Plitvice Lakes: Guided Day Trip from Split with Boat Ride

Summary

Wander lush trails & shifting waterfalls with a guide from Split

You’ll wander boardwalks over turquoise lakes, hear stories from your local guide about Plitvice’s ever-changing landscape, and pause in prehistoric caves echoing with old secrets. Enjoy a panoramic boat ride and take in views you won’t find anywhere else — all with easy transfers from Split. It’s the kind of place that lingers in your mind long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I’d seen photos of Plitvice Lakes before, but standing there — damp air on my face, the sound of water everywhere — I felt like I’d stepped into someone else’s dream. Our guide, Marko, was already grinning at our group’s wide-eyed silence as we left the bus. He pointed out the way the colors kept changing with the light. I tried to take a photo but it just looked flat compared to what was in front of me. There was this earthy smell too, kind of mossy and sweet, that clung to my jacket all morning.

The walk isn’t hard but you do need good shoes — some parts are uneven and I nearly slipped once (Marko saw and just winked). We stopped by one of the lower lakes where he explained how these weird travertine barriers are still growing and shifting, so every year the waterfalls look a bit different. That idea stuck with me. At one point we ducked into a cave where prehistoric people once lived; it was cool and echoey inside, and honestly I didn’t expect to feel anything but I got goosebumps anyway.

Lunch was quick — sandwiches by the water, nothing fancy — but it tasted better than usual after all that walking. The boat ride across the lake was quiet except for some kids laughing at ducks chasing each other. By then my legs were tired but I didn’t really want to leave. On the drive back to Split everyone got quiet again; maybe just tired or maybe still thinking about those shifting blue-green pools. I know I was.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Travel from Split by air-conditioned vehicle
• Explore lakes, meadows, and caves
• Learn about travertine formations and algae
• Discover prehistoric cave settlements
• Return to Split by vehicle

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes?

The trip lasts a full day including transfers; expect several hours exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park itself.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No formal lunch is included; bring snacks or buy food during breaks in the park.

How much walking is involved at Plitvice Lakes?

About 5 km of walking on uneven surfaces is required during the tour.

What should I wear for this day trip?

Wear comfortable closed shoes (like sneakers), sportswear, and bring a raincoat or umbrella if rain is possible.

Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Does this tour include pickup from Split?

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Split by bus or van.

Is there a guide during the visit to Plitvice Lakes?

An English-speaking guide accompanies you throughout the park visit.

Are boat rides included in this Plitvice Lakes day trip?

Yes, a panoramic boat ride within Plitvice Lakes is included in your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Split by air-conditioned bus or van, entry tickets for both lower and upper lakes highlights at Plitvice, an English-speaking guide sharing stories along the way, a panoramic boat ride across one of the lakes, plus an electric train ride inside the park before heading back in comfort to Split.