Exciting Adventure on Croatia’s Cetina River: A Detailed Review of the Makarska Riviera Rafting Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day outdoor adventure that combines adrenaline with breathtaking scenery, the rafting trip on Croatia’s Cetina River might just be the experience for you. This guided tour, offered from the beautiful Makarska Riviera, promises a mix of rapids, nature, and local charm — all wrapped into an approximately 8-hour package. While we haven’t personally paddled these waters, the consistently high ratings and detailed reviews suggest it’s a well-organized and genuinely enjoyable outing.
Two standout features of this tour are its inclusive transportation—making logistics worry-free—and the professional guidance and equipment provided, ensuring safety and comfort. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the lunch isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to enjoy a meal in Omis. This tour is especially suited for travelers who love active outdoor pursuits and want a taste of Croatia’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.
Key Points
- All necessary equipment and instruction are included, making it accessible for beginners.
- The round-trip transfer from Makarska means no need to worry about logistics.
- Expect stunning views of mountain landscapes and the Cetina canyon.
- The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for the rafting and sightseeing.
- Moderate physical fitness is recommended, but the activity is suitable for most active travelers.
- The cost of around $99 makes for good value considering the full-day adventure and included services.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Makarska
What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This rafting experience offers a fantastic way to discover Croatia’s natural splendor beyond the usual beaches and towns. It’s a balanced mix of adventure and scenery, with the added convenience of transportation and gear. The reviews highlight how well-organized Gulliver Travel is, with many travelers praising the smooth logistics and professional guidance.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour kicks off at 9:15 am with pickup from a designated meeting point. From there, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, heading towards the historic town of Omi, just a short scenic drive from Makarska. This drive alone sets the tone—anticipate views of Croatia’s lush mountains and winding roads that hint at the natural wonders awaiting below.
Once in Omi, the adventure truly begins. You’ll be outfitted with all rafting gear—helmets, life jackets, paddles—and receive brief instructions from the professional instructor. They’re key to ensuring everyone feels confident, even if it’s your first time on a river. The rafting itself lasts about four hours, during which you’ll navigate a series of rapids that promise just enough thrill without being overwhelming. The rapids are the highlight for many, offering quick bursts of excitement amid stunning mountain landscapes and the Cetina Canyon.
Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy moments of calm where you can soak in the pristine nature and maybe snap some photos of the river’s clear waters and surrounding cliffs. Many reviews note how beautiful the views are, making this more than just a white-water thrill.
The Midway Stop: A Homemade Lunch in Omis
After the rafting, the tour includes a stop in the former pirate town of Omis. Here, you can opt for a homemade lunch (at your own expense), which is a great chance to unwind and reflect on your morning. Omis is known for its historic charm, with narrow streets and a fortress overlooking the river. It’s a perfect spot for some photos and a bit of local flavor, even if you choose to skip the meal.
What Travelers Say About the Experience
Reviewers consistently mention the good value for the price, especially considering the full-day duration and the professional organization. Linsey_D, one of the reviewers, called the experience “amazing,” highlighting how Gulliver Travel managed everything smoothly, from transport to lunch arrangements. She also appreciated the group size—not too large—allowing for a more personal experience.
Another positive note is the scenery. Many mention how stunning the mountain views and canyon are, making it clear that even those not naturally inclined to adventure will find the landscape captivating.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
This tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Expect to spend about four hours paddling, which involves some effort and coordination, but is generally manageable for most active individuals. The group size is limited to 40, ensuring plenty of attention from guides and a less chaotic experience.
The cost of $99 includes everything—transport, instructor, gear—except the lunch. This means you only need to budget for your meal and any personal extras. The pickup is from locations near public transportation, making it easy to access without a car.
Weather and Cancellation Policies
Since the activity is weather-dependent, it’s good to note that if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This rafting trip is ideal for adventure seekers who want an active day out and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Croatia’s natural beauty in a more immersive way than just sightseeing. Families with older children, groups of friends, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy.
Travelers who appreciate organized logistics and safety will also benefit, given how well-reviewed the tour provider is for managing details. However, if you’re looking for a luxurious or relaxed experience, this might not be your best fit, as the focus is on excitement and outdoor fun.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This rafting experience on the Cetina River offers great value for money considering the duration, scenery, and inclusions. The professional guidance and equipment setup mean you can focus on having fun and soaking in the views without any hassle. The stunning mountain and canyon scenery are worth the trip alone, making it a memorable highlight of any Croatian itinerary.
For those who enjoy active pursuits and want to discover Croatia’s outdoor side, this tour checks all boxes. The smooth logistics and positive reviews suggest that most you will walk away satisfied, with plenty of photos and stories to share.
In summary, whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a scenic adventure that breaks the routine, this full-day rafting tour from Makarska provides a balanced mix of excitement and nature in a well-organized package.
FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from central Makarska are included, making it easy to join without worrying about logistics.
What is the physical requirement for this rafting trip?
You should have moderate physical fitness. The activity involves paddling for about four hours, but guides will instruct you and provide necessary gear.
Can beginners participate in this rafting experience?
Absolutely. The tour provides all necessary equipment and instructions, making it suitable for first-timers and less experienced paddlers.
Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. You can buy a homemade or local meal in Omis at your own expense after the rafting.
What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, if poor weather cancels the trip, you’re offered a full refund or a different date.
How long does the total tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, rafting, and the stop in Omis.
This review should help you decide if this rafting adventure on Croatia’s Cetina River fits your travel plans. It’s a reliable, scenic, and fun way to see a different side of Croatia while getting your adrenaline fix.
More Private Drivers in Makarska
- Private Transfer From Makarska to Split, Hotel-To-Hotel, English-Speaking Driver
- Private Transfer From Makarska to Split, Hotel-To-Hotel, English-Speaking Driver
- From Split Airport to Makarska Private Transfer
- Private Transfer From Metkovic to Mostar Airport (OMO)
- Hvar – Dubrovnik : Private One-Way Transfer With Mercedes Vehicles
- Half Day Vrljika River SUP Experience With Lunch and Transfer
More Tour Reviews in Makarska
- Krka Waterfalls Excursion from Makarska Riviera
- Quad tour to skywalk Biokovo with Entry Tickets
- Makarska : Quad Tour on Biokovo with Skywalk Entry
- Dubrovnik Guided Tour & Free Time From Makarska Riviera
- Makarska: 4-Island Speedboat Tour – town Hvar & Pakleni Islands
- Split City Guided Tour and Free Time from Makarska Riviera
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Makarska we have reviewed
- Krka Waterfalls Excursion from Makarska Riviera
- Quad tour to skywalk Biokovo with Entry Tickets
- Makarska : Quad Tour on Biokovo with Skywalk Entry
- Dubrovnik Guided Tour & Free Time From Makarska Riviera
- Makarska: 4-Island Speedboat Tour – town Hvar & Pakleni Islands
- Split City Guided Tour and Free Time from Makarska Riviera
- Makarska: 3-Island Golden Horn and Blue Lagoon Speedboat Tour
- From Makarska: Medugorje Day Trip
- Split-Makarska-Brela Try SCUBA Dive
- Makarska: 3 island, Golden Horn, Cave, Cliffs, Lagoon, Jelsa
- Makarska: Sea kayaking & snorkeling adventure – MPL Nautika
- From Makarska Riviera: Full-Day Split & Trogir Tour
