Plitvice Lakes: Private Day Trip from Split with Pickup

Summary

Plitvice’s wild lakes, waterfalls and forest trails in Croatia

You’ll wander Plitvice Lakes’ wooden trails past rushing waterfalls and surreal blue-green pools on this private day trip from Split. With a local guide leading you through forests and caves, plus hotel pickup included, you’ll feel both awed and quietly connected to Croatia’s wild heart. The sound of water stays with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if water can actually look that blue? That’s what hit me first at Plitvice Lakes, somewhere between Split and the edge of what feels like an old fairy tale. We left early — I barely finished my coffee — but our driver, Marko, was already cracking jokes about Dalmatian time versus park time (I still don’t get it). The road north is all rolling hills and sleepy villages. By the time we reached the entrance, the air had that cool pine smell you only get in deep forests.

I didn’t expect how loud the waterfalls would be — not roaring exactly, more like a steady rush that drowns out your thoughts for a second. Our guide Ana walked us along these wooden walkways that float just above the water. She pointed out tiny fish darting below and tried to teach us how to say “Supljara” (the cave’s name), but I probably butchered it. There’s something about seeing sixteen lakes stacked like steps, each one a different shade of green or blue depending on where you stand or how the sun hits. It’s hard to describe without sounding cheesy.

We took a short boat ride across one lake — it was so quiet except for some German tourists whispering and a kid laughing at ducks. Lunch was just sandwiches we brought (no fancy restaurants inside), but honestly, sitting by the Korana river with cold fingers and watching mist rise off the water made even plain bread taste good. I kept thinking about how old everything felt here; Ana said some trees are older than Croatia itself. Anyway, we wandered until our legs got tired and then rode back to Split with muddy shoes and way too many photos on my phone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Travel from Split by private vehicle
• Explore Upper Lakes
• Visit Lower Lakes
• See Korana river
• Visit Supljara cave
• Walk wooden trails around lakes
• Enjoy boat and train rides
• Return to Split

Top questions

How far is Plitvice Lakes from Split?

It’s about 2.5 to 3 hours by car each way between Split and Plitvice Lakes.

Is hotel pickup included for this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Split are included in your booking.

Are entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes included?

Yes, entry fees for Plitvice Lakes are covered in this private day trip.

What will we see at Plitvice Lakes?

You’ll visit both Upper and Lower Lakes, see waterfalls, walk wooden trails, cross lakes by boat or train, and pass Supljara cave.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as most paths are easy to walk.

Are meals or lunch included?

No meals are included; you should bring your own snacks or lunch for the day.

How long do we spend at Plitvice Lakes?

You’ll have several hours inside the park to explore all main areas before returning to Split.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Split, entry tickets to Plitvice Lakes so you skip lines at arrival, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort on the long drive north, plus a professional English-speaking driver who knows all the best stories along the way.