matka canyon trip

Everything You Need to Know When Visiting Matka Canyon Skopje

Of course North Macedonia was also part of my Balkan road trip itinerary and that is how I ended up in Skopje. Although I later heard the city centre of Skopje with all its statues is kind of fake (more about it later on my blog) I still think it is an impressive place to visit in North Macedonia. But since I had two days in Skopje I also looked for day trips from Skopje and stumbled upon Matka Canyon.

A couple days before I visited Skopje I took the impressive boat trip on the Komani Lake in Albania and was so blown away by the beauty of this gorge. When seeing pictures of Matka Canyon Skopje I wanted to go there straight away too. If you are visiting Skopje this definitely is a thing to do, even if you are only there for a day. Most people think a Matka canyon boat trip is the only thing you can do, but there is more.

What about hiking, medieval monasteries, caves and swimming? It was so much fun that I actually really regret I did not have more days in Skopje. I would loved to stayed overnight in the Matka Canyon hotel. Waking up here in the early morning drinking a coffee overlooking the lake while working on my travel blog. Perfect!

Where is Matka Lake Skopje

Since Matka Canyon is only about 15 kilometer away from the city centre this place is the perfect day trip from Skopje. The canyon is a touristy place where locals and tourist love to go on a hot summer day to escape the bustling capital of North Macedonia. 

There is no entrance fee at Matka Canyon. It is free to visit for everyone. Parking is also free!

How to get to Matka Canyon from Skopje

From the city centre it is pretty easy to get to Matka Canyon. Tourists have 3 options:

From Skopje to Match Canyon by bus

This is of course the cheapest option to visit Matka Canyon. In the city centre take bus 60 at the main bus station. I did not go by bus to Matka Canyon but I asked around for you and a return ticket will only cost less than €3. Bus 60 is one of the busses but there are more busses according to the helpful old man and they run quite regularly.

From Skopje to Match Canyon by car

This of course is the easiest option as the drive from the city only takes about 30 minutes. The road to Matka Canyon is pretty ok, but narrow at some places. Use Google Maps to get there, they direct you straight to the parking space. When arriving at the Lake Matka there is a parking area. I was there mid June, but I reckon when you get there in the peak season parking will be a problem. Parking spaces are limited!

From Skopje to Matka Canyon by taxi

Although taking a car to visit Matka Canyon seems like the best option, I would actually suggest tourists to take a taxi when you visit Matka Canyon. Why? A single ride from Skopje to Matka Canyon is €10 only. There are plenty taxis waiting for you when you walk out of the canyon. Taking a taxi to Matka Canyon saves you the hassle of parking and the taxi will drop you all the way at the beginning of the trail.

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8 Travel tips for Matka Canyon

The Matka Lake is formed in this gorgeous canyon because the river running through the gorge is dammed. This created an artificial lake which is a playground for adventurers willing the escape the city life in Skopje or for those tourists willing to admire the canyon’s beautiful landscapes like I did.

• There is no entrance fee at Matka Canyon.
• You can do a tour at the visitor centre at designated times.
• From the parking to the start of the canyon is an easy 10 minute walk.
• There is a restaurant in the canyon to order drinks and food.
• Towards the canyon there are also several eateries.
• There are picnic spots so you can bring your own food.
• You can rent a boat, kayak, visit monasteries or go hiking.
• Swimming in Matka Lake is possible, but water is pretty chilled.

Picknick places at Matka Canyon.

Boat rental and swimming at Matka Lake.

8 Things to do in Matka Canyon

1. hike to the st. nikola monastery.

Don’t take this easily, but do it if you want some action. The steep path through the woods and bushes will take about 30 minutes and when I arrived at the top I was pretty exhausted. Views were stunning from above. Bring water! There is nothing up there. The monastery was closed when I visited.

The view from St. Nikola Monastery over Matka Canyon.

2. Rent a kayak

The most adventurous way to see the canyon from the water is in a kayak. You can rent them by the hour. There are single and double ones. Peddling on the lake was pretty easy, there is basically no current.

3. Boat trip on Lake Matka

Best thing to do is to take a boat trip to enjoy this beautiful place from the water. Boat trips are about 30 minutes and cost 200 Denar per person (€3,30). There are two places where you can take a boat trip. The first one you will walk up to is not so busy as the second one. I took a boat trip with the guys closest to the dam and the entrance of Matka Canyon and basically enjoyed a private trip.

There is also a 1 hour boat trip, but these are group tours! The 30 minute boat ride was enough for me.

4. Caves tour

To get to the caves you will need to take one of the Matka Canyon boat tours that take about 2 hours in total. You will get to the entrance of the cave by boat and then it is a short walk through the caves where you can see lots of stalagmites, stalactites, dripstone pillars and deep holes. There is a walkway through the caves and some parts are colourful illuminated. Cave tours are guided!

5. Rent a boat house for a day

There are a handful boat houses on the shores of Matka Lake. Some hidden behind the bushes, but the cool thing is that these boat houses are for rent. You can only get to them by boat. I asked around for you and they go around for $50 a day including transport and a kayak. If you are interested call this guy: Resul +38 970 725 537 .

6. Have dinner at Canyon Matka Restaurant

When walking up to the boat and kayak rental place you will also stumble upon the restaurant. They have good coffee and fresh healthy juices (€4). I did not eat there, but it seemed a little pricey for North Macedonia.

7. Sleep at Hotel Matka Canyon

Want to spend a night right in the canyon next to the lake in a stylish hotel? Have the canyon for your self around sunset and get to see the canyon in the misty morning? How about spending a night in the Matka Canyon Hotel ?

For less than €40 per room you already sleep in this exclusive hotel. The only possible place to sleep in Matka Canyon ! Click on the link to reserve your bed with the best view.

8. Hiking Matka Canyon

It looks like the trail ends at the hotel & restaurant but that is not true. For those keen on hiking in Matka Canyon I have good news! I did not do it myself, but there is a trail that goes all the way to the end of canyon. You will pass medieval churches and monasteries on your way. The trail is an elevated path on the side of the canyon. From what I heard is hiking in Matka Canyon a real adventure. But be aware that the trail is 10 kilometers long and hiking it all the way and back takes around 5-6 hours.

My trip to Matka Canyon

I left around 13.00 to the canyon and stayed around for like 3,5 hours. After I arrived I first walked around and explored all the options on how to experience the canyon. I decided to first walk to the monastery so I asked the boat guys to drop me on the other side of the lake. The hike uphill was indeed super steep, but I like a good challenge. As soon as I reached the monastery on top of the mountain the weather suddenly changed and it started raining like crazy. Luckily half an hour later the sky turned blue again and I walked down and got into a boat that took me around Lake Matka for about 30 minutes and had a drink in the restaurant on the water.

If you are looking for things to do in Skopje, this is a great day trip. The views are incredible and it is hard to believe this place is so close to the bustling capital of North Macedonia. Even if you are in Skopje for just 1 day get your ass over here. Take a taxi from the city, enjoy a boat trip in the canyon and be back in the city centre within 2 hours.

I hope this blog post about Matka Canyon was helpful for you. Please leave me a comment or even better share this on any social media platform. It is a small thing for you to do, but would make a big difference for me. Massive thanks!

Read about more destinations on my Balkan roadtrip adventure  like the Kravice waterfalls in Bosnia , the Komani Lake Ferry in Albania  or things to do in Skopje . What about camping in the mountains of Kosovo or the incredible Uvac Viewpoint in Serbia . All fabulous things to do in the Balkan region.

• roadtrip balkan
• matka canyon

Matka Canyon

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Matka Canyon - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• (0.01 mi) Hotel & Restaurant Canyon Matka
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• (0.01 mi) Restaurant Canyon Matka
• (0.55 mi) Fresh Lounge Bar
• (7.09 mi) Skopski Merak
• (0.93 mi) Cafe MJ & Restaurant
• (6.31 mi) Dva Elena
• (0.02 mi) Monastery of St. Andrea
• (0.03 mi) St. Nedela
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Matka Canyon: All You Need To Know For Your Visit [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 28 mins read
• Post last modified: January 31, 2024
• Post comments: 4 Comments

Matka Canyon is one of the most stunning  natural spots  in North Macedonia. It’s a perfect day trip from Skopje, and locals love to come here to cool off from the heat during the summer months. I was curious if it was worth the hype, so I went to experience it myself . After spending a day at the canyon, I can say – it’s 100% worth visiting .

In this article, I’ll give you all the information you need to visit it with some Matka Canyon photos .

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

What Is Matka Canyon Famous For?

It isn’t a natural phenomenon. It was created when locals constructed a  dam in 1938 on the River Treska . This shaped the mountains and the river into the canyon you can see nowadays.

Today, it’s the  oldest artificial lake in North Macedonia . It attracts  77 different butterflies , so try to find at least half of them during your visit.

You can also do many activities , such as kayaking, visiting Vrelo Cave on a boat trip, climbing, or hiking in nature.

FUN FACT:  The Macedonian word ‘Matka’ means ‘Mother’ in English.

Interesting Facts About Matka Canyon

💡 It’s an artificial lake created after dam construction on the River Treska 💡 Has 77 kinds of butterflies in its valley 💡 Hosts 10 caves, and the most impressive one is Vrelo Cave 💡 Vrelo Cave in the Canyon is 8000 years old 💡 Vrelo Cave is the deepest in the Balkans, the second deepest in Europe, and the third deepest in the world

Where Is Matka Canyon Located & Map

It’s situated 16 km/10 miles from Skopje and takes about 20 minutes to get there by car (and an hour by bus). Below is a map with the roads you must follow to get to the Canyon from Skopje, Ohrid, and Bitola.

How To Get To Matka Canyon

The best way to get to the Canyon is from the capital of North Macedonia, Skopje.  The easiest way is to rent a car  for your entire North Macedonia road trip or just for the day to visit the canyon.

If you don’t have the chance to rent a car or travel solo and prefer public transport, you have  2 options: take a bus or a taxi .

Getting To Matka Canyon By Car

The easiest and fastest option to get to the Canyon is by car. Follow a road from Skopje to Tetovo , and when the signs suggest, turn left . You’ll then follow a small road that gets narrower the closer you are to the Canyon.

At the end, there is a parking , where you can leave the car for free . From there, walk about 10 minutes to the canyon entrance, following the footpath.

When driving through the narrow street to the parking, there are cars parked on the side of the road, so it gets more difficult to get through sometimes.

That’s why I always recommend getting there early in the morning . This way, the road will be empty, and you’ll easily get a parking spot .

➡ Rent a car for your trip to Matka Canyon here

Getting To Matka Canyon By Bus

Taking a bus is very easy on the way there. Go to the main bus station in Skopje and get on  bus number 60 , which will drive you to the parking near Canyon.

From there, it’s only a  10-minute walk to the place . However, if you travel there on the weekend or in the middle of the day, the bus might not go directly to the parking and stop somewhere on the way.

Sometimes, it’s challenging for the bus drivers to get through the last narrow road (especially when too many cars are parked on the side of the road). That’s why they can leave the passengers somewhere in the middle (5 km/3 miles away).

This might happen when you travel after 11:00 a.m. or on the weekends when it’s generally busier. You can keep walking to the canyon or take a taxi if it happens to you.

PRO TIP: Luckily, it didn’t happen to me when I took a bus because I took the first one departing at 7:00 a.m. from Skopje. It drove us directly to the parking, and I was the first at the Canyon. So I highly recommend you do the same . It’s the best.

Bus Information From Skopje To Matka Canyon

✅ Time: 60 to 70 minutes, depending on the traffic situation ✅ Price: 60 dinars (one-way) – I recommend only buying a one-way ticket as you never know if there is one back to Skopje (scroll down for more information)

BUS SCHEDULE TO MATKA CANYON:

➡ Skopje to Matka Canyon on weekdays: 5:50 / 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:05 / 14:55 / 16:25 / 17:45 / 19:20 / 21:00

➡ Skopje to Matka Canyon on a weekend: 7:00 / 8:45 / 10:30 / 12:10 / 13:50 / 15:30 / 17:10 / 18:45 / 20:15 / 22:30

➡ Matka Canyon to Skopje on weekdays: 5:50 / 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:05 / 14:55 / 16:25 / 17:45 / 19:20 / 21:00

➡ Matka Canyon to Skopje on a weekend: 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:00 / 14:40 / 16:20 / 18:00 / 19:30 / 21:00

👉 READ ALSO: North Macedonia Buses: How To Get Around

Take A Taxi Back To Skopje

Even though the bus is scheduled to depart at 1 p.m. back to Skopje, it might not arrive because it  leaves 5km from the actual station (due to the tiny road and cars on it) .

You can come on time to the bus station (near the Fresh Lounge Bar), and if there is no bus even 20 minutes after 1 p.m., take a taxi instead .

That’s what I did because the bus didn’t come. So I found other travelers and shared a taxi back to Skopje with them.

Getting To Matka Canyon By Taxi

Taxis are pretty cheap in North Macedonia as well. Even better is finding other people who can share the cost with you. A taxi ride only takes  20 to 30 minutes and costs 600 dinars per taxi .

Try to  bargain the price ; you might get it even cheaper (unless you want to support local taxi drivers ). It’ll still be cheap for you, and they’ll be happy they earned more.

How To Get From Ohrid To Matka Canyon

If you’re in Ohrid and want to visit the Canyon, you’ll have to travel via Skopje anyway (if you don’t have a car).

The best way is to take a bus from Ohrid to Skopje . And then take a bus n. 60 from the Central Station in Skopje directly to the place.

If you’re traveling by car , you’ll follow the road to Tetovo first. After Tetovo, drive towards Skopje and turn right on the city’s outskirts. Then, follow the signs to the destination.

👉 READ ALSO: 13 Best Things To Do In Ohrid

Best Things To Do In Matka Canyon

It offers a range of activities , including organized boat tours or kayaking (if you like to enjoy it privately), climbing, walking, and visiting monasteries on the way.

Even if you feel like doing little, it’s still an incredible place worth spending time and soaking up its unique atmosphere .

Below, I am giving you a list of things you can do during your visit.

1. Make Matka Canyon boat trip 2. Visit Vrelo Cave 3. Go kayaking with Vrelo Cave 4. Rock climbing 5. Hike to monasteries 6. Relax and swim

1. Matka Canyon Boat Trip

One of the most popular things is to take a boat or a kayak and cross it towards the  Vrelo Cave . A boat tour is a great way to enjoy the canyon. It’s quite big, so there will be other people with you (around 10 to 15 pax per boat).

The journey takes around  20 minutes until you reach the Vrelo Cave . Then, the boatman will stop the boat and show you the way to the cave. After, he leaves some time for the entire group to go inside and see it for yourself. I loved Vrelo Cave – don’t miss it, it’s beautiful.

It isn’t a guided tour , so the boatman will only drive you there, show you the way to the cave, and leave you to explore it alone.

Once the whole group leaves the cave, you’ll hop on the boat again and drive back to where you started.

MATKA CANYON BOAT TRIP PRICE: 400 dinars per person

2. Visit Vrelo Cave

Matka Canyon has  10 caves , with Vrelo being the most famous. It’s around  8000 years old . The cave and the passage to the canyon are the deepest in the Balkans , the second deepest in Europe , and the third deepest in the world .

Interestingly, divers were trying to enter the cave from the canyon; however, they weren’t successful.

One reason is a spring that runs  from the cave to the canyon.  The immense pressure of this spring made it impossible to enter the cave.

Another reason why it’s difficult to dive into the cave is because it’s very  deep . They first dived 250m deep and didn’t pass to the cave. After, they tried again, but the water pressure stopped them.

Until now,  nobody has managed to dive  from the canyon inside the cave. The cave is slightly deeper than 350m .

VRELO CAVE VISIT: Free of Charge

3. Go Kayaking With Vrelo Cave Visit

Alternatively, you can  rent a kayak  and do a  self-guided tour . This way, you’ll have more time to enjoy the canyon and the beautiful scenery.

To kayak towards the cave will take around  45 minutes , then you can have  30 minutes to enjoy the cave  and go back another  40 minutes .

You don’t necessarily have to go to the cave. You can also  kayak further down the canyon .

Rent the kayak near the  St. Andrea Monastery , where the boats start their tour.

MATKA CANYON KAYAK : ➡ Single kayak: 150 dinars (30 minutes) ➡ Single kayak: 300 dinars (1 hour) ➡ Double kayak: 250 dinars (30 minutes) ➡ Double kayak: 500 dinars (1 hour)

4. Go Rock Climbing

The Canyon also has a spot for climbing lovers. There is a  smaller Ferrata , even suitable for children. Rent all the equipment there and climb up the rock wall. 

You can climb one way up, and if you are successful , you’ll get another climb free of charge .

The starting point is right at the Canyon Matka Hotel & Restaurant.

5. Hike To The Local Monasteries

Another thing you can do is to walk alongside the Canyon and hike to many monasteries.  St. Nedela-Matka ,  St. Saviour-Matka Monastery , and  St. Nikola Šiševsky Monastery  are the most famous.

After, have lunch at the  Canyon Matka Hotel & Restaurant . They have a huge terrace with views of the Canyon. Or even stay overnight in the hotel and enjoy an evening walk alongside the Canyon.

6. Relax At Matka Canyon & Go Swimming

If you don’t want to hike to one of the monasteries,  walk on the edge of the Canyon . You’ll get beautiful boat and kayak views and take nice photos . Or go swimming.

You can go back towards the Fresh Lounge Bar (parking spot), and cross the bridge to the other side of the river for more walking options. Lay down in a shadow, or put a  hammock on the trees  and enjoy the cool temperature.

Matka Canyon Tickets

One of the best things about the Canyon is the no entrance fee. Visiting it is free of charge. You only have to pay for extra activities such as kayaking, boat trips, or climbing.

The place is simply nice to be in and explore. So you don’t have to spend an extra penny to see it and enjoy it.

To get the most out of the Canyon, I recommend staying overnight in the hotel and enjoying it in the evening after all the tourists leave.

👉 READ ALSO: 13 Most Beautiful Places In North Macedonia To Visit

Tips For Your Visit To Matka Canyon

To help you plan your visit and get the most out of it, here are the tips based on my experience:

✅ Come to the Canyon around 8 a.m. – you’ll have it for yourself ✅ Rent a car for your visit if you can ✅ Take a taxi back to Skopje if you arrive by bus ✅ Carry a jacket with you – in case it gets colder ✅ Pack a swimming suit ✅ Carry Macedonian dinars with you in cash

Best Time To Visit Matka Canyon

The best time to visit the Canyon is June, September, and October . These months are usually less crowded, and the weather is milder than in the summertime (July and August). Temperatures range between 25°C/77°F and 33°C/91°F.

Organized Tour To Matka Canyon

You can join an organized Matka Canyon tour to avoid any issues with transportation on the way. You’ll learn in-depth about the history of this place and have fun with other travelers.

➡ Book this tour to Matka Canyon from Skopje (incl. Mount Vodno)

I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you understand the Canyon and the entire area. Check the answers below.

Is Matka Canyon Worth It?

Yes , it’s 100% worth visiting . I also wasn’t sure before my visit, but now I can tell you it’s one of the most beautiful places in North Macedonia . The entire valley is gorgeous, with stunning hikes and cute butterflies, and a visit to Vrelo Cave is a must.

What Does Matka Mean In Macedonian?

Matka translates to ‘Mother’ in English . It’s a Macedonian word.

How Long Is Matka Canyon?

It covers around 5000 hectares and has 10 caves, which are about 176 meters (577 feet) deep .

Can You Swim In Lake Matka?

Yes , you can swim in the lake. It’s the best way to cool off during hot summer months, and many locals come here to enjoy the breeze and freshness of the water.

WRAP-UP: Matka Canyon

This is Matka Canyon at its full beauty. I loved visiting this place and its untouched nature. It was one of my favorite experiences in North Macedonia. The best way is to rent a car to be flexible and not stress about the buses, as they sometimes are not the most reliable.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary, contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For North Macedonia Travel

Looking to visit more places in North Macedonia? Check out my related articles:

Best Of North Macedonia Itinerary 7 – 10 Days

Most Beautiful Places To Visit In North Macedonia

13 Best Things To Do In Ohrid

North Macedonia Buses: How To Get Around North Macedonia

How To Cross Tushemisht – St. Naum Border

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

NORTH MACEDONIA : Interested in more articles for North Macedonia? Check out my North Macedonia Travel Page :

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I am glad you shared your story, Claudio. Sorry to hear that. Hope your daughter comes back to the ocean and will enjoy it one day.

Hello, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog in Chrome, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, very good blog!

Thank you very much. I appreciate your feedback and will take care of the overlapping issue :).

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THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE: HIKING AND KAYAKING IN MATKA CANYON

• Travel Guides
• September 20, 2023 November 20, 2023
• by wini.henson

Matka Canyon is a stunning natural gem located near Skopje, North Macedonia. The canyon reminded us of a mini Ha Long Bay, with its picturesque landscape of towering cliffs and green blue waters. If you’re visiting Skopje, here’s everything you need to know about doing a day trip to Matka Canyon:

HOW TO GET THERE

The most budget friendly way to get to Matka Canyon is by taking the local bus #60. The bus departs from Skopje Bus Station, and costs 120 denars for a SHOPSKA card bus pass, which covers your fare both ways.

The bus runs everyday to Matka Canyon, following this schedule:

When you arrive at the Skopje Bus Station, find the office selling the SHOPSKA bus passes, which looks like an abandoned bus, and purchase your ticket.

Then, look for the sign for bus number 60.

The bus ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Enjoy the scenic views as you leave the city behind and approach the canyon.

We took the 8:45 am bus and arrived at the canyon before most tourists. The bus dropped us off right in the parking lot, and we were able to walk straight into the canyon.

It’s important to note that when you’re trying to return to Skopje, the bus doesn’t necessarily pick you up from the same spot that it drops you off at. This is because when the parking lot gets full, the bus is unable to turn around. Therefore, the driver will park way further up the road. We had to walk around half a mile up the road to board the bus to take us back to Skopje!

If you’d rather do an organised tour, you can book this tour with GetYourGuide for 30 USD/person, and they will organise transportation to and from the city.

THINGS TO DO

The bus will drop you off near the entrance to Matka Canyon. There is no fee to enter the area, and you can follow the well-marked path to the canyon area.

WALKING TRAILS

Matka Canyon offers various walking trails that lead to attractions like Vrelo Cave, churches, and different viewpoints. The trails are well-maintained and fairly flat, so it’s not too difficult to hike.

RENTING KAYAKS

One of the best things to do at Matka Canyon is renting kayaks to explore the beautiful green blue waters! There are a few little rental shops right at the entrance of the canyon, that offer various options such as a single person kayak, double kayak, or water bikes. The rentals are charged by the hour and you can stay out there as long as you want!

The rental prices are listed below:

Kayaking routes vary in length and difficulty, but you can choose to stay close to the rental shop if you don’t feel comfortable rowing too far. A popular route include paddling to Vrelo Cave and exploring the wider lake area, but this takes around 2 hours one way!

The easiest and fastest way to visit Vrelo Cave is to join a boat trip! These cost 4 euros/person and take you on a little motorboat ride through the canyon. If you don’t feel comfortable kayaking, this could be a good option!

You can also swim in the canyon, but the water is FREEZING!

IMMERSE IN NATURE

Matka Canyon is home to diverse plant species and is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Keep an eye out for herons, eagles, and other wildlife.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW

• Wearing a life jacket is required at all times while kayaking in the canyon
• Make sure you pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays while on the water.
• There is 1 restaurant and a few food/drink vendors at the canyon, but the prices are fairly marked up. Bring your own water bottle and pack a lunch & snacks to stay hydrated and energised during your kayaking adventure. We packed sandwiches and snacks and had a little picnic on the water!

A visit to Matka Canyon is an amazing way to get out of the city and experience some natural beauty and adventure. Enjoy the tranquility, paddle through the calm waters, and create fun memories of your North Macedonian adventure!

To check out our full Skopje gallery, click here ! 

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Complete Guide to Matka Canyon (September 2020)

Reasons to   Matka Canyon

• Not Overly Crowded With Tourist
• Great Hikes
• Great Local Food
• Cliff Jumping

Planning a trip to Matka Canyon? But unsure how to get there, when to go, and what to do once you arrive?

Luckily, you’ve landed here (Thanks google gods.).

By the time you reach the bottom of the post, you’ll have all the answers needed when organizing the ultimate trip to Matka Canyon.

We’ll go over the best things, prices, weather, boat trips, hikes, and points of interest Matka offers.

Enough talk! Let’s get started discovering Matka Canyon.

Matka Canyon

Being a lovely gorge expect lush landscapes, still lakes, and scenic views. The region’s rich in flora, fauna, and wildlife (there are 77 species of butterflies).

But there’s more to see here than nature. Let’s not forget the medieval churches, monasteries, and a fortress.

That’s enough reason to visit . But wait! There’s more. Matak Canyon’s perfect for outdoor adventures. Spread across the Canyon are dozens of caves and two sheer chasms. Adventurers spend their time on boat cruises , kayaking, and hikes.

This epic Canyon – in Northern Macedonia – is less than an hour away from Skopje, making it one of the best day trips from the capital.

It is one of the best day trips in the country. And a perfect stop for whether you are traveling solo or family travel on a budget . So let’s explore all the things there are to see and do when traveling to Matak Canyon.

Everything you Need to Know   About Matka Canyon

Northern Macedonia doesn’t have a great tourism infrastructure. But because Matka Canyon ‘s a popular site, you won’t have a problem.

The easiest way to reach the Canyon is from Skopje . From the urban jungle, you have a few different options.

Getting to Matka Canyon By Bus

Taking an educated guess, I assume you’re  traveling Macedonia . Which means most likely don’t have a car. If that sounds right, then your best (and cheapest) choice is the bus.

The Bus to Matka leaves from Skopje’s City center. Head to “Faculty of Architecture” (Gradezen Fakultet) bus stop. Hop on bus 60, and within 45 minutes you’ll arrive at the canyon.

The bus ticket cost 35 MDK (US $0.65) one way. A round trip will cost you 70MDK or USD 1.20. How cheap is that!? Matka one of the cheapest day trips I’ve ever been on.

Skopje to Kanjon Matka via Cab

Driving or hiring a cab is another option. Cabs cost a lot more and save a little time. The fare from Skopje to Matka Canyon cost around 500-600 MDK (USD $9 -$10) one way. So you’re looking at a $20 round trip. And it only saves 15 minutes each way. My advice; take the bus and save that money for adventures once you arrive.

Driving to Matka Canyon

For those with access to a car, driving is the best option. Google Maps takes you right to the parking lot at Lake Matka.

Hiking from Mount Vodno to Matka

The final option is to hike from Mt. Vodno to Matka. Now, let me come clean, I haven’t done the hike. But a local told me the trail’s ruthless.

The walk takes 4- 6 hours depending on your skill level and speed. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend this option. Save your energy for hiking at Matka.

Best Time of the Year

To visit matka canyon.

Matka Canyon is worth visiting any time of the year. But some seasons are better than others.

Winter’s the worst time to visit . The weather’s cold and the Canyon gets snowy. Yes, it’s beautiful during the winter. But the harsh weather makes the Canyon harder to fully experience and enjoy.

Spring and Fall

The spring and fall are the best time of the year to visit Matka Canyon.

The temperatures range from 16°C – 24°C (60°F – 75°F) . Peak tourist season hasn’t started yet, or it’s ending, so you get all the beauty without the crowds.

Summers in Northern Macedonia are hot. Temperatures hit the mid-thirties Celsius (around a hundred degrees Fahrenheit). And the dry climate deceives you into believing it’s hotter.

Taking a dip in the water and the shade of the Canyon make it feel cooler. But the weather’s still brutal.

There’s another downside to summer; it’s the peak season for tourism in Macedonia. So there’s a lot of visitors, making it a bummer for people who don’t want to share this phenomenal landscape with throngs of other tourists.

However, when compared to tourism giants in western Europe the tourism in Northern Macedonia isn’t large. So Matka Canyon’s never overly packed.

Things to do at

Cost of Getting to Matka Canyon

Bus: $1.20 round trip

Cab: $20 round trip

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Matka Canyon Boat

Matka Canyon Boat trip is hands down the most popular experience. The boat takes you on a 30-minute tour along the water. The open deck boats let you take in all the breathtaking scenery. As you’re floating down the water, you’ll come along great views, that are perfect spots for photo ops. (Did I just rhyme?)

There are a few different boat trips. Some just take you along the water. While others act like water taxis dropping you off at other parts of the canyon. The most popular boat tour takes you to Vrelo Cave.

These boat trips give you a unique perspective of the Canyon you can’t get from hiking.

Matka Canyon Boat Trip Price

30 Minute Boat Ride: 200 Denar ($3.60)

1 Hour Trip: 400 Denar ($7.20)

Matka Canyon Kayaking

One adventure which draws people here is kayaking.

Create your own experience, making your way through the still water, and taking in all the natural beauty.

In the least, this adventure is unforgettable and at best, an experience of a lifetime.

If I urged you to do one thing when exploring Matka Canyon; kayaking is it.

Matka Canyon Kayak has rentals. The best part! Because it is Macedonia, it cost practically nothing.

Matka Canyon Kayak Rentals

• 30 Minute Rental: 150 Denar ($2.70)
• 1 Hour: 500 Denar ($5.40)

Two Person Kayak

• 30 Minute Rental: 250 Denar ($4.50)
• 1 Hour: 500 Denar ($9)

By far the most visited cave is  Vrelo .

This cave is big (it extends 193 meters) and has two small lakes and a couple of large pits inside. Covering the cave are epic dripstone pillars, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Boats are the only way to reach the caves.

But they drop you off for a short hike, on the well-lit path, through the cave.

A boat trip to Vrelo cave cost 400 Denars (USD $7.20) and takes 2 hours.

Hike to Saint Nicholas Monastery

Of course, water adventures aren’t the only thing to do at Matka Canyon. Numerous hiking trails take you through the lush scenery.

The most popular hiking trails are the ones that take you to the monasteries. Many of the hikes are easy, but some can test your metal. Like the hike to Saint Nicholas Monastery (Sveti Nikola).

The 30 minutes hike can feel much longer thanks to the steep path and hard climb. But the juice is worth the squeeze.

There’s a variety of trails that cater to all different skill sets. Treksa Canyon is a good place to start your trek. And is the center of Alpine Hiking in Northern Macedonia.

More Churches and Monasteries

Matka Canyon’s major man-made attractions are the churches and monasteries. Many of them date back to the 1300s. The two most popular are the monasteries of St. Andrews and Saint Nicholas.

But there are also The Holy Virgin Monastery, Holy Salvation, and Holy Trinity Sveta Nedela, Sveti Spas, Sveti Jovan Zlatousti.

Some of these are on the water, but others require hiking and a certain fitness level.

If you want to knock out three churches into one hike, then take the Severno Sedilo trail. Which takes you past St. Nedela, St. Spas, and St. Trinity.

Hit the Hiking Trails

As you approach the Matka Dam, you will see a map that outlines all the hiking trails in Matka Canyon with a variety of options.

There are both short and long and easy and hard hikes.

One of the best hikes is from the Matka Canyon Restaurant to Matka Gorge.

During peak season, it’s crowded, but the hike gives you access to scenic views, awesome photo opportunities, and wonderful nature .

Visit the Other Caves

10 caves grace the shores of Matka Canyon (though not all of them are open to the public) .

I’ve heard that Krshtalna and Ubava are almost on par with Vrelo Cave, but I haven’t visited them.

The size varies from by cave. The smallest caves around 20 meters and the longest ones over 175 meters. Matka Canyon Cave’s are hailed as the most beautiful in Eastern Europe.

Tips for Visiting Vrelo Canyon

• The cave gets cool, so bring an extra layer.
• Bring good shoes for hiking through the cave.
• Photos are allowed in the cave so get that camera ready.
• Visit in the Off-Season to Escape the Crowds.

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SWIMMING and Cave Diving

To refresh yourself from the heat, take a dip in the lake. The swimming spots get packed in the afternoon. Adrenaline junkies will want to take it a step further and try cliff jumping. (Make sure to pump yourself up with adventure quotes )

The important thing, with jumping, is to stay safe. You’ll often see locals cliff diving.

Talk to them before jumping and make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. Jump at your own risk!

Pack a PICNIC

The restaurants at Matka Canyon; known for their excellent traditional cuisine. They are a little more expensive than the restaurants in Skopje (but still budget-friendly).

But a fun little adventure is to pack your own picnic and find a quiet spot on Lake Matka or Treska River to sit and enjoy a meal while taking in all the beauty of the region. I would picnic for lunch and eat at the cave restaurants for dinner.

Eat in a CAVE

Imagine dining on traditional Macedonia food while surrounded by cavern walls. There are a few cave restaurants in the area and make for one of the most unique experiences at the Canyon.

alpine CLIMBING

Alpine climbing isn’t for everyone. You need to have the proper skill set. But if you do, then Matka Canyon needs to be added to your bucket list . The climbing here is the best in Northern Macedonia.

June – September has the best weather for climbing and when the country gets the least amount of rain. On the other hand, it’s the hottest time so, and it’s recommended to climb early and beat the heat.

Centrala, Peir, Maktka Hut, and Otmar’s Rock are popular climbing spots.

There’s enough things to do at Matka to fill up a few days. Luckily there’s Canyon Matka Hotel, nestled between the lakes and monasteries. The  Matka canyon hotel  has a rustic and peaceful atmosphere.

It’s a perfect place for a quiet getaway. They have a range of different rooms. Everything from double beds to luxury rooms. The hotel has one of the best restaurants and bars in the area.

There are other hotels around, but the Matka Hotel is the most central.

Or you can just go back and forth between Skopje. The city has some epic hotels and hostels.

5 restaurants are spread around Matka Canyon. The Monastery Cave restaurant (Bear Cave) serves traditional cuisine and it’s one of the best. The foods simple but tasty.

Fish and Grill , another small cave restaurant that has both outdoor and cave seating. As the name suggests, they specialize in fresh fish and grilled meat.

Kulla Alinea specializes in fish and salads. The restaurant has great views of the Treska river and imposing cliffside.

Restaurant Canyon Matka , the most well known at the canyon. Mainly because of the location by St. Andrews Monastery. There aren’t many local options here. They focus on international cuisine. This is also the most pricy restaurant in the area.

Fresh Lounge Bar- Matka is a coffee bar that has a seasonal menu and selection of ice cream. (You can also rent bikes from this shop and get a fishing pass) .

Bring appropriate Gear

There are no shops at Matka. If it rains and you don’t have a poncho, you’re in for a long day. Arrive and realize you wore the wrong shoes….whoops. The best tip for Matka has a day pack with the right gear in case you need it.

Travel Insurance

If you are cliff jumping, cave diving, or hiking on the cliffsides then travel insurance is a good idea. Trust me, your family doesn’t want to front the bill if you need to go to the hospital.

I use world nomads.

They are the most trusted travel insurance provider on the market. They have great coverage and 24-hour emergency help. Plus, Know for their flexibility, low-cost, and high value.

Check them out below for a free quote.

Pack Snacks

Hiking without snacks is like road tripping without gas money. Snacks will help fuel the body as you are out in the wild, forging your way along the trail. Bring snacks from Skopje.

Spend Time at the Visitors Center

This visitors center has useful info, and at various times throughout the day offer tours.

You can’t go wrong at Matka Canyon. It’s a great day or weekend trip when traveling in Northern Macedonia. There is plenty to do and see from swimming to hiking. The Canyon is one of the most beautiful spots in the country, and it’s worth your time.

What do you think? What would you do first at Matka Canyon?

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kayaking is possible in first week of March? I heard they don`t in Winter, so I was wondering if first week of March is okay

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Skopje City Guide

Exploring Matka Canyon: A Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers in Skopje

Located just outside of Skopje, the capital city of Macedonia, Matka Canyon is a stunning attraction that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.

With its towering cliffs, deep caves, and clear lake, it is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the main attractions in Matka Canyon and provide some tips for visiting this beautiful area.

The Beauty of Matka Lake

One of the main attractions in Matka Canyon is Matka Lake, which is the oldest artificial lake in the Balkans,  built in 1938.

The lake was created by the construction of a hydroelectric dam along the Treska River, which is a major right tributary of the Vardar River , the longest river in Macedonia.

Today, the lake stretches over an area of about 5,000 hectares, is 6 km long, and is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

When visiting Matka Canyon, you can rent a kayak and explore the lake or take a guided tour to see the famous underwater caves, such as the Vrelo Cave, which is considered one of the oldest and deepest underwater caves in Europe.

Of course, it’s also a great spot to take some travel pictures for Instagram .

Hiking in Matka Canyon

Besides boating, hiking is another popular activity for outdoorsy individuals visiting the Matka Canyon.

The canyon offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy, scenic paths to challenging routes that traverse the canyon’s steep cliffs.

One of the most popular trails is the hike to St. Andrew’s Monastery, which offers stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding mountains.

The monastery is a historical site, with frescoes and artifacts dating back to the 14th century.

Another, albeit not so popular, but adventurous activity for experienced hikers is hiking from Matka to Vodno , a 12 km long journey that takes around 4-5 hours to complete and offers a mix of terrain, from forested paths to rocky trails and peaks.

Other Activities in Matka Canyon

In addition to hiking, boating, fishing, cave exploration, and visiting nearby churches , Matka Canyon also offers a range of other activities for visitors to enjoy, including rock climbing and rafting.

There are several tour companies in the area that offer guided trips and equipment rentals, making it easy for visitors to try out these exciting activities.

One of our recommendations is the Cave Vrelo team, which offers exclusive access to Vrelo Cave, as well as short tours of the canyon and a ferry service for those who wish to hike up to the nearby Saint Nikola Monastery .

Why Should You Visit Matka (at Least Once)

Here are some reasons why everyone who visits Skopje should visit Matka Canyon:

The natural beauty of the area: Matka Canyon is known for its stunning natural scenery, with towering cliffs, deep gorges, and crystal clear lakes. This makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers who want to experience the beauty of the outdoors.

The range of activities available: Matka Canyon offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, boating, rock climbing, rafting, and horseback riding. This makes it a great destination for people who are looking for adventure and excitement.

The rich history and culture of the area: Matka Canyon has a rich and fascinating history, with many historical sites and artifacts to explore. This includes the medieval Vrelo Cave Church and the St. Andrew’s Monastery, which offer a glimpse into the past of this beautiful region.

The proximity to Skopje: Matka Canyon is located just outside of Skopje, making it a convenient and easily accessible destination for visitors to the city. This means that you can easily visit the canyon as a day trip from Skopje and enjoy the best of both worlds.

The affordability of the area: Matka Canyon is a relatively affordable destination, with many activities and facilities available.

4 Tips for Visiting Matka Canyon (for the First Time)

If you’re planning to visit Matka Canyon, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Plan ahead : The canyon is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, so it’s a good idea to plan your trip in advance. This will help you avoid crowds and ensure that you have access to the activities and facilities you want to enjoy. In general, avoid visiting Matka during public holidays and weekends, as this is when the area is usually most crowded.

Dress appropriately : The weather in Matka Canyon can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, especially if you are going to enjoy some of the facilities on site. Additionally, make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen and be prepared for rain or other inclement weather.

Follow the rules : The canyon is a protected natural area, so it’s important to follow the rules and regulations to help preserve the environment. This includes staying on designated trails, not littering, and respecting wildlife and other visitors.

Use a tour company : If you’re not an experienced hiker or climber, consider using a tour company to help you explore the canyon without potential risks. These companies offer guided tours and equipment rentals and can provide valuable information and advice about the area.

Check out the restaurant : When ready to wind down after exploring Matka for the day, make sure to enjoy one last coffee, a refreshing drink, or a meal with a beautiful view of the lake by settling in the ‘ Canyon Matka ‘ restaurant situated at the end of the walking trail.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Matka Canyon

Where is Matka located?

Matka Canyon is located outside of Skopje, at approximately 16 km from the center of the country’s capital city.

What is the main attraction in Matka Canyon?

The main attraction in Matka Canyon is the Matka Lake, which is the deepest artificial lake in the Balkans.

What activities can I do in Matka Canyon?

Visitors to Matka Canyon can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, boating, rock climbing, rafting, and cave exploring.

Is it safe to swim in Matka Lake?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Matka Lake.

However, once you get there, you will probably notice that not many people swim.

This is because there are rules and regulations posted at the lake for safety.

One thing you have to know before swimming in Matka Lake is that the water is very cold, which can make swimming difficult.

Additionally, when the dam is open and releasing water, strong undercurrents can make swimming dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.

Finally, the lake waters, although clear, can be deceptive, so you can never really know how deep some parts are, which can make swimming or diving dangerous.

Therefore, keep these few things in mind before deciding to take a dip in Matka Lake.

Are there any guided tours available in Matka Canyon?

Yes, there are several tour companies that offer guided tours of Matka Canyon and the surrounding area that can provide valuable information and insights about the history and natural beauty of the canyon.

Some of these include:

• Viator : This tour provider lets you experience the beautiful shores of Matka Lake, including a visit to the Vrelo Cave.
• Cave Vrelo : You can rent kayaks from this tour provider and enjoy kayaking through the beautiful lake and exploring the Vrelo Cave.

That being said, be cautious of overpriced half-day trips to Matka Canyon and always check what the tour package includes.

Tours that span around 4 to 5 hours, including a visit to the Vrelo Cave, should not cost more than $50.

Opting to explore the area independently, without a tour guide, and by relying on public transportation or even taxis can be an even more cost-effective choice.

Therefore, if you encounter anyone trying to charge you over $100 for these activities, be aware that it’s likely a scam offering nothing exceptional for the amount.

Is it possible to camp in Matka Canyon?

Yes, there are several campsites in Matka Canyon where visitors can pitch a tent and spend the night.

One of these is the River Camp Matka-Salamander , which is a fantastic spot to camp during months when the water level is low.

However, it is recommended that visitors check with the local authorities and follow the rules and regulations for camping in the area to ensure maximum safety at all times.

How long does it take to hike the trails in Matka Canyon?

The length of time it takes to hike the trails in Matka Canyon will vary depending on the trail and the hiker’s skill level.

Some of the easier trails, such as the Saint Nicholas Monastery – Canyon Matka Restaurant , can be completed in an hour or two, while the more challenging trails, such as the Matka-Vodno one, may take up to 4-5 hours to complete.

It’s a good idea to check with the local authorities or tour companies for more specific information about the trails you are interested in.

What is the cost of visiting Matka Canyon?

The cost of visiting Matka Canyon will vary depending on the activities you plan to do and the facilities you plan to use, however, spending a day in the area shouldn’t cost more than $30-60 per person.

To get to Matka, you can either opt for public transport (bus #60), which costs $0.60 per journey, or a taxi, which costs $15-20 per journey.

On the other hand, some activities, such as hiking, are free, while others, such as boat rentals or guided tours, may have a fee ranging between $3 for a boat ride across the lake or $10-15 for exploring Cave Vrelo.

Finally, a coffee or a refreshing beverage at the Canyon Matka Restaurant will cost you between $2-3, while a meal for one may range between $3-10.

Is there a dress code for visiting Matka Canyon?

There is no formal dress code for visiting Matka Canyon, but it’s important to dress appropriately for the activities you plan to do and the weather conditions.

This generally means wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes and clothing that allows for movement and protects against the elements (such as sun, rain, or wind.)

It’s a good idea to bring layers and a hat and to avoid wearing jewelry or other items that could get lost or damaged.

Are there any restrictions or regulations for visiting Matka Canyon?

There are some restrictions and regulations in place to protect the natural environment and the safety of visitors to Matka Canyon.

These may include rules about camping, fires, litter, fishing, and wildlife.

Therefore, while visiting Matka Canyon, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines to ensure the preservation of the area and respect for local wildlife.

Is there a visitor center or information center in Matka Canyon?

Yes, there is a visitor center in Matka Canyon that provides information and assistance to visitors.

The visitor center is located near the entrance to the canyon and is staffed by knowledgeable and friendly personnel who can provide information about the area and its attractions.

The visitor center also has restrooms, a small shop, and a cafe where visitors can rest and refresh themselves.

Overall, Matka Canyon is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Skopje .

With its stunning scenery, range of outdoor activities , and rich history, it offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature lover looking to explore the great outdoors, Matka Canyon is the perfect place to spend a day.

This guide was first published on December 10, 2022 and was last updated on February 13, 2024. For more information, please contact us at [email protected].

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Matka Canyon – a perfect nature getaway outside Skopje

Matka Canyon is one of the most beautiful places to visit in North Macedonia . This wonderful gem of nature is located only a short ride away from the capital and you can easily go there as a day trip from Skopje.

I’ve been twice to Matka Canyon, in March and May, and both times it enchanted me, even if the place looked completely different. But no matter what time of the year, high mountains rolling steeply to the deep gorge filled with green water look simply stunning.

When planning a trip to Skopje be sure to save some time for visiting Matka Canyon – you won’t regret it!

Table of Contents

Where is Matka Canyon

Matka Canyon is located in North Macedonia, only 17 km away from central Skopje, in the south-west direction.

A few facts about Matka Canyon

This spectacular place was actually not made by nature. In 1938 the dam was built on river Treska, creating the artificial lake surrounded by high mountains, the oldest lake of that kind in North Macedonia.

The Matka Canyon covers the area of around 5,000 hectares. 20% of the plant species you can see here are endemic, meaning they can’t be found anywhere else. You can also see 77 kinds of butterflies in the area!

There are also ten caves at Matka Canyon, the most popular one being Vrelo Cave. It was even included on the list of top 77 natural sites of the world in the New 7 Wonders of the World project.

Why visit Matka Canyon

If the exceptional beauty of Matka Canyon is not enough for you there are a few more reasons to visit the place.

This is one of the most popular recreational areas near Skopje, attracting both locals and visitors all year long. You can do here numerous activities, like hiking, fishing or kayaking. You can also find some old monasteries in the area.

But the main reason to visit Matka Canyon is to see how big wonder of nature it is.

How to get to Matka Canyon from Skopje

Even if Matka Canyon is so close to Skopje, getting there isn’t always easy, especially if you rely on public transport.

The best option is, of course, by car. The ride is short, although the closer you get to the canyon, the more narrow and windy the road gets. But it’s not super difficult really.

To get to Matka Canyon from Skopje you need to drive towards Tetovo and eventually turn left, following signs to the canyon. The parking is free but it might be packed, you can also park the car along the way, many cars do it.

If you want to use public transport it is doable, however a bit challenging. I did it twice and although everything went fine there was a bit of uncertainty.

To get from Skopje to Matka Canyon you need to take the bus no 60. It departs from the central bus station, the one under the railway bridge. The city buses depart a bit further across the street from the long-distance ones, you will recognize the place with many red double-decker buses parked there. Each platform is market with the sing telling which numbers depart from there, bus no 60 is more or less in the middle.

Besides the central bus station, it also stops near the National Bank, on the opposite side of the street from the main post office, near central Macedonia Square, and on the stops along Boulevard Partizanski Odredi.

On the way back the bus should depart from where it dropped you off, however “should” is the keyword here. If there are too many cars the bus might turn around earlier, even in the village a few hundred meters before the final stop. That happened to me once, fortunately the bus was close enough for me to run to it and catch it at the very last moment.

The bus journey from the center to Matka Canyon takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic.

To take the bus you need to have a special Skopska card. You can buy it at the central bus station, the kiosk is on the other side of the station than the entrance. If you can’t find it ask around and people will point you in the right direction.

The card costs 150 MKD but it comes with three bus trips included, later you can tap the card with whichever amount you wish (one trip is 35 MKD).

When entering the bus through the front door you have to put the card on the validator next to the driver. I don’t recommend riding without a valid ticket as the controls happen.

You can’t buy the ticket from the driver.

Here is the schedule of the buses:

• Skopje to Matka Canyon weekdays: 5:50 / 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:05 / 14:55 / 16:25 / 17:45 / 19:20 / 21:00
• Skopje to Matka Canyon weekends: 7:00 / 8:45 / 10:30 / 12:10 / 13:50 / 15:30 / 17:10 / 18:45 / 20:15 / 22:30
• Matka Canyon to Skopje weekdays: 5:50 / 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:05 / 14:55 / 16:25 / 17:45 / 19:20 / 21:00
• Matka Canyon to Skopje weekends: 7:45 / 9:40 / 11:20 / 13:00 / 14:40 / 16:20 / 18:00 / 19:30 / 21:00

The buses back from Matka Canyon might be a bit delayed already at the first stop if the traffic on the way from Skopje disrupts the schedule.

Another way to get from Skopje to Matka Canyon and back is by taxi. The minimum you should expect to pay is 500 MKD but of course you will be asked more and the final price depends on your bargain skills.

If you arrive at the canyon by public transport you might be forced to use the taxi on the way back if the bus doesn’t arrive (I heard a few such stories). There are plenty of cars waiting at the parking lot, ready to take you back to the capital.

You can also go for a tour from Skopje to Matka Canyon. I would actually recommend it as prices are very affordable, you would avoid all the stress and hassle and you can combine visiting the canyon with another spectacular place near Skopje that can be a bit challenging to get to – Mount Vodno. Click here for the details on Skopje to Matka Canyon tour.

No matter which option you choose, from the parking lot to the canyon itself you still need to walk some 10 minutes. Part of the walk is uphill but it’s rather easy.

Fans of hiking can also reach Matka Canyon on foot. The trail starts at Mount Vodno and it’s not too difficult. It’s around 13 km and at the end you will have to go steeply downhill. Once you reach the Matka Lake you will need to take the boat to the other side – boats are available for 30 MKD.

Things to do in Matka Canyon

There are plenty of things to do in Matka Canyon that can keep you busy for a few hours.

You can go for a hike along the lake – there is a beautiful trail that takes around 1 hour one-way.

Unfortunately, at the end of the trail you just reach a gate and need to turn back and return on the same way. But the views along the way are just stunning. You don’t need to go all 3 kilometers to see the lake from different perspectives, no matter how long hike you choose, you will be satisfied for sure.

The trail isn’t difficult but there are some parts when solid shoes are definitely helpful. The hike can also get extra challenging after rain or in colder months.

Another way to see the beauty of Matka Canyon is from the water. You can go for a boat ride that will take you all the way to Vrelo cave or you can rent the kayak and paddle around yourself.

You will find the boat station just before the hotel, near the St. Andrew monastery.

During my last visit, in March 2020, the prices were as follow:

• 400 MKD for a return boat ride to Vrelo Cave
• 150 MKD for a single kayak (30 minutes)
• 300 MKD for a single kayak (60 minutes)
• 250 MKD for a double kayak (30 minutes)
• 500 MKD for a double kayak (60 minutes)

Vrelo Cave is located at the end of the Matka Canyon, more or less on the opposite side of the gate at the end of the trail (unfortunately you can’t take the boat from there to the cave). While it is not confirmed, many say that Vrelo Cave might be the deepest underwater cave in the world.

Inside you can see numerous stalagmites and stalactites, including so-called “Pine Cone” (the large stalactite in the middle of the cave). There are also two lakes.

Another thing to do in Matka Canyon is visiting old monasteries as there are a few of them in the area.

You can take the boat to the opposite side of the lake to hike up to St. Nikola Šiševski monastery. The way is a bit steep but it’s worth the effort.

You can also go up on the side of the hotel and there you will find ruins of St Nedela, St Troica and St. Michael Churches. Near the parking, there is Monastery of St Bogorodica and in the canyon itself, you will find Monastery St Andrea.

And once you are done with all the activities you can just sit down in the restaurant, drink a coffee or have a meal and enjoy the beautiful view around you. This is actually my favorite thing to do in Matka Canyon.

Tips for visiting Matka Canyon

The entrance to Matka Canyon is free of charge.

There is a hotel if you wish to stay overnight at Matka Canyon – click here for more details .

You can also find the restaurant and the cafe at Matka Canyon. Prices are higher than in Skopje but the view from the table is pretty incredible and it’s worth stopping here even for a quick coffee.

The walking path from the parking to the restaurant is suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.

You can enter the canyon with the pets.

If you plan to do some hiking around, or even just go for a walk along the lake beyond the restaurant I recommend wearing comfortable and not slippery shoes. You will need them.

Both of my visits in Matka Canyon were rather short, only 2-3 hours as I had to go back to the capital (I always find some cool things to do in Skopje ) but you can easily spend the whole day there, going to upper parts of the mountains, hiking around and enjoying the views.

Final thoughts

I visited Matka Canyon twice, in March and in May. It looked different both times of the year but each time it enchanted me and took my breath away with its beauty. I can only assume it is equally beautiful in autumn and wintertime and I hope I will have a chance to visit Matka Canyon then as well.

The place is such a perfect nature getaway from the overwhelming Skopje (that I still adore, but it can be a lot to deal with) and I recommend everyone visiting the capital of North Macedonia going to Matka Canyon as well. It is such a lovely place to see!

Further reading

Balkans are one of my favorite regions that I visited so many times I can’t count really. If you are planning a trip to North Macedonia and the Balkans you might find these articles interesting and useful:

• What to do in Skopje, the kitschy yet cool capital of North Macedonia
• Alternative Skopje
• Day trip from Skopje to Pristina, Kosovo
• 17 Best Things to Do in Ohrid, North Macedonia
• Veles, North Macedonia – an underrated city in the Balkans
• Your ultimate Balkan travel guide
• and many more!

For my Polish readers – I recommend reading my friend Paweł’s article “Kanion Matka – cud przyrody w Macedonii.” He also took a few pictures I used in this article.

Travel Resources

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Skopje

Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for North Macedonia here.

I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Get Your Guide – click here .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to North Macedonia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Dariusz Sochacki

Thanks for all the info. One correction though – you CAN buy tickets from the driver on the no. 60 bus, as well as at any ticket office booth that are located all over Skopje, including one right at the bus station next to the platform from which it departs. They are silver booths. One ticket is 50 denars. Skopska card is 150 denars and includes 2, not three rides. Also download the “JSP – on the go” app to see bus timetables routes and stops – it can be very useful, as there don’t seem to be by timetables to look at anywhere withing the bus station itself.

Thanks for the info! Cheers!

Hi Kami, great article 👍 Covid update for readers I just got on the bus and was able to buy a ticket for 50 denars. Also schedule may have been changed, because we took off at 10:30am. Today is a weekday Wednesday January 12th 2022

Thank you for the update, really appreciate it!

We went today thanks to this information!!! Everything was so accurate and detailed 😍 thank you so so so much!

Thank you, I’m really glad to hear that!

Hi ! Thanks for sharing all these info with us. You forgot a mean of transportation to reach Matka Canyon, : it’s very easy to reach by bicycle from Skopje and it’s environment friendly ;-)

indeed, you are right :)

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Matka Canyon in Macedonia in 1 Day

Matka Canyon is the ideal day trip from Skopje  for anyone who loves nature, cool rocks and hiking. It’s hard to believe that this incredible canyon is just 15km away from the busy urban streets of Macedonia’s capital city.

Ready to escape the city for an afternoon of hiking, Luke and I excitedly ran out to catch a bus from Skopje to Matka Canyon. We spent a little while peering at signs on bus tops to see if we could find bus 60. Eventually we asked at the bus station, followed some unclear directions, looked at a few more bus stops, and finally found the right bus.

There were a lot of stops as we made our way out of the city. Locals getting on and off, stopping at shopping malls and driving through a small towns, until we finally reached the edge of the Matka Canyon. We jumped off and started our way up the path for an afternoon hike through the canyon.

Hiking in Matka Canyon

Covering 5000 hectares, Matka Canyon is nothing short of huge and you can hike through it for hours and hours. We took a straightforward path that goes right through. The path through the canyon is quite narrow, but nothing too dramatic. Not that it stopped Luke from panicking that I would fall off the edge – which despite being clumsy-footed, isn’t something I’ve ever come near to.

In the winter, hiking through Matka Canyon is really the only activity. However, in the summer, you can go kayaking on the lake and explore further afield. There are several historic churches and monasteries around Matka Canyon which can be accessed from various other hiking trails if you have more time.

As we followed the winding path round corners and through crevices through Matka Canyon, the sun shone on our faces, keeping us warm in the cold winter air.

Where to Eat in Matka Canyon

Right at the beginning of the trail through Matka Canyon is Restaurant Canyon Matka , where we stopped for a light lunch. It was a little more expensive than the usual kind of place that we would sit down to eat, but we hadn’t planned too far ahead that day and the traditional Macedonian food was really good. I’d go as far as to say that the ajvar (a relish made from red peppers) was the best we had in Macedonia!

How to Get to Matka Canyon from Skopje

You can take bus 60 to Matka Canyon from Skopje’s main bus station. It took us a little while to locate the right bus stop, which is just outside of the main bus station building, next to the petrol station. There’s a row of numbered signs (not in numerical order) and number 60 is about half way up the row. You can buy tickets, which cost 75 denar each way, on-board the bus. The bus takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic and stops.

Matka Canyon was just one tiny part of our slow travel route around Macedonia . If you’re travelling in Macedonia, don’t miss this beautiful canyon.

Charlie Marchant

Skopje, Macedonia – Travel Guide

Skiing in mavrovo, macedonia: everything you need to know.

Katie Featherstone

Oh wow, how have I never heard of (or seen photos of!!!) this place before? I’m so jealous of your time in Macedonia Charlie! Hopefully Dan and I will get over there this Summer. :)

I’m planning to go there when I’m in Macedonia again in May. I did some googling around and couldn’t really find the info how to get there with public transport from Skopje so thank you for the info, I’ll definitely need it!

Charlie on Travel

Absolutely! Do give me a shout/Tweet if there’s anything I might be able to help with – because I know first hand how scare the info online can be!

I’m heading there next week. Do you know how long the bus takes?

Great info, was there anywhere to camp there overnight?

Hi Jacinta, I’m sure that there is but unfortunately I don’t know any campsites.

Heading there a year to the date that you did! It’s my birthday and I can’t think of a better place to head. Did you visit the 627 year old church? I read it was near the cafe. Do the trails loop, ad their maps etc? We leave in a few days and I’m so excited. :)

Hi Charlie, I’m female, going there solo using public transport, do you think hiking through the canyon alone is safe? is there other people there when you were hiking? Hope to hear from you. :)

Hi Hongli. Yes, I think it would be safe to go on your own to the canyon. There were lots of people – particularly couples – walking through the canyon when we were there. I would recommend not leaving it too late to catch the bus back from the canyon though, as it can get dark quite quicky when the sun sets :) Hope that helps!

Do you remember how long the hike was through the canyon? I will be in Skopje later this month and this might be a good day trip for me.

You can hike for as long as you like. We only hiked for about 1.5 hours in and then turned back as sun was starting to set. Not sure how long the canyon goes on for I’m afraid!

If you’re an early riser and can put in the miles there is actually a route from Matka all the way back to the Cross. We missed 2 buses from Skopje to Matka because of the confusion of actually getting these buses but we read it was do able in a day if you didn’t stay in the valley of Matka. I also read that in the warm months you can ‘wild’camp, so it depends on your capabilities, etc.

It looks so dreamy! I am so thrilled to hear that it’s also nice there during the winter. Your post was super helfpul, thank you! :)

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Visiting Matka Canyon: A Slice of Nature near Skopje

Matka Canyon is a stunning gorge and lake just outside of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. It’s proximity to the capital makes it a popular day trip (or half-day trip) for both locals and tourists. Offering plenty of outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking or taking a leisurely boat trip, visiting Matka Canyon is a great way to get outdoors and away from the bustle of the city.

Why Visit Matka Canyon?

Simply put, Matka Canyon is spectacular!

The stunning scenery and the chance to escape into nature makes a visit to Matka Canyon a perfect day trip when visiting Skopje .

Matka Canyon is actually a gorge filled with an artificial lake, which was created when a dam was built on the river Treska in 1938. This makes Lake Matka the oldest artificial lake in the country.  

And while the lake isn’t entirely natural, surrounded by high mountains, it’s still an impressive site to see.

This is the Matka Canyon.

Where is Matka Canyon?

Just 15km from the capital city of Skopje, you’ll find the Matka Canyon. Covering around 5000 hectares of breathtaking scenery. and it’s a popular spot for locals to escape from the city.

What to do at Matka Canyon

There are a few trails at Matka Canyon. Although we enjoy hiking, these trails were a bit challenging for beginner 4 year old hikers, but if your kids are older, or if you are visiting without kids, go try one (or a few) of the trails!

One trail goes all the way to the end of the canyon. Starting at the hotel and restaurant, the 10km trail runs along the side of the canyon, passing churches and monasteries along the way and featuring some impressive views of the Matka Canyon.

Rent a Kayak

Renting a kayak is a great way to see the canyon yourself. The water is perfectly calm, making it easy to kayak. Single or double kayaks are available to rent, either by the hour or for 30 mins. I would LOVE to do this when my kids are a bit older. What a fantastic way to explore the canyon!

Take a Boat Tour

A popular activity is to take a guided boat tour of Matka Canyon. There are two different places that offer a boat tour. The first spot is less busy, a tad cheaper but it’s just a tour of the canyon and doesn’t include a visit to the caves.

Boat trips around the canyon take about 30 minutes and cost 3.30EUR (200 Denar).  Even if you don’t visit the caves, it’s a fantastic ride as the scenery is just spectacular!

Visit the Caves

If you choose the second boat tour, it’s the one that also includes a tour of Vrelo Cave.  Our taxi driver recommended we do this tour, and I’m glad we did!

The guided tour starts with a boat ride through the Matka Canyon and heads over to the caves.

Once you reach the entrance to the caves, there is a fairly steep staircase from the boat up to the cave. It’s pretty tricky with little kids, but with two adults, or help from someone on the boat, it’s not too bad!

A guide takes you on a short walk though Vrelo Cave, pointing out the stalactites and stalagmites. You can see the rocks dripping and some parts are even illuminated by coloured lights. Some say it may be the deepest underwater cave in the world! It’s even included in the list of top 77 natural sites of the world in the New 7 Wonders of Nature Project. Cost when we visited was 400 MKD.

Visit a Monastery

There are a few churches and monasteries in the Matka Canyon. Starting from the other side of the lake, it’s possible to hike up to St. Nikola Šiševski monastery. It’s a good, steep climb, taking about 30 mins, but (apparently) the views from the top are worth it! (I didn’t think it was a good idea with two little kids!)

From behind the hotel, there are also a few trails that lead to other churches and a monastery. 

Have Lunch or a Snack at the Restaurant

Right on the edge of the canyon, just a few steps from the boat tour spot, is a restaurant serving lunch, dinner, snacks and beverages. While we did not eat there, our driver said it was too pricey, being a popular tourist spot BUT it was good food. (It was his suggestion to stop somewhere on the way home for a snack instead).

Stay the Night at the Canyon Matka Hotel

If you want to really experience the canyon, why not stay the night? The Canyon Matka Hotel offers overnight accommodations in a fantastic setting. Nestled along the edge of the canyon, the Canyon Matka Hotel has a terrace featuring panoramic views of the canyon. Accommodation includes breakfast, free wifi and free parking, and prices range from 30-40euro/night. Check availability here .

I WISH I had known about this hotel before we planned our visit! Next time….

How to get to Matka Canyon

You can take bus #60 from the Central Bus Station or any of the stops along Boulevard Partizanski Odred. The trip takes about 45-60 minutes. You will need to buy a prepaid Skopska card, which comes preloaded with 3 trips and may be useful if you are using it throughout Skopje. Just be aware that you cannot purchase single tickets anymore. 

Taking a taxi is probably the best option! Fares usually run around 10EUR (650MCD) each way. There are lots of drivers waiting at the canyon to take you back to Skopje as well (even in off-season).

Another option is to hire a driver, which is what we did. We booked one through our hotel and it was just under 20EUR (1200MCD) for a drive there and back. I had heard that hiring a taxi would cost different amounts and you could use your bargaining skills, but we booked a recommended driver through our hotel for a fixed price (and then he even ended up giving us back money  “to buy a treat for my boys”)

Tips for Visiting Matka Canyon:

• Entrance to Matka Canyon is free
• The parking lot is about a 10 minute walk to the start of canyon. It’s an easy walk to do with young kids, and suitable for strollers, although once past the hotel, there are some spots where the path is close to the edge.
• Although the main path is fairly accessible, we still recommend suitable shoes (and if you are taking the boat tour to the caves, you will need shoes that don’t slip).
• It can get chilly on the boat tour and especially inside the caves! Blankets are provided to cover your lap on the boat but be sure to wear appropriate clothing, even in the summer, and be aware that it will be chilly inside the caves all year round.
• There’s a restaurant serving food and snacks or bring your own and enjoy a picnic
• Matka Canyon is a popular spot and will be busy in the summer! Go early or on a weekday to avoid the busiest times.

If you are travelling through South Eastern Europe and planning to visit North Macedonia, make sure to put Matka Canyon on your itinerary!

(If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration on an itinerary, check out our 6 weeks in South Eastern Europe !)

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

Wow, what an amazing place! ♥ Your photos are stunning and I would really love to do everything you mentioned in this post! I have never been to Macedonia, but if one day I will be there, I hope to visit this place!

Yes! Make sure you visit! It’s amazing! Well, all of Macedonia is, but Matka Canyon is so close to the capital that you can’t not visit!

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Day Trip to Matka Canyon from Skopje

Day Trip to Matka Canyon from Skopje was originally published in March 2024

If you’ve found yourself in the Macedonian capital of Skopje and you’re looking for an easy day trip from the city and to get out into the nearby Balkan nature, a day trip to Matka Canyon is a great option.

I visited on my own using public transport and found it to be extremely easy and straightforward in comparison to what I had read saying that using the public bus to get there was difficult.

Where to Stay in Skopje

Budget travelers  can check out either  Railway Hostel  or  Skopje Hostel . I stayed a couple of nights at each and can recommend both hostels. Skopje Hostel is located right next to the city center and Railway Hostel is conveniently located just a couple of blocks away from Skopje Central Bus & Railway Stations. 

Midrange travelers  looking for something nice, clean, and right in the middle of Skopje will adore  Hotel Macedonia Square  with its proximity to the Stone Bridge, Macedonia Square, and the Old Bazaar.

If looking to  splurge , the  DoubleTree by Hilton Skopje  offers all of the amenities you could ask for and is located right on the Vardar River. 

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Macedonia?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

How to Get to Matka Canyon

The Skopje-Matka Canyon Timetable

Return timetable from matka back to skopje, buying a skopje bus ticket.

Buying a bus ticket to Skopje was easy. I just went to the grey kiosk on the southeast side of the bus station (there’s another one on the northwest side but it appeared to be closed).

The woman working spoke great English as well so there’s not much to worry about in terms of communication.

An all day unlimited Skopje bus pass ( Skopska Card ) is 120 MKD. You can also opt to load money onto a card and use it as needed rather than getting an unlimited day pass as well (for reference, a single ride on the bus within Skopje is 30 MKD, more if you’re going to further out areas such as Matka).

Take Bus #60 to Matka Canyon

The stops at the central bus station are well marked in clusters of threes, so just walk to the stop for buses 50, 56, and 32 and just wait for bus 60 to pull up.

With that said, there are two areas to the Skopje Central Bus Station, the station from which buses that go outside the Skopje vicinity depart from asn theb a different area where the city buses depart from.

The city buses depart from the southeast side of the station. It’ll be obvious with the abundance of red buses (Skopje’s public buses are red).

Taking Bus #60

Once on the bus, tap your card on the machine as you enter and then sit back for the 40-60 minute journey.

Timing can vary depending on traffic. I caught the 08:45 bus (which did depart a couple of minutes before schedule, so get to the stop early!) and we arrived at the end of the route to Matka at 09:00.

Getting to Matka Canyon

As long as the bus can get all the way there, you will get dropped off at the  Fresh Bar  which is the final stop for the bus to Matka Canyon.

I had read sometimes that the bus turns around before Fresh Bar due to traffic or too many cars being in the way but this wasn’t the case when I visited in October 2023.

Walking Along Matka Canyon

From the Fresh Bar, you’ll follow a paved path up past the Matka Canyon Dam. Beyond here, you’ll pass a couple of cafes, as well as the dock from which you can go for a boat ride up Matka Canyon in addition to kayak rentals.

Once past the cafes and boat rentals the trail begins. It’s straightforward the entire way and has a railing.

Every so often there are benches to relax at and take in the views of Matka Canyon.

The path terminates just across the canyon from Pestera Vrelo Cave.

In total, the walk along Matka Canyon from Fresh Bar until the end of the trail is 4.3 kilometers one way or 8.6 kilometers round trip.

I’d say it’s impossible to get lost on this trek given the maintained path and railing, but if you’re still a little worried you’ll find the path marked on all the major mapping apps such as  Organic Maps  (used to be Maps.me),  Gaia GPS , and  Wikiloc . 

Getting Back to Skopje from Matka Canyon

Getting back to Skopje is just as easy as getting to Matka Canyon.

Grabbing the Bus Back to Skopje

You can wait at the bus stop near Fresh Bar or walk further down the road (I’d advise walking further down the road to the next stop if it looks like there’s a lot of traffic as the bus sometimes has to turn around early).

Do note that the buses in the afternoon/evening are almost always late.

For example, I wanted to catch the 13:05 bus back to Skopje but the bus didn’t arrive at the stop until 13:45, so do factor that into your day trip to Matka Canyon.

We arrived back at Skopje Central Bus Station at 14:30.

Taking a Taxi

If you don’t want to take the bus you can opt for a taxi. Every offer I heard being hurled came in around  500 MKD (one way) .

On return, taxis are waiting near Fresh Bar looking to take visitors back to Skopje. 

Organized Tours to Matka Canyon

If you don’t want to deal with the bus or negotiate with a taxi, there’s always the option to take a day tour to Matka Canyon.

Have Any Questions About Visiting Matka Canyon?

Ask in the comments section below.

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Free Skopje Tours

Memorable and enjoyable tours..

• Destination
• Canyon Matka

CANYON MATKA TOUR

Canyon matka tour - 1 day.

Explore Canyon Matka in Macedonia on a 4-hour sightseeing tour 20 km. from Skopje and cruise by small boat between the vertical rocks. Pass ancient houses, temples, and medieval monasteries.

Start at the 14th-century Monastery of Matka, dedicated to the Holy Mother of God. Walk along the banks of the River Treska, famous for its kayak competitions, following the path past the Dam and Lake Matka. Visit of the Monastery St.Andrew.

Next, climb aboard a small boat to cruise along the canyon, soaking up the surroundings and scent of flowers. At the end visiting the Cave “Vrelo” one of the deepest caves in Europe.-(Optional)

Tour duration: 4 hours

Price: 80 Eur 

-1 person – 80 Eur

-2 pax – 100 Eur

-3 pax 120 Eur

-4 pax 140 Eur

Price for more than 4 pax negotiable.

Price includes:

-Pick up from hotel

• -Transportation
• -Tour guide service
• -Snacks and drinks

Price excludes:

-Boat tour (optional) – 10 Eur per person

• -Personal expenses
• -Tips and gratuities

Airport transfers for only 25 Eur and hotel pick up!

Tour points.

• –Pick up from hotel

Price exclude:

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Canyon matka tour.

• Group Size: 1 - 4
• Transportation: Included in tour price otherwise (10 €)
• Meals: (Optional) Lunch at the traditional restaurant build inside a cave near the river Treska
• Tour type: Walking Tour, Boat Ride, Cave

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FREE SKOPJE TOUR

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Vardar apartments, privacy overview.

A Day Trip to Matka Canyon

Discover the stunning natural beauty and rich history.

If you are looking for a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Skopje, you should definitely consider visiting Matka Canyon. Matka Canyon is a hidden gem located just 15 kilometers outside of Skopje.

You can spend a day exploring the canyon by hiking, kayaking, boating, or caving, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the turquoise water and the green cliffs. The canyon is a popular getaway for locals and tourists alike.

Here are some tips and information on how to make the most of your day trip to Matka Canyon.

Page Contents

A few facts about Matka Canyon

Matka Canyon and the Lake are located west of Skopje , North Macedonia, and cover an area of about 5,000 hectares. This spectacular place was actually not made by nature. In 1938 the dam was built on river Treska , creating the artificial lake surrounded by high mountains , making it the oldest artificial lake in the country.

The Canyon is home to many endemic and rare species of plants, animals, and butterflies, as well as the most venomous snake in south Europe, the horned viper . The Canyon has 10 caves, including Vrelo Cave , which is one of the top 77 natural sites in the world and a candidate for the New 7 Wonders of Nature . The cave has two lakes and a large stalactite called the “Pine Cone”.

There are several historic churches and monasteries , such as St. Andrew’s Monastery, Matka Monastery, and St. Nicholas Monastery.

How to get to Matka Canyon from Skopje

Matka Canyon is located about 15 km west of central Skopje , and it is easy to reach by different modes of transportation. You can choose one of the following options:

How to get to Matka Canyon by car

Drive southeast towards Matka Canyon (use Google Maps). It takes around 30 minutes . There is a parking lot near the entrance of the canyon, where you can leave your car for a small fee.

How to get to Matka Canyon by bus

Take public bus 60 from Skopje bus station. It takes 45-50 minutes one-way and costs $1.5 (cheapest option). The bus runs every hour from 7 am to 9 pm on weekdays, and every two hours on weekends. The bus stop is right next to the entrance of the canyon. Check the official site for public transport on this link .

• Skopje to Matka Canyon weekdays: 7:00  /  8:45  /  10:30  /  12:10  /  13:50  /  15:30  /  17:10  /  18:45  /  20:15
• Skopje to Matka Canyon weekends: 7:00  /  8:45  /  10:30  /  12:10  /  13:50  /  15:30  /  17:10  /  18:45  /  20:15  
• Matka Canyon to Skopje weekdays: 5:50  /  7:45  /  9:40  /  11:20  /  13:00  /  14:40  /  16:20  /  18:00  /  19:30  /  21:00  
• Matka Canyon to Skopje weekends: 7:45  /  9:40  /  11:20  /  13:00  /  14:40  /  16:20  /  18:00  /  19:30  /  21:00

How to get to Matka Canyon by taxi

A taxi ride from Skopje to Matka Canyon will cost you between $11 and $14 one-way, depending on the traffic and your bargaining skills.

You can also book a taxi online or by phone in advance.

Reccomended taxi companies: Cammeo (you can pay by card), Global , Deluxe Taxi, Teniks Taxi Skopje, Classic Taxi, City Taxi Skopje

How to get to Matka Canyon by organized tour

If you prefer a hassle-free and convenient way to visit Matka Canyon, you can join an organized tour from Skopje.

You will have a guide who will show you around the canyon and tell you more about its history and nature. You will also have transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included. You can book a tour online through GetYourGuide or other platforms.

What to do at Matka Canyon?

There are plenty of things to do at Matka Canyon, depending on your interests and preferences. Here are some of the most popular activities:

Hike on the Wild Side

There is a well-marked trail that follows the shore of the lake for about 6 km , passing by several monasteries and caves along the way.

The trail is easy to moderate, with some steep sections and stairs. It takes about 2 hours to complete one way.

You can also hike up to the viewpoint above the canyon, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The hike up takes about 30 minutes from St. Andrew’s Monastery.

Kayaking-Paddle Your Way Through Matka Canyon

If you want to explore the lake at your own pace, you can rent a kayak from one of the vendors near the entrance of the canyon.

The rental fee is around $7 per hour for a single kayak, and $10 per hour for a double kayak.

You can paddle along the lake and admire the scenery from a different perspective. You can also reach some of the caves that are not accessible by foot or boat.

Take a boat

Another way to see the lake is by taking a boat tour . You can hop on one of the boats that depart regularly from near St. Andrew’s Monastery.

There are two different types of tour. Short one and one that takes you to the cave, you chose what you preffer more.

The boat ride lasts about an hour and costs around 600 denars per person (10 €). The boat will take you to Vrelo Cave , one of the most impressive caves in Matka Canyon, where you can get off and explore for 15-20 minutes.

Vrelo Cave is famous for its stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its two underground lakes. Some speculate that it could be the deepest underwater cave in the world.

Boat trips are about 30 minutes and cost 200 denars per person (3,30€). There are two places where you can take a short boat trip, but the price it’s same.

Cave Deep Into the Heart of Matka Canyon

If you are feeling adventurous, you can also visit some of the other caves in Matka Canyon by caving.

You will need a guide and special equipment for this activity, which you can arrange with one of the local agencies or hotels in advance. Some of the caves that are suitable for caving are Krshtalna Cave, Ubava Cave, and Gorna Slatinska Cave.

How Long Should You Stay?

Matka Canyon can be explored in one day . However, if you want to do more activities or explore the area more thoroughly, you can stay overnight at one of the guesthouses or hotels in the area.

Where to eat and stay at Matka Canyon?

If you get hungry or thirsty after exploring Matka Canyon, you have several options for food and drinks.

There are some restaurants and cafes near the entrance of the canyon, where you can enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine or international dishes. Some of them have terraces overlooking the lake, which offer a nice view while you eat.

If you want to stay overnight at Matka Canyon, you can book a room at one of the hotels or guesthouses in the area.

One of them is Canyon Matka Hotel and Restaurant, which resembles a sprawling chalet with 10 rooms decorated in local style.

The hotel also has a restaurant that serves progressive Macedonian cuisine with local ingredients.

If you prefer to stay in a cozy apartment or a spacious house, you will be happy to know that there is a plenty of rentals on Airbnb or Booking that you can choose from. You can find options for every budget and taste , from modern studios to rustic cottages.

Tips for visiting Matka Canyon

Before you go to Matka Canyon, here are some tips that will help you have a better experience:

The best time to visit Matka Canyon

It’s from spring to autumn , when the weather is pleasant and the nature is lush. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit on weekdays or early in the morning, especially in the summer .

Avoid going in winter, when it can be winter can be cold and rainy, but it can also offer a different perspective of the canyon’s beauty.

The entrance fee to Matka Canyon is free

Which means you can enjoy the beauty of nature without spending a dime. However, if you want to experience some of the attractions in the canyon, such as the caves or the boat tours, you will have to pay a small fee.

You can also buy some souvenirs or snacks from the local vendors near the entrance.

You can swim in the lake

Jump in the lake if you want to cool off, but be aware that the water is cold even in summer.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes

For hiking or kayaking, and bring sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, snacks, camera, and cash.

Be respectful of nature and wildlife at Matka Canyon, and do not litter or disturb any plants or animals

Matka Canyon is a protected area that hosts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Some of the species that live here are endemic and rare, and need a healthy environment to survive.

By being respectful of nature and wildlife at Matka Canyon, you are helping to preserve this natural treasure for future generations.

You can also learn more about the canyon’s ecology and history by visiting the information center or joining a guided tour.

Matka Canyon is a hidden gem of North Macedonia that offers a great opportunity to enjoy nature and history in one day trip from Skopje.

Whether you want to hike through the mountain, kayak on the lake, boat to the cave, or cave into the depths, you will find something to suit your taste and adventure level at Matka Canyon.

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Home » Kayaking for 3hrs Down the Amazing Matka Canyon to Discover the Enchanting Hidden Cave on the Water! North Macedonia

• Adventure Travel
• Eastern Europe
• Off The Beaten Path

Kayaking for 3hrs Down the Amazing Matka Canyon to Discover the Enchanting Hidden Cave on the Water! North Macedonia

Nic (The Roaming Renegades) - Last updated on May 27th, 2023 at 10:33 am

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Matka Canyon Matka Canyon is actually a man-made

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After spending a wonderful week in the Macedonian capital of Skopje, exploring both the quirky modern architecture, the ancient Ottoman cobbled streets and even attending a protest against the government…we wanted to escape the chaos of the city and have a true adventure in the Macedonia countryside. From the capital a day trip to Matka Canyon is a popular local adventure our hosts recommended to us. So we headed off on a short bus trip deep into this stunning gorge for a day to remember and a highlight of backpacking the Balkans and a perfect off the beaten track Europe spot.

Matka Canyon

Kayaking down the gorge, exploring the cave hidden in matka canyon, how to get there/ how to rent kayaks , getting to matka canyon from skopje:, renting kayaks/ getting to the cave on a ferry:, taking a tour.

Matka Canyon is actually a man-made gorge just to the west of Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia. By man-made what we mean is that the stunning lake that sits in this mountainous canyon is a result of the dam built right at the main entrance! The rest is a wonderful display of the beauty of nature and a real off-the-beaten-track Europe highlight.

Steep peaks surround the waterside which can be traversed on the many constructed paths. Some take a gentle stroll clinging to the steep walls, whereas others require a strenuous hike up to the various vantage points dotted with centuries-old monasteries!

Matka Canyon is a popular area for the capital’s residents to escape the city and head to the hills for some adventure as well as those backpacking the Balkans. The sheers walls of the gorge are home to many rock climbing routes (if only we brought our gear!) as well as regular ferries, kayaks, SUP hire and one of the world’s largest cave systems, how’s that for off-the-beaten-track Europe!

Built in 1935 the dam created the thin Matka lake that now covers a roadway used to travel through Macedonia, called the “Road of Strength”. Along this route many churches and monasteries were built to provide spiritual reflection to the rich merchants bringing goods to sell in Skopje.

The narrow Matka canyon is actually the oldest artificial lake in Macedonia and a highlight of our time backpacking the Balkans in many ways reminded up of our epic ferry ride through a similarly created mountainous lake in Albania: Koman !

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As much as we love independent travelling, sometimes the best way to access certain places, experience local culture and get real authentic information is on a tour.

For the best trips, tours and guides we always use Get Your Guide .

Having left our harness out of our already heavy backpacks we decided to instead rent out one of the many kayaks and explore the lake and Matka canyon in a more intimate manner. Instead of taking one of the many tourist ferries that run up and down the length of the canyon we headed for more of a real adventure!

The 6km long lake is wedged between huge limestone towers that at times sit almost impossibly close. As we set off down the canyon the once crowded and noisy lakeside retreated into silence. The sheer amount of wildlife surrounding the lake became more evident than ever as birdsong filled the air and the wind blew through the colourful wildflowers.

In the beginning, we took the paddling very easily, not really having much of an understanding of just how far we had to go if we wanted to make it down Matka Canyon!

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The beauty of the 800ft cliff face plunging into the turquoise lake took our attention just a little! As the canyon walls grew and grew the walls stood towering above us only a few feet wide! We had found paradise!

After around half an hour on the water swanning our way down the stunning gorge, past tiny settlements, tree houses, deep forests and awe-inspiring cliffs we realised just how far we still had to paddle! The narrow lake would wind its way around the gorge walls, corner after corner of amazing views…but no sign of the cave in sight!

The periodic ferries going past to explore this natural underground wonder were beginning to thin out! Had we gone too far and missed the hidden entrance to the Matka Cave? Had we even gone the right way? (We did get lost an awful lot backpacking the Balkans!)

Our Favourite Backpacks

Osprey Fairpoint/ Fairview

We’ve used the Osprey Fairpoint / Fairview for all our backpacking adventures over the past 5 years and highly recommend them!

The main area of the pack opens like a suitcase, which is great for using packing cubes to keep everything organised and they even come with a detachable day pack!

No longer surrounded by people either on the water or on the narrow walkways high above and having paddled for over an hour we felt somewhat isolated in the incredible Matka canyon!

But on we went, beginning to tire as the sun rounded the corner and beat down on us. Our wet hands on the slippery paddles were getting sore and we had not seen a soul in the last half an hour of our hour-and-a-half-long journey down the Matka canyon. Passing a dead forest drowned by the rising water we eventually reached the dock for the Matka cave! Here at last!

There is no other way to get to the amazing Vrelo Cave than the water. One of Europe’s most impressive cave systems much is still unknown about what really lies underneath the ground here. We were lucky enough to time our visit on the kayaks with that of a passing tourist ferry boat. The captain on which kindly switched the lights on for his guests just as we entered!

This meant we could explore the Suva section of these beautiful caves with the benefit of the lighting system fitted down here. Once powered up it reveals the amazing nature of the huge stalactites and stalagmites this cave is known for including the massive “Pine Cone” right in the centre of the main chamber. Our backpacking the Balkans adventure was all about seeking out these amazing highlights of off-the-beaten-track Europe!

The once hot air from the Matka Canyon atmosphere outside of the cave had become cold and damp down here. We could see our breath as we explored at our own pace every corner of this mysterious subterranean system.

The cave system is relatively small above the water but at the far end of the cave sits two perfectly still lakes reflecting like a mirror the amazing detail of above. The underwater sections of the Matka cave are some of the deepest in the world and still have yet to be fully explored.

Our Favourite Travel Camera & Lens

Sony A7IV & Sony FE 24-105 f4

The Sony a7IV is the perfect travel camera. Offering incredible image quality, great portability and a varied lens selection.

Our favourite travel lens is the Sony FE 24-105 f4 . it’s a great all-rounder, super sharp and a perfect focal range for travel.

So far divers have reached depths of almost 1000ft below the surface and more is still to be explored. Currently, the cave is the deepest in the Balkans and may even be the deepest in the world! It’s crazy really what lies below!

Take the number 60 bus from Skopje ‘s main public bus station (the red buses)

The journey takes between 45 and 60 mins depending on traffic and costs around 35 Denars each way (£0.50/ $0.62)

The buses run quite often but do check the return time. We missed one and would have had to wait an hour for the next, so instead we hitchhiked back to the city. Hitchhiking is easy and common in Macedonia and the Balkans as a whole and most people will be heading back towards the capital from Matka Canyon.

You can either rent kayaks and paddle for 1.5 hours to the cave or take the tourist ferry.

Kayak rental:

You can rent out either a double or single sit-on-top kayak from the start of the canyon.

Rental is 200 Denar per hour (£2.77 / $3.50) per person but this is slightly cheaper for the double kayaks.

Another option is to combine visiting Matka Canyon with a tour of the surrounding countryside or a guided tour of Skopje if you are short on time. Taking the bus back to Skopje after visiting can sometimes be troublesome given the limited schedule so for those wanting to be sure to fit a visit in and get a more in-depth look at the surrounding area then a tour might be the best option.

* Be sure to bring with you a dry bag to keep your camera, wallet etc. dry as it’s quite easy to get everything wet or capsize!!

* Try to find out the time of the buses back and time it, you can be waiting an hour so you might as well spend that time in the canyon.

* Wear some good shoes as the cave is slippery and muddy, you also might want to do some of the hikes if you have time.

Ferry: 

The ferry takes around an hour and includes an entrance to the cave and a tour of Matka Canyon. The price is 400 Denar each (£5.50 / $7.10)

Book your accommodation here

Have you ever visited matka canyon or heard of the amazing caves here.

Related posts:

A guide to Skopje: The modern, quirky & politically charged Macedonia capital with hidden history!

We protested the government in Macedonia as part of the “Colourful Revolution” in Skopje!

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Wow, what an adventure! 3 hours to get there! Thankfully you guys got to it, great post!

Well, 3 hour round trip but still, a tiring but amazing day!

I love going kayaking especially when you can go through caves. This sounds like the perfect thing for me!

It was such an amazing thing to do, one of the best places we have explored.

I’ve been trying to figure out how long the canyon is for a while, as we were also pleasantly surprised by it’s length and you’re the first one to mention 6km. Your 3 hours to the cave and back seem somewhat exaggerated though as we went to the end of the canyon and back in 2 hours and the cave was only half way to the end. We don’t have any training, so anyone in good health can reach the cave in under an hour. We recommend going further as few motorised boats or kayaks go there and you can finally enjoy some real quietness and nature (the boats and entrance area are quite noisy).

To be honest we stopped a lot on the way there to take photos and look around whereas the return trip was a lot quicker. The three hours does include exploring the cave too and again we spent probably more time in there than most! I don’t know if it was the season we visited or not but there was only 1 boat at the cave entrance when we arrived and they left before us so we had it all to ourselves. Same for the canyon in general, it was very quiet, we would get a boat or so going passed us very rarely.

Welcome to the Jewel of Macedonia!

Matka canyon, a place that enchants your soul.

Mountains with such beauty and history…

Matka Canyon, Macedonia is perfect for alpine hiking from Easter – November. Stay locally and enjoy hiking, climbing, underwater cave diving, birdwatching, butterflying, herpetology and even Monasteries and churches and the bounty of natural beauty.

The name Matka

Located west of skopje, macedonia.

Located on the right bank of the Treska River, Vrelo Cave was listed as one of the top 77 natural sites in the world in the New7Wonders of Nature Project. Vrelo Cave has many stalactites including a large one in the middle of the cave known as the “Pine Cone” due to its shape. There are two lakes at the end of the cave.

Though the exact depth of the cave is unknown, some speculate that it could be the deepest underwater cave in the world.

Matka Canyon is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, some of which are unique to the area. Roughly 20% of the plant life found at Matka is endemic and only found here.

The canyon is also home to 77 indigenous species of butterfly. The canyon is also home to the most venomous snake in south Europe the Viper. The canyon’s caves are home to large populations of bats.

Attractions

Due in large part to its proximity to Skopje, Matka Canyon is a popular destination for citizens and tourists. The canyon is one of Macedonia’s foremost areas for alpine hiking.

The climbing season begins around Easter and ends in November. Kayaking on the Treska River is a popular activity, as are fishing, hunting, and swimming

Monasteries

The canyon area is home to several historic churches and monasteries. St. Andrew’s Monastery is situated in the gorge of the Treska River.

Matka Monastery, or Monastery of the Holy Mother of God, built in the 14th century, is located on the left bank of the Treska. According to an inscription on the church, someone named Milica found the church in poor condition and without a roof in 1497. She replaced the roof, added new frescoes, built a portico and created a vineyard.

Start your adventure in Matka Canyon with a beautiful & comfortable place to stay!

Hiking From Matka Canyon to Vodno Mountain

Picturesque Matka Canyon, home to numerous caves and monasteries, and Vodno Mountain, known for its towering Millennium Cross, are two of Skopje’s most popular destinations. But few visitors are aware that they’re linked by a hiking trail, with the journey lasting just a few hours. Though not many attempt it, hiking from Matka Canyon to Vodno Mountain is a unique and entirely free way to enjoy both scenic spots on the same day.

Be sure to check the very end of the article for specifics on reaching Matka Canyon from central Skopje , along with where to stay in the capital. But first, here are some essential things you should know before your hike:

Important Things to Know Before Hiking Between Matka Canyon and Vodno Mountain:

• To follow the trekking guide below, you’ll first need to get to Matka Canyon from Skopje by public bus. Once at the canyon, you’ll then need to hike up to the St. Nikola Monastery (30 minutes) from where the hike begins. The final landmark will be the huge Millennium Cross at the top of Vodno Mountain. In total, the hike takes 3-4 hours, not including the descent from Vodno.
• You can do this hike in either direction. Hiking from Matka to Vodno is the more difficult route, with the hike being mostly uphill. By finishing in Vodno, however, you can simply walk back into Skopje without needing to worry about bus schedules.
• There’s a cablecar that takes visitors up and down Vodno Mountain, but it might not always be running. Therefore, you should anticipate possibly needing to hike up or down the mountain. The lack of a cablecar would also make starting in Vodno the more difficult route overall.
• There are no water sources in between St. Nikola Monastery and the Vodno Cross. It’s imperative, then, that you bring enough water. Around two liters would be ideal on a hot day.
• The trail is marked, but the trail markers can be misleading and unreliable, often leading you to dead-ends. Therefore, it’s best to ignore the markers and follow the route outlined on the Maps.me app.

Matka Canyon

Arriving at Matka Canyon from Skopje by public bus (more below ), you’ll find yourself near the medieval Sveti Bogorodica, or the Holy Mother of God Monastery. You can reach it by walking south for a few minutes away from the canyon.

Once there, you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the 14th-century monastery for a bit before heading on toward the crowded canyon.

After about ten minutes of walking south, you’ll reach the Matka Dam, constructed in 1935. And just beyond is the artificial but beautiful Matka Lake. In addition to several tourist-oriented restaurants, you’ll pass by yet another church, this one called St. Andrea.

As soon as I peeked my head in, a man inside immediately shouted ‘Ticket! Ticket!’ at me. The experience was so off-putting that I left right away. But if you really want to see the 14th-century church and its preserved frescoes, a ticket costs less than 100 MKD.

Nearby is the ferry pier, which you’ll need to use in order to start the hike to Vodno, as the path to St. Nikola Monastery begins on the opposite bank.

It’s also from here that you can take a boat ride to Vrelo Cave, one of the deepest caves in Europe and arguably Matka Canyon’s most popular attraction. 

The one-hour boat ride to the cave costs 400 MKD (about 6.5 euro) per person, but I decided to give it a pass, as I’d have a long journey ahead of me.

Instead, I walked south along the walking trail, taking in the gorgeous views of the water and the canyon. And along the way, I even encountered a humongous snake!

After about ten to fifteen minutes in, I turned around and headed back to the ferry pier. Once there, I paid the boatman (or in this case, the boatchild) 30 MKD for the ride across. There would, of course, be no need for a return trip.

Hiking Up to St. Nikola Monastery

The trail up to St. Nikola Monastery begins immediately from the other side. It’s a steep, rocky climb, but it’s at least well-shaded. And it serves as a nice warmup for the much longer hike to Vodno.

The Matka Canyon area long served as a refuge for Christians escaping the Ottomans. And even once the Ottomans established control and proved themselves tolerant of Christianity, what better place than Matka for quiet contemplation?

As you make your way up the trail and above the trees, the 1,000 m-high canyon will come into view. And before long, you’ll arrive at the monastery itself.

While the monastery’s exact construction date is uncertain, it was first mentioned in the 17th century. Unfortunately, the church was locked at the time of my visit. But from the outside, it looks much like other churches of the era.

In addition to public bathrooms, you’ll find a picnic area which overlooks the canyon. This is the perfect place to relax and eat some snacks before setting off for Vodno Mountain.

It’s important to remember that the public tap at the monastery is the very last place you can refill your water bottle before arriving at Vodno (which lacks a tap but has shops selling bottles). Even if you’re not feeling thirsty, it would be wise to drink as much as you can handle before leaving.

Now it’s time to exit the monastery out the door in the back and begin the steep climb further uphill.

Hiking to Vodno Mountain

Exiting the monastery, you’ll immediately notice a sign pointing to Krstovar Peak, the official name of the peak on Vodno that’s home to the Millennium Cross, our final destination.

The first part of the hike is the toughest, as the climb is just as steep as the walk up to St. Nikola Monastery – but this time without any shade. 

If you’ve taken your time to enjoy the scenery of Matka Canyon in the morning, your ascent will likely take place during the hottest part of the day.

Not expecting such a steep ascent from the getgo, I repeatedly needed to stop and catch my breath. But as I got higher and higher, I was rewarded with clear views of the surrounding mountains in all directions.

This is probably the most scenic part of the entire hike, so don’t feel guilty about taking your time here.

After admiring the viewpoints, you’ll have to hike a bit further uphill before you can finally catch a break. Then, follow the gently-sloped walking path as you continue to make your way further east in the direction of Vodno.

You’ll encounter plenty of trail markers and signs along this hike. In my case, tired of staring at my phone while out in nature, I decided to use my eyes and follow the on-site markers. But this turned out to be a mistake.

Occasionally, all of a sudden, the trail markers and the trail itself would just end, leaving me stranded in some strange, nondescript place. Checking Maps.me, I’d find myself well off the suggested trail and would need to work my way through a forest to get there.

As annoying as it can be to constantly check your phone while roaming the great outdoors, it’s best to trust the app over the trail markers for this hike.

Finding my way back to the route suggested by Maps.me, I was relieved to also encounter a clear outline of a trail on the ground.  Unfortunately, however, the views were lacking for much of the middle portion of the hike, with tall trees obscuring the scenery on either side.

Eventually, the view will open up a bit, and you’ll get your first glimpse of the final destination, the Millennium Cross, far off in the distance. 

While there are a few more uphill portions of the trek, the slopes from here on out are much gentler than the initial climb past the monastery.

In the middle of the hike, I found myself walking up to a ridge. And once there, I encountered a construction site for a brand new road across the mountain.

Just next to the road, I spotted a trail running parallel to it that was marked with red and white trail markers. This seemed like the right way to go, and I followed it for around ten minutes. But yet again, trusting the markers turned out to be a mistake.

At some point, they simply stopped, and I found myself at a dead end with nothing but thick forest in front of me. Checking Maps.me, I saw that the app’s trail was a bit further north, seemingly several minutes away.

I had to fight my way through a thick forest to reach it, and this turned out to be another mistake. Making my way out, with plenty of fresh scrapes and scratches, I realized that the ‘trail’ on Maps.me was the road all along! But I was at a level a few meters above it, with no safe way to jump down.

Annoyed, I had no choice but to retrace my steps back to the point where the road and marked trail separated. Once on the road, the hike from this point is at least pretty straightforward.

By the time you read this, the road will have likely been finished and paved. It’s never fun to ‘hike’ along a road, but there don’t seem to be any alternatives at this part of the journey.

As mentioned above, I made a mistake by not bringing enough water, and I was dying of thirst by this point. I was aware that the Millennium Cross was only an hour away, but I also spotted a spring relatively close by on Maps.me.

It would take me twenty minutes to walk along an alternate path to reach the spring, followed by another twenty minutes back. While this detour would nearly double the remainder of my journey, I was so thirsty that I couldn’t resist the temptation.

Making it there, however, I was devastated to find no water coming out of the spring! I had no choice but to return to where I started, even thirstier than before. 

I tried to take my mind off the water situation, and the excellent views of the city down below made that a bit easier. Looking out over the bustling capital of Skopje, it was hard to believe that I’d walked all this way from Matka Canyon.

The sun and the heat were relentless this afternoon, but I could finally breathe a sigh of relief upon seeing the Millennium Cross straight ahead of me.

Vodno Mountain & The Descent to Skopje

Vodno Mountain’s monumental Millennium Cross was constructed in 2002. At 66 m high, the metal cross is one of the largest of its kind in the world. But frankly, apart from its size, there’s nothing too remarkable about it.

The real reason to come to Vodno Mountain is for the views. And at the top, you’ll find various lookout points in addition to outdoor cafes where people can sit and take in the scenery.

But despite being one of Skopje’s top tourist attractions, I was surprised to find only one other visitor there! The reason was, it turned out, the cablecar wasn’t running at the time.

While I’d been planning on taking the cablecar down, I had no choice but to hike instead. Fortunately, it was only a 40-50 minute journey on foot back to my hotel.

While there are no public springs on Vodno Mountain, I was relieved to find one of the small shops open. I bought a few bottles of water, finally quenching my thirst on this sweltering summer day.

The descent down the mountain was fortunately quite easy and straightforward compared with the earlier parts of the journey.

My guest house also happened to be within reasonable walking distance from the base of the mountain. But those staying further away will either need to head to a main road to find a bus or taxi.

All in all, hiking from Matka Canyon to Vodno Mountain certainly made for a memorable experience. But it was a longer, more confusing and much hotter hike than I’d anticipated!

Additional Info

Despite being one of Skopje’s, and North Macedonia’s, most popular tourism destinations, getting to Matka Canyon isn’t as straightforward as one would expect. While you can take public bus #60 from the main terminal, there’s no regularly updated info about timetables online.

Fortunately, the owner of my guest house provided me with a timetable that was valid as of 2021.

Bus #60 departs from Skopje’s bus terminal to Matka Canyon at 7:00, 8:45, 10:30 and 12:10.

I got there a bit before the 8:45 bus and it left right on time. You will need an electronic transport card to board buses in Skopje, but you’ll find a stand selling them right by where the public buses depart.

Note that there’s no need to go inside the bus terminal to board this bus. Instead, just head to the area under the railway tracks across the street. You’ll see many red buses gathered here along with signs indicating the bus numbers.

If you’re following the guide to hiking from Matka Canyon to Vodno Mountain above, you won’t have to worry about a return bus. But if you happen to be doing the hike in the opposite direction, getting from Matka Canyon to Skopje can be even more tricky.

Buses back to Skopje should leave every couple of hours, but try to ask your hotel manager for details before heading out. Also keep in mind that depending on traffic, return buses may not always depart at the normal bus stop. Furthermore, taxi drivers may try to take advantage of the confusion by convincing travelers that buses aren’t running at all!

While you might not face such difficulties, the thought of potentially having to deal with all that after a long hike is a major reason why I chose to start in Matka rather than Vodno.

As North Macedonia’s capital and largest city, Skopje can be reached directly from all over the country by both train and bus.

At the time of writing during the coronavirus pandemic, however, not as many buses will be running as one might expect. Buses that previously departed hourly may now only be running a few times a day. Be sure to check at the local bus station wherever it is you’re departing from.

You should also be able to find direct buses from many other cities in the Balkans.

The closest capital to Skopje is Pristina , Kosovo, which is just about 90 minutes away by bus.

The city also has its own international airport, with direct connections to multiple other cities in Europe.

While central Skopje’s main sites can all be seen on foot within a single day, spending several nights and using Skopje as a base for different day trips is ideal.

With that in mind, it’s more important to stay within reasonable walking distance of the bus terminal than it is to the city center.

While Skopje has a public bus system, it’s difficult to figure out and terribly slow due to bad traffic. Therefore, it’s best to walk whenever you can.

I stayed at a place called Universe Rooms and Apartments (formerly Universe Hostel). It’s located about 20 minutes on foot from the bus terminal and about 25 minutes from the Alexander the Great Statue.

I had a comfortable private room with a shared bathroom. The host Goran was incredibly kind and helpful in regards to information around the area, and it was easily one of my better accommodation experiences in the Balkans.