Travel from Rijeka to Zagreb with a private stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend a few hours walking wooden boardwalks, crossing Kozjak by electric boat and taking in cascading turquoise lakes and Veliki Slap.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step from the minivan onto a wooden path that threads through a cathedral of beech and fir; water is the constant companion here, carving travertine shelves and negotiating every contour until it becomes a ladder of turquoise basins. The air smells of moss and cold limestone, and for a few hours the park’s cascades set the tempo.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours (approx.; ~3 hours in park)
Fitness Level
Moderate: able to walk 5–8 km on uneven boardwalks and climb short flights of stairs.
Wildlife
History
Established in 1949, Plitvice is Croatia’s oldest national park and was inscribed on the UNESCO list in 1979 for its unique travertine formations and natural processes.
Conservation
Boardwalks and strict trail rules protect fragile tufa and endemic plants; visitors are encouraged to minimize waste and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Plitvice Lakes Private Guided Tour from Rijeka with Transfer to Zagreb today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Use grippy footwear
Boardwalks are often wet and can be slippery—sturdy hiking shoes with good tread reduce slip risk.
Bring a rain shell
Weather in the karst landscape can shift fast; a lightweight waterproof layer keeps you comfortable.
Carry water and snacks
There are limited food options along main routes—pack water and an energy snack for the 2–3 hour park walk.
Stick to marked trails
Tufa deposits are fragile; staying on boardwalks preserves formations and wildlife habitat.
Waterproof hiking shoes
Grip and support for wet, uneven wooden pathways.
Light rain shell
Protects from sudden rain and mist near waterfalls.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Reusable water bottle (1–1.5 L)
Hydration for the walking portion where drinks are limited.
Small daypack
Carries layers, snacks, camera and park essentials comfortably.