PLITVICE: CROWDS & SELFIES
PICTURE PERFECT
Plitvice, Croatia
© Johannes Vande Voorde
Promotional photos of tourist destinations can be a bit misleading.
They are taken at a time when the location is virtually deserted (when the average tourist is still in bed).
Vehicles and road signs are photoshopped out.
The region's tourism department provided a captivating text about the wonders of the area.
You may be thinking: that's where I want to go!
But do you? Really?
We show you the reality behind the idyllic photo. The pictures were taken during the high season.
You decide for yourself. Choose another holiday destination? Or go in the low season?
THE REAL DEAL
Indeed, our man Johannes is also a photographer for many tourist services and travel magazines. He knows how to make an attractive photo of tourist hotspots, at the right time of day, from the best angle.
After the perfect picture however, we go rogue to find out what the fuzz is all about.
Our general tip for these types of destinations is simple: go in the off-season. Of course we know that not everybody has that option. Maybe you have to plan your vacation for the summer months because you have kids, or you’re a teacher.
High season tips for Plitvice
The Plitvice Lakes can get insanely crowded, with busloads of tourists arriving all day. The crowds start to build up later in the morning (starting at 10 am). So if you want to avoid the crowds, choose your time of entry wisely. The best times are very early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
On the main walking trails, you have to stand in line and wait for all the visitors in front of you to take a selfie. Fortunately, there are trails that are less crowded, so you can escape the rush at certain points.
Plitvice Lakes National Park has two entrances. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, take entrance 2 to the Upper Lakes. The waterfalls in this section are smaller, but at least you’ll be able to enjoy the cascades, crystal clear pools and green scenery without being annoyed by rude and selfish tourists. (Unfortunately, there are a lot of them.)
If you intend to head to Bosnia, be sure to visit Kravice. This waterfall site is much smaller than Plitvice, but less crowded.
