Kayaking on the Gacka River near Otočac

Paddle at your own pace with river kayak rental in from Otočac.

Discover the 5 Bridge Route on the namesake waterway that runs through the Gacka Valley. Neighbouring the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, renting a kayak is the ideal way to cruise through the Croatian countryside, discovering ancient customs and flourishing wildlife.

Location
Otočac is situated in the Gacka Valley on the banks of the Gacka River. The river runs 61km into the Adriatic Sea and once was at the heart of pre-industrial industry with over 20 working mills. A category I river with no rapids or fast-moving currents, it has lots of bridges, pontoons and bathing areas.

Activity
Head down to the activity centre in Otočac to rent a canoe and spend the day travelling down the Gacka River. A straight, wide and easy to follow section of the river that has become popular with touring rafters and anglers alike, it is one of the best ways to explore the Gacka Valley. Following the 5 Bridge Route from Otočac to Čovići, this rental package includes everything you’ll need for your day including two-seater kayaks, return transport and a short paddling tutorial for total beginners. Once you set off, you’ll have up to three hours to travel along 8km of the river – looking out for traditional mills, wildlife and the landscape – stopping off in one of the bathing areas for a swim! Popular with birders, binoculars are recommended as there are over 50 species of birds in Gacka area (migratory birds and resident birds). Once you reach the final bridge, it’s time to disembark and wait for your shuttle back to the activity base.

Conditions
The Gaka River is considered category I and has no rapids or whitewater which makes it suitable for self-guided paddling. There are many rest stop areas along the way – with pontoons and mooring platforms.