How to Visit Plitvice Lakes: A Guide for Nature Lovers

11 May How to Visit Plitvice Lakes: A Guide for Nature Lovers

If you’re a nature lover and planning a trip to Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park should definitely be on your itinerary. With its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear lakes, Plitvice is a true gem of Croatia. In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive guide on how to visit Plitvice Lakes and make the most out of your trip. The article is contributed by Looney Nature

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts of sixteen interconnected lakes and a series of breathtaking waterfalls. It is located in central Croatia and covers an area of almost 300 square kilometers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

When to Visit Plitvice Lakes

The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes is during the spring and autumn months when the crowds are smaller, and the weather is milder. The park is open year-round, but it can get quite crowded during the summer months, especially in July and August.

How to Get to Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is located about 130 kilometers south of the capital city, Zagreb. The easiest way to get there is by car, but there are also regular buses that run from Zagreb and other major cities in Croatia. If you’re coming from the coast, you can take a bus from Split or Zadar. Discover How to plan a family trip

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options near Plitvice Lakes, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to apartments and campsites. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, you can choose one of the hotels inside the park. However, if you’re on a budget, there are several guesthouses and campsites just outside the park.

What to See and Do

Plitvice Lakes National Park is divided into two main areas, the Upper Lakes and the Lower Lakes. You can choose to visit one or both of these areas depending on the time you have.

Upper Lakes

The Upper Lakes are the higher-lying part of the park and are characterized by a series of interconnected lakes and cascading waterfalls. The main attraction in this area is the 78-meter-high Veliki Slap waterfall, which is the highest waterfall in Croatia.

Lower Lakes

The Lower Lakes are the lower-lying part of the park and are characterized by a series of smaller lakes and waterfalls. The main attraction in this area is the Great Waterfall, which is the largest waterfall in the park.

Hiking Trails

Plitvice Lakes National Park has several hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. The most popular trail is the trail that takes you around the entire park, which is about 18 kilometers long. There are also several shorter trails that take you to different parts of the park.

Boat Ride

If you want to experience the lakes from a different perspective, you can take a boat ride on Lake Kozjak, the largest lake in the park. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and waterfalls.

What to Wear and Bring

When visiting Plitvice Lakes, it’s important to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes that are appropriate for the weather. It can get quite chilly in the morning and evening, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater. You should also bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you’re planning on hiking.

Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes

• Get there early: The park gets quite crowded during the day, so it’s a good idea to get there early to avoid the crowds.
• Stay on the marked trails: It’s important to stay on the marked trails and not go off-trail as it can be dangerous and harmful to the natural environment.
• Pack light: It’s a good idea to pack light and only bring the essentials, especially if you’re planning on hiking.
• Bring a camera: Plitvice Lakes is a photographer’s paradise, so don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning natural beauty.
• Respect the rules: It’s important to respect the rules and regulations of the park, including not littering and not feeding the wildlife.

Conclusion

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers visiting Croatia. With its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear lakes, it’s no wonder why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By following our guide, you can make the most out of your trip to Plitvice Lakes and create unforgettable memories.