National Park Plitvice Lakes from Split

Explore the Natural Beauty of Plitvice Lakes from Split for $195.93

The National Park Plitvice Lakes from Split offers a captivating day trip into one of Croatia’s most celebrated UNESCO heritage sites. For $195.93 per person, this 10-hour guided tour includes pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, a boat ride across the lakes, and extensive sightseeing within the park. The tour is particularly suited for those who want an in-depth experience of the park’s turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and biodiversity, with the convenience of transportation arranged from Split.

This trip departs early at 7:00 am from LazaretaObala in Split and is perfect for visitors with moderate physical fitness, as the itinerary involves walking over varied terrain with up to 300 steps in some areas. Given the tour’s high 5.0 rating from four reviews, travelers can expect a well-organized, insightful, and visually stunning experience. Be aware that entrance fees to the park are not included and must be booked separately online at least 72 hours in advance for $40 per person.

Key Points

• Duration: Around 10 hours including travel time and park exploration
• Price: $195.93 per person, excluding park entrance fees
• Highlights: Guided tour, boat ride, scenic trails with wooden bridges, diverse flora and waterfalls
• Transport: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from Split
• Guide: Knowledgeable English-speaking local guide
• Booking: Advance reservation recommended; minimum of four participants required
• Flexibility: Free cancellation available 24 hours prior

From Split to Croatia’s Largest National Park

This tour begins with an early pickup from LazaretaObala Lazareta 3 in Split. The long drive of about four hours takes travelers through Croatia’s scenic landscapes, setting the stage for the breathtaking visuals ahead. The journey is described as smooth and engaging, with guides often sharing stories, tips, and insights about Croatia along the way.

Once arriving at Plitvice Lakes National Park, the tour starts with an exploration of the largest and oldest national park in Croatia. Visitors are introduced to the park’s remarkable biodiversity, which includes pine, spruce, and beech trees, alongside a lush carpet of ferns covering the ground. This diversity adds vibrancy to the landscape and creates excellent photo opportunities.

Walking the Trails and Crossing Wooden Bridges

The trails through the park are carefully designed to showcase the park’s turquoise lakes, streams, and waterfalls. The wooden bridges elevate visitors above the water, offering picture-perfect views of the cascading falls and serene lakes. While the walks involve some uphill and downhill sections, the breathtaking scenery easily compensates for any physical effort.

The tour includes an eco-friendly bus ride over rougher terrain within the park, making it easier to cover more ground without tiring out. Afterward, a boat ride across the lakes provides a relaxing way to see the park’s waters from a different perspective. These included boat trips are a highlight, giving visitors a peaceful break while enjoying stunning vistas.

Discovering the Park’s Ecosystem

Throughout the visit, the local guide shares insights into the park’s flora and fauna, explaining how the different trees and plant life thrive in this protected environment. The diversity of flora and the biodiversity of the park are among the reasons why Plitvice Lakes is such a unique natural feature in Croatia.

The trails vary in difficulty, with up to 300 steps in some sections, so visitors should be prepared for moderate physical activity. The walks are well worth the effort, as the vistas unfold at every turn, revealing the turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls that make Plitvice Lakes a true spectacle.

Included and Optional Expenses for a Complete Experience

The tour price includes the air-conditioned vehicle, the English-speaking guide, and the guided tour of the park. However, the park entrance fee of $40 per person is not included and must be booked online at least 72 hours prior. This provides flexibility for travelers to choose the best time for their visit or to avoid last-minute surprises.

Food and drinks are also not included, so visitors might consider packing snacks or eating beforehand. Gratuities for the guide or driver are optional but appreciated if you value their service.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour starts at 7:00 am from LazaretaObala Lazareta 3 in Split and concludes back at the same point, offering a seamless transfer. The tour operates with a minimum of 4 participants and a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size that allows for personalized attention from the guide.

The experience is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as walking over uneven terrain and climbing steps is involved. Travelers should wear comfortable footwear and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

The Expertise of the Guides and Traveler Satisfaction

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. Reviews highlight Neno, a guide who is described as funny, informative, and attentive, capable of explaining details clearly and sharing anecdotes that enrich the experience. Visitors appreciate the timing, safe transportation, and helpful tips provided throughout the day.

The reviews consistently give the tour a 5-star rating, praising the punctuality, quality of the vehicle, and the overall organization. Travelers particularly value the guides’ ability to take great photos and control the pace of the walk, making the experience enjoyable and manageable.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day excursion suits those who want to see the highlights of Plitvice Lakes without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. It’s ideal for visitors with moderate mobility, as some walking and steps are involved. The tour offers excellent value for money, considering the guided service, boat ride, and transportation are included.

However, the entrance fee is not included, so travelers must plan for the additional $40. The advance booking ensures availability, especially since the tour is popular and booked about 49 days in advance on average.

Why Choose This Tour from Split?

This guided tour from Split provides a convenient, well-organized, and insightful way to experience Croatia’s most famous natural site. The professional guides and included boat rides make it stand out. Plus, the small group size and flexible cancellation policy add to the overall value.

Travelers who appreciate comfortable transport, expert narration, and stunning scenery will find this tour rewarding. It offers a balanced mix of walking, sightseeing, and relaxing boat rides, ensuring a memorable day exploring Croatia’s natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Split to Plitvice Lakes?
The drive takes approximately 4 hours each way, making the total tour duration around 10 hours including time at the park.

Is the entrance fee to Plitvice Lakes included in the tour price?
No, the $40 park entrance fee must be booked online separately at least 72 hours before the visit.

What is the physical level required for this tour?
It is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as the trail involves walking and climbing up to 300 steps in some sections.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and a guided tour of the park with a boat ride across the lakes.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the free cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Is food provided during the tour?
No, food and beverages are not included, so travelers should bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the trip.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour operates with up to 16 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and intimate experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The expert guides, timely pickups, scenic boat ride, and breathtaking views of the lakes and waterfalls make this excursion particularly memorable.

Who is this tour best for?
It is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a guided, hassle-free visit to Croatia’s most iconic national park.

This guided tour from Split to Plitvice Lakes combines comfort, expert narration, and stunning scenery—making it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to explore Croatia’s natural marvels.