Things to do — Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice is explored mainly via its walkway trails. The park offers eight marked itineraries (A to K), labelled on official maps and signposted on the ground. Pick your route based on available time and physical condition.

Short itineraries (2-3 hours): A (lower lakes only, 3.5 km, 2-3 hours, from entrance 1) — focused on Veliki slap waterfall (78 m, Croatia's highest waterfall) and the lower lakes canyon; B (lower lakes + boat, 4 km, 3-4 hours, from entrance 1) — adds the boat on Kozjak; E (short upper lakes, 5.2 km, 2-3 hours, from entrance 2) — explores the upper lakes.

Medium itineraries (4-6 hours): C (full loop, 8 km, 4-6 hours, from entrance 1) — covers lower lakes + boat + upper lakes, the best compromise; F (loop, 4.6 km, 3-4 hours, from entrance 2). H (9 km, 4-6 hours, from entrance 2) — the most popular itinerary, combines upper lakes + boat + lower lakes with a progressive descent.

Long itineraries (6-8 hours): K (from entrance 1) or K1/K2 (from entrance 2) — 18 km routes covering the entire park. For experienced walkers in good condition. Block out the whole day.

Unmissable highlights. Veliki slap ("Great Fall"): Croatia's highest waterfall (78 m), visible from the lower lakes trail — iconic photo spot. Lake Kozjak: the park's largest (3.2 km long, 47 m deep), crossed by the electric boats (included in the ticket). The upper lakes (Galovac, Gradinsko, Burgeti): a succession of small lakes linked by stair-step waterfalls, some of the most photogenic. Lake Prošćansko: the highest (636 m) and most authentically wild, lightly visited.

Practical tips. Arrive at opening (7am in high season, 8am off-season) — the experience of empty walkways at sunrise is unforgettable. Walking shoes essential (non-slip soles, wet walkways are slippery). Water bottle: there are a few refill points in the park but they're expensive. Rain: pack a light rain jacket, weather changes fast in Lika. Drones: strictly forbidden in the park. Picnicking: allowed only in dedicated zones (entrance 1, Kozjak boat dock).

Wildlife. Brown bears inhabit the surrounding forests (60-80 individuals in the park and surroundings). Spotting them from the main trails remains very difficult — they flee noise. For enthusiasts, the Kuterevo centre (50 km southwest) shelters orphaned bears that can be observed.