Planning a visit to Croatia’s famed Plitvice Lakes often means walking through its breathtaking waterfalls and lush scenery. But if you’re craving something different—a mix of adrenaline, history, and local charm—then the 2-hour Inspiration Buggy Tour could be just what you need. This guided adventure takes you off-road into the surrounding forests, revealing hidden historical sites and scenic viewpoints.
We love that this experience combines thrilling buggy rides with visits to significant cultural landmarks. The tour’s compact duration makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary, and the small group setting promises a more intimate encounter with Croatia’s countryside and history. The only thing to consider? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so some travelers might want to plan accordingly.
This tour will appeal most to those who enjoy active excursions with a sense of discovery—think adventure-seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. If you’re looking for an authentic experience that moves beyond standard sightseeing, this is a good pick. Now, let’s get into the details.
Good To Know
- Unique combination of adventure and culture in a 2-hour format
- Small group setting for personalized attention and safety
- Visits to historic sites like Drenik Old Town and Ejava Airport ruins
- Scenic off-road driving through forests and village roads
- Includes safety gear, petrol, and a live guide for a smooth experience
- Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions
An Overview of the Experience
The Inspiration Buggy Tour offers a fresh perspective on the Plitvice Lakes region by blending adventurous off-road driving with visits to notable local sites. In just two hours, you’ll cover a lot of ground, gaining insights into Croatia’s history while enjoying the natural beauty of the landscape.
The tour starts in Grabovac Village, conveniently located on the main D1 road, just across from the Plitvice Holiday Resort. Parking is straightforward, making it easy to hop into your buggy and start the adventure. The tour is guided in English and Serbo-Croatian, with a maximum group size of 15, ensuring a personal touch.
The buggies—models from MY23 MAVERICK SPORT MAX DPS 1000R—are designed for two, four, or six persons, giving you options whether you prefer to go solo, as a pair, or in a small group. The tour’s price at $112 per person reflects the inclusion of petrol, helmet and safety gear, and a live guide—all ensuring you’re well taken care of.
What to Expect During the Tour
The Scenic Drive
The journey kicks off with a scenic 30-minute off-road drive through lush forests and quiet village roads. You’ll feel the thrill of steering these powerful buggies, a perfect activity for adrenaline junkies without the commitment of a full-day experience. The MY23 MAVERICK SPORT MAX DPS 1000R buggies are known for their strength and maneuverability, making the ride both exciting and safe.
Visiting Drenik Old Town
The first stop is the Old Town of Drenik, a well-preserved defensive fortress from the 12th century. This site once protected the region from the Turkish empire, holding strategic importance for four centuries. From the top of the fortress walls, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Korana River and the surrounding landscape—perfect for some memorable photos.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyEjava Airport Ruins
Next, you’ll explore the Ejava Airport, built in the 1950s and 1960s. This isn’t just any abandoned airstrip; it was once the largest underground military base in Europe. The ruins are striking, and your guide will share stories about its role during the Cold War era. The underground complex was lined with semicircular concrete shields, designed to cushion impacts from incoming munitions—an eerie reminder of the Cold War tensions.
The KLEK Underground Complex
Continuing the underground theme, your next stop is the KLEK complex, an underground military facility with a fascinating history. You’ll learn about its strategic purposes and the ingenuity behind its construction. Visitors have noted that the site’s concrete shielding gives it a fortress-like feel, which adds a layer of intrigue and history to the experience.
Village of Korana Selo & Old Water Mill
The last part of your tour takes you to the charming village of Korana Selo. Here, you’ll visit a traditional Old Water Mill, where you can admire the small waterfalls and fresh, running water—an ideal spot to relax and enjoy some local ambiance. The village provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier adrenaline-filled segments and wraps up your journey on a serene note.
Practical Details and Tips
Duration & Scheduling
The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, with multiple start times available—9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. This flexibility allows you to adjust based on your day’s plans.
Cost & Value
At $112 per person, the price covers the entire adventure—buggy rental, petrol, safety equipment, and a live guide. For travelers seeking a mix of adventure and cultural insights in a short window, it offers quite a good deal. Note that it does not include entry tickets to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, so if you plan to visit the lakes themselves, budget for that separately.
What to Bring
Given the outdoor, off-road nature of the tour, pack water, comfortable clothes, and maybe a hat or sunglasses for sun protection. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.
What’s Not Included
You’ll need to handle your own food and drinks, and there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off. The activity is self-contained, making it easy to coordinate from the starting point in Grabovac.
Authentic Insights from Tour Participants
A reviewer named Sanjin rated the tour 5 out of 5, calling it “a very interesting tour, definitely recommended.” He appreciated the combination of fun driving and learning about local history, suggesting it’s well-suited for those who want a bit of everything.
Another traveler noted that the small group size meant more personalized attention, making the experience feel exclusive. The guides are knowledgeable, often sharing stories you won’t find in guidebooks, which adds depth to the sightseeing.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who want to get their adrenaline pumping while exploring Croatia’s backcountry. History buffs will particularly enjoy the sites like the Ejava Airport and Drenik Old Town, which add a layer of authenticity and storytelling. It’s also a good fit for those seeking a family-friendly activity (with the right group size), provided children are comfortable with off-road driving and the guided visits.
If you’re already planning to visit the Plitvice Lakes, this tour offers a unique sideline to see some of the region’s lesser-known sites. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small group experiences and want to discover hidden facets of Croatian history and nature.
Final Thoughts
The 2-hour Inspiration Buggy Tour strikes a nice balance between adventure, history, and scenic beauty, all wrapped into a compact trip. It’s an excellent way to add some thrill to your Croatia itinerary without spending a full day on excursions. The combination of off-road driving and cultural visits makes it more than just a joyride; it’s an opportunity to learn, explore, and enjoy the outdoors.
While it might not suit everyone—especially those with mobility restrictions or who prefer traditional sightseeing—it offers real value for those craving an active, engaging experience with a local flavor. For families, adventure-seekers, and history enthusiasts alike, it’s a solid choice that adds a memorable twist to your Croatian adventure.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity requires driving a buggy, so children should be comfortable with off-road driving and able to wear safety gear. The minimum age isn’t specified, but it’s best to check directly with the provider for family suitability.
How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts exactly 2 hours, with different start times available throughout the day.
Do I need to pay extra for entrance tickets?
Yes, the tour price does not include tickets for the Plitvice Lakes National Park itself. You’ll need to purchase those separately if you plan to visit the lakes.
What do I need to bring?
Bring water and wear comfortable outdoor clothes suitable for off-road driving and variable weather conditions.
Are safety helmets provided?
Yes, helmets and safety equipment are included in the price, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to your travel plans.
This buggy tour offers a compelling mix of adventure and history, making it an exciting addition to your Croatia trip. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history lover, you’ll find plenty to love in this small-group exploration of the Plitvice Lakes region.
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