From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour

Exploring Croatia’s Natural Wonder: A Review of the Zadar to Plitvice Lakes Tour

Planning a trip to Croatia and eager to see its most breathtaking landscapes? If so, a day trip from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park is an experience many travelers cherish. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits: a journey through a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its terraced lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forest scenery.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to explore Croatia’s most famous natural wonder in a single day. Second, the combination of guided commentary and scenic boat rides offers a balanced way to appreciate the park’s beauty without the stress of planning logistics yourself. However, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include park entry tickets or food, so budgeting for those is necessary. This experience suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, nature photography, or simply soaking in stunning landscapes — and want a hassle-free way to see the highlights.

This experience made our article of Zadar’s 12 Best National Park Tours.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Glittering lakes, waterfalls, and green forests abound.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the visit with interesting insights.
• Boat ride included: Cross Kozjak Lake for a different perspective on the park.
• Park entrance fees extra: Ticket cost is paid separately on the day.
• Duration & comfort: About 2.5 hours driving plus a 3-hour guided tour in the park.
• Value for money: Around $48, with reviews indicating good overall value considering transportation and guide services.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Well-Organized Day Trip from Zadar

The tour starts early in the morning, departing Zadar for the approximately 2.5-hour scenic drive through the Lika hinterland—an area known for its picturesque landscapes and rural charm. This part of Croatia is often overlooked but offers a peaceful introduction to the country’s natural scenery. Once you arrive at Plitvice Lakes, the real adventure begins.

You’ll meet your guide, who will lead you through the park’s highlights, making sure you don’t miss the best viewpoints and waterfalls. The 3-hour guided walk takes you through the Upper Lakes — where 12 of the 16 lakes are located — with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The scenery here is remarkable: shimmering waters, lush greenery, and the ever-present sound of waterfalls.

The Boat Ride on Kozjak Lake

One of the most memorable parts of this trip is the boat across Kozjak Lake, the largest and deepest in the park. This lake, formed from two smaller lakes merging, is the only one in the park that allows for navigation. It’s a peaceful, reflective ride that offers a different way to take in the landscape. Visitors often comment on how relaxing and scenic this part of the trip is, escaping the often busy walking paths. According to reviews, this boat trip is a highlight — Rauni mentions how well-organized the trip was, with the boat adding a special touch to the experience.

Exploring the Lower Lakes and the Waterfalls

After the boat ride, the tour continues to the Lower Lakes, characterized by turquoise waters, small waterfalls, and lush surroundings. This part of the park offers some of the most iconic views, with wooden walkways winding through the landscape. One of the key sights here is the Great Waterfall, plunging from 78 meters — a powerful display that leaves visitors in awe. Ewa describes the trip as “beautiful,” noting the “wooden paths” which she found “look cute” and add to the charm of the experience.

Cave Visit and Additional Sights

Near the Lower Lakes, you’ll find the Underground Cave of Upljara. The cave’s environment fosters a unique fauna, adding an underground dimension to your outdoor adventure. While the cave visit is more of an optional brief stop, it provides a nice contrast to the lakes and waterfalls above ground.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned bus, a guide, and park entrance fees (though tickets are purchased separately). It typically lasts around 6-7 hours in total, accommodating those with a day to spare and a love for nature. Since food and beverages are not included, travelers should bring snacks or plan to purchase something at the park or along the route.

A notable point from reviews is the emphasis on the guide’s role. Many travelers appreciated guides like Ivana and Matti, who added value with engaging commentary and multi-language support. Grace appreciated her guide’s “interactive and interesting” style, which made the experience more engaging.

Timing and Price — Is It Worth It?

For $48, the price per person seems reasonable, especially when you consider the transportation, guided tour, and boat ride included. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are an additional expense, ranging from €13-35, depending on the season and age.

The tour runs in various seasons, with some reviews noting that visiting in low season still offers a quieter experience, despite some crowds during peak summer months. If you value a well-organized trip with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers good value.

What Travelers Say

The majority of reviews are highly positive. Rauni mentions how “well organized” the trip was and appreciated the “beautiful place” and “friendly” guide. Ewa enjoyed the variety with a “scenic hike” instead of a boat ride when queues were long, highlighting the flexibility of the guide. Grace praised the “interactive” guide and preferred this trip over other national parks, indicating it’s a compelling choice for outdoor lovers.

Some practical notes include Rafael’s comment about confusion over the meeting point, underscoring the importance of clear instructions. Damien, after experiencing rainy weather, still found the trip “unbelievably outstanding,” showing the park’s resilience to weather and its consistent appeal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Croatia’s most famous waterfalls and lakes without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy moderate walking, scenic boat rides, and guided explanations that enrich the experience. If you’re on a tight schedule but want a comprehensive visit to Plitvice, this tour offers a well-balanced package.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer free exploring or those with mobility issues, as the walkways can get busy, and some paths are lengthy. Also, it’s not suitable for anyone wanting to swim — swimming is explicitly forbidden here.

Final Thoughts

This Zadar-based tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park offers an accessible, guided way to witness one of Croatia’s most stunning natural sites. The combination of scenic views, a boat ride, and expert guides makes it a worthwhile experience for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a memorable day in Croatia’s outdoors.

The trip strikes a good balance between comfort and adventure, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. While the cost is reasonable, remember that you’ll need to cover entrance fees and meals separately. Still, many reviewers say the experience is worth every euro for the chance to walk among waterfalls and shimmering lakes.

If you’re eager to explore Croatia’s natural beauty without the stress of navigating alone, this tour is a smart choice—just prepare for some walking, bring a camera, and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides transportation by air-conditioned bus from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes and back.

How long does the tour last? The entire trip, including driving, guided tour, and sightseeing, lasts roughly 6-7 hours.

Are park tickets included? No, entrance tickets are purchased separately on the day of the tour, with prices depending on the season and age.

What is the price of the tour? The tour costs about $48 per person, excluding park entry. Ticket prices vary but generally range from €13 to €35.

Is a guide included? Yes, the tour includes a guide, who enhances the experience with commentary in English or German.

Can I swim in Plitvice Lakes? Swimming is not allowed in the park, so be prepared to enjoy the scenery from the trails and boat rides only.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, water, and a camera to capture the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 7 and older can join, but keep in mind the walking involved.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-rated way to experience Croatia’s stunning Plitvice Lakes. With knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, and unforgettable waterfalls, it’s well worth considering if you want a hassle-free day immersed in nature’s best.

You can check availability for your dates here: