• 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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From 1,499 €

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Overview

The diverse flora and fauna of Biogradska Gora National park is another amazing treasure of nature. Biogradska Gora is one of the oldest protected areas in the world. Only 6 years after Yellowstone was declared the first national park in America, Prince Nikola put Biogradska Gora under state protection in 1878. Due to its immense natural wealth and its preservation, Biogradska Gora National park was proclaimed a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site.

The most impressive part of the National Park is the primeval rainforest reserve, one of the last in Europe. It is located in the valley of Biograd and Jezerstica River, surrounding Biograd Lake where the beauty of the ancient forests reflects in their waters. Many of the trees in the forest are over half a millennium old, with some soaring to 60m high. This is the 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. Here, the water and ice have eroded the limestone typical of the place and thus creating a rare-beauty landscape – a reason enough why you shouldn’t miss experiencing it.

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 & 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

National Park Biogradska Gora – Hiking Zekova glava summit (2117) 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.

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

Note

Pesica lake

Note

Bjelasica

Day 3

Vranjak – Ogorela glava – Goles – Biogradsko Lake

This hike begins at the ski centre Jezerine (1450 m) where we take a dirt road and arrive at the mountain eco-village Vranjak. Then we will proceed over the roof of Bjelasica Mountain along the ridge line of the peaks, with the scenic view of Biogradska forest to the Ogorela glava peak (1988 m). Further, we continue on the ridge to Lica peak (1893 m) to the attractive viewpoint, where a stunning view is spreading of the whole virgin rainforest reserve of Biogradska Gora with Biogradsko Lake surrounded by it. Here we make a photo stop and then proceed downhill to Goles katun, a famous shepherd village which saved its centuries-long tradition and enriched it by opening its doors to tourists. There will be an organized lunch with traditional food. After lunch, we take a steep mountain path (4 kilometres) that leads downhill through untouched rainforest Biogradska Gora all the way to Biogradsko Lake (1099 m). Biogradsko Lake is situated in the heart of the National park and is surrounded by thick forest, which makes it unique and leaves a lifetime impression on all those who had a chance to visit it.

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

Day 4

National Park Durmitor – Three lakes tour

The “Three Lakes Hike” 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 adventurers, 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. A hike around Black Lake, that we will take, a 3.6 km long walking path is a must for each visitor. Its position is wonderful: the rounded mass of Mount ‘Bear’, as its guardian behind it. Following a picturesque trail along Mill Creek, we continue our hike to Snakes Lake, which is hidden deep in the spruce forests at an altitude of 1.520 m. It is a calm and peaceful place, perfect for rest. After Snakes Lake, we continue the journey through the Bosaca village and surrounding pine forests to visit Jablan Lake. You will enjoy excellent views from the trail to the most prominent lake in Durmitor – the Black Lake.

Walking for the day: 6-7 hours, 13 km ↑400m ↓400m

Note

Durmitor-Black Lake

Note

Black Lake & Savin Kuk

Day 5

National Park Durmitor – Savin Kuk summit hike (2313 m)

Savin Kuk is one of the most beautiful, 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 beautiful views of Durmitor Peaks (Sljeme, Terzin Bogaz, Medjed, Bobotov Kuk, etc.). It’s a beautiful triangle shaped peak on the left from Bear peak, which dominates above the amazing beauty of Black Lake, which is surrounded by 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 the Savin Kuk Peak. There is also a possibility of taking a ride with a cable car instead of walking, which stops around 1 km below the summit.

Walking 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, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Rafting is by far the most fun and exciting way to see the Tara Canyon. The water is crystal clear, waterfalls rush down into the river and you can even stand under a waterfall. During the tour you will enjoy in untouched nature of the National Park, passing by river Ljutica, which is the shortest river in Europe and under the famous Tara Bridge. At the time it was built, this bridge which stands 172 meters above the Tara River, was the biggest vehicular concrete arch bridge in Europe. Lunch after rafting and for those who want another adrenaline shot – the longest zipline in Europe is around the corner (optional). Driving back to Zabljak, towards villages Njegovudja and Zminica, amazed by the spectacular nature, we arrive at Zminicko Lake. Without a doubt, you will find this mountain lake surrounded by a thick pine forest perfect. After admiring Zminicko, we continue towards Fish and Devil’s Lake. Beside the road are situated mysterious carved stone tomb monuments (stećci) – dating from between the 12th and 16th centuries (added to Unesco’s World Heritage list in 2016). Arrival and overnight at Zabljak.

Note

Prutas summit

Note

Durmitor National Park

Day 7

National Park Durmitor – Prutas (2393 m) peak hike

A hiking tour that provides views of the most beautiful Durmitor NP landscapes — a real mountaineering pleasure and experience! Adorned with unique rock shapes (sticks or rods), the name “Prutas” (eng. mountain of rods), ideally reflects the real beauty of this peak. With easy ascent along the deep, green slopes, amazing views over the glacial Skrcka lakes, including peaks of Djevojka (2440 m), Bezimeni Vrh (2487 m) and Bobotov Kuk (2525 m), the Prutas hiking trail is probably the most beautiful trail at Durmitor National Park.

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, grass-covered peak. It is adorned with gentle ridgelines, green mountainsides, cliffs of vertically elevated layers, but also typical limestone rock formations. The peak is a spacious plateau covered with grass and the view spreading from the peak is remarkable in all directions — you will take great photos! This is one of those hiking tours that provide dazzling views thus creating immensely hiking pleasure and experience! At the top, you will have a well-deserved time for rest, while soaking up the beauty surrounding you. This hike will be the highlight of your Montenegro and Durmitor National Park 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

Tour dates and prices for 2023

Dates

17 JUNE – 24 JUNE

Duration

7 nights/8 days

From 1,499 €

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Dates

01 JULY – 08 JULY

Duration

7 nights/8 days

From 1,499 €

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Dates

05 AUGUST – 12 AUGUST

Duration

7 nights/8 days

From 1,499 €

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Dates

02 SEPTEMBER – 09 SEPTEMBER

Duration

7 nights/8 days

From 1,499 €

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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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