimming clothes for kayaking or swimming in Zrmanja.Stay Hydrated : Bring plenty of water if you are visiting during summer months. There are no facilities at all at most parts of the canyon so pack snacks and water.Pack Essentials : Don’t forget sunscreen, light clothes, and a hat. Stay safe from the sun and heat. There’s nothing worse than getting sunburnt.Respect Nature : Stick to marked trails and avoid leaving litter to help preserve the canyon’s beauty. Always follow Leave No Trace principles when visiting natural wonders around the world.
Nearby Attractions Zrmanja River Canyon is great. Absolutely stunning. But why not combine it with some other nearby attractions? Here are a few of our recommendations:
Krupa River : A nearby tributary to Zrmanja River known for its waterfalls and peaceful environment. There is a hiking trail to the famous Krupa Monastery that we suggest you visit while exploring Zrmanja.Paklenica National Park : While Zrmanja might feel like it should be a national park, it’s not. But there is one nearby – Paklenica National Park. It also features a large canyon and perfect trails for hiking in Croatia . It’s also the most famous spot for rock climbing in Croatia and one of the most famous rock climbing locations in Europe.Obrovac Town : Explore this small town and enjoy local gastronomy. Many of the Zrmanja River tours start from here too.Tulove Grede: Nearby Tulove Grede is one of the most iconic rocky formations in Croatia. Perfect for hiking and photography. Parts of the already mentioned Winnetou movie were filmed here too.
Before you Venture into the exploration of the Zrmanja Canyon If you are visiting Croatia and staying in the Zadar area, then the Zrmanja River is a must-visit for you. In case you’re looking for places such as this. It’s up to you to choose which parts to visit – depending on whether you’re attracted to adrenaline-driven adventures such as kayaking and rafting, or you want a calmer experience through the boat tours on the Zrmanja River. Either way, through millions of years Zrmanja has carved a landscape worth visiting and enjoying at.
So enjoy your Zrmanja River Canyon experience!
