Tara River Packrafting Expedition

Summary

As summer water levels begin to drop, traditional rafting on the Tara River often becomes
slower and less exciting. That’s exactly when packrafting comes into its own.
This full-day packrafting adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Tara River Canyon —
the deepest canyon in Europe and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Instead of sitting as a
passenger on a crowded / big rafting boat, you will paddle your own packraft, giving you
complete freedom to experience the river from water level and fully connect with the canyon
around you.
Over the course of approximately 23 km, you will paddle through crystal-clear water, exciting
rapids, hidden beaches, and peaceful canyon sections surrounded by towering cliffs and
untouched wilderness. The route combines fun whitewater with relaxed sections ideal for
swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the spectacular scenery.
Throughout the journey, our experienced local guides will help you build confidence on the
river while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, whether you are a complete
beginner or already experienced on whitewater.
One of the highlights of the day is a stop at the beautiful Ljutica River, one of Europe’s shortest
rivers, famous for its ice-cold, drinkable spring water emerging directly from the canyon wall.
During the trip you will also paddle beneath the iconic Đurđevića Tara Bridge.,
This section of the Tara features mainly class II rapids, with occasional class III depending on
water levels, making it the perfect adventure for thrill-seekers, families, and nature lovers
looking for a unique day on the river.
Distance covered: 23 km
Time on the river: Approximately 6 hours depending on water levels

Part 1: Arrival and packraft introduction
Morning meeting at your accommodation in Žabljak or directly at the starting point if you are arriving independently. After a scenic drive toward the canyon, including a stop at the famous Đurđevića Tara Bridge, you will meet your guides and receive your equipment. Before getting on the river, we will introduce you to packrafting basics, including:  equipment setup  paddling techniques  river safety  communication on the water Even complete beginners quickly feel comfortable in the packrafts thanks to their stability and ease of use.
Part 2: Upper canyon warm-up paddle
The first section of the river is ideal for getting used to the packraft while enjoying the stunning scenery of the upper Tara Canyon. The river here flows through crystal-clear pools and fun class II rapids surrounded by black pine forests and canyon walls.
Part 3: Ljutica River stop
After approximately one hour on the river, we stop at the spectacular Ljutica River. Known as one of Europe’s shortest rivers, Ljutica bursts directly from the canyon wall with incredibly cold and crystal-clear water. Here we usually take time for swimming, relaxing, photos, and a short walk around the spring area.
Part 4: Riverside snack break
Before continuing deeper into the canyon, we stop on one of the hidden river beaches for snacks and refreshments. This is a perfect moment to relax, enjoy the scenery, and recharge before the most exciting section of the adventure.
Part 5: Whitewater and canyon descent
The second half of the journey becomes more dynamic, with faster current and a series of fun class II and class III rapids depending on water levels. By now, most participants feel fully comfortable maneuvering their own packraft, making this section especially enjoyable. Along the way, we continue making short stops for swimming, cliff jumping opportunities, and photos at some of the canyon’s most beautiful spots. This section offers the perfect balance between adrenaline and wilderness exploration.
Part 6: Transfer back
After completing the 23 km descent, we arrive at the take-out point by the river where we change into dry clothes, pack the equipment, and transfer back to Žabljak.

Highlights

  • Conquer Europe’s Deepest Canyon

  • Raft through the UNESCO-listed Tara Canyon

  • Paddle 60+ km of crystal-clear river
    -camp under the stars

  • Enjoy local cuisine & meet warm-hearted
    -Raft from Montenegro into Bosnia, sleeping riverside in both countries

Book Today

June 2026
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Logo Balkan Expeditions

Rafting Expedition – Tara River (5 Days)

Packrafting

220€ / each

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Read our reviews

  • I went on the komarnica packraft tour with Gigo. Amazing experience! The river is a hidden gem in Montenegro. Not very accessible but once you are there, the nature is so wonderful! I never packrafted on a Whitewater river before, but Gigo gave great explanations and safety measures. 100% recommend!

  • I went on the komarnica packraft tour with Gigo. Amazing experience! The river is a hidden gem in Montenegro. Not very accessible but once you are there, the nature is so wonderful! I never packrafted on a Whitewater river before, but Gigo gave great explanations and safety measures. 100% recommend!

  • Gigo is very knowledgeable, offers excellent customer service, is punctual, offers tailored trips, gear is in great shape. If it was up to us he would well and truely deserve the Montenegrin business awarded of the year. We hope to come back.

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