Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most iconic sights, famous for its cascading lakes, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests. Its unique landscape offers a variety of ways to explore, whether you’re after a relaxing walk, a thrilling off-road adventure, or a contemplative retreat. We’ve rounded up the best tours to help you make the most of your visit. Our favorites include the guided Plitvice Lakes with boat ride, which combines easy walking with a peaceful boat across Lake Kozjak, and the Adventure Trail Buggy Tours, perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush through the park’s rugged scenery.
If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive experience, the From Split: Plitvice Lakes Private Tour with free Dessert offers a full-day exploration of Croatia’s most famous lakes along with a scenic train ride and lake cruise. For travelers who prefer a spiritual connection with nature, the Plitvice: Guided Prayer Walk in Nature provides a peaceful chance to reflect amid the waterfalls and forests. Lastly, if you’re after a private, customized visit, the Plitvice lakes Private guided tour guarantees a tailored experience in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each of these top-rated tours, helping you decide which one best matches your interests, schedule, and travel style.
1. Plitvice: Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour with Boat Ride
For around $22 per person, this guided tour offers a balanced mix of walking and relaxing boat rides through the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. The tour includes a comprehensive exploration of both the Lower and Upper Lakes, with plenty of opportunities to admire waterfalls and crystal-clear waters. The highlight is definitely the boat ride across Lake Kozjak, which provides a peaceful break from walking and a chance to soak in the scenery from the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the geology, wildlife, and history of the park. With a small-group atmosphere, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience that balances sightseeing with leisure. Guests often comment on how the guide’s storytelling made the landscape come alive and how the boat ride offers a calming contrast to the walking.
Perfect for travelers seeking an affordable, straightforward introduction to Plitvice, this tour is accessible, informative, and enjoyable. It’s well-suited for those who want to see the park’s highlights without long hikes or strenuous activity.
Bottom line: A great choice for first-timers or anyone who wants a guided, easy-paced introduction to Croatia’s most famous lakes.
2. Adventure Trail Buggy Tours
If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, the Adventure Trail Buggy Tours offers a high-octane way to experience Plitvice’s rugged landscape. For about $82, you’ll hop into a Maverick Can-Am 1000 and hit the off-road trails that wind through the park’s forests and hills. This tour is designed for those who want to combine adventure with stunning scenery, making it a favorite among thrill-seekers.
What sets this experience apart is the personalized guided route, which lets you explore beyond the usual paths. The powerful off-road vehicles can handle rugged terrain, giving you access to areas that are otherwise difficult to reach. Expect to see sweeping vistas, dense woods, and possibly some wildlife as you cruise through the landscape.
Guests rave about the exhilaration and the scenery, with one describing it as “a perfect mix of adrenaline and natural beauty.” The tour is suitable for those comfortable with adventurous activities and looking to add some excitement to their Croatia trip. Note that this experience is more physically demanding than a simple walk, so good mobility and a sense of adventure are key.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want to combine exploration with a thrill ride through Croatia’s forests.
3. From Split: Plitvice Lakes Private Tour with free Dessert
This full-day private tour offers an all-inclusive experience, perfect for those wanting a seamless, personalized visit. For around $473 for up to 8 people, you’ll enjoy a dedicated guide who takes you through the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park. The tour includes visits to the 16 interconnected lakes, a scenic train ride, and a boat cruise—all highlights that showcase the park’s diverse ecosystems.
The beauty of this tour is the tailored itinerary; the guide adjusts the pace and focus based on your interests. It also includes lunch and a complimentary dessert, adding a relaxing culinary touch to your outdoor adventure. The guide’s local insights make the experience richer, helping you understand the geology, flora, and fauna of the park.
With a small group or family, you’ll enjoy a flexible, intimate experience, and the private setting often results in more in-depth conversations. Given its comprehensive nature, this tour is ideal for travelers who want a thorough overview without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice if you prefer a private, all-inclusive day trip with personalized attention and added comforts.
4. Plitvice Lakes & Krka Waterfalls – Overnight Adventure
For travelers with a day or more, the Overnight Adventure combines two of Croatia’s most spectacular parks: Plitvice and Krka. Starting early from Split, you’ll arrive ahead of the crowds, giving you a more peaceful experience. The tour includes on-site cozy accommodation, dinners, and breakfasts, making it a comfortable multi-day exploration.
The itinerary features early access to Krka National Park, where you can enjoy swimming and walking among waterfalls, followed by a day at Plitvice with scenic lakes and waterfalls. The tour’s team includes experienced guides and access to private park areas, adding depth to your visit. The combination makes it ideal for travelers who want to see both parks without rushing.
Guests love the value of multiple park visits packed into one trip, though it’s best suited for those comfortable with longer days and some travel logistics. The inclusion of local dining adds a nice touch, allowing you to sample Croatian cuisine amid nature.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous travelers wanting to experience Croatia’s top parks in one trip with comfortable overnight stays.
5. Plitvice: Guided Prayer Walk in Nature
If your idea of travel includes spiritual reflection, this Guided Prayer Walk offers a peaceful escape into nature for about six hours. It’s a contemplative journey that combines scripture reading, prayer, and meditation amid the park’s beautiful scenery.
During this experience, you’ll walk through quiet forest paths, pausing at inspiring spots like waterfalls, streams, and ancient trees. The guide leads participants through Lectio Divina, a traditional prayer method, encouraging stillness and personal reflection. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a meaningful connection with nature and their spirituality.
While it doesn’t focus on sightseeing in a conventional sense, it offers a different kind of nourishment—inner peace and a chance to slow down. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with meditative practices and looking for a soulful experience rather than sightseeing.
Bottom line: A beautiful, serene way to connect with Croatia’s natural beauty on a spiritual level.
6. Plitvice lakes Private guided tour
For those who want a custom experience, the Private Guided Tour offers flexible timing and a tailored route through the park. Costing about $127 for groups up to 15, it ensures you won’t be rushed and can focus on what interests you most.
The private guide takes you on a walk along the wooden pathways, allowing for intimate views of the cascading lakes and waterfalls. The tour emphasizes the park’s natural beauty and offers in-depth explanations about its formation, wildlife, and ecological significance. This is an excellent choice for families or groups wanting a relaxed pace and personalized attention.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to customize the experience, which makes it easier to include specific interests or avoid crowded areas. The private guide ensures a more private, immersive experience, ideal for travelers who value exclusivity and detailed insights.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, relaxed exploration tailored to their interests.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour in Plitvice depends on your interests, budget, and how active you want to be. If you prefer a straightforward, budget-friendly introduction, the guided Plitvice Lakes with boat ride is hard to beat. For those craving adventure, the Buggy Tour offers a thrilling off-road experience. Travelers wanting a hassle-free, personalized day should consider the private guided tour, while those with more time might enjoy the combined parks in the overnight adventure.
For a spiritual retreat, the Prayer Walk gives a peaceful, reflective experience. Think about your fitness level, interest in adventure versus relaxation, and whether you prefer a group or private tour.
Booking early is advised, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred date and avoid the crowds. Consider combining a guided tour with a visit to nearby attractions, such as exploring Zagreb or Split, for a well-rounded Croatian trip.
Final Thoughts
Plitvice offers a wide range of tours to suit every traveler’s taste—from simple guided walks to off-road adventures and spiritual retreats. If you’re after a scenic, easy-paced experience, the guided Plitvice Lakes with boat ride hits the mark. For the thrill-seekers, the Buggy Tour provides an adrenaline rush through rugged terrain.
Travelers interested in a personalized or private experience should consider the private guided tour, while those with extra time might enjoy the combined parks on a multi-day adventure. For a serene, spiritual connection, the Prayer Walk offers a contemplative way to engage with nature.
No matter your choice, booking early and planning around the park’s busy season will ensure a smooth, memorable visit to Croatia’s most captivating natural wonder.
