The Vrbas River was home to the 2005 European Whitewater Rafting Championships. The Vrbas Canyon is an ideal place for water adventures like kayaking and rafting, and for softer adventures upriver – hiking, walking, camping and fishing. Off the beaten track to the highlands around the canyon are excellent hiking and walking trails where one has phenomenal views of the river below. The canyon walls are home to hawks, eagles and falcons. The highlands are dotted with many old villages that offer a stark contrast to the beat of the Banja Luka city center.