Private Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke tour with drop off in Split

Traveling through Croatia often involves a mix of coastal charm and historic cities, but for nature lovers, a day exploring the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes and the picturesque village of Rastoke offers an unforgettable experience. This private tour from Zagreb, ending in Split, combines scenic drives, authentic villages, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Croatia’s forests and waterfalls—all with the comfort of a private vehicle and a dedicated guide.

One of the standout features of this tour is how it balances personalized attention with a flexible itinerary. You’ll enjoy the undivided focus of your guide, who can tailor the experience to your interests, plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour also offers a unique opportunity to see some of Croatia’s lesser-known gems like Rastoke, often overshadowed by the lakes but equally charming.

A possible consideration is the length of the day—at around 10 hours, it’s quite full, but for those eager to maximize their time, the carefully curated stops make it worthwhile. It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind walking and exploring outdoor spaces, and who are comfortable with moderate physical activity.

If you’re keen to see some of Croatia’s most stunning natural sights without sacrificing comfort or flexibility, this tour offers excellent value, especially given the inclusion of hotel transport, entrance fees, and a private guide. Here’s everything you need to know before booking.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with undivided guide attention
• Comfortable transportation between Zagreb, Rastoke, Plitvice Lakes, and Split
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple
• Visit Rastoke village, a charming watermill community on waterfalls
• Explore Plitvice Lakes with a boat and train ride, showcasing stunning waterfalls
• Ideal for active travelers comfortable walking and outdoor exploration

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Seamless Transportation and Comfortable Travel

From the moment your day begins with hotel pickup at 8:00 am, the focus is on making your journey as smooth as possible. The transport is in an air-conditioned coach or minivan, ensuring you stay cool and relaxed during the approximately 3-hour drive from Zagreb. Since the tour is private, your guide can adjust the pace and make stops if needed, avoiding the typical group rush.

One of the major perks is not having to worry about logistics — your private driver takes care of navigation and timing, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery or chat with your guide. Plus, the drive itself offers glimpses of Croatia’s countryside, making the journey part of the experience rather than just transit.

Rastoke: A Watermill Village on Waterfalls

Your first stop is Rastoke, a village often called “Small waterfalls on the Slunjčica River.” It’s a picture-perfect spot where centuries-old watermills sit amidst rushing waterfalls and creeks, creating a fairy-tale setting. The 30-minute visit includes admission, allowing you to walk around and capture photos of this charming landscape.

This village is a fantastic introduction to Croatia’s water-rich landscape. As one reviewer mentioned, “We took some great photos of the waterfalls and creeks,” emphasizing how photogenic this stop is. It’s also a great way to stretch your legs after the drive and get a taste of local artisanal watermills, some of which may still be functional.

The Enchantment of Plitvice Lakes National Park

Arguably the highlight of this tour is the visit to Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its terraced lakes connected by waterfalls and lush greenery. The tour includes a boat cruise around the lakes and a train ride, both of which help you experience the park’s landscape from different perspectives.

While entrance fees are not included, the guide will walk you through the must-see areas, highlighting the Veliki Slap, Croatia’s tallest waterfall. As one reviewer described, “The park was amazing,” and praised the scenic boat ride as a highlight. Expect a 4-hour exploration, during which you’ll witness the vibrant turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls that make this spot so special.

The walk involves some moderate physical activity, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The park’s terrain varies, but the paths are well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors. The boat and train rides are short but provide excellent vantage points for photographs and appreciation of the park’s scale.

The Historic Charm of Split

The final part of the day brings you to Split, Croatia’s second-largest city and a lively Mediterranean hub. The driver will drop you off at your accommodation, allowing you to continue exploring or relax after a long day of sightseeing.

The tour’s design makes it ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see both natural and cultural highlights in one day. The hour-long stop in Split is enough to get a feel for the city’s vibrant streets, historic sites, and seaside ambiance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable and Friendly Guides

From the reviews, guides like Marko stand out for being polite, helpful, and well-informed. They’re skilled at sharing interesting facts without overwhelming, and some travelers noted the guides’ personal touches, which made the experience memorable.

Excellent Value and Convenience

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, and private transport, which simplifies the logistics. Although the price of $523.68 per person may seem steep, it’s actually quite good considering the private nature of the tour and all inclusions. The convenience of door-to-door service and avoiding the crowds makes it a smart choice.

Authentic Local Experiences

Visiting Rastoke offers a glimpse into traditional Croatian watermill life, while the boat cruise at Plitvice provides a scenic journey through some of the country’s most stunning natural settings. These authentic touches elevate the tour beyond just a sightseeing checklist.

Stunning Views and Photogenic Spots

The waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush forests provide countless opportunities for breathtaking photos. Several reviewers mentioned the “amazing views” and “great photo stops,” making it ideal for travelers who love capturing nature’s beauty.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Physical Activity

At approximately 10 hours, this isn’t a quick jaunt. Expect a full day with some physical walking involved—particularly at Plitvice Lakes. If you’re comfortable with moderate activity and enjoy outdoor exploration, you’ll find this tour perfectly suited.

Price and Value

While $523.68 per person might seem high, it’s important to recognize what’s included: private transportation, guide service, hotel pickup/drop-off, and some entrance fees. This makes it a great value for travelers seeking comfort and personalized attention, especially given the long-distance travel involved.

Booking and Flexibility

The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility for planning. It’s popular—booked on average 103 days ahead—so early booking is advised if you want to secure your spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want to see Croatia’s natural treasures without the hassle of planning logistics. It suits those interested in outdoor scenery, waterfalls, and authentic villages, and who prefer private, personalized tours over large group excursions. If you’re traveling from Zagreb to Split and want to make the most of your day with a focus on nature and scenic beauty, this tour offers solid value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

This private Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke tour is a fantastic choice if you’re eager to learn about Croatia’s stunning natural landscapes without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. Its combination of personalized service, scenic stops, and authentic experiences makes it suitable for active travelers who appreciate good logistics and wonderful views.

While it’s a full-day adventure, the leisurely pace, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery justify the cost. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or simply want to connect with Croatia’s lush outdoors, this tour delivers an enriching experience. It’s best suited for those who prioritize comfort, authenticity, and making the most of their travel days.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 8:00 am, ensuring you have plenty of time to enjoy the day’s highlights.

What’s included in the price?
The price includes all taxes, fees, handling charges, bottled water, a local guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the private transportation.

Are entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes included?
No, entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes National Park are not included in the tour fee, but the guide can advise you on how to purchase them.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who are comfortable walking. Some terrain at Plitvice involves walking on paths, but they are well-maintained.

How long is the drive from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes?
The drive takes roughly 3 hours in a private vehicle, making the trip comfortable and allowing for scenic views along the way.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can often tailor the experience to your interests—feel free to ask about additional stops or time adjustments.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring the national park. Prepare for outdoor weather with suitable clothing.

This tour offers a well-rounded slice of Croatia’s natural beauty, blending scenic lakes, charming villages, and vibrant city life in a single, memorable day. For travelers seeking a hassle-free way to explore Croatia’s outdoors in comfort, it’s a top pick.