Ljubljana: Soa Valley and Triglav National Park day trip

Discover Slovenia's stunning Soa Valley and Triglav National Park on this 10-hour small-group day trip from Ljubljana for $125, including river rafting and scenic stops.

Key Points

  • Price and Duration: The tour costs $125 per person and lasts approximately 10 hours.
  • Exclusive Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
  • Highlights Include: Rafting on the Soa River, driving over the Vrsic Pass at 1611 meters, and visiting the Kobarid WWI Museum.
  • Scenic Stops: Photo opportunities at Kranjska Gora and Lake Jasna, plus visits to Kozjak Waterfall.
  • Expert Guide: Led by a certified local guide who shares detailed knowledge about Slovenia’s landscape and history.
  • All activities optional: You can choose to participate in activities like rafting or explore independently.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Stunning Soa Valley and Triglav National Park in One Day

The Ljubljana: Soa Valley and Triglav National Park day trip offers a comprehensive look at many of Slovenia’s most captivating natural and historic sights. Priced at $125 per person, this 10-hour adventure is perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond Ljubljana, with a focus on scenic beauty, outdoor fun, and cultural insights.

This tour is designed for small groups of no more than 8 people, providing an intimate experience with plenty of opportunity for personalized attention from the certified local guide. While the itinerary includes active pursuits like river rafting, it also offers plenty of sightseeing and cultural experiences, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

A key strength of this trip is the expert guidance that enhances every stop, from explaining Slovenia’s history to highlighting the area’s natural features. The tour balances scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural visits, making it an enriching full-day outing from Ljubljana. However, it is worth noting that some activities, such as white water rafting (costing $69), are optional and require extra payment.

From Ljubljana to the Heart of the Julian Alps

The journey begins at a central Ljubljana pickup point on Dalmatinova ulica 10, making it easy to access for travelers staying in the city. The tour takes you first on a 75-minute drive in a comfortable air-conditioned van, setting the stage for a day filled with diverse sights.

As you leave Ljubljana behind, the first stop is Kranjska Gora, a popular alpine town renowned for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Here, you’ll enjoy a short 20-minute visit and photo session at Lake Jasna, where the tranquil waters reflect the surrounding Julian Alps. This peaceful setting provides excellent photo opportunities and a moment of calm amidst the adventure.

Next, the tour continues with a longer one-hour drive to the picturesque town of Bovec. Known as the heart of outdoor pursuits in Slovenia, Bovec is where the Soa River winds through the landscape. After arriving, travelers can opt for a small-group rafting tour or explore the area on a simple hike around the river. The scenic views and crystal-clear waters make for memorable moments, especially for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Crossing the Vrsic Pass for Unmatched Panorama Views

One of the highlights of this tour is the drive across the Vrsic Pass, reaching 1611 meters above sea level. This mountain pass is famous for its breathtaking panoramic vistas, with winding roads offering spectacular overlooks of the Julian Alps. The pass provides a perfect setting for photos and appreciation of Slovenia’s unspoiled wilderness.

The Vrsic Pass not only offers scenic beauty but also connects the Soa Valley with other Alpine regions, making it a vital route historically and geographically. The drive itself is an experience, with sharp turns and sweeping views that captivate every traveler.

Exploring Kobarid’s Historic and Natural Treasures

The tour includes a visit to Kobarid, a town steeped in history and natural beauty. Here, you can explore the Kobarid WWI Museum, which costs 8 euros per person, and learn about the area’s significant role during the war. The exhibits blend seamlessly with the lush landscape, providing both educational and aesthetic appeal.

Adjacent to the town, travelers can visit Kozjak Waterfall, a secret spot where turquoise waters cascade into a clear pool. Entrance to the waterfall costs 5 euros per person and offers a peaceful retreat amid verdant surroundings. This stop is especially popular among photographers and those seeking a tranquil nature experience.

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Scenic Stops at Kranjska Gora and Lake Jasna

The tour offers a photo stop at Kranjska Gora, a charming alpine resort town that exudes traditional mountain charm. The brief visit allows for sightseeing and capturing scenic images of the Julian Alps.

Lake Jasna serves as a highlight, with its tranquil waters and mountain backdrop. Travelers have free time to take photographs, enjoy the peaceful scenery, or simply relax by the lake. The area’s natural beauty makes it a favorite for visitors looking for a picturesque moment during the day.

Optional Activities and Additional Costs

While the core tour is focused on sightseeing and cultural visits, some activities cost extra. For white water rafting, the fee is $69 per person, which covers the rafting experience and river permit. The guided tour itself emphasizes the activities as optional, allowing guests to spend their time exploring independently if they prefer.

The Kobarid WWI Museum and Kozjak Waterfall also require entrance fees, which are not included in the base price. These optional activities are ideal for those wanting deeper engagement with Slovenia’s history and nature.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour departs from opposite the City Hotel in Ljubljana and uses comfortable, air-conditioned vans for transport. The group size is limited to 8 participants, providing a cozy, personalized atmosphere.

Since the tour involves some walking, it is best suited for travelers with comfortable shoes and a moderate level of mobility. The trip is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Participants should bring swimwear, towels, and comfortable clothing for active pursuits like rafting or waterfall visits.

The tour operates with live English-speaking guides, who share stories and insights throughout the day. Cancellation is free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Day Trip From Ljubljana?

This tour appeals to those interested in outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and cultural history. The mix of rafting, mountain passes, and historic sites makes it ideal for travelers eager to experience Slovenia’s diverse landscape within a single day.

While it may not suit individuals with mobility impairments or those seeking a leisurely, minimal activity schedule, the tour offers enough flexibility for guests to spend time independently at various stops. The small group size ensures an engaging, friendly atmosphere, perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers eager to learn about Slovenia’s natural and historical treasures.

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Ljubljana: Soa Valley and Triglav National Park day trip



5.0

“Thomas, our guide, was so knowledgable about the history of slovenia, world war 1, the local flowers and plants, houses, villages and so much more!…”

— GetYourGuide traveler, May 21, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves outdoor activities like rafting and walking, it is best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor settings. The tour is not explicitly designed for strollers or wheelchairs.

How long is the rafting experience and what does it cost?
The white water rafting lasts for a small-group adventure and costs $69 per person, including the river permit.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for the Kobarid WWI Museum (8 euros) and Kozjak Waterfall (5 euros) are not included and must be paid separately.

What should I bring for the day trip?
Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, towels, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for spontaneous changes.

What makes this tour stand out from similar excursions?
The tour’s small group size and expert local guides provide a personalized, in-depth experience. The combination of scenic drives, outdoor activities, and historical sites makes it a well-rounded day trip from Ljubljana.

You can check availability for your dates here:
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