From roaring lower-lake waterfalls to tranquil upper-lake cascades, the waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are the centerpiece of the park and a must-see for every Croatia road trip itinerary.
This article focuses on the most beautiful waterfalls and viewpoints along the trails, highlighting the unforgettable scenery we experienced while walking Route C, which offers an incredible mix of both the Upper and Lower Lakes.
If you’re looking for practical planning details—including where to park, where to stay, ticket tips, and how to plan your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park—check out our complete guide HERE
Ultimate Guide to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Lower Lake Waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes:
Veliki Slap – The Tallest Waterfall
As we approached Veliki Slap, the roar of rushing water grew louder with every step.
Veliki Slap is one of the best waterfalls (and tallest in Croatia!), plunging an impressive 78-meters (256-feet). Its cascade and sheer scale leave you absolutely in awe— a true highlight of the lower lakes.
The wooden platform stretches right toward the edge of the falls, giving you a dramatic, up-close views of the cascading water and the surrounding turquoise lakes— truly a sight that takes your breath away.
It’s easily one of the most iconic waterfall sights in Plitvice Lakes National Park for a reason 🌈
Sastavci Waterfall
Sastavci Waterfall is another one of the most dramatic cascades along the lower lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
Standing on the narrow wooden boardwalks with the 26-meter (85-foot) tall waterfall thundering beneath our feet was both thrilling and a true test of balance. The elevated viewpoint offers a unique perspective of the waterfall and the turquoise lakes below, making it one of the park’s most memorable spots.
Visiting after a few rainy days meant Sastavci Waterfall was absolutely roaring— turning the boardwalk experience into an exhilarating adventure (check out the video!)
Moments like these are exactly why Plitvice Lakes National Park remains one of the most unforgettable natural destinations in Croatia.
Exploring the Lower Lakes Boardwalks
After soaking in the waterfalls and rainbows, we set off to explore the rest of the lower lakes before crowds arrive, following the wooden boardwalks that weaved through turquoise waters and lush greenery to the upper lakes.
Every turn revealed a new perspective— smaller cascades, crystal clear pools, and quiet corners where the only sound was the gentle rush of water.
Walking From Lower to Upper Lakes – Route C
With Route C, much of the hike involves a gentle uphill walk, but the beauty is that you’re mostly walking toward the waterfalls, so the best views are always in front of you.
In contrast, if you were hiking in the opposite, downhill {“easier”} direction, you’d find yourself constantly turning around to admire the falls from behind.
Both directions offer incredible scenery, but there’s something especially satisfying about seeing the cascading waterfalls unfold as you approach them, with each step revealing a new vantage point.
Regardless of direction traveled, the wooden boardwalks and elevated platforms make it easy to get up close to the water, pause for photos, and fully appreciate the scenery without feeling rushed. A true bucket list experience.
Boat Ride Across Kozjak Lake Included?
Yes! One of the highlights of Route C is the electric boat ride across Kozjak Lake, the largest lake in the park.
Kozjak Lake offers a peaceful break during the hike.
Gliding across the calm turquoise water while surrounded by forested hills gives you a completely different {relaxing} perspective of the park.
Chasing The Upper Lake Waterfalls:
The Upper Lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park are known for their layered cascades and quieter trails. As we followed the wooden walkways deeper into the park, waterfalls appeared around nearly every bend—some thundering over cliffs while others gently flowed into pools below.
Among the many waterfalls in the upper lakes, three stood out:
Veliki Prštavac:
A powerful 28-meter (92-foot) cascade that creates a dramatic mist and roar.
Mali Prštavac:
A smaller but equally beautiful 18-meter (59-foot) waterfall that flows gently over moss-covered rocks.
Galovački Buk:
An impressive 25-meter (82-foot) waterfall surrounded by lush forest and the serene upper lakes.
Can You Swim in Plitvice Lakes?
No—swimming is not allowed in Plitvice Lakes National Park.
The park’s delicate ecosystem and protected waters make it illegal to enter the lakes.
But don’t worry—if you’re looking for a waterfall swimming experience, you can visit nearby:
Just two hours away, Krka National Park offers designated swimming areas where visitors can cool off beneath stunning waterfalls.
Krka National Park
Our Plitvice Lakes Adventure: Route C Highlights
To review — We entered Plitvice Lakes National Park through Entrance 1 and explored Route C, which is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see a mix of the park’s most famous waterfalls and some quieter, hidden gems.
Some of our favorite spots along the route included:
- Veliki Slap: The tallest waterfall in the park, a breathtaking 78 m (~256 ft) cascade.
- Sastavci Waterfall: Feel the power of rushing water just below your feet on the wooden platforms.
- Lower Lakes: Turquoise waters, cascades, and serene forest paths
Plitvice Lakes National Park is truly one of the most beautiful destinations in Croatia. Whether you’re hiking along the boardwalks, capturing photos of the waterfalls, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, every step feels unforgettable.
We already can’t wait to return! 🇭🇷
PRO TIP: Starting early and staying nearby the night before allowed us to beat the crowds and enjoy the park at a relaxed pace, making the experience even more magical. For more information on the logistics — click below:
Read the Comments +