The Plitvice Lakes and waterfalls are relatively young formations, with some of today’s waterfalls being no older than 4,000 years. The lakes in their current form are believed to have developed between 12,000 and 15,000 years ago. Climate has also played a significant role in shaping this remarkable system as we see it today.
The formation of tufa creates barriers and 16 cascading lakes, which are home to a variety of unique plants and animals. The lakes constantly change color due to the different seasons throughout the year as well as their geographical location. These features make Plitvice Lakes truly unique. To protect this exceptional environment, Plitvice Lakes was established as the first Croatian National Park in 1949.
So much water
They are most famous for their 16 interconnected cascading lakes, which cover only 1% of the entire national park. Two small springs located at the top of Proscansko Lake, the second largest lake, near the village of Plitvicki Ljeskovac, are known as the Black and White Rivers. These rivers derive their names from the contrasting characteristics of their surroundings – the rocky terrain of the White River and the more temperamental nature of the Black River. This area is considered the source of the entire water system.
Tufa
One of the most valuable features of lakes is the formation of tufa. This process, which creates barriers that form lakes, contributes to the unique universal value for which the Plitvice Lakes were included in the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 1979.
The most prominent surface water phenomena in Plitvice Lakes National Park are the cascading lakes of various sizes. These lakes were formed through the biodynamic growth of tufa barriers, which dammed the original river valley and enabled the creation of lakes. Surface waters occupy less than 1% of the National Park’s area, totaling a volume of 22.95 million cubic meters.
In today’s watercourses, these barriers remain active, and their biodynamics continually change the appearance of the lakes and waterfalls. Tufa is a porous rock formed by the deposition of water-dissolved calcium carbonate, which is facilitated by plants, algae, and moss.
Home to many plants and animals
The national park expands to almost 300 km2 and is home to 1400 plants, which is 30% of Croatian flora, and 259 species of animals. This kind of diversity is thanks to geographical, geomorphological, climatic, and ecological factors.
Flora
All of these factors contributed to the development of a rich and diverse plant ecosystem. Historically, human activities such as grazing livestock and cultivating food have created unique environments, such as meadows and pastures, which are home to many native species.
Fauna
The area is home to a remarkable diversity of flowers and plants that attract many insects, particularly butterfl ies, with over 321 different species present. Clean and pristine waters provide an ideal habitat for the river crab, which thrives only in cold and clean environments. Unfortunately, trout are becoming endangered due to the dominance of chub and pike fish in the ecosystem.
Additionally, we can find 2 species of venomous snakes, 22 species of bats, and more than 168 bird species, along with large mammals. The brown bear is the most iconic and recognized symbol of the national park. Other strictly protected and globally endangered species include the wolf, lynx, and otter, which highlight the area’s commitment to habitat conservation and quality.
Clean and beautiful
The beauty of lakes is present in every corner and every drop of water. The ever-changing colors of the lakes, influenced by the changing seasons, are one of the unique reasons they attract so many visitors. The continuous process of lake formation and the flowing water from various parts of nature create a sense of wonder and amazement at their beauty.
One of the most recognizable features of lakes is the wooden bridges that span their surfaces, offering a unique perspective and making them more accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Geographical location
One reason for the diversity in this area is its geographical location. Positioned 55 km from the sea and situated on the slopes of two mountains, Mala Kapela and Lička Plješevica, at an altitude ranging from 369 to 1,279 meters above sea level, this region has been relatively sheltered from human influence. This factor contributed to its late discovery as a tourist destination, which only occurred in the late 19th century.
The higher elevation results in cleaner air and increased humidity, which positively affects the formation of not only lakes but also the living organisms and overall environment.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. The expansive size and unique formation of the lakes, influenced by tufa, support a rich array of wildlife and plant life, highlighting the area’s natural beauty.
It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Croatia, offering a truly enchanting nature experience.
Contact us for a private tour at the National Park.
