Paklenica National Park
Dramatic karst canyons and hiking on the Velebit range
At a Glance
Best Ages
5+ years
Cost
Free
Time Needed
Half day to full day
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
Spring and autumn best; hot mid-summer
Stroller Access
Limited; trails are rugged
Washrooms
At visitor centre and entrances
Food
Cafe at visitor centre; bring snacks
Parking
Parking at entrances
Booking
Not required for day visits
Parent Effort
High (hiking supervision)
Paklenica National Park is a spectacular outdoor playground for active families who love hiking and nature. The dramatic canyon scenery, accessible family trails, and famous Manita Peć cave make it a memorable day out along the Adriatic coast.
About This Place
Paklenica National Park is a dramatic karst canyon wilderness on the Velebit mountain range in Dalmatia, Croatia. The two main gorges — Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica — cut through the limestone mountains above the Adriatic coast. The park is renowned for hiking, rock climbing (one of Europe's top climbing destinations), cave exploration at Manita Peć, and accessible family walks along the canyon floor. Entry fee applies; visitor centre at the main entrance.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 06:00 – 20:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Stunning Canyon Hikes
Walk through Velika and Mala Paklenica gorges with dramatic limestone cliffs.
Manita Peć Cave
Explore the park's show cave with guided tours suitable for older children.
Rock Climbing Paradise
One of Europe's premier climbing areas with routes for various skill levels.
UNESCO Forests
Wander through pristine beech forests that are part of a World Heritage site.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Entrance Fee
- Paid entry; tickets at the gate or online
- Trail Difficulty
- Ranges from easy valley walks to challenging mountain hikes
- Climbing Gear
- Required for rock climbing areas; not provided by the park
- Cave Tours
- Manita Peć has seasonal guided visits; check schedule in advance
- Weather Caution
- Summer temperatures can be extreme; start early and carry water
- Wildlife
- Bears and snakes inhabit the park; stay on marked trails
Kid Fit by Age
Carrier recommended; rugged terrain unsuitable for strollers
Short valley walks possible with close supervision
Enjoy easy canyon-floor trails and nature spotting
Love exploring trails, caves, and climbing areas
Ideal age for longer hikes and climbing experiences
Challenging climbs and adventurous trails suit this age
Insider Tips
Start with the easy Velika Paklenica valley trail for a gentle family introduction
Visit Manita Peć cave early in the day to avoid afternoon crowds
Combine your visit with a swim at nearby Starigrad beaches after hiking
- •Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost in rugged terrain
- •Carry plenty of water; summer heat can be intense in the canyons
- •Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support on rocky paths
- •Be aware of wildlife including bears and venomous snakes
- •Terrain is rugged and steep in most areas; limited wheelchair access
- •Visitor centre is accessible with information and restrooms
- •Manita Peć cave has stairs and is not wheelchair accessible
- •Baby changing facilities may be limited; plan accordingly
schedule Best Time to Visit
Visit in spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) for comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Mid-summer can be very hot in the canyons, so start early in the morning if visiting then.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxSturdy hiking boots with good grip
- check_boxSunscreen, hats, and plenty of water
- check_boxSnacks and a packed lunch for longer trails
- check_boxBackpack baby carrier for infants and toddlers
- check_boxBasic first-aid kit for minor scrapes
Location
Address
Dr. Franje Tuđmana 14a, HR - 23244 Starigrad-Paklenica, Croatia
Phone
+38523369155
Last checked: 2026