What better way to discover rewilding than by living it directly?

Itinerary

5-Day Bear Tracking & Rewilding Adventure Day 1 – Arrival, Museum & Bear Sanctuary Guests meet in Krasno or Otočac (pick-up from Otočac is available) and transfer to Krasno. We begin with a visit to the National Park Museum – Kuća Velebita, learning about the park’s ecosystems, wildlife and the significance of brown bears. Next, we visit the Kuterevo Bear Sanctuary, where rescued bears are cared for and guests gain insight into bear behavior and conservation. In the afternoon, we hike to Panos Peak, along trails with recorded bear activity, providing a first authentic experience of tracking and understanding bear corridors. Evening at local family-run accommodations for dinner and rest. Day 2 – Kuterevo & Zavižan After breakfast, we explore Kuterevo village, walking through its peaceful surroundings and learning about local life. We hike to Korenski Vrh, observing the broader landscape and understanding bear movement corridors. In the afternoon, we transfer to Northern Velebit National Park and settle into the Zavižan Mountain Hut, followed by a short visit to the Zavižan Botanical Garden to see endemic alpine plants. Evening hike to a nearby peak for sunset, then enjoy stargazing at Zavižan. Overnight at the mountain hut. Day 3 – Historic Premužić Trail After breakfast, we explore the historic Premužić Trail, a scenic hiking path with breathtaking views of the mountains and forests. Along the way, we observe signs of brown bear activity and learn how the natural corridors are used by wildlife. The trail offers a combination of moderate to challenging hiking, photography, and nature observation. Return to the mountain hut or local accommodations in the afternoon. Day 4 – Majerovo Vrilo & Baške Oštarije After breakfast, we visit Majerovo Vrilo, one of the main springs of the Gacka River, in Sinac. A short walk around the spring, with explore of a restored traditional wooden watermill and tasting local culinary specialties, including fresh trout. In the early afternoon, we transfer to Baške Oštarije, mountain village in the central Velebit, where the rewilding corridor continues. Guests can stay in the mountain hostel or a hide, a camouflaged shelter that allows for close observation of brown bears and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Alternatively, there is the option for a day visit in the hide (usually from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM). Day 5 – Morning Walk & Departure Wake up in the hide or mountain hostel and enjoy an optional morning walk along the Rewilding Velebit corridor, observing wildlife and the surrounding landscapes. After the walk, we share lunch together before departing, with transfers back to Otočac, Gospić, or another convenient location.

What's Included?

Experienced Local Tour Guide Logistic Support National Park Entry Tickets National Park Museum Tickets Accomodation Breakfast (every day) Dinners at the Hut

What to Bring

🎒 BASIC HIKING GEAR: Daypack (20–30 L) Sturdy hiking boots with grippy soles Layered clothing: quick‑dry short‑sleeve base layer, long‑sleeve or fleece mid‑layer, windproof​​​​/​​​​waterproof jacket, full‑length hiking trousers, hat or buff + sunglasses, lightweight gloves (if in cooler season), spare socks and shirt 🥤 FOOD & HYDRATION: Water, at least 2 L Energy snacks, like bars, nuts, dried fruit, light meal or sandwich for lunch 🧭 SAFETY & NAVIGATION: Fully charged phone Basic first‑aid kit ☀️ WEATHER & SUN PROTECTION: Sunscreen (high SPF) Lip balm with UV protection Insect & tick repellent (e.g. Autan or similar) ❄️RECOMENDED WINTER EQUIPMENT: Waterproof and warm hiking boots with good grip Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece or softshell, waterproof jacket) Hat, gloves, scarf or buff Trekking poles (especially useful on icy sections) Gaiters for snow Backpack with spare clothes, warm drink, and food Headlamp (short daylight hours in winter) Microspikes or light snowshoes (depending on snow depth) 🏕 GEAR FOR OVERNIGHT STAY AT THE HUT Essential: Sleeping bag, Towel (preferably small and quick-drying), Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, tissues, deodorant, etc.), Indoor shoes or lightweight slippers, Sleepwear (e.g. leggings and a t-shirt), Phone charger (and possibly a power bank if electricity is limited), Water bottle (also useful in the evening), Small bag for dirty clothes Recommended: Travel sheet​​​/​​​sleeping bag liner (for extra hygiene), Earplugs (if you're sensitive to noise), Small flashlight or headlamp, Evening snacks 🎫 DOCUMENTS & MISCELLANEOUS: ID or passport Cash (just in case) Mountaineering book (if you collect summit stamps)

Food & Stay

OPG Butina, a family‑run rural household that blends authentic local life with comfort and hospitality. The accommodation offers a few cozy rooms and a studio, all equipped with private bathrooms, free Wi‑Fi, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. Guests are welcomed with traditional treats and can join in farm activities like goat milking, animal care, and local craft workshops — a great way to experience life in a mountain village firsthand. The on‑site restaurant serves hearty, regional fare made from ingredients from the farm and nearby producers, prepared according to traditional recipes. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it’s a perfect place to enjoy fresh local dishes and regional specialties after a day of exploring or tracking in the wild. Zavižan Mountain Hut provides simple accommodation in shared dormitories, but does not supply bedding, so guests are recommended to bring their own sleeping bag. There is a communal kitchen and dining area, and limited drink service is available. Water is scarce, so visitors are encouraged to use it sparingly. Hostel Baške Oštarije is located on the Oštarije mountain pass on Velebit, surrounded by unspoiled nature and numerous hiking trails. It is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and anyone looking for peace, fresh mountain air, and beautiful views. The accommodation is simple and cozy, in a traditional mountain-lodge style, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The food at the hostel is traditional, hearty, and home-style, with an emphasis on local Lika specialties.

How your experience helps rewilding efforts

By being part of the Rewilding Velebit network, we contribute to restoring Velebit's natural ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and fostering a sustainable future for both nature and local communities. Using "Leave No Trace" principles we educate the public on sustainable outdoor practices, emphasizing the importance of minimizing human impact on nature. Through creative activities and outdoor learning experiences, participants gain insights into the biological and cultural values of the area, which enhances their awareness and behavior concerning nature preservation. By integrating historical education with environmental awareness we support the development of a balanced relationship between biodiversity conservation and the socio-economic needs of local communities. We encourage local production and craftsmanship, guiding guests through authentic local tastings and collaborative experiences. Our accommodations are carefully selected partners who share our commitment to rewilding and sustainable practices, promoting simpler, eco-friendly and green use of resources. In addition, we personally participate in volunteer activities organized by the Rewilding Velebit Foundation, directly contributing to the conservation and rewilding of the region.

Rewilding landscape

Rewilding vision

Velebit Mountains | Croatia

Situated on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, with 145-kilometre long Velebit massif, two national parks and a biosphere reserve, the area boasts a diverse range of habitats: from barren Mediterranean landscapes at sea level, to vast beech forests, to almost boreal systems and alpine grasslands at higher altitudes.

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Seasonal Availability

This experience involves

• Hiking
• Wildlife tracking
• Wildlife photography
• Birdwatching
• Gastronomy (local)
• Workshop
• Educational experience
• Dark skies & stargazing
• 4x4 experience

Wildlife in this landscapePlease note that the presence of wildlife doesn’t guarantee sightings — these animals live freely and may remain out of view.

Location