Plitvice Lakes National Park lies in the mountains of central Croatia. Founded in 1949, it is the oldest national park in the country. Its 16 terraced lakes are linked by waterfalls and cascades. Since 1979, moreover, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site.
So, this guide covers the lakes, trails, wildlife, tickets and practical tips.
The Lakes and Waterfalls
The lakes change colour from blue to green with minerals and light. In fact, natural travertine barriers keep growing and create new cascades.
Upper Lakes
Twelve lakes lie in a forested valley. Here, the water flows gently over many small falls.
Lower Lakes
The four lower lakes sit in a limestone canyon. Above all, Veliki Slap, the “Great Waterfall”, drops 78 metres. In fact, it is the tallest waterfall in Croatia.
Trails in Plitvice Lakes National Park
Wooden boardwalks cross the water and wind around the lakes. For example, the short routes take two to three hours. Meanwhile, longer routes cover both parts of the park in six to eight hours. Also, electric boats cross Lake Kozjak, and panoramic trains link the entrances.
Wildlife and Plants
Brown bears, wolves, deer and lynx live in the surrounding forests. However, they are shy and rarely seen. In addition, more than 150 bird species and over 1,000 plant species have been recorded.
Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Book tickets online: In summer, entry is by time slot.
- Arrive early: Boardwalks get crowded by late morning.
- No swimming: Bathing in the lakes is forbidden.
- Wear good shoes: Boardwalks can be wet and slippery.
Best Time to Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
Spring brings powerful waterfalls, while autumn colours are beautiful. In contrast, July and August are very busy. In winter, moreover, frozen falls create a magical scene, but some routes close.
Nearby Sights
The village of Rastoke has small waterfalls and old watermills. Also, the Barać Caves near Rakovica offer guided tours.
Getting There
The park is about two hours by car or bus from Zagreb and Zadar. For tickets, see the official Plitvice Lakes National Park website.
Final Thoughts on Plitvice Lakes National Park
In short, this park is one of Europe’s most beautiful natural wonders. Afterwards, visit Split or Dubrovnik. Discover all our Croatia travel guides.
