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Tara River Canyon: How To Get There And What To See

BY SARAH PAVLOVIC  

Discover the best ways to see the Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest canyon and one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro.

The Tara River Canyon is one of the most beautiful and impressive sights in Montenegro. The turquoise blue of the Tara River snakes its way through mountains of dense, green forest that just seem to keep going up... and up … and UP!

While the Tara Canyon falls inside Durmitor National Park and is mostly inaccessible by road, there are a few excellent ways to see the canyon, including some very adventurous ones!

But don’t worry, even if you wouldn’t describe yourself as adventurous you’ll still be able to see this magnificent jewel of north Montenegro.

Table of Contents

Tara Canyon in Durmitor National Park | Tara Canyon Rafting Tara Canyon Bridge | Tara Canyon Zipline | Tara Canyon Hiking Tara Canyon Weather |  Getting There

About Tara River Canyon in Durmitor National Park

At 1,300m (4,300ft) deep, the Tara River Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe, and the second-deepest in the world next to the Grand Canyon in the United States. 

Although it’s hard to visualise just how deep that is, when you’re standing on the Đurđevića Tara Bridge watching the Tara River flowing 170m below you and realise that’s just a fraction of it, you start to get an idea of the scale of this canyon. 

The Tara River, also known as the ‘Tear of Europe’ because it’s so clean and clear, starts all the way over in the Komovi mountains in eastern Montenegro as the Opasnanica and Veruša Rivers, which combine to make the Tara. Then it winds its way across Montenegro and is fed by 14 more rivers until it joins the Piva River to become the Drina River all the way in the north-western tip of Montenegro.

The Tara River Canyon covers 80km of the Tara River’s 158km length and makes up part of Durmitor National Park, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980 because of its rich habitat and species diversity. 

1,300 plant species are found in Durmitor National Park, among them many endemic and relic species. And this habitat supports animals a vast array of animals like trout, otters, eagles, squirrels, chamois, deer, foxes, wolves and bears.

Tara River Canyon Rafting

Tara Canyon rafting is by far the most fun and exciting way to see the Tara Canyon. We love Tara River rafting and usually go every summer. The water is crystal clear, waterfalls rush down into the river and you can even stand under a waterfall!

Rafting tours start from Šćepan Polje in the north-west tip of Montenegro, on the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. On a tour you usually spend around two to three hours on the river, which includes a stop at a waterfall and for refreshments and swimming. But with a water temperature of around 8°C (46°F), it’s usually a quick swim!

Here's a video of one of our rafting trips in 2021:

You can take a rafting tour any time between April and October, but it’s best from June onwards. In April and May the river fills with spring snow melt and the rapids go up to class 5-, meaning it’s only for experienced rafters. From June the rapids go down to level 4 and then 3, meaning it’s suitable for everyone, including kids. 

You can take rafting tours from the coast or drive yourself to Šćepan Polje. They usually take a half day or a day, depending where you start from. They often include breakfast, lunch and transport.

Best Tara Canyon Rafting Tours

• Tara River Whitewater Rafting (with transport from Kotor, Budva or Tivat)
• Rafting Adrenalin 7km (starts from Šćepan Polje)
• Tara River Rafting and Zipline Tour from Žabljak

Tara River Canyon Bridge

Another great way to see the Tara Canyon is at the Đurđevića Tara Bridge . A beautiful structure, the bridge stands 172m above the Tara River and connects the two sides of the canyon. 

You can walk out onto the bridge and from there you’ll get magnificent views of the Tara River Canyon and Tara River. 

The Đurđevića Tara Bridge is conveniently located between the towns of Žabljak and Kolašin , so it’s easy to visit if you’re doing the Montenegro self-drive tour .

If you're based on the coast, the Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip is a great way to see north Montenegro's stunning scenery. The tour includes the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, the Black Lake in Durmitor National Park and Ostrog Monastery .

Best Tours to Đurđevića Tara Bridge

• Durmitor, Tara and Ostrog Monastery Day Trip  (with transport from Kotor, Budva or Tivat)
• Day Trip to Durmitor National Park (from Podgorica)
• Untouched Montenegro Day Trip (from Kotor)

Zip Line Tara Canyon

While you’re at the Đurđevića Tara Bridge you can zip line across the canyon. There are two different zip lines run by two different companies:

• Extreme Zipline Tara is just over 1km in length and flies across the canyon at up to 120km/h
• Red Rock Zipline is 350m long and has two lines so you can go at the same time as someone else. 

Address: Most na Đurđevića Tari, Durmitor National Park Hours: 10am – 7pm, 15th April – 1st October Pricing: Extreme Zipline Tara €25, Red Rock €10

Tara River Canyon Hiking

Durmitor National Park is home to some of Montenegro’s highest peaks and there are lots of hiking trails in the park. Most are quite challenging hikes, so you need to come prepared if you want to go hiking here. The weather is very changeable and the trails can be dangerous.

If you’d like to go hiking in Montenegro, The Mountains of Montenegro: A Walker’s and Trekker’s Guide is an excellent book which covers the best trails in Montenegro.

There are also two easy hikes that don’t require any special equipment and will give you some great views of the Tara Canyon: Mt Ćurevac and the circular trail from Podgora.

Mount Ćurevac

One of the most popular hikes to get views of Tara River Canyon is a short hike to Mount Ćurevac. It’s around 3km return and starts 8km outside of Žabljak. From the top you can see the Tara Canyon and Tara River in the distance.

GPS coordinates:  43.193896, 19.089645

Tara River Canyon Viewpoint

About 5km from Žabljak , there is a little-known Tara Canyon hike that starts from Podgora village. The 6.1km, circular route takes you to three viewpoints overlooking the Tara Canyon: Soa, Brojila and Tmorska Glavica. This is an easy hike and these are the best views of the canyon you’ll get on a hike.

To get there from Žabljak, take the road towards the Đurđevića Tara Bridge and take a left towards Podgora. The road is narrow and bumpy, but it is signposted. A billboard at the start point shows you the route and the trail is marked. Park in Podgora and follow the marked trail.

Address: Podgora, Montenegro

Tara River Canyon Weather

The weather in the Tara Canyon is relatively cool compared to the coast, so if you’re planning a trip here you’ll need to bring some warmer clothes.

The average daytime temperature in the hottest months (July and August) is only around 20°C (67°F), although it can get up to 40°C (100°F).

If you go rafting it’s a good idea to take some warmer layers (trousers, long sleeves and a jacket) to put on afterwards because it’s easy to get chilled on the river, especially if you go for a swim.

January: -6.5 – 0.6°C / 20.3 – 30.9°F February: -5.6 – 1.3°C / 21.9 – 34.3°F March: -3 – 4.9°C / 26.6 – 40.8°F April: 0.2 – 8.3°C / 31.6 – 46.9°F May: 4.1 – 13.5°C / 39.4 – 56.3°F June: 7.3 – 16.9°C / 45.1 – 62.4°F July: 9.3 – 19.7°C / 48.7 – 67.5°F August: 9 – 19.7°C / 48.2 – 67.5°F September: 6.5 – 16.5°C / 43.7 – 61.7°F October: 3.2 – 11.6°C / 37.8 – 52.9°F November: -1.1 – 5°C / 30 – 41°F December: -4.4 – 0.9°C / 24.1 – 33.6°F

How to Get to Tara River Canyon

The closest town is Žabljak and you can take rafting tours from there, but you can stay closer by staying in Šćepan Polje or somewhere like Rafting Camp Waterfall along the Piva River.

Kolašin the next closest suitable town to stay in. Kolašin is also close to Biogradska Gora National Park , so you can quite easily see both the national park and the bridge at the same time.

Žabljak to Đurđevića Tara Bridge: 23km (14mi) Kolašin to Đurđevića Tara Bridge: 68km (42mi) Podgorica to Đurđevića Tara Bridge: 138km (86mi) Kotor to Đurđevića Tara Bridge: 184km (114mi) Budva to Đurđevića Tara Bridge: 201km (125mi)

Related Articles

• Visiting the Black Lake in Montenegro's Durmitor National Park
• Đurđevića Tara Bridge: Tara Canyon Viewpoint and Zipline
• Žabljak, Gateway to Durmitor National Park
• Durmitor National Park, the Perfect Mountain Escape in Montenegro
• Best Places to See Stećci Medieval Tombstones in Žabljak

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The Magnificent Tara River Canyon

Welcome adventurers and explorers - to the magnificent Tara River Canyon, an unexplored gem of Europe! In the south of Europe, surrounded by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Albania, rests a charming little country called Montenegro, where Tara River emerges in all its glory. Even though its name means “Black mountain”, Montenegro’s mountains and nature are kaleidoscopical - the rivers and glacial lakes turning from blue to turquoise, the flowers of all colors covering the fields, the earthy textures of centuries-old houses splashed by the sun-kissed Adriatic sea, and between the green mountains and snow-white peaks of this country flows the crystal clear Tara, a diamond in the rough. Come with us on an exciting trip down the Tara River Gorge to see what else lies around the river bend!

Flowing through Montenegro and a part in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Tara River is a creation of two rivers in the Komovi mountains in Montenegro - Opasanica and Veruša. In some parts, the walls of the Tara Canyon are 1.333 m deep, making it the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon on the River Colorado, but the first canyon in regards to its beauty. Known as the “Tear of Europe”, the Tara River is 158 km long, has 14 different rivers flowing into it, 7 from each side and has 69 rapids on that path. Another interesting feature is the cascades. The loud noise of the cascades can be heard even in the upper parts of the canyon. There are over 40 cascades on the Tara river, the most important being Crna Vrela, Bijela Vrela, Djavolje Lazi, Sokolovina and Bijeli Kamen. The most important spring that flows into the Tara river is Bajlovica Sige waterfall, which crashes into Tara with 100 liters of water per second, falling from the Bucevica cave which is over 30 m high and an astonishing 150 m wide!

Tara river takes pride in being on the UNESCO’s list of protected areas in the “Man and Biosphere” program from 1977 because of its diverse flora and fauna! A lot of animals call Tara canyon their home, such as trouts, huchens, graylings and other types of fish, birds like hawks, eagles, capercaillies, griffon vultures etc, then bears, wolves, foxes, chamois, and the rarest of them all in these areas are otters swimming in the Tara river. In the valleys of the Tara Canyon, there are certain herbs and trees that date all the way back to the ice age. Forests are rich with oaks, ashes, birches, beeches, and black pine trees. Most of the year the water level is a class 3-4, only in the spring when the snow melts, and when there are heavy storms in a short period of time, the river is a class 5-. The average temperature of the water is 8° C, and it is drinkable throughout the whole stream.

The last 40 km of the river acts as a natural border between Montenegro and BiH. Not many people know that each rapid has a name, most exciting being Gornji Tepacki Buk, Donji Tepacki Buk, Borovi etc, and that most of them are grouped in the lower part of the river, which is why the lower part is the best for organizing outdoor activities, such as rafting and kayaking - the rapids speed up the river flow and the rides down that stretch are extremely adventurous! If one is standing on the Šćepan polje bridge, which is the custom border between Montenegro and BiH, he can hear the exciting screams and laughter of the rafters echoing off the canyon walls and see them riding the river downslope. It is near the border where Tara and Piva rivers join hands and create Drina river.

Tara Canyon Bridge - Djurdjevica Tara bridge

About 30 min of driving from Žabljak, the Djurdjevica Tara bridge stands gloriously 172 m above the Tara river. Built from 1938 to 1940 and designed by prof. Mijat Trojanović, this picture perfect bridge connects two sides of the Tara Canyon with a 365 m long road between the villages Budečevica and Trešnica in the northern part of Montenegro. It becomes obvious that Djurdjevica Tara was built 80 years ago once you start crossing from one side to the other - the road is not too wide, but it is the most important connection in that area. In that time, the Djurdjevica Tara bridge was considered the most beautiful bridge in the Balkans - so beautiful that, according to one of the legends, it is believed the fairies helped build the bridge.

Two world records were broken by Djurdjevica Tara, and still holds one to this very day - the first record is that never before has a bridge had an arch 116 m long, making it the leading pioneer in that time and the second record, which will most likely not be beaten due to the advancement in technology, is that the wooden scaffoldings, which were necessary in order to build the bridge, have cost 40% of the total budget for the building. Tourists come to see the bridge, enjoy the view, to go hiking on the hills of the canyon and to enroll on an exciting zipline tour at the Tara Canyon bridge. The bright green nature around the bridge puts the construction on the “Must-visit in Montenegro” list!

Historical fact: Did you know that the bridge was blown up during the war, just two years after it was finished?! In the beginning of 1942, the Italians and the chethnics were moving their forces towards Durmitor , where the partisans were based. In order to stop them from penetrating the area, it was ordered by commander Tito (who later became the president of Yugoslavia) to blow up the bridge, but in such manner that it can be easily restored after the war. One of the engineers during the built, Lazar Jauković, was chosen for that task, and on the 6th of May, 1942 he blew up the smallest arch on the left river bank with explosives. The same engineer was caught by the chethnics three months later and shot at the bridge. Once the war was over, the bridge was restored from 1945 to 1946 back to its previous state and a monument dedicated to Lazar Jauković was built near the bridge, in memory of the brave engineer.

It is interesting that there is still a veil of mystery involving these events after some rumors started circling in the post-war period. Legend has it that because he was assigned to blow up the bridge, the real creator of the Djurdjevica Tara bridge was Jauković instead of Mijat Trojanović, and allegedly Trojanović, out of respect towards Jauković, never claimed that it wasn’t true. This is how eng. Lazar Jauković is known as the “creator who was forced to destroy his most precious masterpiece”.

Tara Canyon activities

The north of Montenegro has the perfect setting for organizing outdoor activities. Being out in the nature and engaging in such trips is very healthy, available for adults and for children, as well, and, most importantly, it is fun to do them with family, old friends and some new friends that you have just met on the tour. The fresh air, the breeze in your hair and splash of the river water will keep you on your toes and your adrenaline pumped up! You can choose from a wide spectrum of different activities - rafting and kayaking on the Tara river, horse riding, hiking on Durmitor and Maglić, or doing a jeep safari tour in the Durmitor area, ziplining at the Djurdjevica Tara bridge or Piva lake cruising, canyoning in Canyon Nevidio near Žabljak,... the possibilities are endless! Like all sports, outdoor activities will fill you up with energy and you will return home as a new person. If you are looking for things to do in Montenegro, here are some of the most popular activities in the Tara Canyon area that you could join:

Tara River Rafting

Rafting is an activity done on fast rivers, in rafts (small inflatable boats). Each raft can take up to 9 people - 8 rafters and one rafting guide. On Tara, you can raft from the upper part or from the lower part of the river. The most exciting part is the lower part, the last 40 km - on that stretch there are more rapids and the speed of the tour can come up to 30 km/h. The season runs from the beginning of April, when the water level is a class 5- and the activity is more for the adventurous souls, throughout the entire summer, with water level gradually decreasing to class 4 and class 3 later on, making the tour fantastic for families with young children, and ending in October. Rafting is suitable for children above the age of 4 (for such young children only from the month of June) and there is no upper age limit. Depending on the water level, the rafting in the lower part usually lasts between 3 and 5 hours. Earlier in the season it takes less time to cross the same distance, because the river is faster and rafting trips later on in the season take longer - so, the higher the water level, the less time it will take for you to get from the start point to the end point and vice versa. The temperatures in these areas can be around 20-25° C in the beginning of the season (in May), and up to 40° C in the summer months. However, keep in mind that this is the mountain area - the weather changes quite quickly, nights are quite chilly, as well, so make sure to bring light clothes, as well as warm clothes. Swimming suits are a must! Water temperature is mostly around 8° C and in the summer it goes up to 13° C max. All participants get neoprene suits and boots to keep their body temperature high in the cold water. 

The tax for the entrance to the Regional park Piva is 5 € per person. During the activity, you will be overcoming the rapids with the water splashing you, paddling down the river while enjoying the magnificent view of the Tara Gorge, with some swimming and taking pictures during the breaks. You will in safe hands of professional rafting guides with IRF licenses. Rafting tour down Tara river can easily be combined with other tours, such as hiking on Durmitor, Maglić or Zelengora, because of the close proximity of those locations. It is worth mentioning that Tara river was the host of the World Rafting Championship in 2009 and that TaraSport and TaraSport’s team leader, Igor Papović, was one of the organizers and hosts of this exciting event. So, come and flow down the same path as the champions did one decade ago - Tara river awaits for you!

Zip lining at Djurdjevica Tara bridge and Piva Lake

Fly over the Tara Canyon from one canyon wall onto the other! Zip lining was originally used in remote areas, for helping people cross a certain path faster or as an only solution for overcoming natural obstacles. Nowadays zip linings are quite popular and people book this activity for fun. Built in 2013, the cord on the Djurdjevica Tara bridge starts from the left side of the canyon, 800 m above ground and ends on the right canyon wall 50 m lower. The speed of the participant doing the zip lining hits up to 50 km/h, and the best feature is that two people can ride the zip line at the same time. The length of the double cord is 700 m, a thrilling experience, with the most beautiful river under you and the clear blue sky overlooking your slide. Another exciting cord is above Lake Piva, opened for visitors in 2018. The zip lining in Plužine is 1,4 km long, making it the longest zip cord in Montenegro! This tour contains of two rides, with a pit stop on the rocks on the edge of the lake. So, depending on if you would like to do a quick slide above Tara or a two-part glide over the Piva Lake - the choice is yours!

Hiking on the Tara Canyon

“The best view comes after the hardest climb” says the quote that absolutely applies to any of the hiking tours in our broad offer. These areas have the most magical routes that you will ever have the chance to overcome. Mountaineering is available for all - young and young-spirited, the ones who see hiking as a challenge and the ones who see it as an enjoyable walk, for families and experienced climbers… Pick the pace that is the best for you - easy, moderate or challenging. All hiking and trekking guides have licenses from the PSRS and the PSBiH, certified by UIAA. For hiking, make sure to bring your hiking shoes (for challenging tours wear hiking boots), active clothes, windproof jackets, caps to shield you from the sun, backpacks and hiking poles. For winter hiking, it is necessary to bring hiking boots, crampons and ice-axes, gloves, warm hats, and layers and layers of clothes, but make sure not to wear materials such as cotton, viscose, modal and similar, because they take too long to dry.

Tara Canyon and Durmitor area are very popular for organizing hiking tours. Apart from seeing the views of the Tara river in the bottom of the canyon, it is worth visiting old villages of Montenegro during the hike, in which there are still old houses preserved, the so-called “savadake” houses and watermills and katuns scattered next to Durmitor’s brooks. The hiking tour on Tara Canyon, which also includes a jeep safari tour, takes you to some of those villages - Meštrevac, Zavait and Čelebiće. Tara Canyon cuts through four mountain areas, with Durmitor being the one with the most admirable features. Many people book tours to this National park to visit the sightseeing platforms called Sedlo and Curevac, then Trsa area, Canyon Sušice,... Having over 48 peaks higher than 2000 m, Durmitor is the home of the highest peak in Montenegro, as well. Bobotov Kuk is 2523 m high, and is one of the most popular for hikers, next to the hiking tour on Savin Kuk and the tours in search for glacial lakes. Known as “mountain eyes”, there are up to 20 glacial lakes in this area, one of them being Black Lake in the bottom of Medvedja mountain. It is interesting that some lakes appear only when the snow melts and then vanish after the summer period.

Two more mountain areas lean on Durmitor’s shoulder - Maglić and Zelengora. Maglić is the name of the mountain, but also the name of the highest peak in BiH, located in a triangle between Maglić, Durmitor and old Herzegovina. The peak is 2386 m high. Zelengora (meaning Green mountain) is a part of the National park Sutjeska, and its name does reflect its appearance - rich with vegetation, glacial lakes, a lot of springs with drinking water and diverse animal life, it is adequate for families with children to come and visit for a daily hiking field-trip. The highest peak is Bregoc and in this area rests the lovely Lake Orlovacko. Other than hiking tours, cycling tours are often organized on Zelengora, as well. In between these mountains, lies the romantic Lake Trnovačko. Shaped like a heart, the lake is a popular spot for campers with tents and hikers. Water temperature during the summer is 20° C, which means that it is great for taking a swim and spending a whole day there just enjoying the view and the sun. Another hidden attraction is the Skakavac waterfall, loudly stumbling over 80 m down with a misty splash. Skakavac waterfall is located in the area called Perućica, which is the only rainforest in Europe! Sounds appealing, doesn’t it - care for a walk?

How to get to the Tara Canyon?

Happiness is multiplied when divided, and that is why we invite you to join us in our Tara Canyon expeditions! Are you tempted by this gem of nature? Do you dare to chase after the wild spirit of the Tara Canyon? Come with us and explore the old villages of Montenegro, conquer the highest peaks, take a dip in the shiny lakes between the mountains, and let's say “panta rhei” together while standing in the Tara River!

Tara Canyon

In the Tara canyon you can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, hiking, zip line on the Đurđevica bridge and much more! However, the activity that stands out in particular is definitely rafting on the untamed Tara River!

Quick overview:

Top activities.

• Paragliding
• Fly fishing
• Horse riding

Canyon length:

1,333 m (second deepest in the world)

The magic of sailing over the Tears of Europe Rapids - the Tara river

Drifting through Tears of Europe Rapids is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, as you sweep through the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world.

The River Tara, which flows partly through the Durmitor National Park, is graced by the imposing Đurđevića Bridge, which provides a unique experience.

Natural wonders of Europe's deepest canyon

The Tara River has molded the limestone through which it has run for centuries, resulting in a magnificent canyon marked by steep gorges, massive boulders, and gaping crevices! The shores are steep, and the area is densely forested. Trees over 50 meters tall and over 450 years old can be seen in the Crna Poda complex, a rare, primeval black pine forest.

Your dream adventure on fierce rapids

You won't know what a true adventure is till you sip the clear water of Tara and raft down its freezing rapids. Tara offers special pleasures - rafting and kayaking. The rafting season runs from April to October, and the best time to go rafting is during the spring snowmelt, when the rapids are at their wildest. A rapids tour could contain up to two hours of endless thrills. 

While Rafting can happen on modern rubber boats, an excursion on one of the traditional wooden rafts, helmed by the incredibly skilled workers who used to transport lumber in this way, will be positively unforgettable. 

Imagine the literally breathtaking stunt that the zip line from Đurđevića Bridge provides! Prepare to witness an incomparable panorama as you soar at an altitude of nearly 150 meters above the plunging canyon gorge!

Kayakers will find Devil's Lazi Gorge to be a special challenge

The Devil's Lazi Gorge is located beneath the Crna Poda rainforest, near the Tara River canyon's entrance. Nature has shrunk the channel of Europe's most beautiful river to just 2 to 3 meters here. If you enjoy untamed beauty and adventurous kayaking, this section of the canyon is a great challenge for you!

Hike in the Tara canyon in search of the best viewpoint

All you have to do now is pick a trail and pace that suits you, and remember to wear appropriate footwear!

The most interesting activities

Adventure rafting.

Apart from being Europe's cleanest river, the Tara River is one of the world's top three most attractive rafting rivers!

Adventure Kayaking

Unleash your adventurous spirit in a unique way - by kayaking. Explore the beaches of the sea and rivers, the backwaters, the caves, and the wildlife that surrounds them.

Adventure Zipline

Are you up for flying 150 meters above the spectacular Tara Canyon? Or perhaps you'd prefer to embark on this adventure above a lake, such as Pivsko Lake? Try the zipline above Boka (Bay of Kotor), on the famous Njeguši, or perhaps above Budva. Find good company to adventure with and make this an unforgettable experience!

Adventure Hiking & Trekking

The National Geographic Traveler magazine spotlighted one trail and included it among the world’s best hiking destinations - the Via Dinarica!

Adventure Horse riding

Enjoy the ride through picturesque mountainous areas like Pavino Polje and meet your hosts. Perhaps the road will lead you to Ada Bojana.

Special offers

Wild montenegro, from 1880 €, np durmitor in one day, hidden gem: day tour to piva nature park, discover the wild beauty of north montenegro, horseback riding - touring sinjajevina and zabojsko lake., horse riding - durmitor (lake plateau), rafting the tara river canyon in 1 day, five-day expedition in the tara canyon, one-day rafting adventure, blacklake - montenegro xtreme triathlon.

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Tara River Canyon

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• (0.03 mi) Motel Tara MB
• (0.06 mi) Tara Bridge Guesthouse
• (0.23 mi) Rafting Rooms Tara
• (0.07 mi) Country House Djurjevica Tara
• (0.04 mi) Most
• (9.14 mi) Hotel Soa Restaurant
• (8.69 mi) Restaurant Oro
• (8.74 mi) Konoba Luna
• (8.58 mi) Dvorište
• (0.03 mi) Tara Kula Raft
• (0.04 mi) Tara Bridge
• (0.22 mi) RedRock Zipline
• (0.23 mi) Zip Line Montenegro
• (0.41 mi) Kamp Klijajevica Luka

Tara Canyon In Montenegro A Complete Guide

Known as the Teardrop of Europe because of the vibrant blue river that cuts through the deepest canyon, Tara Canyon, in Europe in Dormitory National Park is the Tara River. This unique gem of Montenegro is made up from two glacial rivers Opasanica and Veruša. There are actually 14 rives that flow into it, and has 69 rapids along the 158km length that are great for rafting, a plethora of hiking trails atop high mountains, to waterfalls and old villages, skiing, and even sun bathing on a beach. I didn't know what to expect when visiting Tara Canyon in October 2022, but once we arrived it really seemed to be an outdoor enthusiasts paradise. 

Durmitor National Park 

Durmitor National Park is a UNESO World Heritage Site with trout, huchens, graylings, hawks, eagles, capercaillies, griffon vultures, bears, wolves, foxes, chamois and many other animals, flora and fauna. You will see oaks, birches, beeches, black pine with beautiful fall colors that shine in brilliant complimentary colors of orange and yellows to the blue river. 

The Durmitor National Park covers 79,000 acres, has 48 separate peaks, 18 different glacial lakes, three canyons (Draa, Susica, and Tara). There are 5 main peaks in Durmitor you can hike up but strongly encourage you to get a mountaineering guide (which are incredibly affordable). 

• Bobotov Kuk 8,274 ft (2,522 m)
• Bezimeni vrh 8,159 ft (2,457 m)
• Sljeme 8,054 ft (2,455 m)
• Istocni vrh Sljemena 8,022 ft (2,445 m)
• Soa / Devojka 8,005 ft (2,439 m)

To enter the park it does cost a few Euros (3-5) per vehicle, so make sure to bring some small coins for the entrance fee. 

Getting To Tara Bridge

My friends and I had rented a car and were driving from Drevengrad Serbia, to Tara Bridge to see the canyon on our way to Plav Lake. The roads were a hit and miss, but the worst condition of the roads were gravel roads with a few pot holes to dodge along the way. We downloaded a map of the area into Google Maps onto our phones (to be able to use offline) and found it relatively easy to find our way there - even for a directionally challenged person, lol. 

Tara Canyon is located at the junction of Mojkovac, Pljevlja and Žabljak in Dormitor National Park. You can find a bus from Bozur from Kotor to the nearby city of Žabljak but then you will have quite a ways to walk to get to the bridge and viewpoints. What I suggest is to take a tour to Tara Canyon and do some white water rafting if you are there in the spring or summer. 

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Things To Do At Tara Canyon

There are so many more things to do in Tara Canyon and along Tara River than you would realize (I do a lot of research before my trips and I had no idea). So here are all the things you can do that I missed, and will certainly be going back to Montenegro to experience. 

• Lay on the Tara river beach, enjoy soaking in the cool waters and sunbathing. It is free to enter the beach, there is a lifeguard, and you can camp right near the beach. You will just pay for the beach chairs, umbrellas and food and drink. There is also a volleyball court, a mini bar, bathrooms, and a place to build a fire (but I would certainly make sure you have S'mores to roast ;) 
• Zip Lining Tara Canyon at Tara Bridge is a wild ride across 3,444 ft (1,050 m) of the canyon reaching speeds up to 74 mph (120kph). It is the largest Zipline in Europe. The Zipline is open from May to November, takes about 30 minutes to get suited up and cross. Age limit is 3 or older, and costs about 20-30 Euros (depending on the time of year). I didn't see a weight limit on this particular zip line. 
• Tara Canyon Rafting down the exciting upper to lower river with speeds up to 18 mph (30kmh) in class 5 rapids at its peak, and class 3-4 in the fall months. In total rafting this part takes about 3-5 hours, minimum age of 4 years old, with neoprene suits and boots required because of the glacial river temps of 46-55 F (8-13 C). 
• Hiking in the area is a must for the spectacular views, but I would stay on the trails or hire a mountaineering guide if you don't want to stay on trail as there are still landmines throughout the Balkans that haven't been discovered yet (hopefully you won't discover any either). Hiking here can happen year round, with the appropriate gear. Depending on the trail you can see old villages (savadake homes), watermills, and sightseeing platforms of Sedlo, Curevac, Trsa, and Canyon Sušice. Take a mountaineering guide to some of the highest peaks like the popular Bobotov Kuk 7,628 ft (2325 m). There are 20 glacial lakes to hike to here, with the most popular being Black Lake. 
• Skiing & Snowboarding can happen in Durmitor 120 days a year at Savin kuk, Štuoc and Javorovača.

Best Views Of Tara Canyon

There are several stunning viewpoints of Tara Canyon, but some of them are not so obvious or easy to get to. 

For the easiest, quickest, and most convenient way to see Tara Canyon to tick it off your bucket list - head to Tara Bridge. There are parking lots with plenty of parking (even for small camper vans) with easy access to the bridge. 

For the viewpoint of Tara Canyon with a unique perspective, get a white water rafting trip and view the beautiful river up close and the tall cliffs from down below. 

For the shortest hike with three different viewpoints, you will want to head to the small village of Podgora. There is a 3.79 mile (6 km) hike with the three viewpoints named Soa, Brojila and Tmorska Glavica. Locals rate the hike as easy, but in the Balkans remember to stay on the trails because of landmines and also talk loudly or sing as there are bears in the area as well. 

Ćurevac is an alternate short hike atop a mountain but did warn it can get slippery on the rocks and roots if it has rained, however no reported exposed spots. This hike can be pretty exposed honestly, so bring hiking poles, proper shoes, and stay clear of the edge be about a foot as there are quite a few rocks that could give way. 

Tara Bridge

The Đurđevića Tara Bridge, which was designed by engineer Mijat Trojanović, was built between 1937 and 1940 by Mijat Trojanović. It is 1,198 ft (365 m) long with five arches with an impressive 381 ft (116 m) being the largest. The bridge soars 564 ft (172 m) above the Tara river, and is the largest vehicle arch bridge in Europe, and makes for a great place to view the beautiful river below. Just be careful when you walk on the bridge as it is a busy motorway. 

The bridge cost about 40% of what it was expected to, but was blown up a mere 2 years after it was built. It was rebuilt in 1946 , and was used in the 1978 film Force 10 from Navarone from WWII, as well as the film The Bridge, which was about the former Yugoslavia that bombed the bridge. The bridge itself is named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

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Is Tara canyon worth visiting?

If you are just stopping by to take a picture, it definitely is a sight to see - however I wouldn't make a special trip if that is the only thing you plan on doing. If, however, you plan on camping, rafting, spending some time exploring etc... then ABSOLUTELY I think Tara Canyon is worth visiting. I am still kicking myself for not allotting more time to go on a few hikes here to get to see the flora and fauna up close. 

The Durmitor mountains are incredibly beautiful, the river is clean (rare it seems in todays world), I wanted to see the Crna Poda Forest and the Baylovich Sige waterfall - but again, didn't have enough time. If you decide to visit, I do think Tara Canyon is worth visiting, but definitely allow yourself at least two or three days to properly explore the area. 

My Takeaway of Tara Canyon

I thought seeing Tara Canyon from the bridge was really impressive, a quick stop, with miles and miles of wilderness unspoiled by hotels or deforestation. It is worth at least a stop to see the beautiful river, especially if you go on a day where the river is clear. Just as a warning, if you go after a rainstorm, the river will be quite muddy and not the pretty blue like you see in many photos. I wish I had the Euros to do the Zipline, it looked amazing, and what a story to tell about ziplining across the deepest canyon in Europe. 

Let me know in the comments below if you are visiting, or if you have been there and would suggest any other activities or tidbits. 

Safe travels friends. 

Guided Tours of Tara Canyon

Like it pin it for later sharing is caring ;).

Where to stay Near Tara Canyon

The best place to stay is in Zabljak, if you look closely in the area, there are some first come first serve cabins available to utilize, you can pay in Euros and they have warm bedding and hot showers available. If you want more traditional hotel stays, then search below :) This map will provide the best results from several different booking sites and compare the prices all in one easy place. 

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Tara River Canyon

Tara River Canyon is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in Montenegro. With its deep gorges, towering peaks, and majestic views, it’s no wonder that Tara River Canyon is one of the country’s most sought-after tourist destinations.

It’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, you’ll find it in Tara River Canyon. Read on to learn more about this incredible destination and the many reasons you should visit.

Reasons to Visit Tara River Canyon

Tara River Canyon is a breathtaking destination with something for everyone.

Here are some of the best reasons to visit:

Stunning Views: The views of Tara River Canyon are simply breathtaking. The canyon’s steep walls are lined with lush vegetation, while the river itself winds its way through the canyon’s depths. It’s an awe-inspiring sight that’s worth the visit alone.

Outdoor Adventures: Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner, Tara River Canyon has something for you. From climbing and hiking to rafting and kayaking, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained.

If interested in the outdoors, make sure you also visit the black lake also in the Durmitor National Park .

Unique Wildlife: Tara River Canyon is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including rare birds, mountain goats, foxes, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out for these unique creatures as you explore the canyon.

How do I get to Tara River Canyon?

The Tara River Canyon is located in Montenegro, in the Durmitor National Park . It is the deepest canyon in Europe and is part of the Tara River, which flows through the canyon.

To get to Tara River from Podgorica , Kotor or Tivat , start by taking the E65 highway east. This highway will connect you to the E762 highway, which will take you through Durmitor National Park . A

After passing through the National Park, continue on the E762 until you reach Pluzine. Once in Pluzine, take the M2 south until you reach the small town of Scepan Polje. From Scepan Polje, take the M6 south until you reach the village of Tepca. Once in Tepca, take the M17 south until you reach the town of Scepan Polje. From here, you will be able to see the canyon.

To get to the Tara River from Podgorica using public transport, first take a bus to Žabljak from the Podgorica bus station. There are several buses throughout the day and the journey takes around 3 hours. Once you arrive in Žabljak, you can take a taxi to the entrance of the canyon which is only a 15 minute drive away. Alternatively, you can take the bus from Žabljak to the entrance of the canyon which is a 45 minute journey. From the entrance, you can explore the canyon on foot or you can rent a bike, canoe or kayak to explore the canyon further.

Activities to Do at Tara River Canyon

Tara River Canyon has something for everyone.

Here are some of the most popular activities you can do while visiting:

For experienced climbers, Tara River Canyon offers some of the best climbing opportunities in all of Montenegro. The canyon’s steep walls provide challenging routes and incredible views.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to explore the canyon, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from. Whether you’re looking to explore the canyon’s depths or take in the stunning views from the top, you won’t be disappointed.

For those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, there’s nothing quite like rafting down the Tara River. The river’s swift currents provide a thrilling ride, while the stunning canyon walls provide a beautiful backdrop.

As you paddle down the river, you’ll take in breathtaking views of the towering canyon walls, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. At times, you’ll experience thrilling rapids as your raft navigates its way through the canyon’s white water. The rapids are sure to get your heart racing and provide a thrilling ride.

Amazing tours are run by Divlja Rijeka which covers all sorts of rafting activities.

For a more peaceful experience, you can also explore the canyon via kayak. Paddle through the canyon’s depths and take in the stunning beauty of this incredible destination.

Zipline at Tara River

If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, then the zip line near the Tara River Canyon in Montenegro is the perfect choice for you. Located in the Durmitor National Park , the zip line is about 1,400 meters long, making it the longest zip line in Europe and one of the longest in the world. You’ll be soaring through pristine nature at a height of up to 500 meters, giving you a breathtaking view of the canyon below. The zip line ride takes around 15 minutes, and the experienced guides will make sure your safety and comfort are always the top priority. As you soar through the air you’ll be able to spot the canyon’s dramatic cliffs, lush forests and the beautiful Tara River below.

Once you reach the end, you’ll land in the village of Scepan Polje, where you can take a break before returning to the start. This exhilarating experience is perfect for thrill-seekers and is a great way to explore the stunning setting. So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure, then the zip line near the Tara River in Montenegro is a must-do.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, then Tarasport (e-mail [email protected] ) has you covered.

Bungee jumping at Tara River

Not one for the faint-hearted. The experience begins with a breathtaking drive through the winding roads of the surrounding mountains and a cable car ride to the top of the canyon. From here, you’ll take a short walk to the Tara bridge where the bungee jumping takes place.

The bridge is suspended 160 meters above the Tara River and stretches 160 meters across the canyon. When you’re ready, you’ll be secured in a harness and led to the edge of the bridge. With your heart racing, you’ll take a leap of faith as you plunge into the depths of the canyon.

The bungee jump lasts for around 1-2 minutes and you can enjoy the incredible views of the canyon and the Tara River below as you fall. Once your bungee jump is complete, you’ll be safely lowered back to the bridge and you’ll be able to take some incredible photos of your experience. Bungee jumping near the Tara River Canyon is an experience of a lifetime and is the perfect way to end a Montenegro adventure.

Accommodation at Tara River Canyon

Tara River Canyon has plenty of accommodation options to suit any budget and preference.

For those looking to get back to nature, camping is a great way to experience Tara River Canyon. There are plenty of campsites located along the canyon’s walls, each providing stunning views and easy access to the many outdoor activities the canyon has to offer.

Rafting Camp Green Tara is an ideal accommodation for outdoor adventurers. Located in a secluded area near the Tara River, the camp offers a range of comfortable accommodation options, including tents, cabins, and chalets. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the river, while being close to the best whitewater rafting spots in the region. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the camp facilities are clean and well-maintained.

Guest Houses

For those looking for a bit more luxury, there are plenty of guest houses located near the canyon. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you’ll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.

We recommend B&B Konak – At B&B Konak, each room comes with a patio with a lake view. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, an electric tea pot, a shower, a hairdryer and a desk. The bed and breakfast offers certain units that feature a balcony, and the rooms are equipped with a private bathroom and a closet. All guest rooms come with a seating area.

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suited for the terrain.

2. Bring plenty of water and some snacks to keep your energy levels up.

3. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the canyon.

4. Don’t attempt to explore the canyon alone – it’s safer to do so in a group.

5. Pay attention to the weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly to avoid being caught in a storm.

If you are interested in the outdoors, make sure you also visit Skadar Lake – one of the highlights of any trip to Montenegro.

Tara River Canyon is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. From stunning views and outdoor adventures to unique wildlife and plenty of accommodation options, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a thrilling adventure, you’ll find it in Tara River Canyon .

• What is Tara River Canyon? Tara River Canyon is a natural wonder located in Montenegro, known for its deep gorges, towering peaks, and breathtaking views. It is the deepest canyon in Europe and is part of the Tara River, which flows through the canyon.
• What activities can I do at Tara River Canyon? There are plenty of outdoor activities to do at Tara River, such as hiking , climbing, rafting, kayaking, ziplining, and bungee jumping.
• How do I get to Tara River Canyon? Tara River is located in the Durmitor National Park in Montenegro. The easiest way to get there is by car, but there are also bus services available from major cities such as Podgorica , Kotor , and Tivat . Once you reach the town of Scepan Polje, you can explore the canyon on foot or rent a bike, canoe, or kayak to explore the canyon further.
• What is the best time to visit Tara River Canyon? The best time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. However, the canyon is also beautiful during the spring and fall, when the foliage is changing colors.
• What is the best way to explore Tara River Canyon? The best way to explore is by taking part in outdoor activities, such as hiking, climbing, rafting, kayaking, ziplining, and bungee jumping. You can also explore the canyon on foot, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suited for the terrain.

Gareth Popovic

Hi there, my name is Gareth Popovic. I was born and raised in the suburbs of Brisbane, Australia, but my passion for the great outdoors led me to Montenegro. Now, I call the charming town of Niksic my home. I spend my days exploring the rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters of this stunning region. From hiking and rock climbing to swimming and kayaking, there's always an adventure to be had.

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Tara Canyon

Top choice in Durmitor National Park

Slicing through the mountains at the northern edge of the national park, the Tara River forms a canyon that is 1300m deep at its peak (the Grand Canyon plummets a mere 200m deeper). The best views are from the water, and rafting along the river is one of the country's most popular tourist activities. If you’d rather admire the canyon from afar, head to the top of Mt Ćurevac (1625m) – although even this view is restricted by the canyon walls.

The viewpoint isn't well signposted and can be difficult to find. From central Žabljak, take the road north and follow the signs marked 'Panoramic Road 2'. Leave this route at the fork to the right marked 'Tepca'. Eventually there are some small wooden signs pointing to Ćurevac or vidikovac (viewpoint). Stop at the grassy parking spot opposite the drink stall and clamber up the small track behind.

Suggest an edit to this attraction

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Eighteen glittering glacial lakes known as gorske oči (mountain eyes) dot the Durmitor range. The spectacular Black Lake, a pleasant 3km walk from Žabljak…

Stećci Sites

These mysterious carved stone tomb monuments – dating from between the 12th and 16th centuries – can be found across northern Montenegro and neighbouring…

Tara Bridge

10.84 MILES

The elegant spans of the 150m-high Tara Bridge were completed just as WWII was starting. At the time it was the largest concrete arched vehicular bridge…

Dobrilovina Monastery

19.47 MILES

Near the eastern boundary of the national park, 28km from Mojkovac, this monastery has an idyllic setting in lush fields hemmed in by the mountains and…

Nearby Durmitor National Park attractions

1 . Black Lake

2 . Stećci Sites

3 . Tara Bridge

4 . Dobrilovina Monastery

• Travel guide to Tara River Canyon in Montenegro

Tours and activities in Tara Canyon

Author –

Jonathan Howe

Tara river canyon  or  Tara River Gorge  is a spectacular canyon that represents a world-protected heritage (proclaimed by UNESCO) and stretches through the territory of Durmitor National Park. It is the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world – the first one is the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River. The canyon is seventy-eight km long, and the height of its rocks reaches as much as one thousand three hundred meters! In this  Travel Guide to Tara River Canyon , we will explain why you should not miss its research during your  stay in Montenegro .

Table of Contents

Canyoning Tara River and canyoning tours: This article is about the Tara Canyon and the types of activities available on the Tara River. This isn’t an article about canyoning tours, tara canyoning. Canyoning, often known as gorge-walking, is an exhilarating outdoor activity that combines elements of mountaineering and water sports. Participants traverse through canyons or gorges using a variety of techniques such as swimming, climbing, rappelling, sliding, and jumping. These undulating natural playgrounds offer a unique setting to engage with nature, pushing the boundaries of adventure and exploration, making canyoning an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Canyoning in Montenegro usually takes place in the Nevidio canyon, Rikavac canyon and several others, due to their smaller size and natural pools that make them suitable for this adventure sport. Tara River Canyon is very large and wide with a fast-flowing river, making it much more suitable for Tara Canyon raft tours, or white water rafting!

Find  apartments for rent in Montenegro  here. Are you looking for the  best destinations for digital nomads in Montenegro?  Then read this article –  Discover the Best Places for Digital Nomads in Montenegro

If you are interested in longer-term solutions to relocating to Montenegro, visit the following pages:

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The fascinating ecosystem of Montenegro’s  Tara River

Two smaller rivers, Opasanica and Varuša, that spring at the foot of Mount Komovi, form the  Tara River . It flows for 150 km through Montenegro until Šćepan Polje, on the border with Bosnia, where it meets river Piva forming the Drina river. The Basin of river Tara is a space between mountains Komovi, Bjelasica, and Ljubišnja from one, and Durmitor and Sinjajevina mountains from the other side. In the wilderness surrounding the Tara River Canyon, numerous species had found their home. Ash and oak form forests around the canyon and drinking water is a habitat for fish such as wild trout, graylings, and huchens. In addition to many deciduous species, in the Tara basin, we find black pine. The most exciting specimens are rooted in the rocks of the canyon directly and lean over the abyss. This area is no less important for large animals such as bears, boars, wolves, foxes, eagles, and vultures.

Explore the Tara River by White-water rafting and Zip Line!

Adventure and outdoor activities

With its 14 tributaries and 70 rapids, Tara River is a popular rafting destination in Montenegro. The most exciting and challenging rapids are Celije, Varda, Borovi, and Vjernovica Buk. The rafting experience’s most extraordinary charm is the river’s variability depending on the season and weather conditions. Each tour is a unique experience due to the changes in the surrounding nature and the water itself. This great whitewater adventure is suitable for adrenaline junkies or a family, or a group of friends looking for the best way to spend their holiday. In the spring, the Tara River usually has class 4 rapids, while in the summer and fall months, it is usually class 3+ rapids.

The more trained adventurists for this activity they prefer the beginning of spring. Unlike other tourist offers in Montenegro, the rafting season is quite long – from April to the end of October. All the way, you are provided with drinking water, and the environment provides you with fantastic video and photography opportunities. If you are here at the right time of the year, look for the swimming holes and jumping off spots along the way. 

Perhaps an even more exciting activity you can practice on Tara is whitewater kayaking. With adequate equipment and guidance, more experienced kayakers can experience this beauty among the rivers in the best way. Those who have never tried it can take a course and discover their hidden talent in quieter areas of the river. Every September, the Kayak fest is organized in the “Grab” camp on the Tara coast, and it welcomes nature lovers worldwide. Skilled kayakers participate in competitions, and beginners can try out with the help of experienced instructors.

The legendary bridge over the Tara River , Montenegro

At an altitude of 172 m above the river, this bridge simultaneously awakens a sense of excitement, fear, and fascination. It is 350 m long and wide enough for a bus and a car to barely pass. Its sidewalks are about half a meter wide.

Only a few years before the start of WW2, Montenegrins built a bridge on Đurđevića Tara. This engineering pride is impressive not only for its dimensions but also for its unusual story. At the time of construction, this bridge broke two world records – the first for the span of one of its five arches (116m) and the second for the scaffolding’s value, whose price was 40% of the total cost of the bridge itself. People have invented many legends about the bridge’s origin, such as about the fairies that made the bridge’s construction possible. However, the real truth is more interesting than any legend. 

Construction of the bridge began on the eve of ww2 when the authorities developed Yugoslavia’s kingdom’s low traffic network. Until then, the Tara River’s two banks were connected at this point by a wooden bridge. The combined forces of engineering minds and brave constructors bore fruit and completed the new bridge in 1940. Due to the impending evil of war, it was never officially opened. 

During 1942, Italian forces penetrated the partisan-controlled zone. The then leader of the Yugoslav partisans, and the future president of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Tito, used his favorite war tactics – tearing down bridges and disrupting enemy incursions. But in such a way that it can be quickly restored later. Lazar Jauković, who participated in the bridge’s construction (chief architect Mijat Trojanovic was already in the concentration camp), was given this particular task. At dawn on May 6, 1942, he demolished the bridge’s smallest arch by blasting, thus interrupting this important road communication. Because of his act, the Italian soldiers shot Jauković near the bridge, and there is a bust of him as a memorial to Lazar’s heroism. The bridge was later rebuilt but not in an authentic way. Today, the rear arch does not exist, and this part of the bridge is significantly different from the rest – which is perhaps a good reminder of this war story.

The Tara River , the so-called “tear of Europe,” was nicknamed for its purity. Today, however, that meaning is literalized because of the many dangers that threaten this natural treasure. The irresponsible and insensitive behaviour of profiteering associations and similar individuals disrupts the river’s purity and natural perfection, not thinking of future generations. Builders of current transport infrastructures and representatives of energy lobbies do not give up on destroying entire ecosystems that depend on this river for personal interests. To love something, we have to explore and get to know it as well. Only then will we realize its importance and preserve it. We’ve created the short  Travel Guide to Tara River Canyon  to inspire you to indulge in nature and fall in love with this river.

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Tara River Canyon

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TARA RIVER CANYON: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Found on the northern edge Durmitor National Park, the Tara Canyon cuts deep into the landscape, with its deepest point being only 200m less than the Grand Canyon.

The Tara River flows through the base of the canyon and you can explore the waters by rafting or kayaking. Cycle along the river or admire the views from the top of Mount Curevac. The impressive bridge across the valley is also worth visiting.

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Tara River Canyon – The World’s Second Largest Canyon

In the setting of incredible cascades, below the depth of more than 1290 meters at some points, there is a wonderful river that is unique all around the world. Tara River flows just among four huge mountains. Also, extortionary Tara River Canyon is a resort for many travelers and nature lovers every year. Like a cut wrinkle between mountain tops, the crystalline water mountain waterway streams and makes magnificent scenes in the Durmitor National Park. If you are lucky, you will see flocks of sheep or goats in the forests or meadows. 

Where Is the Tara River Canyon?

The canyon is around 80 kilometers long, and however, most of it is based in Montenegro , with several parts running around the border of Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Tara Waterway runs through this long canyon, which comes to profundities of 1,300 meters in a few places. In Montenegro, the Tara Canyon frames a World Heritage Site inside the similarly tremendous limits of the Durmitor National Park.

With a length of 144 km, Tara is also the longest stream in Montenegro. Tara stream springs in the Komovi mountains, close to the line with Albania, on the east of Montenegro. The ravine is 78 kilometers in length. Tara flows by and large streams towards the northwest. The Tara River Canyon is the most profound glut in Europe and is also called the “Colorado of Europe.”

In some places, the Tara canyon is almost 1300 meters in depth. The clear waters of Tara, which have light blue and green tones, made its gorge in harsh limestone mountains even before the Ice Age. Water has carbon dioxide in it, which transforms calcium carbonate into calcium bicarbonate that disintegrates in water. In its part through Durmitor National Park, Tara has a mean fall of 3.6 meters, making a large group of cascades and falls conceivable.

Tara River Canyon, Montenegro

Incredible Plant and Flora

The greenery of the Tara has right up until the present time numerous types of vegetation saved from old occasions. What’s seriously fascinating, numerous species have prevailed with regards to guarding a portion of their antiquated characteristics, which were a trademark for times past. In this manner, you can discover a few extras of the tertiary greenery in the Tara valleys directly out of the last ice sheet period. Other than this vegetation, the plant life in the gully is portrayed by woods having totally different species.

Extraordinary pieces of the ravine are congested with needle trees, a unique spot being held for the dark pine. The most intriguing examples of the dark pine are those which hold tight exposed stony inclines by their actual roots and accordingly loom over steep pits. Yet, the most celebrated area of the dark pine is the region where the dark pine is essential for the antiquated timberland, in a piece of the gorge called Crna Poda. The Crna Poda is a strictly confidential normal living space, a natural preserve all alone. Here certain examples of dark pine might be tracked down, some above 49 meters high, some of which are over 370 years of age.

The monstrous ravine is an astounding territory for wild goats (Rams). This very proximity of gully and mountain gives the wild goat the likelihood to occasionally move, in the colder time of year from the virus tops to the gorge, and vice versa, in the late spring from the hot gully to the grandiose pinnacles. The wild goat is an occupant of elevated pinnacles and stony slants, effectively proceeding onward stony spots and mountain gulches. Other than the wild goat, as normal occupants of the gorge area, there are the roe deer and wild hog. The Tara is wealthy in fish species. In the stream, the creek trout might be found, huchen, chub, and so forth.

Wonderful Experiences in the Tara River Canyon

Water rafting.

Water Rafting is the most famous action and perhaps the most energizing approach to enjoy the Tara Canyon. Numerous visits run from Zabljak, beginning 17 km or so upstream and requiring the day to pass down the waterway. It’s an epic outing; however, be cautioned the boating just runs during top traveler season, mostly from March to September.

The Tara Bridge

There is a wonderful bridge that spans over the canyon. Tara Bridge is located between two strategic spots: Budečevica and Trešnjica. You can stroll along the length for epic perspectives. Also, it’s effortlessly reached via vehicle from Zabljak. The Kingdom of Yugoslavia built this bridge in 1937. At that time, it was the greatest vehicular solid curve in Europe. This bridge was rebuilt in 1946 due to being used for transferring British soldiers during World War II.

Hiking Durmitor National Park

Several ways already prepared for hiking, and you can even find your pathway in the park. Don’t forget to visit Black Lake. It’s a wonderful frigid lake with a stunning landscape. There is more information about these hiking ways below.

Tara Bridge, Tara River Canyon, Montenegro

Tara Water Rafting

On the off chance that you are visiting this incredible ravine, you shouldn’t miss Tara Rafting. That is a truly astounding and extraordinary experience! You can browse one, two, or three days of Tara Rafting. Three days boating experience is generally noteworthy, while you can appreciate a remarkable 62 km long boating experience. 

Just with boating, you can feel all the magnificence of the Tara waterway play. An ideal approach to find the whole excellence of the astounding Tara waterway and extraordinary, profound Tara gorge is to take a section in a boating or kayaking experience. The subsequent choice is the perception of Tara Canyon from numerous perspectives.

Boating Center Drina-Tara is situated in the ravine on the riverside. The other bank of the waterway ascends high and shapes the mountain. It continues to be near the Vucevo village and is a boundary of the National Park Sutjeska. There is a well-known global camp. The entire camp was worked along the waterway bank, and the most removed article is scarcely 50 meters from the water. In the focal piece of the camp, there is a huge eatery porch with 400 individuals.

 Travelers mostly chose to start their trip from Zabljak. It’s a great base in the touristic focal point of Durmitor National Park. You can get all the needed data from traveler organizations in Zabljak. Yet additionally, you can begin with your water rafting or even enjoyable kayaking trip from boating camps set close to the Tara waterway. Just through boating, the genuine life structures of the gully might be found. It is the best way to perceive its beauties, the appeal, and the excellence of its wealth.

Boating may provide for this exceptional measurement, the individual contact to the virtue of nature. Each new kilometer gives another tint, another touring, another test. It is the loveliest and most alluring approach to seeing and feeling this magnificence and appreciating the prosperity, nature’s particular manner, made by Mother Nature.

Hiking in Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park is a rugged objective that stirs the fantasy of your mind. At this park, you feel peace of mind. The recreation center incorporates the Dumitor mountain range, a 48-top massif with various chilly lakes. Each pinnacle looks its legendary character frozen in time ages prior. 

One could nearly accept that the mountains conscious around evening time and gradually diversion trying to change their perspective. At some points of view, mountains may seem like the Dolomites in Italy. If you are a fan of thrilling pinnacle climbs to profound woods, strolls, or just love charming views with different flora, then you are in your own paradise!

When to Visit 

Although you can choose different seasons by your own taste, the best months to visit the canyon and the national park are July, August, and September. Other months may have special weather conditions with their issues like cold or warm weather or heavy winds. Don’t forget to check the forecast before you start your trip. 

Here are some weather facts about Tara River Canyon:

• Between May and October, the weather is most likely to be hot, with average temperatures ranging from 20 degrees Celsius (68°F) to 25 degrees Celsius (77°F).
• The warmest months on average are June, July, and August.
• The months of January, February, October, November, and December see a lot of rain (rainy season).
• August is the warmest month, with an average maximum temperature of 32°C (89°F).
• January is the coldest month, with an average maximum temperature of 9°C (48°F).
• December is the wettest month of the year. If you don’t like rain, you should skip this month.
• July is the driest month of the year.
• July is the sunniest month.

Accommodation 

Relating to your travel style and by your choice, you have two options for accommodation in the Tara Canyon. One is you can choose to stay near there, by using towns and the other one is camping in nature. We highly recommend you choose the second option.

The Best Spot to Remain Close to the Tara River Canyon

Travelers normally stay the night in Zabljak town before boating a visit on the Tara waterway. You can lease a few lofts and rooms in Zabljak. The town of Zabljak is the best base to get to Durmitor National Park and the best spot to climb to the edge of Tara River Canyon, arrange boating trips, and, just by large, experience the marvelous idea of Montenegro’s mountains.

Zabljak is precipitous and distant yet has every one of the conveniences, inns, and eateries you should get out climbing. The town is effortlessly reached by minibus from Podgorica and different urban areas in Montenegro. It costs about 8 euros or less per person for each night.

Imagine you are in one of the best canyons in the world and miss camping under the beautiful sky and having no chance to see the starry night sky of this paradise. There are some camp bases that can easily be found by looking at a map or just asking from natives. These are some of the famous bases: Sljivansko, Radovan Luka and Brstanovica.

Tara Canyon, Montenegro

How to Get There

We energetically prescribe leasing a vehicle to investigate Durmitor National Park. By having a vehicle, you’ll have the option to arrive at specific trailheads without hard effort and drive along the staggering P14 panoramic detour that interfaces the towns of Žabljak and Plužine. Notwithstanding, on the off chance that you don’t have a vehicle, don’t allow that to dissuade you from visiting this exceptional corner of Montenegro. You can, in any case, arrive at the recreation center with public travel, and when essential, depending on nearby taxicabs to get you around.

Žabljak is the door to the recreation center. In case you’re remaining in the town, you’ll have the option to stroll to the recreation center passage. From Kotor, it’ll require about 3 hours to arrive at Žabljak via vehicle. From Podgorica, it’ll require 2 hours. The ideal approach to get there without a vehicle is by bus. There’s a transport line that runs Podgorica to Žabljak a few times each day. This transport takes about 2.45 to 3.15 hours.

As you see, Tara River Canyon is a lovely destination for many travelers. Tara, wealthy in immaculate natural wonders, draws in vacationers from different pieces of the world who appreciate the adrenaline surge. Some want to visit the pure nature of the canyon, while others want to have a different experience in rafting or kayaking. The Tara stream gorge is ostensibly quite possibly the most entrancing destination in Europe, if not in the whole world, so it’s completely worth trying there, even for once in your life.

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Tara canyon expedition

Adventure on the Tara River

Experience the Beauty of Tara River Canyon  

Meeting Point: Arrive at Grab ethno village and camp in the afternoon.  

Canoe Expedition: Šljivansko to Camp Grab.  

Inclusions: Enjoy 11 meals and 4 nights of accommodation

River Class: Depending on the season, encounter Class II, III, or IV rapids.  

Paddling Distance: Cover 50km of scenic river landscapes.  

Daily Schedule:  

Day 1: Check-in at Grab camp, settle into cozy bungalows or rooms, and gear up for canoeing. End the day with a delicious dinner by the riverside.  

Day 2: After breakfast, embark on a thrilling paddle with our safety kayaker. Navigate through rapids from Brštanovica to Šćepan Polje, enjoying lunch and dinner en route.  

Day 3: Start with a hearty breakfast, then set off from Camp Grab to Šljivansko for a picturesque canoe journey. Explore notable landmarks like the Đurđevića Tara bridge and Archangel Michael's monastery before resting overnight at Radovan Luka hotel.  

Day 4: Continue your canoe adventure, passing through the stunning Durmitor and Tara National Park. Experience the tranquility of Tepca village and the excitement of Brštanovica camp's rapids. Enjoy lunch back at Camp Grab, followed by equipment return and a delightful dinner by the Tara River.  

Day 5: Conclude your trip with breakfast and departure.

Price Includes:  

•Transportation throughout the program.  

•Parking facilities.  

•Canoeing from Šljivansko to Grab (50km).  

•Comprehensive insurance coverage.  

•All meals during the expedition.  

•3 nights at our camp and 1 night at Radovan Luka Hotel (or a rural home).  

•Full canoeing equipment.  

•National Park Durmitor and Regional Park Piva fees, along with staying tax.  

• Licensed IRF guide or safety kayaker.

•Pack light and waterproof for your journey.  

•Leave fragile or valuable items behind.  

•Prepare for unforgettable moments amidst nature's splendor.  

• For the canoe trip, prior experience is not required, but it is desirable if you have it. It's important to feel comfortable on fast-moving water in rapids and to enjoy adrenaline challenges.  

•The canoe expedition can be organized with camping by the river for true wilderness and nature enthusiasts.  

PRICE: The price is based on a group of 4 participants; for fewer than 4, the price will be adjusted accordingly.  

700.00 eur per person

• Duration 5 days
• Route Sljivansko-Grab
• Price 700 €

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Tara Hiking

Tara hiking and photo safari.

Hiking the Tara River Canyon is a gorgeous travel adventure. The Tara River Canyon is 1.333 m deep, making it the deepest in Europe, and the second deepest in the world, after the Colorado canyon. Most of the Tara River (including its canyon) is under UNESCO protection as part of the Durmitor National Park. The last nearly 40 km is on the border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.

Tara River Canyon top hiking trail

Tara River Canyon is the one of the top hiking trail in Europe. This “tear of Europe”, as it is also called, is a great natural and tourist attraction in Bosnia and Europe. Also, Tara river is great destinations for you unforgettable safari experience. Tara has a perfect position between two national parks – Durmitor and Sutjeska. It’s an ideal destination for your break to rest enjoy the view. Pictures you take will represent a constant reminder of a beautiful weekend you spent in the wild and unspoiled nature.

PRICE OF ARRANGEMENT: 75€ / 147BAM

Trip duration: 1 day

Location: Tara River canyon- BiH

Hiking Duration: 1h – 1,5h

Season: April 1th – October 31st

You bring: Your Own Hiking Equipment(Hiking Shoes And Rain Jacket)

Acomodation: possible organization

Included In The Price:

Professional guides

Breakfast And Lunch

Pick up/drop off service from local accommodation (bus station)

All taxes and insurance

Free parking

The tour can be modified and combined with other tours from our offer

We offer a group discount for bookings with more than 10 people

Arriving in the morning hours (till 9h) to our base camp where we prepare a whole day trip to the nature with a home-made breakfast. With vehicles we are moving along the canyon in the direction of the village Vranovina located on the border with Montenegro. In this trip (2h) we make a few breaks on the most beautiful viewpoints and when we reach the village we continue on foot up to the canyon edge (40min). This location is one of the deepest and most beautiful spots of canyon Tara. Here we make a break for snack (homemade specialties from this area) and enjoy the view of the grandeur of the canyon and the Durmitor mountain on the other side. In the afternoon we return to the car and drive to our base camp where lunch is waiting for us and this arrangement ends. The arrangement can be extended or combined with some of our arrangements.

TripAdvisor reviews by our guests

Outdoor adventures for everyone.

For booking requests and further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Tjentiste bb, Foca 73300, BiH,

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +387 66 834 105

Phone: +387 66 196 053

© 2024 | Outdoor Tara| All Rights Reserved.

 Hiking Mt Ćurevac  Montenegro

Hiking Mt Ćurevac

April 24, 2018 6 min read

Durmitor National Park in northwestern Montenegro is named after the Durmitor massif. The massif is part of the Dinaric Alps and it has 48 peaks above 2000m with the highest, Bobotov Kuk, reaching a height of 2523m. Tara River limits the park in the north where it cuts through the 82km long Tara River Canyon. The deepest point of the canyon is 1300m making it the deepest gorge in Europe.

River rafting is popular in Montenegro and there are half-, one- and two-day tours available for the Tara River. You get the best views of the river and the dramatic canyon from the water, but to get the full experience you need to do one of the longer rafting tours. The shortest one includes many of the rapids (21 out of 50 in total), but it starts outside the national park and you will not pass through the most impressing parts of the canyon.

Hike to Mt Ćurevac

What if you don’t want to do a 1-2 day rafting tour, but you still want to get a glimpse of the canyon? You should head to a viewpoint at the top of Mt Ćurevac overlooking the canyon where it is at its deepest. The viewpoint is not close to the river so you will watch it from afar, but the view is still great. As a bonus, you get to do a short hike to reach the viewpoint.

During a long road trip when you spend many hours in the car, it is always a good idea to do a few short hikes to breathe fresh air and to stretch your legs. When driving through a beautiful landscape one can see it all from the car, but I always want to get out there and feel the dirt under my feet, lay down in the grass or sit on a stone on a mountain top philosophizing for a while. A good road trip hike is short and not strenuous. I don’t want to struggle up and down a steep mountain just to come back to the car exhausted and sweaty to continue to the next stop.

The hike to Mt Ćurevac ticks all the right boxes for a good road trip hike. It is short; I don’t know the exact distance but maybe around 1-1.5km one way, so let’s say 2-3km for the full hike. I came to this conclusion by measuring on Google Maps so it is just an approximation. There is not much elevation gain, you must cross a hill, but it isn’t steep. The path is natural, so you get that real hiking feeling. And, last but not least, you are rewarded with a lovely view at the end of the trail. It would have been even better if the path was circular and you didn’t have to walk back the same way, but you can’t have it all.

How to get to the Mt Ćurevac viewpoint

Žabljak is the only town in the national park and it will likely be the starting point when you go to Mt Ćurevac. It’s about 8km from the center of Žabljak to the parking at the start of the hike. The parking is marked on the map below and it should be easy to find using a GPS and the coordinates 43.193896, 19.089645. It’s also possible to walk all the way from Žabljak if you don’t have a car.

If you are not using a GPS, you should be able to find the parking using the same description as I did. I think I got it from a Lonely Planet guidebook so they should have credit for it.

From the center of Žabljak, take the Narodnih heroja road and turn left at the spot marked on the map. If you look at the street view in Google Maps, there is a sign saying Restoran Momčilov Grad at the turn (not sure if it is still there though). Then keep right and follow the road.

Work your way up the hill and follow signs towards Tepca. Where the road splits with no signs, I followed the rule to stay on the bigger road. After a while you should see signs to Ćurevac or vidikovac which means viewpoint in Montenegrin. The last part of the road goes through a forest before arriving at the parking. There is a clearing in the forest and parking spaces on grass.

See the map for an alternative trail to the viewpoint. If walking from Žabljak, you will approach the viewpoint on this trail. I saw hikers on the path, but I didn’t try it myself. The trail from the parking is more scenic as it follows the edge of the mountain with a nice view of the valley below.

Before entering the trail, you must pay a national park fee. There was a member of the park staff selling tickets at the parking. I don’t know if that is always the case, so it might be good to check that in advance. The ticket was cheap, around 3-4 euros.

The path to the top of Mt Ćurevac is easy walking and I cannot see anyone getting lost here so a map shouldn’t be necessary. The trail follows the edge of a cliff and as long as you have that one somewhere to the left you are on the right track. Initially, the path goes through the forest before the terrain opens up and you see the viewpoint ahead.

To the north, a valley leads down to the canyon and to the south we have green fields mixed with forest.

After a while you must cross a hill, but it has a gentle slope. You will probably not be alone on the trail unless you come offseason, but it will not be crowded so you can walk in peace and enjoy the tranquility of the area.

Mt Ćurevac viewpoint

Arriving at the viewpoint you have a superb view over the surrounding landscape with the Tara River passing by in the canyon below. The river flows from south to north and makes a turn to disappear behind the canyon wall. You are quite far from the river here so to get a better look I recommend bringing binoculars.

After enjoying the panorama and some refreshments, it is the same way back to the parking. The view to the south is also pleasant.

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Take a Day Trip to North Montenegro: Durmitor, Tara Canyon, and Ostrag

Some day trips stick with you

Some day trips, as I’ve written before, just stick with you. My day trip to North Montenegro came at exactly the right time, I will carry the stunning landscape and architecture I saw that day with me. As I walked along the shores of Crno Jezero and wandered Ostrag Monastery, carved into a mountain, I knew in my heart that the decision I’d made to uproot my life and build a new one was exactly the right decision.

You might not be in the same place in your life, and you certainly do not have to be to have an incredible time on this small-group day tour of North Montenegro.

What you’ll see on your day trip to North Montenegro

This full-day tour with 360 Monte takes you to the following sites:

• An overlook of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks
• Slano Lake (Salty Lake) overlook
• Traditional northern Montenegrin breakfast
• Crno Jezero (the Black Lake) and Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Tara Canyon and Đurđevića Tara Bridge
• Ostrog Monastery

This post includes what you need to know to take the tour (and the locations, if you dare to drive it yourself) as well as what to expect while you’re on it.

Day Trip to North Montenegro Video

Take a day trip to north montenegro, montenegro packs everything into a tiny country.

If you’ve read along with my Montenegro posts, you will have heard this before—Montenegro is a stone-cold stunner of a country. Most of us who travel there stay on the coast, and for excellent reason, but do not miss the interior of the country! It will make your jaw drop. As Montenegro is such a tiny country, you can at least see most of it with a couple of well-planned day trips. Be forewarned, though—these trips will make you realize that however much time you’re spending in Montenegro on this trip, it’s not enough.

Marked differences between the coast and the rest of Montenegro

While Montenegro is tiny, its history is almost as varied as its landscape. Venice controlled the coastal areas for much of the Middle Ages through the end of the eighteenth century, which you can see in the architecture, especially in Perast and Kotor. The Ottomans held sway in the rest of the country, and you’ll notice differences in the architecture almost as soon as you leave the Bay of Kotor.

A word about driving in Montenegro

“You should know,” our guide Luka told us just as we piled into the van, “we have our best driver today. He’s going to take very good care of you.” As we drove along another serpentine highway and then took the terrifying road up to Ostrag, I found myself absolutely grateful for his experience.

I signed up for this tour, because I really wanted to see Ostrog (admittedly, I didn’t know that much about Durmitor, which took a piece of my heart that day), the monastery carved into a mountain. The road up there, as you’ll see, is absolutely terrifying. I’ve been on some wild rides , and had just taken the Kotor Serpentine a couple of days before this trip, but the road to Ostrag made my heart stop. Unless you are an excellent driver, and I mean elite, I strongly suggest not driving up that road yourself.

Take a small-group tour to North Montenegro with 360 Monte

For my day trip to North Montenegro, I took a tour with 360 Monte, which I booked through GetYourGuide . I’m generally not much of a tour person , as I’ve mentioned before, but I highly recommend these tours, and not just because it gets you out of having to drive or figure out alternative transportation (note: public transportation is not really an option for much of this trip).

Unique tours from Montenegro specialists

More than just a ride, 360 Monte opens up Montenegro to travelers. Guides with 360 Monte know their stuff, and their love of their country shows. Whereas the guide on my day trip to Central Montenegro focused a lot on telling us about contemporary Montenegro and chatted with us a lot along the way, Luka talked less, allowing the landscape to speak for itself, but provided guidance and context where we needed it. I appreciated both approaches, and this demonstrated to me that the guides hadn’t just memorized a script. We got to see Montenegro through their eyes.

Meeting at the 360 Monte office for my day trip to North Montenegro

As with my trip with 360 Monte, the morning began by meeting up at their office. Public transportation isn’t all that reliable on the Bay of Kotor, so I walked the 25 minutes to Old Town from where I was staying in Dobrota.

I took this day trip in late September, and much of Kotor had quieted down from the summer frenzy. At 6:30 in the morning, I had Old Town almost entirely to myself, save for a couple who stole away early in the morning for a proposal just inside the Sea Gate (she said yes).

The cathedral bells chimed.

Finding coffee and meeting our guide

While I very much loved the opportunity to explore Old Town Kotor without the crowds, the cafés had yet to open, and I was not sure where my coffee was going to come from. I asked at the desk, as I was a bit early, and the receptionist pointed me to a convenience store. I stumbled through my coffee order (both tired and linguistically challenged), and a guy looked over at me and asked if I was going on the tour. I said yes, and he introduced himself as Luka, our guide for the day. He got his coffee, and we walked back to the office, where other people had gathered.

A familiar face on this day trip to North Montenegro

It turns out that one of the people from my Central Montenegro tour had signed up for this one, too. She was from Germany on a quick trip to Kotor, and we hung out for much of the day together. Other people in our group included another person from the US, a few from the UK, a woman from Finland, and two people from Denmark. We headed to the van, and we were off.

Gallery: Our Lady of the Rocks and Boka Kotorska Observation Platform

Perast and our lady of the rocks.

We headed out of Kotor, toward our first stop, a viewpoint of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks (see what I mean about this being the #1 site everyone tells you about?), where we would pick up two more guests. Luka shared about the founding of the island and the belief that the icon found in that location was there by a miracle.

The viewpoint offered the best view of both Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George’s Island (Sveti Đorđe)  that I saw, though we didn’t see too much of Perast itself.

Shooting the rooster

Luka shared with us a couple of interesting anecdotes—the first a tradition marking a victory over the Turks in the mid-seventeenth century known as “ shooting the rooster ” (the rooster stands in for the Turks). Each May, a rooster is placed on a float off the shores of Perast. Participants take turns attempting to shoot the rooster from the shore. The winner has to buy wine for everyone and there is a rooster soup.

World Lazy Olympics

He also told us about the World Lazy Olympics, a more contemporary and less violent “sport” that pokes gentle fun at the stereotypical Montenegrin laziness. Basically, you stay in bed for as long as possible. The most recent winner stayed in bed for nearly 117 hours (apparently the rules had changed allowing for bathroom breaks). Perhaps those of us from hustle cultures could learn a thing or two.

Boka Kotorska Observation Platform

We also made a quick stop at the Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor) Observation Platform, where you will get an even greater appreciation of its improbable wonder.

Gallery Slano Jezero

Slano lake (salty lake).

In order to support hydroelectric power, Yugoslavia created a  lake known as Slano (Salty) Lake. While not natural, it certainly is lovely, and we stopped at a popular lookout point to admire it. Stocked with fish, the lake is a popular fishing spot. By this point in the morning, the sun had soared up into the sky, making photos difficult, but it’s definitely worth a stop.

Gallery: Breakfast at Floyd Food Factory

Traditional north montenegrin breakfast at floyd’s food factory.

Floyd’s Food Factory might sound like something you’d find at a hipster food truck festival in the States, but they serve traditional mountain breakfast here. This charming little A-frame spot with a woodstove specializes not in American grub, but in traditional mountain food from Montenegro.

Salty and sweet—breaking tradition

We had a breakfast of priganice , traditional fritters with cheese or honey (and yet more rakija !). It was delicious, but here I learned that it’s unheard of to mix salty and sweet in Montenegro. My German friend from the Central Montenegro tour ordered the honey with her priganice, and I ordered the cheese. We enjoyed them both, but we also traded. I then tried the honey and cheese together. We had a clear winner.

Dear Reader, I scandalized our poor guide when I mentioned that I’d done this, and I mostly felt bad about it. Locals know their food, and I am 99.999% of the time with them on what’s best, but salty-sweet is one of life’s pleasures, and I do not yield on this point.

Super cute dog

At Floyd’s Food Factory, we met the friendliest dog. Ollie would have been incredibly jealous, had he seen me fawning all over this sweet, sweet pooch. Only the promise of mountains got me back in the van.

Gallery: The road to Durmitor

The road to durmitor and some context.

Our stomachs filled and dogs greeted, we set off toward Durmitor. We passed farmlands of yesteryear, and learned more about agriculture and farming in Montenegro. Luka explained that farmers took a somewhat relaxed approach to farming, letting their cows wander free. The farmer gets to relax (a stereotypical saying that’s mostly meant in humor is that in Montenegro, “Man is born tired and lives to rest”) and the cows are so well fed that the milk they produce helps make men in Montenegro some of the tallest in Europe .

Farming, however, has fallen off considerably following the break up of the former Yugoslavia. The government offers grants and beekeeping supplies to encourage people back to farming. Most new construction in the area are small cabins aimed at tourists visiting Durmitor.

Does anyone get carsick?

About twenty-five minutes into the drive on P5, Luka casually asked, “Does anybody get carsick?” Cue the puzzled looks.

“I ask, because we’re about to go on a serpentine, and it can be a little much for those with weak stomachs.”

No one raised their hands, and off we twisted and turned around 9 hairpin turns over the next thirty minutes or so. While not as thrilling as the Kotor Serpentine, watching the landscape transform as we traveled was amazing.

Invica Tunnel

Finally, we entered the Invica Tunnel, which opened in 2010 and cut the time to travel to Durmitor National Park considerably. It wasn’t as strange as that time that I sat in a car in a container and traveled through the Chunnel to Calais, France, and it wasn’t the longest tunnel I traveled through in my time in the Balkans, but the dark certainly got my attention.

Passing through Žabljak on our way to Crno Jezero

We drove through the small mountain town of Žabljak, and Luka pointed out where we would eat lunch. Žabljak is the town with the highest elevation in the Balkans, and from when we left Kotor, we’d experienced an elevation gain of over 1,400 meters (~4,595 feet).

On our way to Crno Jezero, Luka told us about how the people in this region still believe in magic and fairies. Given the landscape, I understood how, and even caught myself looking for them.

Gallery: Crno Jezero

Crno jezero—the highlight of my day trip to north montenegro.

We then drove the short distance to the entrance to Crno Jezero (the Black Lake), a highlight of Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.  Photos do not do this stunning glacial lake, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, justice. Dear Reader, I think I left a bit of my soul there.

Walking toward the lake

We bought our tickets at the entrance and then walked the ten minutes or so down a charming path lined occasionally with souvenir huts and little woodland-themed items and then arrived at the lake.

It’s called the Black Lake, but it’s not black. It’s glacial green, and it’s one of the most awe-inspiring sights I have ever beheld. In late September, the crowds had thinned, and it had grown cold (I was grateful that I’d worn jeans and packed my turtleneck sweater , because I most definitely needed it). The air was so incredibly clean.

Surrounded by mountains

The Međed Peak dominates the backdrop of the lake, along with Savin Kuk Peak. While not the tallest mountains in this part of the Dinaric Alps, they are breathtaking, one of the mountains is almost flat. Dense, dark, tall pine forest, the kind that makes you understand why people in this place still believe in magic and faries, surrounds the lake.

One of those travel moments

While not desolate, the lake shore was quiet, and I found myself tearing up that I got to see this incredible sight. Travel can do that to us, and it’s these moments of wonder that sustain us long after we leave.

More than that, however, this was the moment that it hit me that in leaving my old life behind, I’d chosen to follow my own inner voice. This path that I’m on doesn’t always make sense, but it leads me to places like Crno Jezero.

I wish I could have stayed

Alas, we only had an hour or so in this stunning place, and so I made my way back to the meeting point, stopping along the way at one of the old-timey stands to pick up a souvenir bottle of rakija (I have yet to work up the courage to drink it). The little stands are incredibly charming—bring cash if you want to pick up a little something for yourself.

As we waited for the others to join us, I chatted with some of the other members of the tour about where we were from and what we were doing in Montenegro. We all agreed that Crno Jezero was one of those places we would remember. Indeed, this entire day trip to North Montenegro was one for the books.

Gallery: Tara Canyon and the Đurđevića Tara Bridge

Tara canyon and the Đurđevića tara bridge.

Tara Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe at 1,300 meters (4,300 feet) and second only to the Grand Canyon. Formed by the Tara River, the 158 km (98 miles) long “tear of Europe” river flows through Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzogovina. I wish that I had been able to explore it more, but the view from the Đurđevića Tara Bridge was certainly impressive!

Đurđevića Tara Bridge

This bridge over Tara Canyon allows you to look way down into the canyon, but don’t miss checking out the bridge itself. Originally built in the 1930s, at the time it was the highest bridge in Europe. It has five beautiful arched spans and stretches 365 meters (1179 feet) across and is 172 meters (564 feet) above the river. During World War II, in order to prevent the Italian fascists from capturing the region, the bridge was blown up. It was reconstructed in 1946.

Things to do

If you want to, you can do a zipline across the canyon (I didn’t, but, judging from the screams, it was a lot of fun). I also think I spied some rafters in the river—one of the most popular activities in Durmitor.

My advice is to check out the cute little kiosks near the bridge and get yourself some black honey , made from filtering honey through pine needles. Luka told us about it, and I decided that I simply had to try it. The taste is certainly unique—I found it delicious. It’s said to have medicinal properties and help with breathing (appropriate for me, then, with my asthma). I only ever saw it again in Bosnia and Herzegovina at a natural foods stand. Make sure to bring cash if you want to make a purchase.

Gallery: A rustic lunch

We ate well on our tours with 360 Monte, and I think that this simple rustic lunch at Restaurant Or’O might have been my favorite. I got the Durmitor Lamb with potatoes, and, Dear Reader, it was delicious. The only drawback is that we still had more sightseeing to do, and this might make you need a nap. The restaurant accepts credit cards.

I ate with my German friend, and we talked about differences in our country (and about the travesty of US healthcare and the student loan situation—SIGH). She’d just become a project manager (I’d been one myself), and we talked about the highs and lows of the profession. We had several solo female travelers on the tour (or people taking a day to travel by themselves), so if you’re at all nervous about joining one of these as a solo traveler, don’t be. You’ll fit right in.

Following lunch, we gathered outside the restaurant, and Luka presented us with an option. We could continue to Ostrag, which is a long drive, or we could do a road around Durmitor and see more of the National Park. This day trip is 13 hours, and you’re in the car most of the day, and a good part of it involves doubling back from Durmitor to get to Ostrag. Luka wanted us to have an option. The trip back to Kotor from Ostrag takes around two hours.

Personally, I voted to continue to Ostrag, as I booked the tour specifically to see it (in hindsight, I’d also definitely book it for Crno Jezero and Durmitor). A majority felt the same, so onto Ostrag we drove.

Gallery: En route to Ostrag

Driving to ostrag.

We doubled back on P5. At one point we passed a tractor. I took advantage of a decent signal for a bit to text some photos of Durmitor with my friends with captions like “!!!”. I looked out the window with the craggy landscape and just couldn’t believe that I was really there and that my adventure had only just begun.

Run , I wanted to text my friends. Listen to your life and run toward it. It won’t call you forever. I can’t explain exactly why this hit me in this moment, but I felt such gratitude for my life in that moment. I still shake my head just thinking about it.

Gallery: The serpentines up to Ostrag

Hold onto your seat—the serpentines to ostrag.

“Remember when I told you that we had our best driver?” Luka asked us. “Well, here’s where you’re really going to appreciate him.”

Dear Reader, Ostrag monastery, carved straight into the face of a mountain centuries ago, inspires awe. You simply must see it while in Montenegro. I’m not at all religious and am largely unfamiliar with the Serbian Orthodox tradition, but I found this site deeply moving.

Yikes! This is why you take a tour!

To get there, however, you take one of the most dangerous roads I have ever ridden on. Honestly, it made my ride over the Paso de los Libertadores —the road I rode on when traveling from Santiago, Chile, to Mendoza, Argentina, not to mention the Kotor Serpentine —feel like leisurely Sunday drive.

If, for no other reason, the road to Ostrag is a reason to book a tour to see this part of Montenegro. The 13 hairpin turns along the steep 2.4 km (1.5 mile) road. Did I mention that you’re taking those hairpin turns right, and I mean RIGHT on the edge of the mountain? It’s thrilling, but I would have required a miracle from Saint Basil of Ostrog to make it up there and then back down driving by myself.

The road can get crowded

Oh, and, while we were incredibly lucky to get to Ostrag on a quiet day (it is often incredibly crowded, with a million visitors a year, mostly religious pilgrims), I should mention that this road is often crowded with traffic going up and down the one-lane road.

It’s one of those roads that keeps you at attention, and Luka lightened the mood and told us when we were driving around the most dangerous turn. I was laughing like a fool, I’m embarrassed to say. It’s what I do when I’m nervous. In retrospect, it was thrilling fun, but at the time, I was terrified.

Gallery: Ostrag viewpoint

Ostrag viewpoint and some context.

We stopped at a viewpoint about halfway up, for pictures and to stabilize our shaking knees, but also for Luka to take a few minutes to explain what we were about to see. Would you believe that no really knows how Ostrag was built? Luka explained that St Basil (Sv Vaslije), who in life had been a bishop from Hercegovina, had come to this area following the destruction of another monastery by the Ottomans. St Basil felt called to build a monastery there, and the monastery was constructed in 1665 in two caves. How? No one really knows for sure.

That wild road? The faithful Orthodox pilgrims walk up it, and some of them to this day do not wear shoes. They go to visit the shrine to Saint Basil, which contains his relics, wrapped in fabric.

What to expect at Ostrag

Luka looked around at the group, noting approvingly that at that time of year, no one risked violating the dress code. “You do not need to be Orthodox to enter the shrine,” explaining that he himself was not particularly religious.

However, he continued to tell us that will see pilgrims in the shrine. They are going to be kissing surfaces and the hand of the priest in there. They pray for healing, and you may see people crying. If you are not Orthodox, simply go in with your arms behind your back, Luka said, and when you leave, walk out backwards.

This is a holy site

Luka stressed that this is a holy site and dear to the people of Montenegro. Showing respect is paramount. He also told us how to wind our way through the old building to get to some incredible views of the landscape. We then piled back into the van for the last of the scary drive. Our driver, whose name I somehow forgot to write down, deserves all of the praise for his skill.

Gallery: Ostrag

St basil’s shrine.

Once at the monastery, we had time to explore on our own. Others went in search of the view first. I went to the shrine. To enter, you queue in and wait for a priest to motion for you to enter. It’s a tiny shrine, smelling heavily of incense. Another member of the religious order stands in front of the saint’s bones. He held out his hand for me to kiss it, I had my hands behind my back and he nodded. I looked around.

Others in there kissed the hands and the doorways. Tears streamed down their faces, as they prayed, their lips moving. I don’t know what they were praying for, and I am not religious, but I could feel a solemn power in the place. I backed out behind the pilgrims.

Exploring Ostrag

I caught up with some others from the group and explored the rest of the main monastery, finding the frescos and taking in the truly stunning golden-hour vistas. We then explored the other open areas of the newer buildings, including a prayer area thick with beeswax and where pilgrims wrote of their miracles.

With a few minutes before it was time to head to the van for the long drive back to Kotor, I talked with some others about the expected rains (the nice thing about visiting Kotor in September is that it quiets down—the downside is that it rains a lot). This incredible day would sustain me, I thought. Indeed, it continues to do so.

Journey’s end

We piled back into the van and drove back down the terrifying road as the sun set. Unlike much of the day, where we were more quiet in the van, we talked for the two hours back, and chatted a bit more once we returned to Kotor before heading our separate ways.

I have a snapshot of Durmitor as my lock screen, and I think back to that moment on the shores of Crno Jezero, utterly amazed by where my life had taken me.

Plan your day trip to North Montenegro!

Book this day trip with 360 Monte through GetYourGuide . 

Day Trip to North Montenegro

General considerations.

• In high season, this popular tour sells out fast. Book as soon as you can (you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance).
• Check your confirmation, but the tour did not include meals, entrance to Crno Jezero, or ziplining at Tara Canyon (if you want to do that). Bring cash as instructed.
• Wear good footwear. While you do not have to go on the hike around the lake, you don’t want your shoes to be the reason why you don’t.
• If you want to do the zipline, dress appropriately.
• Bring a light sweater or jacket, even when it’s hot in Kotor. It can be considerably colder in the mountains.
• While you will stop along the way, bringing water and perhaps a snack is a good idea.
• You will be gone from morning to night, much of it in the van. Do note that the route has you going back and forth the same way for a good part of the trip.
• Ostrag is a religious site, and while you are not required to share in the beliefs of the pilgrims there, it is important to show respect. The dress code is the same as other religious sites (no bare shoulders or shorts/short skirts).
• Take care in discussing politics, religion, and especially the wars of the 1990s (this goes for the entire region). Note that many people in Montenegro describe themselves as Serbian instead of Montenegrin. If you’re in doubt about whether or not to say something, err on the side of caution.
• Tipping the guide is customary, in cash.

Solo female travel

This is a great trip for the solo female traveler. You’ll likely meet other solo travelers (there were several of us on my tour). It’s a great way to meet people if you’re looking to make some friends, too.

Accessibility

If you have serious mobility issues, this likely isn’t the tour for you. Check with 360 Monte for more information.

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What did you think?

Did you take this day trip to North Montenegro? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.

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