Rafting in Slovenia: Experience the Thrill of White Water Rafting with Licensed Guides – 2024 Review

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Are you looking for the best white water rafting in breathtaking Slovenia?  You’ve come to the right place!  I absolutely love Slovenia for the old-world ambiance mixed with breathtaking Nature, immaculate geranium adorned balconies and chill vibes. 

Emerald Waters & Old World Ambiance Defines Slovenia

I’m so grateful to my cornhole friends from Slovenia bragging about their unspoilt mountains, alpine waterfalls, emerald rivers, unique cuisine and tasty wines.  They convinced me to travel to Lake Bled in summer and we fell in love with this Eastern European mountain and sea paradise.

I’m already planning to go back for a hut to hut hike in the Triglav national park. 😃

Rafting in Slovenia

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Quick Verdict Best Rafting in Slovenia:

Best Rafting Trip in Slovenia - Full Day Exploring Slovenia + Rafting

7 Alpine Wonders Rafting Tour

 

A full day adventure with white water rafting through Slovenia's natural landscapes.

Tour includes a knowledgeable and friendly guide, but it's a long day.


Stops at:

  • Radovna valley
  • Pericnik Waterfall
  • Zgornjesavska Valley
  • Zelenci Nature Reserve
  • Lake Predil
  • Soča Valley
  • Vršič mountain pass
  • Lake Jasna


Soča Valley is a paradise for adventurers, with emerald-colored river and historical significance.


Tour includes a knowledgeable and friendly guide, but it's a long day.


Note: Choose between rafting or zip line, and bring a rain jacket for waterfall stop.

The Soča River, located in the western part of the country, is a particularly popular destination for rafting and is perfect to combine with a trip to the stunning Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

lake bled
is it emerald or turquoise or just magic?

This tiny, super clean country bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia is home to the underrated Julian Alps, which offer a stunning backdrop for white water rafting trips, ziplining, kayaking, and hiking.

*The river has rapids ranging from Class I to Class V, meaning that it can accommodate both beginners with family and experienced rafters.  The waters get tame after the end of June making it great for families. 

If you love adventure combined with culture, read until the end where I share the ultimate 3 country road trip for the best of Croatian beaches, Roman and Venetian culture, and Slovenian mountain adventure from the yet undiscovered cultural hub of Trieste, Italy.

-6 Best Places to Go Rafting in Slovenia

1. Rafting Slovenia Bovec with Photo Package + Jumps

⭐ 4.9/5 Rating (183 reviews)

Rafting on Soča River tour offers a wild experience that you’ll never forget and will even arrange for you to have a private boat for just you and your family and friends.  

The Soča River is the place to be to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Soča Valley while navigating its rapids, waves, and slaloms. And, for the truly adventurous, take the plunge from Penguin Rock or Manhattan.

After signing up for the excursion, meet with your experienced guides and gear up for the adventure. 

Following a brief paddle technique and safety briefing, head over to the rafting base, just a 10-minute drive away. 

Don’t worry about capturing the memories yourself, as your guides will be snapping photos of your experience for you to cherish. Get ready to have an unforgettable experience on the Soča River.

Rafting in Slovenia

“Our initial rafting time-slot happened to fall during bad weather, but we were given the option to postpone to the next day, when weather was supposed to be better. We did so, and ended up rafting on a perfectly sunny Wednesday morning. The rafting included some other activities such as jumping from high rocks, which was new to us and very much appreciated. Our guide Heidar was great and made sure we knew the safety regulations before the start of the rafting trip. Overall we had a great experience and would definitely recommend.”

-Dagmar

🚣 Book Rafting on Soča River 

Important Information

Duration: 3-3.5 hours
Location:
Bovec, Slovenia
Included: wetsuits, neoprene boots, helmet, lifejacket
Minimum Age:
Ask guide
Languages: English, Hungarian

🚣‍♀️ Book Rafting on Soca River


2. Rafting Slovenia Bled – Best for Families

⭐ 4.7/5 Rating (58 reviews)

Bled Slovenia: 3–Hour Rafting Experience offers an easy morning or afternoon rafting experience for families for several reasons.

Safety is a top priority in rafting, and every boat is steered by an expert guide with years of experience and detailed knowledge of the rivers. 

All guests are provided with necessary equipment such as wetsuits, shoes, life jackets, helmets, and paddles. 

Rafting in Slovenia

Before you go, make sure to bring swimwear, a towel, and drinks. This tour is not recommended for participants with medical issues or pregnant women.

It was amazing especially for the kids. The level was perfect. The staff was friendly and amicable. Perfect afternoon apart from the beautiful scenery we experienced during the rafting. Not to be missed – Yanika

🚣 Book Bled Slovenia: 3–Hour Rafting Experience

Important Information

Duration: 3 hours
Location:
Bled, Slovenia
Included:
Hotel pickup and drop off, Wetsuit, life jacket, neoprene booties & gloves, helmet, spray jacket
Minimum Age:
Ask guide. Languages: Slovenian, Croatian, English, Serbian, German, Italian, Russian, Bosnian

🚣 Book Bled Slovenia: 3–Hour Rafting Experience


3. Rafting Slovenia Sava River + Canyoning

⭐ 4.7/5 Rating (25 reviews)

What an adrenaline rush for the entire family.  Lake Bled Rafting + Canyoning Excursion lets you mix white water rafting and canyoning!  Great for first time canyoning. 

Have an unforgettable experience of white water rafting and canyoning while visiting Lake Bled. 

The equipment provided was in excellent condition and included shoes, wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets. 

The enthusiastic guides were very encouraging, especially for those in your group who were a little nervous. 

Prompt pickup from your hotel for both activities and given comprehensive safety instructions. 

The guides also took many photos throughout the activities, so you don’t have to worry about capturing the memories yourself.

The tour guides were really friendly, helpful, fun, and patient. They made sure each one of us is save and had 2 awesome surprises for us at the end which we enjoyed a lot. – Farah

🚣 Book Here —> Book Lake Bled Rafting + Canyoning Excursion

Important Information

Rafting in Slovenia

Duration: 6 hours
Location:
Bled, Slovenia
Included:
Hotel pickup and drop off, Wetsuit, life jacket, neoprene booties & gloves, helmet, spray jacket
Minimum Age:
Kids must be supervised by adult 

Languages: Slovenian, Croatian, English, Serbian, German, Italian, Russian, Bosnian

🚣 Book Lake Bled Rafting + Canyoning Excursion

4. Rafting Slovenia Sava River Rafting Trip

⭐ 4.7/5 Rating (45 reviews)

The Sava River Rafting Trip adventure begins with a pick-up in Bled and a short drive to the Sava River, renowned for its water sports offerings. 

Your experienced guides will give you a comprehensive safety briefing and provide all necessary equipment before you hit the rapids.

The longest river in the region provides plenty of excitement as you navigate through the rapids, assured by the expertise of your licensed guides. 

lake bled

Afterward, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters at the confluence of the Sava Dolinka and Sava Bohinjka headwaters near Radovljica. 

For those seeking an extra thrill, there’s even the option to jump from the rocks.

Our guide was very funny and helpful: diving, getting wet, body surfing and battles between rafts. – Greta

🚣 Book Sava River Rafting Trip 

Important Information

Duration: 3 hours
Location:
Bled, Slovenia
Included:
Hotel pickup and drop off, Wetsuit, life jacket, neoprene booties & gloves, helmet, spray jacket
Minimum Age:
Ask guide. Size of Tour: 32 max

Languages: English, Slovenian, German, Dutch

🚣 Book Sava River Rafting Trip 


5. Bled Rafting and Zipline Tour

⭐ 4.7/5 Rating (5 reviews)

Bled Rafting and Zipline Tour offers an experience of the natural beauty of the Sava River as you embark on a thrilling adventure in the air and on the river.

You will be provided with all the necessary equipment, and the guides will brief you on all the safety instructions before you start your 13-kilometer journey along the Sava Dolinka and Sava rivers. 

soca river slovenia

After two hours of excitement and paddling, you will conclude your rafting experience and can change into dry clothes at the rafting center.

Next, get geared up for an exhilarating zipline experience.  Soar through the air on two 250-meter long cables, take in the breathtaking views of the Sava River and its surroundings. 

Once your zipline adventure is complete, you will be transported back to the original meeting point. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories.

🚣Book Bled Rafting and Zipline Tour

Important Information

Duration: 4 hours
Location:
Bled, Slovenia
Included:
All necessary equipment
Minimum Age:
With adultLanguages: English

🚣 Book Bled Rafting and Zipline Tour


6. The 7 Alpine Wonders All-Inclusive FULL Day Tour with Rafting

⭐ 5/5 Rating (55 reviews)

The 7 Alpine Wonders Tour is an exciting full day adventure that takes visitors on a journey through Slovenia’s stunning natural landscapes. 

The tour starts in Bled and travels through Radovna valley, passing the beautiful Radovna River, and stopping at the Pericnik Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Slovenia. Visitors can take a short walk through a stunning forest to reach the waterfall and enjoy the spectacular view.

The tour then proceeds to the Zgornjesavska Valley, where visitors can catch a view of the Mt. Špik range, and then to the Zelenci Nature Reserve, where the vividly emerald-colored springs of Zelenci are a reminder of a mighty lake that was supposedly there millions of years ago. 

After that, the tour crosses into Italy and arrives at Lake Predil, surrounded by mountains, and steeped in legend.

The highlight of the tour is the Soča Valley, a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The Soča river is famous for its emerald color and was the scene of the First World War. The tour concludes with a visit to the highest mountain pass in Slovenia, the Vršič mountain pass, home to an exceptional girl with a legendary story, and then to Lake Jasna, where visitors can relax and take a refreshing walk around the lake.

🚣 Book the 7 Alpine Wonders Tour  

Alessandra our guide was great. She was friendly, patient and enthusiastic. It’s a long day but worth it. Note you can only do rather the rafting OR the zip line and not both. If you do either you will not have time for lunch do prep accordingly. I would definitely recommend this to anyone. Make sure you have a rain jacket for the waterfall stop in the morning. – Ravi

Important Information

Duration: 8 hours – Maximum 8 people
Location:
Bled, Slovenia
Included: wetsuits, neoprene boots, helmet, lifejacket
Minimum Age:
Ask guide

Languages: English, Slovenian

🚣 Book the 7 Alpine Wonders Tour  

Tips for Rafting in Slovenia

If you’re planning a white water rafting trip in Slovenia, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your adventure:

  • Dress appropriately: You’ll want to wear clothing that dries quickly and is suitable for water activities. Most tour operators provide wetsuits and other necessary equipment, but it’s a good idea to check in advance.
  • Choose the right trip: Be sure to choose a rafting trip that matches your skill level. If you’re a beginner, opt for a trip with Class I or II rapids. If you’re more experienced, you might want to try a trip with Class III or IV rapids.
  • Listen to your guide: Your guide will be an experienced rafter who knows the river and its dangers. Be sure to listen to their instructions and follow their advice.
  • Enjoy the scenery: Waterfalls and white water rafting in Slovenia offers not only an adrenaline rush, but also the chance to take in the stunning natural beauty of the country.

Best Time to go Rafting in Slovenia

What is the best month to go white water rafting in Slovenia?

  • During May and June, rain and melting alpine snow guarantees good water levels with strong currents and big waves. After June, the water level decreases, resulting in a slower, calmer course, ideal for families and the less adventurous.

Slovenia has a sub-Mediterranean climate – meaning it can get pretty hot in summer, but the winters are wetter thereby creating much more green landscape.  It reminds me a bit of the Rockies, except much more lush.

It feels hotter and drier than the Italian or Austrian Alps in summer making dips in Lake Bled or Bohinj very refreshing.    

Keep in mind that both rivers are fed by melting snow from the surrounding Julian Alps, so the season typically runs from April to October. Early in the season, the water can be as chilly as 7 degrees, but it can warm up to around 15 degrees in the summer months. If you can, try to plan your rafting adventure for a sunny day to make the most of the gorgeous scenery.

Pre-booking is advised, but it’s also possible to book on the same day, especially during the shoulder season.

What to Wear and Pack for Rafting in Slovenia

slovenia map

Essentials to bring rafting 

When booking a white water rafting trip, transfers to and from Bovec (or Bohinj or Bled, depending on where you started) to the river, a guide, and all necessary equipment such as wetsuits, water boots, lifejackets, and safety helmets are included. 

You only need to bring a towel, a change of clothes, flip-flops or slide-on shoes, snacks, and a plastic bag for your wet swimwear.

Sava River rafting or Soca River rafting?

Rafting on the Soča River

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Which river should I choose for my rafting adventure?” Well, you’ve got two main options: the Sava River or the Soča River. Both offer turquoise water and breathtaking green scenery with the stunning Julian Mountains in the backdrop. 

It’s hard to go wrong with either one, but your choice will ultimately depend on how “extreme” you want to go and for how long you want to raft.

The Soča River and the Sava River are the two top places for rafting in Slovenia, but Soča River is more challenging and exciting with its class III-IV rapids, making it the ideal option for more thrill seeking adventure lovers.

Having grown up white water rafting in Idaho, I decided to experience the Soča River rafting. While they consider the Sava River as an introduction to white water rafting, even families with older children enjoyed the Soča River course. 

The Soča River is famous for its emerald green water and beautiful scenery. Rafting on this river can be an exhilarating experience, with rapids that will challenge even the most experienced rafters. There are a variety of tour operators in the area that offer guided rafting trips, ranging from half-day to multi-day excursions.

One of the most popular sections of the Soča River for rafting is the stretch between the towns of Bovec and Trnovo ob Soči. This section of the river features rapids of varying difficulty levels, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.Summary : Best White Water Rafting in Slovenia

Slovenia’s white water rafting offers the perfect combination of adventure, culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a beginner, there’s a trip for you on the Soča or Sava River. 

FAQ:

Best City to fly into to go river rafting in Slovenia?

The best city to fly into for river rafting in Slovenia depends on where you plan to go rafting. The country has several rivers and locations that offer river rafting experiences.

If you plan to go rafting in the Soča River, the closest airport is Trieste Airport in Italy, which is about an hour and 45 min drive away. Alternatively, you can fly into Ljubljana Airport, which is about a two hour drive away.

For rafting on the Kolpa River, the best airport to fly into is Zagreb Airport in Croatia, which is about an hour and a half drive away.

If you plan to go rafting on the Sava River, the best airport to fly into is Ljubljana Airport, which is only about a 30-minute drive away.

It’s always best to research the specific location you plan to go rafting and determine the closest airport from there.

Where are the best rafting places in Slovenia?

Slovenia is known for its beautiful rivers and stunning scenery, making it a perfect destination for rafting enthusiasts. Some of the best rafting places in Slovenia include:

Soca River: Located in the Julian Alps, the Soca River is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe. It offers a variety of rafting experiences, from scenic family-friendly trips to more challenging rapids for experienced rafters.

Kolpa River: The Kolpa River is situated on the border between Slovenia and Croatia, and it’s known for its crystal clear water and peaceful surroundings. It’s a great option for those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience.

Savinja River: The Savinja River is located in northern Slovenia and is a popular destination for whitewater rafting. The river offers a range of rapids suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced rafters.

Krka River: The Krka River is located in southeastern Slovenia and is known for its stunning waterfalls and clear water. It offers a range of rafting experiences, from scenic family-friendly trips to more challenging rapids.

Soča Valley: The Soča Valley is home to several rivers, including the Soca River, and offers a range of rafting experiences. It’s a popular destination for rafting enthusiasts due to its stunning scenery and challenging rapids.

These are just a few of the many amazing rafting destinations in Slovenia. No matter which one you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience!

What are the biggest rapids in Europe?

The biggest rapids in Europe are found in the Tara River Canyon in Montenegro, particularly the section known as the “Tear of Europe”.

Is rafting safer than kayaking?

Both rafting and kayaking can be safe or risky, depending on various factors such as the skill level of the participants, the water conditions, and the safety measures taken by the outfitter.

However, in general, rafting can be considered safer than kayaking due to the larger size and stability of the raft, as well as the presence of an experienced guide who can navigate the river and provide safety instructions to the participants. 

Kayaking, on the other hand, requires more skill and experience to control the smaller and more maneuverable vessel, which can increase the risk of accidents if the paddler is not properly trained or equipped.
 
Ultimately, the safety of any water activity depends on the level of preparation, caution, and respect for the natural elements.

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Author profile: Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.