Journey through Croatia’s diverse landscapes on our Colors of Croatia tour. Taking you from the glittering coastlines of the Adriatic islands to the lush Croatian lakes, from historic capitals to obscure trails, this tour has it all. Cycle along Split’s ancient marble streets. Discover the myriad of beauties held on Vis, Solta and the Pakleni Islands. Gaze at the labyrinth of cascading waterfalls in the lush Plitvice Nation Park. Stroll through Zagreb, Croatia’s capital whose art installations literally glow and whose vibrant culture will leave you changed.
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 1
Bike Split
Meet with your guides and fellow guides this morning before setting off on a bike ride through historic Split. Appreciate the sprawling views as we pedal around Marjan Hill, whose lofty height offers panoramic views of the town below and the islands stretching off the coastline. Our bike tour takes us to several medieval churches as well as old town Split, home of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diocletian’s Palace. Wonder at the artful blend of cultures and pedal along the waterfront promenade. Enjoy an authentic Croatian dinner before bed.
Day 2
Sea Kayak Čiovo
After breakfast, explore Croatia’s coastlines. Put in at a beach on Marjan peninsula and set off on a paddle across the Čiovo channel. As you cruise across the turquoise waters, Split and its looming mountain ranges frame your path; the inviting coastlines of Solta and Brač glimmer across the waves. We rest for a picnic lunch, swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing on one of Čiovo’s idyllic beaches. Return and enjoy an evening leisurely exploring Split’s many sights.
Day 3
Pedal and Taste Solta
We once again take to the water today with a ferry ride to Solta, which you saw in the distance yesterday. Hop on a bike and pedal through Solta’s verdant, aromatic fields. Today’s a day for culinary pleasures as well. Taste Dalmatia’s traditional dishes such as olive oil, octopus pasta, olive pate, and anchovies. An authentic dessert is presented with home made liquor and greta, the local wine. As you taste the products, learn more about Solta’s deep connection to the earth with a presentation on bees—a presentation that also comes with a culinary bent. Taste fresh pollen, honey, propolis and royal jelly!
Day 4
Explore Hvar and Sea Kayak Pakleni Islands
Set out to explore sun-baked Hvar, one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Our venture through Hvar is paired with a sea kayak excursion around the Pakleni archipelago. This evening, navigate your own adventure through the town’s churches, traditional stone houses and ancient squares still bustling with lively restaurants and taverns.
Day 5
Sail Vis Island
With over 1,000 islands, Croatia offers a unique sailing experience sure to be an adventure. Set sail today through glittering Adriatic waters from Hvar to Vis—a favorite Croatian hotspot. If we’re favored with pleasant weather, we travel to Vis’ eastern shores where the stunning Green Cave lies tucked into the coastline.
Day 6
Explore Hvar
Discover authentic, historical Dalmatia today with tours through the lost villages of Malo Grablje and Velo. While the people may be gone, both villages offer plenty of traditional architecture and stunning views. As we explore the countryside, learn more about the region’s thriving lavender production. With a hike ranging from 4 to 11km, you can choose how far you want to delve into Hvar’s past.
Day 7
Visit Plitvice Lakes and Zagreb
After breakfast, we sail toward Split on a morning ferry. Upon landing, travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its lush labyrinth of travertine waterfalls. Explore the myriad of lakes and slowly draining water on wooden paths and bridges and traverse the park. After, we continue the day’s adventure with a tour of Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. Enjoy the nightlife and an authentic Croatian meal before bed.
Day 8
Goodbye Croatia
Say goodbye to guides, friends and Croatia today and catch your return flight home.
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
These tours are semi supported - this means we will take care of all the logistics and accommodations as well as set up the daily tours and activities. Each day you will be collected for your next adventure meeting new guides and like minded travelers along the way. Evenings are free to do some personal exploring but our guides are always happy to point out fun things to do and great places to eat!
Prices above are based on 3* hotels but if you want something more luxurious we can arrange that at an extra cost.
Included:
• All activities as indicated on your itinerary
• All meals as indicated on your itinerary
• All accommodations as indicated on your itinerary
• Services of professional guides
• All necessary outdoor activity equipment
• Airfare to and from Croatia
• Gratuities for guides
• Items of a personal nature
• Drinks and meals not expressly included
• Tour Extensions
FAQ & More
When is the best time to go?
July and August are considered Croatia’s ‘season’. It is summer during that time, and tourism is in full swing. The weather is hot, the sea is blue, and the coast is at its best. The only drawback is that it is the peak of tourist season. Everything is busy in Croatia this during the summer and the crowds can be overwhelming. The weather in Croatia varies from the north to the coast. The north has a Continental climate with temperatures averaging around 77 degrees Fahrenheit in August. The coastal areas have a Mediterranean climate and the temperature can reach as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather in May, June, September, and October will be milder, but some businesses may be closed.
Will I need a visa?
You will need a passport that is valid for 6 months past the end of your trip, but a visa is not required for tourists who are on trips of less than 90 days.
Do I need to exchange currency before I go?
The currency in Croatia is the Kuna, although some places will accept the Euro, you may be stung by the exchange rate. You can either exchange currency before you travel or get it from an ATM when you arrive, again watch for the exchange rate. Remember, it is never a good idea to keep a lot of cash on you while you are traveling, but in local shops and markets having some Kuna on you is helpful.
Can you cater for special dietary requirements?
As long as we are aware of your dietary requirements in advance of your trip we can cater to these.
Do I need a power converter?
Depending on where you are traveling from, you may need to bring a power converter with you. The outlets in Croatia are 220 volt outlets. The US and Canadian standard is between 110 and 120 volts.
What type of Sea Kayaks do you provide?
We use Prijon HTP sea kayaks. Some of the models we use are Kodiak, Seyak, Touryak and Poseidon. All kayaks are equipped with rudders. Neoprene covers, life vests, spry skirts and dry bags are provided. For day tours we use aluminum paddles while for the multiday programs we provide carbon paddles
What do you recommend for sea sickness?
If you are prone to sea sickness, make sure to talk to your physician before travelling for suggestions as to what will help. A natural and inexpensive way to combat sea sickness is ginger chews and acupressure bands.
Do I need hiking boots?
For most of our hiking trips a good trail shoe is recommended - something with a good tread on the sole but lightweight in the heat. We provide walking poles for all our hikes if needed.
What type of bikes do you provide?
From road bike to mountain bikes. Depending of the program and activity, we will provide you right type of the bike suitable for the terrain. For our typical day trips we use hybrid bikes. For our tour of Solta on this trip we have elecrtic bikes.