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Split to Rijeka via Plitvice Lakes: Private Day Tour through Croatia’s Waterfalls - Split

Split to Rijeka via Plitvice Lakes: Private Day Tour through Croatia’s Waterfalls

Plitvička Jezeramoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

9 hours (full-day, including transfer and 4-hour park visit)

Fitness Level

Moderately fit—able to walk 4–8 km on uneven, often wet boardwalks and climb short stair sections.

Overview

A private door-to-door transfer from Split to Rijeka that stops for four hours at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Expect wooden boardwalks, turquoise cascades, practical comforts like WiFi and child seats, and the need to buy park admission separately.

Split to Rijeka via Plitvice Lakes: Private Day Tour through Croatia’s Waterfalls

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wildlife
sightseeing-tour

You step into the minivan while Split still sleeps, streetlights sliding off the chrome, and the driver eases onto the coastal road. The Adriatic recedes; limestone ridges and dark pine slopes press in. By midmorning the van hums with low conversation, warm bottles of water handed around, and the map on the dashboard folding toward a single magnet: Plitvice Lakes.

Adventure Photos

Split to Rijeka via Plitvice Lakes: Private Day Tour through Croatia’s Waterfalls photo 1

Adventure Tips

Buy park tickets in advance

Plitvice limits daily access during peak months—purchase your entrance time online to guarantee the window you need for the 4-hour stop.

Wear grippy shoes

Boardwalks and stone steps can be wet and slippery; waterproof hiking shoes give better traction and comfort for 4–8 km of walking.

Travel light and secure valuables

Luggage capacity per passenger is limited—inform the operator if you have oversized bags and keep phones/cameras in a dry pocket for waterfall spray.

Timing matters for photos and crowds

Arrive early or late in your allotted window to avoid the biggest crowds and capture softer light on the falls.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Brown bear
  • Eurasian otter

History

Plitvice Lakes became a national park in 1949 and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 for its dynamic travertine terraces and waterfalls.

Conservation

Visitors must stay on marked boardwalks to protect fragile tufa deposits; follow park rules, pack out waste, and favor local services to support conservation efforts.

Adventure Hotspots in Split

Recommended Gear

Sturdy waterproof walking shoes

Essential

Provide grip and comfort on slippery boardwalks and uneven limestone steps.

Lightweight rain jacket

Essential

Protects from sudden showers and waterfall spray, especially in spring and autumn.

spring specific

Daypack with water and snacks

Essential

Carries essentials during your 4-hour visit—water, snacks, camera, and sunscreen.

Portable charger (power bank)

Keeps phones and cameras powered through a long day of photos and maps.

Frequently Asked Questions