Donkeys, a cave, and big views in 90 minutes. I love the hands-on start at the OPG Suzi farm in Šmrika, and I also love how the walk ends at the Škabac cave with a real chance to spot bats. The only snag: the route includes rocky pastures and narrow paths, so you’ll want proper closed shoes and a bit of balance.

This is also led by Marco (Marko), the oldest son on the family farm, and he gives you more than just animal facts—he’ll fill the time with stories about daily life and caring for the donkeys. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s especially appealing because they can ride part of the way on donkey Mila when legs get tired. Just plan to bring your own snacks and water, since those aren’t included.

Key things to know before you go

• Primorje-Dinaric donkey breed: You’ll learn about this endangered, protected local breed native to the area.
• You help prep the donkeys: The start isn’t passive—you’ll be part of getting the animals ready for the walk.
• Škabac cave stop: Two natural chambers, cool air, and an opportunity to spot bats inside (with luck).
• Big panorama from above the cave: Kvarner Bay plus views toward Krk and Cres islands while the donkeys graze.
• Kid-friendly donkey time: Children may ride donkey Mila for part of the route if needed.
• Sturdy-shoe required: Rocky and forest paths mean closed, grippy footwear matters more than you’d think.

Meet Marco at OPG Suzi in Šmrika

Your tour starts at the donkey farm OPG Suzi in Šmrika, in Croatia’s Zagreb County region. The vibe is simple and local: you show up, get briefed, and then you’re pulled into the farm routine before the walking even begins.

Marco (Marko), the oldest son, is the person you’ll follow for the 90 minutes. He guides in Croatian, English, or German, and the emphasis isn’t just on what you’ll see—it’s on how the family cares for the donkeys day to day.

If you’re hoping for a true animal experience instead of a short photo stop, this is the right kind of start. You’ll prepare the donkeys for the walk, which changes the feel from touristy to personal fast.

Practical tip: Expect the first part to move at a farm pace. Don’t rush your shoes, your bags, or your camera—this is a “slow down and do it with them” moment.

Primorje-Dinaric donkeys: the education part actually matters

The donkeys here aren’t just cute props. You’ll learn about the Primorje-Dinaric breed, described as endangered and protected, and native to this region.

That matters because it gives the walk a purpose beyond entertainment. When you see a protected local breed up close, you understand why the farm is worth supporting—and why the donkeys are treated with care, not as rideable objects.

From what you’ll experience on the ground, the animals are calm and well accustomed to being handled and led. You’ll be guided on how to walk with them, so you’re not left guessing.

This is also one of those tours where the guide’s personality shapes the value. Marco tells stories and answers questions, and the focus stays on the animals, the land, and the everyday routines that keep everything running.

Who this fits: Families with kids, people who like animals but don’t want a theme-park feeling, and anyone who wants a small-dose adventure without a long hike.

The walk to Škabac: rocky pastures, forest paths, and wild herbs

After the farm prep, you head out through rocky pastures and forest paths. The route isn’t described as steep, but it is described as uneven and sometimes tight, which is why footwear matters so much.

As you go, you’ll move past spots where wild herbs grow. It’s not just pretty—it’s part of what makes this area feel alive, and it connects the donkey life to the food and terrain they know.

Pacing feels family-friendly. There are built-in breaks, and you’re given moments to look around rather than being marched straight through.

The main consideration: If you dislike uneven ground, you might find parts of the trail demanding. It’s not a “barefoot roam” type of walk—come prepared.

Inside Škabac cave for bats and cool air

The highlight stop is a small cave called Škabac. You’ll explore two natural chambers, and the cave is a different environment from the outside—cooler, darker, and quieter.

The big reason people come here is the chance to spot bats living inside. The tour doesn’t promise sightings every time, but you’re given the opportunity, and that uncertainty is part of the fun. It feels like you’re observing wildlife in its own space, not forcing a performance.

If you want photos, just know lighting can be tricky. Your phone camera may work, but a small flashlight or headlamp can make it easier to see cave details and to capture what’s in front of you.

What I’d watch for: where you can safely look into shaded areas without stepping off the safe path. Caves reward patience. Spend a minute, then take a picture.

Scenic viewpoint above the cave: Kvarner Bay, Krk, and Cres

Right after the cave, you’ll stop at a viewpoint just above it. This is where the tour shifts from “trail-and-timbers” to “wide-open views.”

You’ll take in panoramic scenes over Kvarner Bay, with views toward Krk and Cres islands. While the scenery does its job, the donkeys do theirs too—you’ll see them munch on grass during the break.

This is a smart timing choice. Your eyes rest from dark cave air, and the open viewpoint gives everyone a chance to recharge.

Because snacks and drinks aren’t included, this is also a great moment for the kind of picnic break you’re probably picturing from the tour title. Bring what you want, sit where you’re told, and enjoy the view at donkey pace.

Practical tip: Pack snacks you can eat with one hand, since you might be handling your camera in the other.

Kids, donkey Mila, and how “family-friendly” plays out

This walk is explicitly family-friendly, and it’s designed with children in mind. One of the best features for families: children can ride donkey Mila for part of the way if they get tired.

That option changes everything for younger kids. Instead of ending the fun early because of stamina, you get a built-in relief valve. It also keeps the experience feeling shared—you’re not separating “adults who hike” and “kids who wait.”

Don’t assume the whole tour is stroller-friendly. Strollers aren’t allowed, and the route includes uneven ground. If you’re traveling with a pushchair, plan for how your child will move through rocky and forest paths.

Price and value: what $35 buys in 90 minutes

At $35 per person for about 90 minutes, you’re paying for more than a walk. You’re paying for a guided experience that includes:

• time at the OPG Suzi farm
• donkey prep help
• a guided trek with donkeys
• a visit to Škabac cave with bat-spotting opportunity
• a viewpoint break with major bay views
• a kid ride option on donkey Mila (for part of the route)

No snacks or drinks are included, so your real cost is $35 plus whatever you bring for your picnic.

To me, the value is strongest if you care about three things: animals, nature, and local storytelling. If your goal is only a quick photo with a donkey, you might feel like you paid for more than you needed. But if you want the full farm-to-cave arc, the price makes sense for the time and the experiences included.

Also, you’re supporting a family-run setup centered on a protected breed. That gives the experience a moral “yes” that goes beyond the view.

What to bring (and what to leave at home)

For this tour, the packing list is short, but it matters:

Bring:

• Comfortable shoes (closed and grippy)
• A camera (cave and viewpoint both tempt you to shoot)
• Snacks and water (they’re not included)
• Insect repellent
• Anything you need to keep yourself comfortable on uneven ground

Not allowed:

• High-heeled shoes
• Baby strollers
• Bare feet

My practical advice: Wear shoes you’d actually wear for a hike, not shoes you’d wear for a dinner walk. If you’re thinking about sandals, stop thinking and pick shoes.

Who should book this donkey walk and cave stop

Book this if:

• You want a short, real-world adventure (not a long day hike)
• Your kids like animals and you want an activity they can engage with
• You’re curious about the endangered Primorje-Dinaric donkey breed
• You’d enjoy a cave visit focused on nature rather than history talk

Skip it (or consider alternatives) if:

• You need wheelchair access (wheelchair users aren’t supported)
• Your group can’t handle rocky and narrow paths
• Someone in your party has animal allergies
• You’re traveling with very young children: the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, and babies under 1 aren’t suitable either
• You fall into the older age limitations listed for people over 70 and over 95

Should you book this Kvarner/Šmrika donkey walk?

If you like animal encounters that feel grounded in daily care, I think you’ll enjoy this. The mix of farm prep, the donkey walk, and the Škabac cave gives you variety without eating up your whole day.

I’d book it if you can handle uneven ground and you’re excited about the chance of seeing bats. Bring sturdy closed shoes and your own picnic, and go in with patience for what wildlife does on its own schedule.

If you’re unsure, the decision comes down to one question: do you want an experience built around donkeys and nature, with a real viewpoint payoff at the end? If yes, this is an easy go.

FAQ

How long is the donkey walk tour?

The tour lasts 90 minutes.

Where does the activity start?

You meet at the donkey farm OPG Suzi in Šmrika.

How much does it cost?

The price is $35 per person.

What’s included in the tour price?

Included are the guided walk with donkeys, the visit to Škabac cave, a scenic viewpoint stop, and the opportunity for children to ride donkey Mila.

Are snacks and drinks included?

No. Snacks and drinks are not included, so you should bring them.

What languages is the live guide available in?

The live guide offers Croatian, English, and German.

Can kids ride a donkey during the walk?

Yes. If little legs get tired, kids can ride part of the way on donkey Mila.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

No. Wheelchair users aren’t suitable for this tour.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear comfortable, closed shoes. Bring a camera, snacks, water, and insect repellent. High-heeled shoes, baby strollers, and bare feet aren’t allowed.

Can I cancel if plans change?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it guaranteed to see bats in the cave?

The tour gives you an opportunity to spot bats in their natural habitat, but sightings depend on luck.