Zadar: Scenic trip to mountains, caves and rivers

Lika-Senj County, Croatia



Let me take you on an exciting full day sightseeing trip, which includes various stops and relatively easy 2h hike, during which we'll visit mountains, caves and rivers of Zadar area.

Velebit Hiking and Cerovac Caves Tour from Zadar

This full-day tour from Zadar is ideal for nature lovers, offering hiking, cave exploration, swimming, and scenic drives in the Velebit mountain range and Zrmanja river area.

Highlights

  • Hiking in the Tulove Grede area of the Velebit range
  • Exploring the Cerovac caves underground
  • Swimming in the clear waters of the Zrmanja river
  • Driving along the historic Master's Road
  • Visiting viewpoints at Maslenica bridges and Zrmanja canyon

Description

The Velebit mountain range is a protected nature park and part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage list. Starting and ending in Zadar, this tour takes place in an air-conditioned vehicle. Visits include viewpoints at the Maslenica bridges and the Zrmanja canyon, known for the location of the Winnetou movies’ Indian village.

Participants will hike approximately two hours on an easy, scenic trail in the Tulove Grede area, featuring interesting rock formations and panoramic views. The drive continues across Velebit via the historic Master's Road, descending into the forested Lika region to visit Cerovac Caves. Cave entry costs €11 for a single cave or €15 for both (€14 and €18 in July and August).

After the caves, the tour crosses Velebit again and descends to the Zrmanja river for a swim in its clear waters during warm summer months. Swimming is not available during spring and autumn due to cold water.

Includes

  • Guiding
  • Driving costs

Excludes

  • Entry to Cerovac caves (€13-€17)
  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim in the Zrmanja river; swim shoes are optional.
  • Use sunscreen and wear a hat or cap if sensitive to the sun.
  • You can bring your own food and drinks; the tour stops at a bakery shortly after leaving Zadar.
  • Wear sandals for easy viewpoints but sport shoes (sneakers/trainers) are required for hiking and cave visits.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book this tour in advance for best availability. The ideal visit time for swimming is during summer months when water temperatures are suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes hiking in the Tulove Grede area, exploring Cerovac caves, swimming in the Zrmanja river, and scenic drives along the Master's Road with visits to viewpoints like Maslenica bridges.
The Velebit mountain range is in Croatia and is a protected nature park, part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Yes, the tour allows swimming in the clear waters of the Zrmanja river.
The hiking in the Tulove Grede area is suitable for most fitness levels, offering moderate trails in the Velebit mountains.
Yes, Cerovac caves are accessible with guided exploration, but be prepared for underground walking and some uneven surfaces.
The tour is best enjoyed during the warmer months; check the website for current availability and seasonal conditions.
The scenic drive follows the historic Master's Road, including stops at viewpoints like Maslenica bridges and Zrmanja canyon.
Basic hiking gear and comfortable shoes are recommended; the tour provider usually supplies necessary safety equipment for cave exploration.
The tour is generally suitable for older children and seniors with reasonable fitness, but check specific age or health requirements on the website.
It is a full-day tour, running several hours including hiking, cave visits, swimming, and scenic stops.

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Croatia is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.