• Wild Montenegro - Tour 2: „The mountains are calling”

    Biogradska Gora National Park & Durmitor National Park

  • “Mountains are the beginning and the end of all natural scenery.”

    – John Ruskin

  • “The lake and the mountains have become my landscape, my real world.”

    – Georges Simenon

  • “Great things are done when men and mountains meet; This is not done by jostling in the street.”

    – William Blake

  • "Stay Close to the Serenity of a Lake to Meet Your Own Peace of Mind."

    – Munia Khan

  • “It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.”

    – Edmund Hillary

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  • Group size

    min 4 – max 18 persons

  • Difficulty grade

    Easy to Moderate

  • Departure dates 2023

    17 Jun – 24 Jun

    01 July – 08 July

    05 August – 12 August

    02 Sept. – 09 Sept.

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Price on Request

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Hiking in Durmitor NP!

Overview

For any hiker, hiking in Durmitor and Biogradska Gora National Parks in Montenegro is a must!

The diverse flora and fauna of Biogradska Gora National Park are the amazing treasures of Montenegro’s nature. Biogradska Gora came under state protection in 1878, only six years after Yellowstone became America’s first national park. UNESCO proclaimed Biogradska Gora National Park as a World Heritage Site in recognition of its natural wealth and preservation. The most impressive part of the National Park is the primeval rainforest reserve, one of the last in Europe. Many of the trees in the forest are over half a millennium old, with some soaring to 60 m high. This is a region of magnificent beauty and graceful experience.

Durmitor National Park is the largest National Park in Montenegro and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Park is characterized by diversified ecosystems and numerous endemic species, as well as the highest peaks of the Dinaric mountains, Tara River Canyon, which was proclaimed a world ecological reserve, 18 glacial lakes known as “the mountain eyes” of which the Black Lake is the most famous one and represents a sort of the symbol of the Park and its beauty.  The Park territory covers the Durmitor massif and the narrow Tara Canyon which is 1.300 meters deep – second after the Grand Canyon Colorado. Tara River, also known as the “Teardrop of Europe”, is considered to be one of the most beautiful rivers on the entire continent.

Trip Highlights:

  • Discover Biogradska Gora National Park. Visit one of the three remaining rainforests in Europe. The trails lead to mountain peaks and glacier lakes, which offer the most stunning scenery

  • Tour signature site of the park - Biogradsko Lake and Pesica Lake, arguably the prettiest glacial lake in the park

  • Durmitor National Park is a paradise for lovers of exceptional nature, and one of the most stunning nature reserves in Europe

  • Rafting the Tara River, the deepest canyon in Europe at 1.300 m, and the second deepest in the world

Gallery:

Trip itinerary:

Explore day-by-day destinations, activities, routes, stops and more…

Note

Moraca Monastery

Day 1 – Monastery Moraca and Kolasin

Transfer from airport Podgorica/Tivat/Dubrovnik to Kolasin. The road to Kolasin will lead us through the impressive canyon of the Moraca river, Platije Canyon, where we will take a break to visit the orthodox monastery Moraca built in the 13th century, one of the most monumental medieval memorials in Montenegro.

Kolasin is a small resort located 954 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by three mountain ranges – Sinjajevina, Komovi and Bjelasica. Like most ski towns, it looks far prettier under a blanket of snow, but even in summer, it’s a handy base for exploring Biogradska Gora National Park and other parts of the Bjelasica Mountain.

Day 2 – NP Biogradska Gora – Hiking Zekova glava summit (2117 m) with descending to Pesica Lake

Mountain Bjelasica with its specific shapes, rolling hills and smooth pastures is predestined for sustainable mountain tourism both in summer and winter. This pastoral mountain invites nature lovers for an easy hike with breathtaking views.

This hike begins at Bjelasica ski centre Jezerine (1450 m). Walking through the forest, we will arrive at the Vranjak katun (“katun” is a small mountain village made of huts inhabited by shepherds in the summer). After a brief stop, we will hike up to the summit of Zekova Glava and enjoy a prolonged rest at a nearby glacial lake called Pesica Lake. At the lake, we will have a chance to enjoy spectacular nature, take beautiful pictures, and possibly go swimming in the cold water.

Hiking for the day: 5-6 hours, 6 km ↑600m ↓600m

Note

Biogradska Gora NP – Pesica Lake

Note

Bjelasica Mt.

Day 3 – NP Biogradska Gora – Vranjak – Ogorela glava – Goles – Biogradsko Lake

Today’s hike begins at the ski center Jezerine (1450m) where we take a dirt road to the mountain eco-village Vranjak. Then we will climb over the roof of Bjelasica Mountain, following the ridge line of the peaks to the top of the Ogorela glava peak (1988 m). Our hike continues along the ridge to the attractive viewpoint, where a panoramic view of the entire virgin rainforest reserve of Biogradska Gora is offered, with Biogradsko Lake in the middle. Then we proceed downhill to the shepherd village of Goles, which saved its centuries-long tradition of cattle breeding. There will be served a buffet lunch with traditional food. Afterwards, we take a steep mountain path that leads downhill through the untouched rainforest of Biogradska Gora to Biogradsko Lake (1099 m). Biogradsko Lake is situated in the heart of the National park and is surrounded by thick old forest, which is unique and leaves a lifetime impression on all those who had a chance to visit it.

Hiking for the day: 7-8 hours, 14 km ↑400m ↓900m

Day 4 – National Park Durmitor – Three lakes tour

This tour confirms why UNESCO listed Durmitor as one of its World Heritage sites in Montenegro. Glacial lakes reflecting the peaks towering above offer one-of-a-kind landscapes for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers.

Black Lake is the premium tourist attraction of the Durmitor area. It is the largest and the best-known of 18 glacial lakes on the mountain. We will take a 3.6 km long walking path around Black Lake, a must for all visitors. Mount Bear is a charming feature behind it. Following a picturesque trail along Mill Creek, we continue our hike to Snakes Lake. This lake is hidden deep in the spruce forests and it is a calm and peaceful place, ideal for rest. After Snakes Lake, we continue the hike through the Bosaca village and surrounding pine forests to visit Jablan Lake. You will enjoy excellent views from the trail to the most prominent peaks in Durmitor NP as well as on Black Lake.

Note

Durmitor NP – Black Lake

Note

Black Lake & Savin Kuk

Day 5 – NP Durmitor – Hike to Savin Kuk peak (2313 m)

Savin Kuk is one of the most scenic, most recognized, most photographed and most visited peaks on Durmitor. Savin Kuk is an unfailing part of the famous and incredible panorama view above Black Lake (1416 m), offering perhaps the most picturesque views of Durmitor Peaks (Sljeme, Terzin Bogaz, Medjed, Bobotov Kuk, etc.). It’s a striking triangle-shaped peak on the left of Bear Peak, which dominates above the amazing beauty of Black Lake, which is surrounded by a beautiful black pine forest. This panorama is the trademark of Durmitor and Montenegro.

The climb starts from the parking lot at the ski lift. The track follows an unmarked but well-trodden and visible path to Savin Kuk Peak. There is also the possibility of taking a ride in a cable car instead of walking, which stops around 1 km below the summit.

Hiking for the day: 5-6 hours, 8 km ↑800m ↓800m

Day 6 – Rafting on Tara River

The inevitable outdoor activity during the visit to Durmitor National Park is undoubtedly rafting on the Tara River. Tara River Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe and the second-deepest in the world next to the Grand Canyon in the United States. Tara River is 158 km long whilst 80 km of its length belongs to Durmitor National Park. During your rafting tour, you will pass by the Ljutica river, the shortest river in Europe, and afterwards under the famous Tara Bridge, which stands 172 meters above the Tara River. Lunch after rafting is included. Driving back to Zabljak, towards villages Njegovudja and Zminica, we arrive at Zminicko Lake. After admiring Zminicko, we continue towards Fish and Devil’s Lake. Beside the road are situated mysterious carved stone tomb monuments – dating from between the 12th and 16th centuries (Unesco’s World Heritage site). Arrival and overnight in Zabljak.

Note

Prutas summit

Note

Durmitor National Park

Day 7 – NP Durmitor – Hike to Prutas peak (2393 m)

Today’s hiking tour provides views of the most picturesque Durmitor NP landscapes. Adorned with unique rock shapes, the name Prutas (eng. mountain of rods), ideally reflects the magnificence of this peak. With easy ascent along the green slopes, and amazing views over the glacial Skrcka lakes, including the highest peak of Durmitor – Bobotov Kuk (2525 m), this hiking trail is probably the most scenic trail in Durmitor NP.
Our start is from Sarban (1,707 m) and during the next 2,5-3 hours with a total ascent of 700 m over the 4 km trail, we will reach this magnificent peak. The peak is a plateau covered with grass and the view spreading from the peak is remarkable in all directions! At the top, you will have a well-deserved time for rest, while soaking up the beauty surrounding you. This tour will be the highlight of your Durmitor NP hiking adventure.

Hiking for the day: 6-7 hours, 8 km ↑700m ↓700m

Day 8 – Departure or extensions

Departure or extensions. Transfer to airport Podgorica/Tivat/Dubrovnik.

Note: In case you are arriving/leaving one or two days before/after the group departure do not hesitate to contact us for organizing your stay, activities and/or transfers.

Note

Durmitor National Park

Dates

17 JUNE – 24 JUNE

Duration

7 nights/8 days

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Price on Request

Dates

01 JULY – 08 JULY

Duration

7 nights/8 days

INQUIRY
Price on Request

Dates

05 AUGUST – 12 AUGUST

Duration

7 nights/8 days

INQUIRY
Price on Request

Dates

02 SEPTEMBER – 09 SEPTEMBER

Duration

7 nights/8 days

INQUIRY
Price on Request
INCLUDED
  • 7 nights/8 days
  • All accommodations
  • All breakfasts & farewell dinner
  • Packed lunches during hikes and homemade traditional Montenegrin lunch on the 3rd and 6th day
  • All transfers – minivan and driver from and back to the airport, as well as local transfers, in accordance with the program
  • English-speaking licensed tour guide
  • Parks entrance fees
  • Local tourist tax
NOT INCLUDED
  • International flights tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Lunches outside of the program
  • Your own trekking/hiking gear
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, extra transfers, tips, etc.
  • Optional gratuities to your guide(s)
  • Any items not explicitly mentioned in the program

Additional info

You will mostly stay in 3* hotels (4* upon request) or in private lodgings (apartments & guesthouses) that are especially appealing. We have selected small family-run hotels and cozy guesthouses whenever possible for their intimate atmospheres, as well as for their ability to share with you the history and culture of their specific Montenegrin region. Generally, rooms in Montenegro are double or triple rooms (we will assign you a roommate of the same gender, if possible) and you may find that some are small apartments with a kitchen. If you request single accommodations, you will be required to pay the single supplement fee. Please be advised there are a limited number of single accommodations available, and single accommodations may not be available for the village stay.

Breakfast is included. When no restaurant location is available on the route, packed lunches will be pre-ordered. Dinner is available either in the restaurant in your hotel or restaurants and taverns in the village near your accommodation. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals are available upon request.

All transfers from and back to the airport, as well as local transfers, in accordance with the programme, are included. Luggage transfer also is included, and your bags will be transferred by private transfer to your next accommodation. Baggage limit 25 kg per person.

Mostly Easy but may include longer moderate hikes on some days with some moderate uphill/downhill elevations and steeper ascents/descents. Generally, routes will be well maintained but may involve some mixed/rougher terrain and steep/exposed sections on certain days. Appropriate for regular walkers. A reasonable level of fitness is required.

Walking is on average 4-6 hours per day (up to 12 km of walking).

Each evening your guides will inform you about the next day’s activities and answer any questions you may have.

  • Valid Visa*, passport and ID card
  • Money, and/or credit card (currency in Montenegro is the Euro – €)
  • Travel health insurance certificate 
  • *Holders of travel documents containing a valid Schengen visa, a valid visa of the United States of America, United Kingdom and Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, or a permission to stay in these countries, may enter and stay, or pass through the territory of Montenegro up to 30 days, and not longer than the expiry of visa if the period of validity of the visa is less than 30 days ( more info on- https://mvp.gov.me/en/sections/consular-affairs/visa-regimes-for-foreign-citizens/ ).
  • We recommend taking sufficient cash for your daily requirements. Banks and  ATMs are available,  and credit/debit card payments are widely accepted in towns but might be limited in some of the villages we visit.

If you require any medication, please take adequate supplies for the duration of your holiday. It’s advisable to carry your medication in your hand luggage instead of packing it in your suitcase (backpack).

Montenegro’s coastline has a Mediterranean climate with hot dry summers and mild winters, whereas the more mountainous inland areas have a sub-alpine climate with warm summers and cold winters with snowfall. There is a chance of sporadic rain in spring and autumn in the coastal areas, though generally, this is in the form of short showers. In the mountains, rainfall tends to be more frequent including around the Bay of Kotor. Average temperatures from May to October are generally in the mid 20’s(in °C) but can reach into the 30’s(in °C) in July and August.

Typically, you can expect excellent weather in Montenegro from April to November.

  • Time difference to GMT +1
  • Currency-Euro (€)
  • Religion-Christian (mainly Orthodox)
  • Language-Montenegrin, English is widely spoken
  • Electric supply and plugs: 220V, 50Hz, two-pin round plugs

The right equipment for walking tours is important for a convenient holiday. Take care that you wear comfortable clothes to meet the climate of the region and season.

The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection.

Bring one main piece of luggage and a 20-30 litre day backpack is recommended. You will need to carry what you need for the day which may include a rain jacket, fleece, t-shirts, camera, sun-cream, water and picnic lunch. On hot days you will carry fewer clothes but more drinking water.

This gear list has been created to help you in choosing your equipment for the trip. Try to bring only what is necessary, this will help you and the field staff.

  • Backpack (25 – 30 l) with raincover
  • Hiking shoes (mid-to high-cut models)
  • Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
  • Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
  • Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
  • Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
  • Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
  • T-Shirts (Synthetic)
  • Shorts
  • Hat or cap – Sun protection is important!
  • Swimwear and Towel
  • Hiking poles (if you usually use them)
  • Reusable water bottle(s) 1.5 – 2 L per person
  • Small backpack pharmacy
  • Casual Clothing and Shoes for Travel and Town Wear
  • Camera and Accessories
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Headlamp
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen/sunblock and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • Travel Pillow
  • Toiletries

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