Pieniny: Plan a national park visit, Dunajec trip and excursions

• Location: The national park is in the northeast of the country, in the districts of Kežmarok and Stará Ľubovňa.
• Landscape: Mountains, riverbanks and protected habitats define the region.
• Popular excursion: Traditional wooden rafts travel along the Dunajec through the Pieniny Gorge, departing from Červený Kláštor.
• Visiting: Before setting out, check park regulations, trail status and local conditions.

The river landscape is one of the Pieniny’s best-known sights. According to the official tourism portal, traditional rafting on the Dunajec starts in Červený Kláštor and passes through the river gorge. The season, water level, schedule and availability may change, so check the details directly with the local provider. The official tourist information on rafting on the Dunajec describes the route and its cultural tradition.

If you prefer exploring on foot, choose a hike based on its distance, elevation gain and the weather. General advice on hiking in Slovakia can help you prepare. For more nature destinations, compare the national parks of Slovakia and Slovak Paradise.

Červený Kláštor is a useful base for an excursion on the Dunajec. For additional cultural stops, include Kežmarok and Levoča in a longer route through the Spiš region. If you are planning to travel farther east, the regions of Slovakia offer more ideas.

You can combine a longer drive with a tour of Slovakia. For practical planning, the practical travel information and general holiday tips are also useful. If you are looking for an active combination, compare the advice on rafting and canoeing in Slovakia.

Which trails are accessible and what activities are permitted depends on conservation rules and local conditions. Stay on approved routes, take your rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife. Before setting out, check the current visitor regulations and any restrictions with the national park administration, especially if you are planning a longer hike or an activity on the river.

Where does the traditional rafting trip on the Dunajec start?

The official tourism portal names Červený Kláštor as the starting point for the trip through the Dunajec Gorge. Check the current route, schedule and availability before you travel.

Can I schedule a rafting trip for a specific date?

Treat it as an option and check the water level, operating hours and booking terms directly with the local provider shortly before your trip. General information about the season does not guarantee that a trip will run.

How should I choose a hike in the national park?

Choose a route to suit your fitness, the weather, the distance and the elevation gain. Also check the current visitor regulations and notices about trail closures.

What can I combine with a visit?

An excursion on the Dunajec, a hike and a cultural stop offer several ways to plan your day. Kežmarok and Levoča make good additional destinations on a longer trip through the Spiš region.