Šupljara Cave (Špilja Šupljara)

Overview

Tucked into the Lower Lakes canyon, Šupljara is the park’s lone cave open to visitors—a compact, moody detour that breaks up the waterfalls-and-boardwalk rhythm. It was formed by a collapse in the karst, and today it doubles as a shortcut between canyon levels and a fun change of scenery.

What You’ll See

Inside are three halls linked by a broad corridor, about 68 meters in total. Look for tuberous dripstone features and a stalagnate—the stalactite-and-stalagmite column fused into one. Step back outside and you’ll catch a rewarding viewpoint over the turquoise lakes and the nearby Great Waterfall area.

Getting There & Route

You’ll find it on the Lower Lakes side, a short diversion from the trail near Veliki Slap. You can enter from the bottom by the waterfall or from the top of the canyon; many visitors naturally fold it into Program A from Entrance 1 (roughly 3.4 km with about 115 m of elevation gain).

Difficulty & Safety

It’s brief but not a breeze: expect narrow, often wet stairs and roughly 80 meters of climbing. Surfaces are slick and dim—wear grippy, closed‑toe shoes and keep one hand free for the railing. In wet weather, slow down and mind low ceilings and dripping rock.

Wildlife & Conservation

Caves here shelter rare, protected cave fauna (and bats in some caves). Don’t touch formations, keep noise and light to a minimum, and move carefully—this is a geomorphological natural monument protected since 1964.

Closures & Conditions

Sections of the cave or nearby boardwalks may close for safety or conservation, and it has been listed as temporarily closed at times. Always check current park updates before planning to pass through.

Best Time to Visit

Go early—before about 10:00—when Lower Lakes foot traffic is lightest. Midday (roughly 10:00–14:00) brings the biggest crowds. For photos, early light on the canyon and lakes pairs nicely with the cave’s cool interior; late afternoon can also be pleasant once crowds thin.

Need-to-Know

There are no amenities at the cave itself—no toilets, food, or water—so plan your pit stops at the main hubs. Expect cool, damp air inside year‑round.