We’ve been kayaking in the Balkans since 2004—long before it became cool on Instagram. Back then, it was just us, a couple of battered kayaks, and the endless blue of Lake Skadar—or Shkodër, as it’s known in Albania—the largest lake in the region and the place we now call home.
Since then, we’ve explored the best kayaking destinations across Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and North Macedonia. We’ve been chased by katabatic winds, rescued by nuns, startled by snakes, and occasionally tipped into icy whitewater. But mostly, we’ve been rewarded with unforgettable moments: gliding past island monasteries, paddling through sea caves, and drifting under the watch of Dalmatian pelicans.
If you’re wondering where to kayak in the Balkans—whether you want calm family paddles, wildlife-rich lakes, or heart-pumping rapids—here’s our insider’s guide.
Jump to:
- Why the Balkans?
- Family-friendly kayaking
- Best lakes for kayaking
- Scenic river kayaking
- Whitewater kayaking
- Sea kayaking
- Kayaking safety tips
Why Kayaking in the Balkans should be on your list
Where else can you paddle past medieval monasteries one day, explore a canyon by kayak the next, and finish your trip in a turquoise sea cave? The variety—combined with stretches of water that still feel undiscovered—makes kayaking in the Balkans unique.
Whether you’re here for a gentle family float, a wildlife-rich glide, or a white-knuckle rapid, you’ll find your perfect paddle.
Family-Friendly Kayaking in the Balkans
For paddling with children, look for warm, calm waters with plenty of swimming opportunities. The best family kayaking routes have rope swings, bridges to jump from, or flat rocks for cannonballs. Here are our suggestions:
- Crnojevića River, Montenegro – short, scenic, teeming with birdlife, and dotted with swimming spots
- Morača River by Lake Skadar, Montenegro – shady willow forests, calm shallows, and rope swings make it perfect for picnicking and paddling
- Lake Shkodra, Albania – shallow bays, warm water, and guesthouses right on the shore
- Baćina Lakes, Croatia – small, warm, and ideal for a relaxed afternoon
- Lake Ohrid, Albania – calm mornings and crystal-clear water for easy paddles.
Kayak on Lake Shkodra and Lake Ohrid with us on one of our Albania holidays
Best lakes for Kayaking in the Balkans
Lakes offer some of the most peaceful kayaking in the region—perfect for nature lovers and photographers who want to slow down and take in the scenery without concentrating too hard on paddling.
- Lake Skadar, Montenegro – vast reedbeds, lily-covered channels, and pelicans. Once, a water snake jumped into Ben’s kayak here – he swears it was aiming for him
- Lake Koman, Albania – emerald, fjord-like beauty and remote shoreline villages
- Prespa Lake, North Macedonia – quiet, bird-filled, and untouched
- Baćina Lakes, Croatia – an inland escape from the busy Adriatic.
Kayak Lake Skadar with us in Montenegro or explore Lake Koman in Albania with us
Scenic river kayaking in the Balkans
Gentle currents, clear water, and ever-changing scenery. River kayaking is another good option for those who want to slow things down and enjoy a relaxing float downstream.
- Trebižat River, Bosnia & Herzegovina – turquoise, slow-moving, and summer-perfect
- Zeta River, Montenegro – spring-fed clarity and European pond terrapins sunning on the banks
- Drina River, Bosnia & Herzegovina – wide, clean, and perfect for multi-day kayak camping trips.
Kayak the Trebižat River with us during our Bosnia and Herzegovina multi-activity holiday
Whitewater kayaking in the Balkans
For thrill-seekers, the best time for whitewater kayaking here is spring, when snowmelt swells the rivers.
- Morača River (upper sections), Montenegro – Ben and I tried this one spring. The adrenaline rush was unforgettable – and the water was so icy we were grateful for wetsuits
- Osumi River, Albania – spring flows carve through a dramatic canyon (springtime only)
- Vjosa River, Albania – one of Europe’s last wild rivers, offering exhilarating rapids in spring
- Neretva river, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Discover the Neretva River canyon with us during our Bosnia and Herzegovina multi-activity holiday
Sea kayaking in the Balkans
For caves, cliffs, and open horizons, sea kayaking is unbeatable.
- Southern Adriatic Coast, Montenegro – from Petrovac to Bar, with quiet coves and sea caves, far frm Kotor Bay’s cruise ship chaos
- Dhermi/Porto Palermo, Albania – turquoise bays and hidden beaches
- Pelješac Peninsula, Croatia – peaceful coastline with vineyards nearby for a post-paddle glass of vino.
Kayak around the Pelješac Peninsula with us during our Southern Dalmatia multi-activity holiday
Kayaking Safety & Essential Tips for the Balkans
Before you launch your kayak, remember: the Balkans’ beauty is wild—and so is the water.
- Know your limits – Rescue services aren’t like in Western Europe. Response times can be slow and equipment can be basic.
- Check your gear – buoyancy aid buckles, paddle condition, kayak hull.
- Watch the weather – Strong katabatic winds can whip up suddenly, especially in summer afternoons. These squalls have pushed us to shore more than once – including the time the nuns of Lake Skadar gave us a tow. Best to paddle early.
- Always go with a local guide – they know the safest routes, hazards, and hidden spots worth finding.
- Pack smart – water, hat, sunscreen, dry bag, spare layers.
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