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Kayaking Slovenia
Slovenia is a world-class destination for outdoor lovers, and kayaking Slovenia is one of the best ways to explore its wild beauty. From turquoise whitewater rapids to serene alpine lakes, Slovenia offers unforgettable kayaking experiences for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to paddling or an experienced kayaker, this guide will help you plan your perfect trip.
Navigate this page:
| Kayaking vs. Canoeing | Kayaking | Canoeing |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | Double-bladed | Single-bladed |
| Sitting position | Legs forward | Kneeling or sitting |
| Cockpit | Enclosed or open | Usually open |
| Speed & Control | Faster and more agile | Slower, more stable |
Check differences: Kayaking vs. Canoeing
| Kayaking vs. Canoeing | Kayaking | Canoeing |
|---|---|---|
| Paddle | Double-bladed | Single-bladed |
| Sitting position | Legs forward | Kneeling or sitting |
| Cockpit | Enclosed or open | Usually open |
| Speed & Control | Faster and more agile | Slower, more stable |
What is Kayaking?
Kayaking is a water sport where you sit in a narrow, closed or open-top boat (called a kayak) and paddle using a double-bladed paddle. It differs from canoeing, where the boat is open and paddled from a kneeling or seated position using a single-bladed paddle. In Slovenia, both kayaking and canoeing are popular, and many rental centres offer both options.
Kayaking Tradition in Slovenia
Slovenia has a strong kayaking culture, particularly in whitewater slalom. The country has produced several Olympic medalists, including
- Benjamin Savšek (C1) and
- Peter Kauzer (K1).
Slovenia has won over 10 medals in international competitions, including World Championships and the Olympics. Major training sites include Tacen (Ljubljana) and the Soča River, which is also Slovenia’s most iconic kayaking destination.
Kayaking Slovenia: Rivers Comparison
There are 20+ recognised kayaking sections across Slovenia. Some are regulated for sport, others for tourism. Here are popular rivers and their estimated number of trails:
| Overview of Rivers and Lakes for Paddling in Slovenia | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| River/Lake | Location | Difficulty | Type | Trails | Scenery | Best For |
| Soča | Bovec | Medium–Hard | Whitewater (Class II–IV) | 10+ | Alpine, turquoise | Adrenaline lovers |
| Sava Dolinka | Bled area | Easy–Medium | Calm to moderate | 5+ | Forested & scenic | Beginners |
| Sava Bohinjka | Bled area | Easy – Medium | Class I–II | 2-3 | Forested & scenic | Recreationals |
| Kolpa | SE Slovenia | Easy | Easy/flatwater | 10+ (multi-day) | Nature, border river | Multi-day paddlers |
| Savinja | Upper Savinja Valley | Medium | Whitewater (Class II–III) | 4–5 | Valley & gorges | Intermediate paddlers |
| Krka | Dolenjska | Easy | Calm river | 5 | Caves, castles | Family trips |
| Lake Bohinj | NW Slovenia | Easy | Flatwater | 2–3 | Alpine lake, peaceful | Nature lovers, beginners |
| Lake Bled | NW Slovenia | Easy | Flatwater | 2–3 | Iconic island, castle | Couples, relaxed paddlers |
| Drava | Eastern Slovenia | Easy | Long river, flat | 5+ | Rural landscapes | Touring, less touristic |
Kayaking Slovenia: Rivers Comparison
There are 20+ recognised kayaking sections across Slovenia. Some are regulated for sport, others for tourism. Here are popular rivers and their estimated number of trails:
Overview of Rivers and Lakes for Paddling in Slovenia
| Overview of Rivers and Lakes for Paddling in Slovenia | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| River/Lake | Location | Difficulty | Type | Trails | Scenery | Best For |
| Soča | Bovec | Medium–Hard | Whitewater (Class II–IV) | 10+ | Alpine, turquoise | Adrenaline lovers |
| Sava Dolinka | Bled area | Easy–Medium | Calm to moderate | 5+ | Forested & scenic | Beginners |
| Sava Bohinjka | Bled area | Easy – Medium | Class I–II | 2–3 | Forested & scenic | Recreationals |
| Kolpa | SE Slovenia | Easy | Easy/flatwater | 10+ (multi-day) | Nature, border river | Multi-day paddlers |
| Savinja | Upper Savinja Valley | Medium | Whitewater (Class II–III) | 4–5 | Valley & gorges | Intermediate paddlers |
| Krka | Dolenjska | Easy | Calm river | 5 | Caves, castles | Family trips |
| Lake Bohinj | NW Slovenia | Easy | Flatwater | 2–3 | Alpine lake, peaceful | Nature lovers, beginners |
| Lake Bled | NW Slovenia | Easy | Flatwater | 2–3 | Iconic island, castle | Couples, relaxed paddlers |
| Drava | Eastern Slovenia | Easy | Long river, flat | 5+ | Rural landscapes | Touring, less touristic |
Kayaking near Bled: Sava Dolinka and Sava Bohinjka
Bled is a great place to go kayaking on the Sava Riverr because it offers easy access to calm and scenic stretches of water, perfect for beginners and families. The upper part of the Sava Dolinka near Bled features gentle currents and stunning alpine surroundings, making it ideal for relaxed paddling and learning the basics of kayaking.
Local outdoor centres provide high-quality equipment and guided tours, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
Sava Bohinjka Kayaking Trails
The Sava Bohinjka is shorter and typically calmer than the Soča or Savinja, but still offers several enjoyable paddling trails,
especially during spring and early summer when water levels are higher.
Trail 1: Lake Bohinj → Bohinjska Bistrica
- Type: Flatwater to gentle current
- Difficulty: Easy (Class I)
- Distance: ~6 km
- Highlights: Paddle out of Lake Bohinj, through forested surroundings; calm and ideal for beginners or family tours.
Trail 2: Bohinjska Bistrica → Soteska
- Type: Moving water, light rapids
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (Class I–II)
- Distance: ~8–10 km
- Highlights: A more adventurous route with faster flow, small rapids, and occasional obstacles. Best paddled in late spring.
⚠️ Note: In dry summer months, the Bohinjka can be too shallow for kayaking, especially in its middle and lower sections.
Trail 3: Soteska → Confluence with Sava Dolinka
- Type: Mixed (depends on water level)
- Difficulty: Moderate (Class II)
- Distance: ~7–9 km
- Remarks: This trail is less used for commercial tours due to variable water conditions, but it offers a remote and natural setting.
Sava Dolinka Kayaking Trails
The Sava Dolinka is more frequently used for kayaking tours, particularly near Bled. It’s slightly longer and flows from the north,
collecting alpine waters before joining the Bohinjka.
Trail 1: Podhom (near Vintgar Gorge) → Bled Plain
- Type: Easy paddling with gentle current
- Difficulty: Class I
- Distance: ~5–6 km
- Highlights: Forested banks, birdlife, and peaceful rural scenery—ideal for relaxing, scenic tours.
Trail 2: Bled Plain → Radovljica
- Type: Calm to moving water
- Difficulty: Class I–II
- Distance: ~6–8 km
- Highlights: Slightly faster section; popular for fun kayaking tours from Bled. Often includes small rapids, bridge crossings, and views of the Karavanke mountains.
Trail 3: Radovljica → Confluence with Sava Bohinjka (merging into Sava River)
- Type: Medium flow, wider river
- Difficulty: Class II
- Distance: ~5 km
- Remarks: Typically done as a continuation of longer routes. Offers good access for take-out and returns.
Bled Kayaking: Ready to experience Slovenia from a new perspective?
Paddle through alpine scenery, gentle rapids, and peaceful stretches of nature with a guided tour on the Sava River.
Book your Sava River kayaking adventure today – perfect for families, beginners, and nature lovers!
Top Reasons to Kayak Soca River in the Alps
- The Soca River is famous for its emerald-green water and dramatic alpine setting, making it one of the most picturesque places in Europe to kayak Soca. With rapids ranging from easy to challenging, it offers thrilling options for all skill levels.
- Whether you’re joining a guided tour or heading out on your own, choosing to kayak Soca means immersing yourself in crystal-clear waters, steep gorges, and unforgettable scenery in the heart of Triglav National Park.
- Thanks to excellent infrastructure, safety-focused guides, and breathtaking natural surroundings, there’s no better place to experience whitewater kayaking in Slovenia than to kayak Soca.
Soca Kayaking: Looking for an adrenaline-filled water adventure in the Alps?
Dive into the crystal-clear rapids of Slovenia’s most iconic river.
Book your Soča River kayaking tour now – and experience the thrill of paddling through turquoise canyons and wild whitewater!
Kayaking Slovenia: How Dangerous Is It?
Kayaking is generally safe when done properly.
- Flatwater = Low risk, suitable for all
- Whitewater = Medium to high risk, depending on experience
- Dangers: capsizing, hitting rocks, strong currents
Accidents usually occur due to:
- Overestimating skill level
- Not wearing a helmet or life jacket
- Sudden weather changes
- Poor navigation or group management
Most Common Kayaking Mistakes
- Not dressing appropriately (cotton gets cold when wet)
- Forgetting sunscreen and water
- Not listening to guides
- Panicking after a capsize
Always wear a life jacket and helmet. Guided tours include a safety briefing and equipment check.
Are you looking for a unique experience? Try Cave Kayaking!
At Mežica, beneath Mount Peca, former lead and zinc mine shafts have flooded since the mine’s closure in 1994. This created eerie and beautiful subterranean lakes. You can kayak in the Peca underground through a labyrinth of tunnels illuminated only by your helmet-mounted light.
- Navigate a surreal underground lake system surrounded by historic mining tunnels—some more than 700 m below surface—and illuminated only by your headlamp.
- Learn the mining history of the region with former miner-guides who can explain geological formations and mineral finds (like wulfenite and calcite).
- The tranquility of submerged cavities, interrupted only by paddle strokes and mine echoes, offers a once-in-a-lifetime contrast to surface kayaking.
Ready to paddle through a hidden world beneath the mountains?
Book your underground kayaking adventure at Peca today and experience one of Slovenia’s most extraordinary tours!
Limited spots available – secure your place now!
Book Your Kayaking Slovenia Experience
Whether you’re planning to kayak Soča River Slovenia, enjoy a peaceful trip kayaking Lake Bled, or join a Soča River rafting Slovenia adventure, we’ve got you covered.
Explore. Paddle. Experience the wild.
FAQ:
Is it safe to go kayaking alone?
Experienced paddlers can kayak Slovenia’s rivers on their own, especially on well-marked sections. However, going with a guide is strongly recommended if you’re unfamiliar with the area, river flow, or safety requirements. Some rivers like the Soča may require permits and have specific safety rules.
Can I rent a kayak?
Yes. Kayaks are available for rent at major locations including:
- Bovec (Soča River)
- Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj
- Kolpa, Savinja, and Krka rivers
Prices range from €20–€40 per day for self-guided rentals, and around €70–€80 for guided tours including gear and transport.
How long can I go kayaking for?
- Half-day tours (2–3 hours): Most common
- Full-day tours (5–6 hours): For longer river sections
- Multi-day trips: Possible on Kolpa and Drava, often with camping or glamping
Do I need to be fit for kayaking?
Yes, but only basic fitness is needed. You should be able to:
- Paddle for 1–2 hours
- Re-enter the kayak if it capsizes
- Walk short distances in gear
Soča River kayaking requires more endurance due to faster currents.
Can I go kayaking on Lake Bled? Is it free?
Yes, kayaking is allowed on Lake Bled. You can bring your own kayak or rent one. It’s free if you have your own gear, but rentals cost around €20–€30.
Is kayaking allowed on Lake Bohinj? Is it free?
Yes, it’s permitted and very popular. It’s free with your own equipment; rentals cost €20–€30.
Where do I buy a ticket for Soča kayaking if I go by myself?
You need a river permit, which you can buy online or at local tourism centres and outdoor agencies in Bovec or Tolmin.
Do I need a licence to kayak alone?
No licence is required for recreational kayaking on most rivers. However, some rivers require a valid river permit (especially the Soča).
Are there rapids in the Soča River?
Yes, Soča has Class II–IV rapids depending on the section and water level.
Are there rapids on the Sava River?
Yes, mostly Class I–II. Sava Dolinka has some easy whitewater suitable for beginners.
Are there many kayaking accidents in Slovenia?
Accidents are rare, especially on guided tours. Risks increase when kayaking alone or without safety gear.
Do I need a wetsuit for kayaking in Slovenia?
Yes, especially on colder rivers like the Soča and Sava. Most guided tours include wetsuit rental.
How cold is the Soča River?
Around 5–9°C, even in summer.
How cold is the Sava River?
Approximately 8–12°C depending on the section and season.
What do I wear under a wetsuit?
A swimsuit or moisture-wicking base layers.
Where can I keep my belongings during the kayaking trip?
We provide secure storage at the base or dry bags for small items.
Where is the meeting point for kayaking activities?
At our office (Ljubljanska cesta 1, Bled) or a designated pick-up spot (e.g., hotels in Bled or Bovec).
Where can I book a kayaking tour and get more info?
At our office (Ljubljanska cesta 1, Bled).
Do I need special insurance for kayaking?
Not mandatory, but recommended. Some travel insurance policies cover adventure sports.
Can I bring snacks and water into the boat?
Yes, as long as they are stored in waterproof containers or dry bags.
What happens if the boat flips over?
Guides assist quickly. You should know basic self-rescue or follow their instructions.
Is it hard to kayak?
Basic kayaking is easy to learn. Whitewater kayaking is more challenging and best done with a guide.
What if I get too tired to paddle?
Tell your guide; they will assist or adjust the pace. Some tours offer raft support.
Can I drown?
The risk is extremely low on guided tours. Life jackets are mandatory.
Can I bring my dog inside the kayak?
On calm lakes like Bled or Bohinj, yes. Not allowed on whitewater tours.
Is kayaking suitable for kids?
Yes, on calm rivers and lakes. Age and size limits vary by provider.
What happens if I lose a paddle?
The guide or safety boat will recover it. On self-guided trips, carry a spare if possible.
Are there waterfalls on the Soča River?
No navigable ones, but some scenic ones nearby.
Are there waterfalls on the Sava River?
Not in kayaking sections. Most are bypassed by terrain.
Are there dams on the Soča or Sava Rivers?
Yes, but kayaking sections are mostly upstream from dams. Some portage may be required.
What kind of shoes should I wear when kayaking?
Neoprene water shoes or old trainers that stay secure and dry quickly.
Do we stop for resting during the tour?
Yes, most tours include at least one short break on shore.
100% Money Back Guarantee
Nature is unpredictable. Since we sell outdoor activities there are no guarantees that the weather will hold. In case of cancellation due to rain or other unfavorable weather conditions you will be offered an alternative activity or full money refund.
Free photos
During our activities we take free photos of you from different angles so you don’t have to worry about that.
Serious fun
Safety is our first and foremost priority, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have fun. We know that a good laugh makes everything easier; therefore we use it a lot!
Excellent equipment
You can rent the best quality equipment in our agency.
Exceptional team
We are nature enthusiasts with a breadth of knowledge about the activities and the region. If you are ready for your next adventure, contact us! You won’t regret it!
The widest choice of canyoning tours
We have prepared the widest choice of canyoning tours for you. Check our offer and connect with us on Facebook and Instagram, so you won’t miss our current specialties!
Looking forward to (receiving) your feedback
We are happy to receive all your comments about our adventures.
Learn more about activities in Slovenia
Altitude Activities is a proud recipient of a TripAdvisor 2024 Certificate of Excellence. Thank you all for the great reviews!
The best thing ever. I took my old boss to experience Slovenia in one day. And boy I am happy I chose Altitude Activities to do so. Our tour guide Jerry was awesome, funny and you could just see he knows what he is doing. We went to the canyon of Jermanka and even though there is a drop almost 45m high we felt extremely safe. Overall highly suggest going canyoning with Altitude Activities
