Paklenica National Park: 2026 reviews and excursion pricing

Visiting Paklenica National Park

Located on the southern slopes of the Velebit mountain range, Paklenica National Park is a natural reserve in Croatia, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area captivates visitors with its diverse ecosystems, ranging from Mediterranean species to flora and fauna typical of high mountain climates. The park's highest peak, Vaganski vrh, reaches an altitude of 1,757 metres!

A Prime Destination for Hiking and Rock Climbing

Paklenica is primarily known for its towering karst peaks, which offer incredible rock climbing opportunities with over 360 equipped routes. Mount Anića Kuk in particular, a sheer vertical wall rising 300 metres high, is extremely popular among the climbing community.

The reserve features two canyons: Velika Paklenica, measuring 14 kilometres long and averaging 500 to 800 metres wide, and Mala Paklenica, smaller yet equally impressive since its narrowest point is a mere ten metres wide! Between 150 and 200 kilometres of hiking trails wind through the area, and several mountain huts are available for overnight stays.

A Complete Landscape Between Sea and Mountains

Another highlight of the reserve is its collection of caves and subterranean passages typical of karst topography. Today, only Manita Peć Cave is open to visitors, and the interior is packed with fascinating geological formations. Make sure to also visit the Marasovići hamlet and museum, which offers a great look at how local residents lived centuries ago!

The Velebit massif runs parallel to the Adriatic coast, creating a striking contrast between rugged peaks and the open sea. You can easily wrap up your hike with a swim along the coast near Starigrad.