Full-Day Private Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Split

Experience the Natural Beauty of Plitvice Lakes on a Private Tour from Split

The Full-Day Private Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Split offers an intimate way to explore one of Croatia’s most beloved natural wonders. Priced at $947.16 per group for up to 8 guests, this tour provides personalized attention with an expert local guide and round-trip air-conditioned transportation. The journey lasts approximately 8 to 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure that balances comfort with immersive scenery.

A key highlight is the Veliki Slap, or “Great Waterfall”, where water plunges from a 78-meter height. This breathtaking sight is admired for about 20 minutes, offering ample opportunity for photos and soaking in the stunning views. The tour also includes a guided tour of the Lower Lakes, allowing a deeper appreciation of the park’s pristine environment. While the admission fee for the park is not included, the overall cost includes local taxes, guide, and transport, making it a convenient and well-rounded experience.

This tour is perfect for visitors seeking personalized service and expert insights, especially those comfortable with moderate physical activity, as it involves walking and some outdoor exploration. It’s worth noting that crowds can be heavy during summer, so arriving early or late can help avoid long queues. This private tour offers a balanced mix of scenic highlights, expert guidance, and hassle-free logistics.

Key Points

• Private, fully guided day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes.
• Includes round-trip transport in air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Highlights include Veliki Slap, Croatia’s tallest waterfall at 78 meters.
• Tour duration ranges from 8 to 12 hours, offering flexibility.
• Admission to the park is not included, so plan for additional entrance fees.
• Ideal for travelers with moderate physical fitness who want a personalized experience.

Pick-up and Transport: Convenient and Comfortable

The tour departs from Split with hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics for travelers. The private vehicle, equipped with air conditioning and a professional driver, ensures a smooth ride to and from the park. Given the long drive of about 6 hours round-trip, the comfort of the van is an important consideration; some reviews note that it could be more spacious for extended drives.

Travelers can expect a prompt start around 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM during the official opening hours, which run every day of the week. This early start helps maximize time at the park and avoid the peak crowds common in summer months. The small group size of up to 8 people guarantees a more personalized experience and allows for flexible scheduling and pacing.

Exploring the Veliki Slap: Croatia’s Tallest Waterfall

The first stop on this tour is the Veliki Slap, which is a highlight for many visitors. This 78-meter-high waterfall is one of Croatia’s most impressive natural features. The guided tour of this site lasts about 20 minutes, during which the guide explains its formation and significance, enhancing the experience.

Standing before the Great Waterfall, visitors are treated to the sight of water crashing down with power and grace. The area around Veliki Slap is accessible for photo opportunities, and the guide offers insights into the park’s geology and ecology. While the viewing time is about 20 minutes, it’s enough to capture memorable images and appreciate the scale of this natural marvel.

Discovering the Lower Lakes and the Park’s Beauty

After visiting Veliki Slap, the tour proceeds to the Plitvice Lakes National Park for approximately 4 hours. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its interconnected lakes, vibrant colors, and lush surroundings. The guided tour of the Lower Lakes allows visitors to learn about the park’s unique karst landscape, the various waterfalls, and native flora and fauna.

Since the park admission fee is not included, travelers should consider adding this expense to their budget. The park’s well-maintained walking routes and boardwalks make it possible to explore comfortably, but some areas may be busy during peak hours. The park’s pristine environment and stunning scenery make the visit worthwhile, especially with a guide who shares informative commentary.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The official guide is described as excellent and helpful, providing engaging commentary throughout the tour. Their local knowledge enhances understanding of the park’s natural features and history. The guide’s friendly demeanor and professionalism help create a relaxed atmosphere, especially during the longer drive.

While the guide is praised for their expertise, the overall experience can be influenced by crowd levels, particularly in summer. The guide’s tips on best times to visit and how to maximize your time are valuable for avoiding queues and making the most of the day.

Managing the Long Drive and Crowds

The long drive from Split is a common point of feedback. Some find the around 6 hours total in the vehicle to be a bit tiring, especially on hot days. The driver is described as good, but the comfort of the van is a consideration for those sensitive to long journeys.

The park can be crowded during summer, leading to long queues for photos and food. The best strategy is to arrive early or late in the day to enjoy a quieter experience. The tour’s early start helps mitigate this issue, giving travelers more time to explore without the heavy crowds.

Cost and Value for Money

At $947.16 per group, this tour offers good value, considering the private guide, transportation, and all taxes included. However, entrance fees to the park are not included, which adds to the overall cost. The personalized nature of the tour, with only your group participating, makes it ideal for those wanting a tailored experience.

The tour duration and inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off make it a convenient choice, particularly for visitors who prefer not to navigate public transport or large groups. The flexibility of the timing, along with the guided insights, enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private tour suits visitors seeking a personalized, guided experience of Plitvice Lakes. It’s ideal for small groups or families who appreciate flexibility and comfort. The moderate physical activity involved makes it suitable for travelers who can comfortably walk and stand for several hours.

It’s also a good option for those who want to avoid the summer crowds by starting early, plus anyone who values expert commentary and a hassle-free trip from Split. However, those sensitive to long drives or looking for a budget option should weigh the travel time and extra costs.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day Private Plitvice Lakes Tour

This tour offers an excellent combination of luxury and natural beauty, with a private guide and air-conditioned transport. The highlight remains the Veliki Slap, which alone makes the trip worthwhile. The guided exploration of the Lower Lakes provides valuable insights into Croatia’s natural heritage.

While long drives and the park’s summer crowds are considerations, the early start and private setup help mitigate these issues. The cost reflects the personalized service and exclusive access, making this a strong choice for those seeking a deeper, more comfortable experience of Plitvice Lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the entrance fee to Plitvice Lakes included in the tour?
No, the admission ticket is not included. Travelers should budget separately for entrance fees.

How long do visits to Veliki Slap last?
The guided tour around Veliki Slap lasts approximately 20 minutes, giving enough time for photos and viewing.

What is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 to 12 hours, depending on the pace and timing.

Is transportation comfortable?
The air-conditioned vehicle is professional, but some reviews suggest it could be more spacious for longer drives.

What should I wear?
The dress code is smart casual. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and outdoor exploration.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

When is the best time to avoid crowds?
Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon helps avoid the summer crowds.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour involves moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 71 days in advance for availability, especially during peak season.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by Pelican Tours Split, with contact info at +385916175000 or [email protected].