Krka National Park
What’s the deal?
Krka National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Croatia. It is situated along the lower course of the Krka River and it consists of many breath-taking wonders the Dalmatian coast has to offer. The main reason why it was formed was to aid scientific research and preservation of the eco system, instill culture, promote education as well as recreational usage. Although it is the tourism part of the park that has made it even more popular to tourists from around the world.
Recently, the number of travelers to Croatia has increased dramatically, and this thriving country is now one of Europe’s hottest destinations. Krka National Park is one of the countless reasons why people flock in this tourist-infested country. Over a million people are visiting the national park of Krka and they have nothing but good things to say about it’s magnificence.
When people see it for themselves, it’s easy to understand why everyone wants to go to this amazing place and just indulge. Unlike other national parks, tourists and locals are allowed to swim in the Krka river and the various waterfalls, including the most famous waterfall - the Skradinski Buk. The park also has an outlaid promenade walk with wooden planks and paths for convenience.
What else do I need to know?
Krka National Park has five entrances, but the most common are the entrances at Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap. For those who come here via coach or car, the most common input will be via Lozovac, which offers free parking.
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Entry fee: 150 kunas (20 Euro) during high season. 110 kunas during the middle season and 30 kunas in the winter from November to March. You can check out the prices here.
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Opening hours: 08:00 to 20:00 during the high season (Skradinski Buk) 09:00 – 20 00 (Roski slap).
How do I go there?
By Car:
It shouldn’t be hard for you to go there. The roads are well developed and at longer distances. You can’t go all the way to Krka by the highway, but it is still easy to get there. The national park of Krka is usually no longer than 1-3 hours away.
From Split
From Split to Krka National Park, it’s exactly one hour drive and 86.7 km. First, drive onto the A1 / E65 / E71 in Koprivno from Ul. Domovinskog rata and D1. Then, take exit 22 towards Šibenik / Knin / Drniš / Primošten and finally D33 towards Krka.
From Dubrovnik
The road from Dubrovnik to Krka goes via D8 and E65 north. Then follow the E65 towards D33 in Dubrava Code Šibenika. Then take exit 22-Sibenik from the E65 and finally D33 towards the park. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours with a distance of 277 km.
By Bus:
Getting to Krka via bus is as easy as driving there by car. Although, it is much cheaper to go there by car, especially if you are traveling in a group but if you’re a solo traveler, then obviously it’s way practical to take the bus than to rent a car going there. Another difference is taking the bus can take a little bit longer because unlike traveling in a car, the flexibility is limited, route wise.
Tickets can be purchased at bus terminals and on the bus upon availability. It’s also possible to buy tickets online. Buscroatia.com is a good site that lists virtually all bus routes, to and from Croatia.
Note: Skradin is the best stop for those who want to ride the bus to the Krka National Park. There are daily buses from Zagreb, Zadar, Rijeka, Split, Makarska, and Dubrovnik. Once you’re in Skradin, it is already easy to get to Krka National Park.
What to do and see when I get there?
As mentioned, Skradinski buk and Roški slap are the two of the most frequently visited sites on the park. Skradinski buk is one of Croatia's best known natural wonders, made up of earth warding waterfalls, lushious islands and lakes. The waterfalls are easily accessed and attractive for all true nature lovers, those interested in national customs and all those looking to enjoy the hospitality and culture offered by the park.
The island of Visovac in the Krka river is also one to see. It is dubbed as one of Croatia’s most valuable natural and cultural landmark.
Of course, the best way to see the sights of the Park is by boat excursion. This way, you can view the sites of the park up close while on a relaxing ride around the massive piece of beauty. Usually, these excursion will give you the chance to wonder around the safe footpaths and let you indulge in the moment - taking beautiful photos and carving memories in your brain.
Krka National Park also offers attractive boat excursions towards Visovac Island, Roški slap, the Krka monastery and the Early Croatian fortresses of Trošenj and Nečven.
Note: Appointments must be made for all excursions for organized groups with the Directorate of Krka National Park. Expert guides are also possible for these excursions, which is also by appointment only. Visitors can hire a boat in Skradin to sail to Skradinski buk, accompanied by a park staff member (marine motorist).
To see the list of the sights to see and things to do inside the park, you can see the list here.
How do I navigate my way to such a massive park?
You can view or print maps as well as guide maps to Krka National Park here.
