How to visit Kozjak Waterfall, Kobarid (step-by-step guide)
Wondering how to visit Kozjak Waterfall? Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
So far, my trip to Slovenia has taken me past fairy tale lakes through the magical world of Narnia to the majestic Boka waterfall.
And now, I was heading to Kozjak; a waterfall hidden in a cave.
Kozjak waterfall is a 45-minute hike from the town center of Kobarid. The hike has beautiful scenery of turquoise rivers, vast green nature, a hanging bridge, and a historical bridge.
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Introduction to Kozjak Waterfall
Kozjak Waterfall, or Slap Kozjak as they say in Slovene (slap means waterfall), is by many considered the most beautiful waterfall in Slovenia.
I tend to agree although I’m pretty taken by Savica waterfall, too!
What makes Kozjak waterfall unique is that it’s located inside a cave. Hidden. The walls leading inside the cave are covered in moss, which makes it a super enchanting sight.
The waterfall is 15m high.
How to get to Kozjak Waterfall
There are two ways of getting to Kozjak Waterfall: by car and on foot. The route from Kobarid is the same until you reach Napoleon Bridge.
If you’re on foot, I recommend taking one way there and the other way back for a change of scenery. That’s what I did.
By car / on foot – From Kobarid, drive towards the Napoleon Bridge. Once you get there, cross the bridge and take the road to the left towards Dreznica.
150 m up the road is a parking lot on your right side. From there, you’re looking at a 30-minute hike to Slap Kozjak. Remember to buy a parking ticket and display it in your car window!
On foot – From Kobarid, walk towards the Napoleon Bridge. You can cross it (like the cars) OR continue straight ahead and then cross the hanging bridge further ahead. The walk takes 45 mins from Kobarid town centre to Slap Kozjak. The trail is well-marked and easy to walk.
Travel tips
When to visit
Go in the morning or before noon. That way you won’t run into too many people.
Entrance fee
Adults 4€ / Children from 7-14 years 2€ / Family 10€
Opening hours
1 July – 15 August: 8.30-20
1 September – 1 July: 8.30-19
Napoleon Bridge, Kobarid Slovenia
Napoleon Bridge is the first highlight you’ll get to on your way to Kozjak Waterfalls.
The bridge was built in 1750 and got this name because Napoleon and his troops marched across it on their way to Predel Pass. During World War I it was blown up, but later rebuilt.
Napoleon Bridge is where the road splits. So, if you’re by car, you need to cross the bridge, and if you’re on foot, just continue straight ahead.
The route to Kozjak Waterfalls
Once you’ve reached the parking lot, follow the pathway. The first stretch is open and easy to walk.
Soon after, you’ll get to Soca River and walk right next to it. It’s super beautiful! Just continue straight ahead.
The suspension bridge
Then, on your left side, you’ll see a suspension bridge. This is where to cross if you go straight ahead at Napoleon Bridge.
If you want, you should go stand in the middle of the bridge to admire the Soca River.
It’s an amazing view from there and you’ll inevitably see kayakers pass by in the summer.
Kobarid forest
Ok, so get back on the pathway and walk a little further. You’re now entering the forest.
It’s so green and lush, and you can hear a small creek nearby. Slovenians believe that forests are magical, and I think I’ve become a believer, too 🙂
The way the sun hits the tree tops, the leaves, and the small caves and labyrinthine paths. If this isn’t magical, I don’t know what is.
Mali Kozjak Waterfall
Many do not know this, but there are actually TWO Kozjak waterfalls.
You’ve got Veliki Kozjak Waterfall (the big one) and a small one: Mali Kozjak Waterfall.
The small waterfall is located in the forest under an old wooden bridge. It’s 8m high, but it seems smaller.
Veliki Kozjak Waterfall
Once you see moss-covered walls, you know you’re almost there. As you approach the waterfall, the walls narrow.
You’ll enter a cave-like grotto carved from limestone and cross a wooden plank across the creek. Continue a few steps and go inside.
There it is.
A 15-meter-high waterfall, its bottom covered by a vast blue and green pool, and its walls reminiscent of those in caves. It’s an incredible sight.
Is swimming allowed?
You might see people swimming in the waterfall. At the moment, swimming is allowed. BUT it’s super cold.
Getting back
Once you’re done exploring the waterfall, it’s time to head back.
If you’re on foot from Kobarid, consider crossing the suspension bridge and walking that way back to Napoleon Bridge. It’s a scenic hike.
Many thanks to Spirit Slovenia for generously hosting me in Slovenia. As always, all opinions and thoughts are my own, regardless of who is footing the bill.
FAQ – Waterfall Kozjak, Kobarid
Can you swim in Kozjak waterfall?
No, swimming in Kozjak waterfall is prohibited to preserve its natural environment.
What is the most beautiful waterfall in Slovenia?
Kozjak Waterfall, with its stunning emerald pool, is among the most beautiful in Slovenia.
How do I get to Waterfall Kozjak from Kobarid?
You can hike to Waterfall Kozjak from Kobarid; it’s a scenic 30-minute walk.
Is there an entrance fee to visit Waterfall Kozjak?
Yes, there is a small fee to access the trail leading to the waterfall. Here’s the price list for Waterfall Kozjak:
| 2024 | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Adults | 5.00 |
| Children (7 to 14 years old) | 3.00 |
| Students, seniors, groups (more than 10 people) | 4.00 |
| Family ticket | 12.00 |
What is the best time of year to visit Waterfall Kozjak?
Spring and early summer are ideal when the water flow is strong and the surrounding nature is lush.
Are there any facilities or amenities at Waterfall Kozjak?
Basic amenities are available, including a parking area and marked trails, but facilities are limited near the waterfall itself.
Before you go – don’t miss these posts:
- Slovenia Travel Guide | Ultimate Tips for Your Slovenia Holidays
- 10 Most Beautiful Cities in Slovenia
- 3 best ways to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled
- 20 unique things to do in Slovenia that will truly amaze you
- Lake Bohinj, Slovenia – the lake at the end of the world
- 10 magical things to do in Lake Bled
- 10 amazing things to do in Ljubljana
- Soca Valley: A road trip through the real-life Narnia
Wow, that truly looks like a scenic hike, Miriam, your photos are great. I love the scenery, the waterfall in the cave, the turquoise of the river and the bridges, especially the hanging bridge. I haven’t been to Southeast Europe yet, but if I get there one day, I will definitely add Slovenia to my itinerary.
Like you, I am great in getting lost. In April 2013 a Danish guy from Copenhagen and I managed to get lost in the Forbidden City in Beijing. We were so busy talking to each other that we didn’t focus on our guide or the other people in our group anymore. He had a hard time finding us again and I still wonder how he managed to because of the hundreds of eople in the vast Forbidden City. Ever since I make sure to have the mobile number of my guide or my hotel to be sure to be found again quickly.
Ah yes, the Forbidden City is so easy to get lost in. And thanks, Vanessa. It only took me a few minutes to fall in love with Slovenia – it’s such an underrated country!
Your pictures are absolutely stunning!
It looks like you’ve stumbled onto a place unknown, nature in it’s purest form!
I would gladly visit Slovenia after reading this post, hopefully I will have the opportunity in the near future 🙂
Sarah Lynn
I am so glad to hear that, Sarah. I really hope you get to visit – it’s almost impossible not to love it 🙂
Green green and so much green! I would love to visit this place. Once I am back in Europe I have to do a bit more discovering of my own backyard! 🙂
Marta, I think you’ll love Slovenia! The nature is hands down the most beautiful we have in Europe. I have been (and still am) exploring my own backyard this summer and it’s been really interesting. I highly recommend it when you get back from NZ 🙂
Looking at the pics, I can only imagine what a peaceful trip you would have had. Awesome!
Thanks, Rekha. Slovenia is such a gorgeous place and I loved every minute of it.
You know what’s magical? Your photos of that forest! So, so beautiful.
Thank you <3 I'm just so in love with Slovenia. It's such a magical country.
Those are some great pictures! I am headed to Slovenia on Tuesday and want to see as much as I can.
I will be staying in Ljubljana and I was wondering how you got there, as I can’t find any train or bus connections somehow.
Thank you very much!
Sounds great, Max. Slovenia is awesome!
I took the bus from Kobarid to Ljubljana and you can check the connection at Rome2Rio: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Ljubljana/Kobarid. It takes about 3 hours.
Have a wonderful trip!
I’m heading to slovenia next month, and I’m curious about how crowded it gets in the summer? when did you hike the kozjak waterfall?
Hi Mary Kate,
I went there in June, and Slovenia isn’t crowded – that’s the best part of visiting this country 🙂
Dear Miriam, thank you for this amazing post! From your pics the hike seems pretty straight along the path, are there any steep uphill climbing? I’m wondering if a 4-month pregnant hiker can manage it? is the descend to Kozjak challenging or is it approachable?
Thank you so much for your kind assistance and lots of love
Hi Kristina,
Thanks for your comment! The hike is very easy and if you have no issues walking a bit far, it shouldn’t be a problem to reach Kozjak. The path is well marked and straight with only a few easy uphill steps. Be careful at the waterfall as the rocks are wet. Bring sturdy shoes and tread lightly.
Have a great trip. Lots of love from Denmark
Thanx Miriam! simply can’t wait. And God your pics are amazing!
Thanks, Kristina! Have an amazing trip!
Is the walk SAFE for a single woman to do? I’m going to Slovenia in May. Which is closer, Bled or Ljubljana to take a bus from? how far from the city is the hike? Do buses return frequently? Thank you. LOVE your photos
Oh, absolutely! I traveled alone and I felt super safe in Slovenia, also on the hike to Kozjak.
I recommend taking the bus from Ljubljana to Kobarid (which is a few kms from Kozjak). You can check the connection at Rome2Rio: https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Ljubljana/Kobarid. It takes about 3 hours so you should stay for a few days. Do check out Dreznica and Bovec while you’re there. There’s SO much to see in Soca Valley, which is where Kozjak is located.
Hi, are there bears? And is the path doable for a 5yr old child?
Kind regards.
Slovenia has bears, but I don’t know if they’re in this area. I wouldn’t worry about it, though – the hike is close to several towns and camping sites and therefore in a populated area. I hiked alone in the woods and mountains in Slovenia and never had anyone warn me about wildlife (including the local families I stayed with). And you can easily bring your 5-year old. The path is flat and easy to walk.
Love the guide! But do bear in mind you are not allowed to swim at the Kozjak Waterfall – it is actually forbidden and quite disrespectful towards the nature there to do that. Unfortunately some people still do it 🙁
Unfortunately that’s how it is most places. It’s the same at the Blue Eye in Albania; a natural wonder where swimming isn’t allowed either. But still, so many people seem to think the rule (and signs) don’t apply to them 🙁
Beautiful photos of a beautiful place! Thank you for sharing your experience at this waterfall!
Thanks so much for reading, Clara 🙂
Hi Miriam. Thank you for your post. We made the walk exactly as you described and it was amazing. Thanks to you we spent one of the best days of our vacation.
I’m so glad to hear that, Veronique!