Krka National Park is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Croatia. Located in the central part of Dalmatia, it is a must-visit destination for those who love nature, hiking, and swimming in crystal clear waters. In this article, I will guide you through the park's highlights, activities, and practical information to make the most of your trip.
Getting to Krka National Park
Krka National Park is easily accessible from several major cities in Croatia. The closest airport is Split Airport, which is approximately 60 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the park. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Split or Šibenik, which is the nearest town to the park. I highly recommend renting a car when you are in Croatia, the exploration of National parks is way more convenient that way and you don't need to rely on public transport. Also you can visit more places in one day.
Here is the link for car rental we are frequently using during our travels.
We stayed in Split and drove to National Park Krka from there, it is an easy 1 hour drive.
Find here a link to our accommodation, which was located 5 minutes walk from the city centre of Split.
Book your tickets to Krka National Park here:
Exploring Krka National Park
Krka National Park covers an area of 109 square kilometres and is known for its stunning waterfalls, lakes, and lush forests. The park is divided into several areas, each with its own unique features and trails to explore.
Skradinski Buk is the most famous and popular part of the park. It is a series of 17 cascading waterfalls, with the largest being 45 meters high. Unfortunately it is no longer allowed to swim here since 2021, however visitors can walk along the boardwalks and enjoy the scenic views.
Another popular area is Roški Slap, which is located upstream from Skradinski Buk.
It is a quieter and less crowded area, with a 22-meter waterfall, picnic areas, and hiking trails.
Visitors can also explore the Visovac Island, which is located in the middle of the Krka River. It is home to a 15th-century Franciscan monastery and a museum, where you can learn more about the park's flora and fauna.
To make the most of your day I recommend to use Lozovac entrance, which is closest to Skradinski Buk. See the map on the left for the entrance and parking space with free public toilets.
Go early as it gets very crowded after 10 am.
You can take a boat from here to Roski Slap and Visovac, but it takes roughly 2-3 h, so I recommend driving to the viewpoint on the right, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of Visovac island.
If you need to cool down on a hot day, you can visit a nice beach in Skradin or take a dip in cool waters on Krka river near the waterfall, the entrance is from the pier.
Then continue driving to Roski Slap, Here you can enjoy the view short hike around with views of waterfall and 517 stairs to Ozidana pecina cave, which offers the best views of Krka river, cool and shade.
Activities in Krka National Park
Krka National Park offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Swimming in the park's lakes is one of the most popular activities, especially during the summer months. Visitors can also go kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the Krka River.
For those who enjoy hiking, there are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The trails offer stunning views of the waterfalls, lakes, and forests, and are well-marked and maintained.
Another popular activity is bird watching, as the park is home to over 200 bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, peregrine falcon, and griffon vulture.
Practical Information
Krka National Park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. The entrance fee varies depending on the time of year and the area of the park you wish to visit. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially during the peak season.
There are several restaurants, cafes, and snack bars in the park, as well as picnic areas where visitors can bring their own food. There are also several souvenir shops where visitors can purchase gifts and souvenirs.
It is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as a hat and sunscreen, especially during the summer months. Visitors should also bring plenty of water, as it can get hot and humid in the park.
In conclusion, Krka National Park is a must-see destination in Croatia, offering stunning natural beauty and a range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you enjoy hiking, swimming, or bird watching, there is something for everyone.