GLACIER LAKES: Black Lake, Vražije Lake, Riblje Lake, Skrčka Lakes, Sušićko Lake and Piva Lake (dammed); CANYONS: Tara Canyon, Nevidio Canyon, Sušica Canyon, Piva Canyon; VILLAGES: Trsa, Nedajno, Little Montenegro, Pišće, Provalija; MOUNTAIN PEAKS: Bobotov Kuk (2525m), Prutaš (2393m); DESTINATIONS: Đurđevića Tara Bridge, Žabljak, Nikšić; TOP EXPERIENCES: Tara Bridge Zip Line, Tara River Rafting, Nevidio Canyoning, Home Hosted Lunch, Swimming at Black Lake;
COUNTRIES: 1 | VILLAGES: 5 | EXPERIENCES: 8 | TRIP EXTENSIONS: Jewels of the Balkans: Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro (8 Days) – from €950
Indubitably the most beautiful natural reservoir of Montenegro and the whole range of Dinaric Alps, is the stunning Durmitor National Park. Formed by glaciers and traversed by beautiful rivers and underground streams, this limestone massif is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Balkans. With Tara canyon, as one of the deepest gorges in Europe, amazing glacier lakes known as “mountain eyes”, pine forests and a wide range of endemic flora, Durmitor National Park is the best exploratory adventure one can have.
Funky Tours top notch three day nature and outdoor oriented itinerary (hiking, rafting and optionally zip-lining), covering the best and the most beautiful regions of Durmitor park, such as Tara river and its canyon, the peaks of Bobotov Kuk and Prutaš, Black Lake, Đurđevića Tara bridge and so much more, is great way to explore this unique gem. Additionally please note that this itinerary is EXTREMELY flexible and can be adjusted to anyone of any fitness level and age. Alternatively, the itinerary can be beautifully altered to start from Podgorica and even from Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
Destination: Žabljak, Montenegro
Accommodation: Hotel SOA 4* or similar
Meals Included: L
>Black Lake at Durmitor National Park
Morning: Our start is early morning, as Montenegro coastline is some 2.30hrs away from Durmitor. The beautiful journey will take us via Nikšić into the highlands and mighty lands of Durmitor National Park.
When we left the Adriatic sea coastline, we immediately started gaining altitude, and noticeably the bare and dry lands of Mediterranean climate will change into beech, oak and pine forests, mainly residing in the Continental parts of Montenegro.
Originally named by Celtic people “Dru Mi Tore”, literally meaning “Mountain full of water”, Durmitor National Park was founded in 1952. As a part of the Dinaric Alps, the Durmitor massif was shaped by glaciers, with the highest peak at 2523m, called “Bobotov Kuk. With nearly 50 peaks more than 2000m high, surrounded by rivers Tara, Draga, Sušica and Komarnica, Durmitor National Park is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and probably the most amazing national park of Montenegro.
When the first Durmitor’s mighty mountain peaks appear ahead of us, it will be time to take a break at the stunning Nevidio canyon (Nevidio – eng. Unseen). Located in the southern parts of Durmitor region, as a part of Mala Komarnica river, Nevidio canyon is Europe’s last explored canyon. This amazing, 1700m long canyon of unbelievable beauty was first fully explored in 1965, when the World first time discovered the true nature of this Montenegrin gem.
Our stop will include exploring the starting entrance of the canyon, located at an altitude of 935m. Just feeling the cold water of Mala Komarnica river and admiring the area surrounding the Nevidio canyon will leave you breathless.
>Nevidio Canyon offer great canyoning adventure
Of course, for the adrenalin junkies Funky Tours offers an addition to the package – three to four hours of in-depth canyoning experience of Nevidio canyon. Fully equipped, with a professional guide, on a medium demanding activity, enter the depths of Nevidio canyon and experience the adventure of a lifetime. The standard add-on price for this experience is 100 EUR per person and is paid locally to our Montenegrin canyoning partner company.
Afternoon: As we leave Nevidio canyon behind, the road will take us towards Žabljak. Depending on the time of arrival (if you opted for Nevidio canyoning, or not), we can check into our Žabljak accommodation, or if we are a bit early continue towards Djurdjevica Tara bridge, to experience another amazing canyon of Durmitor National Park region, the Tara river canyon.
Before we reach Tara Bridge, we shall make sure to stop at Vražije and Riblje lakes and admire the turquoise color of these two stunning glacier lakes. Few legends on how the Vražije (eng.devils) lake got the name must be heard.
>Vražije and Riblje lakes at Durmitor National Park
When originally constructed in 1940, during the era of Kingdom of Yugoslavia, with length of 365m and maximum height of 172m, looming over the 150m deep river Tara canyon, Đurđevića Tara bridge was the highest in the World. Once there, we have several options on how to explore one of mankind’s greatest achievements in the sphere of architecture. Aside from walking the bridge and admiring the beautiful surroundings of Tara canyon, the best way to experience this scenery is by one of Europe’s longest ziplines. If you decide to opt for this stunning experience, the price of 20 EUR per person for 1200m of rope, will be an amazing upgrade to this amazing day.
>Đurđevića Tara bridge in Montenegro is one of Europes best zip line opportunities
For those not really into zip-line, some nice time exploring the bridge and Tara canyon will be provided. Of course, the Tara canyon, which is much more accessible than Nevidio Canyon, offers several ways and opportunities to explore, the best of which, of course, is rafting through Tara Canyon, an experience we plan to have on Day 3.
Lunch: The lunch is planned at Žabljak region. Once we are finished with exploring Đurđevića Tara bridge and Tara canyon, we shall return to Žabljak to check into our accommodation and have a well deserved lunch. The best way to introduce Durmitor cuisine is to try the food made by the local organic producers, and Funky Tours bring you the best of it.
Trying Montenegrin mountain side dishes such as “cicvara” (traditional dish made from milk, cheese, cream (kajmak) and flour), “kačamak” (or polenta, famous dish prepared usually from corn flour, served with yoghurt, cheese and kajmak) and variety of “japraci” (grinded beef meat with spices rolled and boiled into vine leaves or layers of onion), are always a good choice.
One of the most famous specialties of the Durmitor region is lamb meat. If you opt slowly cooked and then baked, or alternatively slowly cooked in milk, the taste will simply blow you away.
Afternoon: After delicious lunch, short but well deserved rest at your convenient 4* accommodation at Žabljak, we shall pay a visit to the Black Lake.
The largest and most famous of all 18 lakes on Durmitor, the absolute most beautiful is Black Lake. It is located only 3km from Žabljak, and it is an ideal place for afternoon visit.
>Beautiful Black Lake at Durmitor National Park
It consists of two water surfaces, the so-called Small and Large Lake, separated by a narrow surface of land, called “struga”. Located at the altitude of 1418m, with the Small lake much deeper (49 vs 24m), both lakes during the hot summer months reach temperatures of 22°C, creating a real paradise for swimmers. Once at the lake you will have free time to explore the beautiful nature surrounding it. You can either swim, relax and chill by the lake or take a beautiful walk around the lake, with the total circle of hiking around the whole lake being around 4 kilometers.
Dinner: On your own. The dinner suggestions will be happily provided by your Funky Tours Trip Leader, depending on your preferred food ideas.
Evening: On your own. Žabljak has about 2000 inhabitants and is considered the city at the highest altitude in the Balkans. Being quite well populated, Žabljak is a very lively place as it is a very popular tourist destination throughout the year. Whether you visit it in summer or winter, Žabljak and Durmitor National Park have a lot to offer.
Special Note: In case you don’t opt for Nevidio canyoning or Zip Line at Đurđevića Tara bridge, it might leave us some spare time, so we are happy to include a visit to Ostrog Orthodox Monastery as an additional bonus. As one of the most amazing Serbian Orthodox monasteries, it will be a short, but worthy detour on our journey from Montenegro coastline (Kotor, Budva, Herceg Novi or Perast) to Durmitor National Park.
WHEN YOU HAVE FREE TIME IN ŽABLJAK
During your time in Žabljak region, you will have some free time slots, during which you can opt for some interesting activities in the town. We recommend few of the following for independent explorations:
When you are visiting Black Lake, great add-on would be 30/40min oneway walk to Zminje (Snake) Lake. The trail is properly marked and walk through the forest is an amazing experience. Many people find Zminje Lake much more beautiful and less crowded then the famous Black Lake.
With more than a century of brewing tradition and mastery, dating from 1896, Nikšićko beer is one of the most recognizable brands of Montenegro.
Take a short late evening walk just outside of city lights of Žabljak, and during the clear night get to experience the sky of million stars.
Destination: Žabljak, Montenegro
Accommodation: Hotel SOA 4* or similar
Meals Included: B – L
>Beautiful Durmitor Landscapes
Itinerary Note: Use the Funky Tours benefits of your optional day and decide what kind of activity you would like to engage with on Day 2. Depending on your fitness capacity we have several options for in-depth explorations of the Durmitor National Park.
Of course our preferred activity is hiking, and you can choose which trail fits you the best: Prutaš (easy) or Bobotov Kuk (hard). However, if you don’t prefer to hike, alternatively you can opt for more relaxing explorations of some of the most beautiful and hidden spots of the Durmitor region. Via the famous “Durmitor Ring”, an 85 km long off the beaten path photo safari tour, you get to experience the most hidden and most beautiful parts of Durmitor National Park.
OPTION 1: Hiking to Bobotov Kuk peak (2525m)
Breakfast: Our stunning 4* accommodation will start serving buffet-style breakfast around 7 AM, featuring Montenegrin and International options.
Morning: After delicious breakfast we are ready to go. The first part of the morning will be short, 14km ride from Žabljak to the “prijevoj Sedlo” (pass Saddle). Sedlo is located at an altitude of cca 1900m, and is our start of the hiking trail to Bobotov Kuk. The highest point of Montenegro, Bobotov Kuk can be reached from various sides, but the most convenient, easiest and our choice of the day, will be access from the southern side.
As soon as we leave our vehicle and gear up, we are ready to start the hike. At a normal pace, the morning ascent will be 3.30 hours long, with a trail taking us via beautiful plains and mighty peaks of Durmitor to the glorious Bobotov Kuk peak. Once at the top, we have gained a bit over 700m in altitude difference. This kind of altitude gain, on average inclination of 24% during a bit over 5.5km hike, is considered high-moderate to hard demanding activity and is doable by anyone of normal fitness level.
During the hike, panoramic views, valleys, powerful peaks of Durmitor and its glacial lakes, light adrenaline, beautiful storytelling, legends, and everything that this adventure brings, will be one of the best experiences of life.
At the top, all the efforts will be highly rewarding. Stunning 360 panorama views from Bobotov Kuk, with special emphasis on peak Prutaš, Škrčka lakes and stunning Šareni pasovi (colorful layers), will surely make all the pain go away.
>Climbing up towards the Bobotov Kuk with stunning views over the Škrčka Lakes
Special Note: The last part of the ascent (20min) to Bobotov Kuk peak is quite steep and requires use of hands. At points part of the trail is secured with cables which come handy when climbing. In case you have vertigo this part of the trail should not be climbed.
Afternoon: The returning hike will take us all the way to Žabljak with a visit to a beautiful “Ledena Pećina” (ice cave), located at an altitude of 2164m. As the name suggests, with an annual temperature of 0°C, the cave retains snow and ice all year round, creating unusual ice shapes of various stalactites and stalagmites. Short stop at the cave, to admire the beauty of its ice creations is a must.
The returning hike from Bobotov Kuk to the Black Lake and to Žabljak will take us additional 4 to 5 hours, depending on how much photos and rest we take.
The total hike will be around 14.5km and some 6-7 hours of active walking. We should be back to Žabljak around 5, or latest 6pm.
>At the top of Bobotov Kuk at 2525m – Durmitor National Park
Lunch: Since we shall have rather late lunch, it is recommended that during the day you have a several, carbohydrates rich, high quality snacks and at least 2l of water. Once back to Žabljak, get ready for the most delicious lunch of your lifetime. A beautiful mix of traditional Montenegrin, organic food will be served. The choice of food will be recommended and served according to our guests needs and choices.
Evening: On your own. The rest of the day is on your own where you can choose to have well deserved rest from a quite demanding day or explore Žabljak region on your own. However, if preferred at some later evening hours, rakija (local brandy), wine or beer night out can be organised, with the aim to “taste” and experience the real lifestyle of Durmitor highlanders.
OPTION 2: Hike to Prutaš peak (2398m) – Recommended by Funky Tours
Breakfast: Our stunning 4* accommodation will start serving buffet-style breakfast around 7 AM, featuring Montenegrin and International options.
Morning: After delicious breakfast we are ready to go. The first part of the morning will be a short, 18.5km ride from Žabljak via “prijevoj Sedlo” (pass Saddle) to Šarban (Dobri Do) which is our starting point for the Prutaš hike.
>Prutaš peak at 2398m – Probably the most beautiful hike at Durmitor National Park
Hiking to Bobotov Kuk is considered a “hard” hiking activity since it includes quite steep ascents and a bit of “ferrata” elements. Additionally, since Bobotov Kuk is quite a popular place, which is visited by a large number of hikers, our medium demanding, surely the most beautiful and warmly recommended hiking adventure, is hiking to Prutaš.
Adorned with unique rock shapes (wands or rods), the name “Prutaš” (eng.mountain of branches), ideally reflects the real beauty of this peak. With easy ascent along the deep, green slopes, amazing views over the glacial “Škrčka lakes”, “SOA Nebeska” (eng. Altar of the Sky) including peaks of “Đevojka” (2440m), “Bezimeni Vrh” (2487m) and “Bobotov Kuk” (2525m), the Prutaš hiking trail is by far the most beautiful trail on Durmitor massif.
Our usual start is from Šarban and during the next 2-3 hours with a total ascent of 650m over the 4km trail, we shall reach this magnificent, grass covered peak. This access is from the southern side via “Škrčko ždrijelo” (2114m) and is considered the best and easiest access to Prutaš.
>Beautiful Prutaš trails via grass covered valleys with Bobotov Kuk peak in the distance
At the top, well deserved time for rest, while soaking up the beauty surrounding you will be the highlight of your Montenegro and Durmitor National Park adventure.
Afternoon: The return from Prutaš can be along the same route we came, with some 2hrs of easy descent or, can be extended for additional 3 hours with a visit to Škrčka lakes. This extension can be decided on the spot depending on your desire and fitness level.
Lunch: Since we shall have rather late lunch, it is recommended that during the day you have a several, carbohydrates rich, high quality snacks and at least 2l of water. Once back to Žabljak, get ready for the most delicious lunch of your lifetime. A beautiful mix of traditional Montenegrin, organic food will be served. The choice of food will be recommended and served according to our guests needs and choices.
Evening: On your own. The rest of the day is on your own where you can choose to have well deserved rest from a quite demanding day or explore Žabljak region on your own. However, if preferred at some later evening hours, rakija (local brandy), wine or beer night out can be organised, with the aim to “taste” and experience the real lifestyle of Durmitor highlanders.
OPTION 3: Durmitor Ring Photo Safari Tour
Breakfast: Our stunning 4* accommodation will start serving buffet-style breakfast around 7 AM, featuring Montenegrin and International options.
Morning: After a delicious breakfast we are ready to go. The “Durmitor Ring ” is an 85km long circular, completely off the beaten path trail around the Durmitor mountain. Requiring a low level of physical activity, this experience is a great way to meet the local people, try and buy their homemade products, learn about their way of life and explore the Durmitor National Park’s vast natural and cultural diversity.
The first stop of the day will be “Momčilov Grad”. At the slopes, high above Tara canyon, is home to a fortified town of Prlitor. The town founded by Bosnian duke Sandalj Hranič Kosača, in the XIV century, is today better known for the epic hero Duke Momčilo who died of treason by his wife. Momčilov Grad is home to one of the most famous restaurants in the region of Durmitor.
As we continue, the magnificent views over the canyon of Tara river, will prove a fact that after the Grand Canyon in the USA, it is the World’s 2nd highest canyon. The saddle of Veliki Štuoc, which will be our highest point of the day, is the location of Tara’s deepest canyon point, reaching over 1300m.
>The stunning Tara and Sušica river canyons
As we continue our Durmitor Ring adventure, we visit one of the most interesting villages, not only in Montenegro, but in the whole region of Balkans – the famous village of “Mala Crna Gora” (Little Montenegro). It is located at an altitude of 1700m, at the edge of stunning Sušica canyon, the village is snow-blocked from November to May, as the road is mostly inaccessible during the winter time. At the village, get ready to meet a few of the remaining locals, possibly be invited for a rakija, and admire the lifestyle of true Durmitor nomads.
>Little Montenegro village – hanging out with a locals – Durmitor National Park
At the bottom of the Sušica canyon, there is an amazing Sušica lake. The lake is of periodical nature, especially being beautiful during the early spring days. Usually in the summertime, when large underground streams drop down, the lake disappears underground until the next winter.
After passing the beautiful Sušica canyon viewpoint and furthermore enjoying beautiful scenery, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Nedajno. Located at an altitude of 1463m, this village is unusually vibrant and full of life. Views of Sušica canyon are simply breathtaking. Stopping at a local cafe bar, trying the homemade juice, and listening to legendary stories about how “Nedajno” (eng.to not allow) got the name, will surely be one of the highlights of our stunning Durmitor day.
>Nedajno village overlooking the Susica canyon – Durmitor National Park
Afternoon: After Nedajno, another village on our Durmitor tour itinerary is Trsa. The village itself is actually located on Piva mountain at an altitude of 1470m. Being located near the canyons of Piva, Tara and Sušica, and below the slopes of the gigantic Durmitor, Trsa village is a great starting point for a variety of outdoor adventures such as, camping, biking, horseback riding, hiking, rafting and so much more.
Lunch (Top Experience): Home hosted lunch with a local family from Trsa village will be the best part of the day. Trying the specialties of local cuisine such as steamed lamb, roasted veal, homemade bread, kačamak and cicvara is a true gourmet’s dream. The Funky Tour Trip Leader will be aware of your food choices, and will make sure to fully accommodate all your requests. During our home hosted lunch you will have an opportunity to meet the locals and learn about their life today and over the past centuries. Understanding that the great majority of people living in the rural Durmitor region is completely self-sufficient when producing their own organic food, will additionally “boost” the taste and make you fully appreciate your meal today. After the lunch you will have an opportunity to stroll through the village and furthermore explore the life of locals at Durmitor region.
>Homemade food by the local families in Durmitor National Park
Secret Add-on: At the village we will do a short secret 20min hike to one of the most beautiful peaks of Piva Nature Park. Great activity before we continue our Durmitor ring journey.
Afternoon: Passing by the small village of Pišće and enjoying one of the beautiful viewpoints over the Piva lakes, we will arrive at Prutaš (2393m) and Todorov Do (Todor’s valley) viewpoint.
With its peak at 2393m, and beautifully adorned with gentle ridge lines, green mountain sides, miraculous oblique layers called “prutovi” (eng.wands or rods) after which it was named, Prutaš is one of the most beautiful massifs in the whole region of Durmitor National Park. Prutaš massif and Todor’s valley are perfect place for stunning photography.
>The Prutaš viewpoint during the amazing journey via Durmitor Ring
Finally our Durmitor Ring journey will take us via Sedlo pass (1907m, famously called “saddle of gods”), below the striking peak of Stožina, back to Žabljak. The total length of the tour is around 7-8 hours, during which we have travelled across 85km of stunning scenery of unique Durmitor National Park.
Evening: On your own. The rest of the day is on your own where you can choose to have well deserved rest from a quite demanding day or explore Žabljak region on your own. However, if preferred at some later evening hours, rakija (local brandy), wine or beer night out can be organised, with the aim to “taste” and experience the real lifestyle of Durmitor highlanders.
WHAT TO KNOW WHEN HIKING IN DURMITOR NATIONAL PARK?
If possible opt for hiking boots, or sturdy hiking shoes that will protect your ankle in case of twist or if you accidentally hit the rock. Try to wear layered clothing and as less as possible cotton and, replace it by quick-drying high performance fabric. Bring protective hat and suncream. Have spare shirts. Make sure to have appropriate socks and long legged hiking trousers.
General rule of thumb is 1/2 l of water for every 2 hrs of hiking. Bring food rich in carbohydrates that will give you energy through the day. Include protein bars, nuts, seeds and dried fruits.
Always make sure to follow your guide and marked trails. Never wonder off the marked trail unless it feels completely safe. Be aware of your physical and mental limits and, always make sure not to loose focus.
Destination: Kotor | Podgorica | Sarajevo | Dubrovnik
Meals Included: B – L
Itinerary Note: The River Tara, famously called – the tear of Europe, is one of the most beautiful and exciting rivers in Europe! Visiting Durmitor National Park without experiencing the white water river rafting via the most attractive part of the Tara canyon, is a miss. The Tara River is navigable for raft boats in the length of almost a hundred kilometers, but the most attractive part of the rafting is in the lower end of the canyon, with the starting point from Brštanovica region.
Breakfast: Our stunning 4* accommodation will start serving buffet-style breakfast around 7 AM, featuring Montenegrin and International options.
Morning: We shall leave our accommodation at 8 AM, and in the next two hours ride, via the beautiful scenery of Durmitor National Park, we shall arrive at our beautiful Tara river rafting park. Once at the rafting camp, we shall have coffee break and some snacks before we pick up our rafting gear and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Tara river canyon is one of the most impressive wonders of the World. With a height of 1300m, Tara canyon is considered the deepest in Europe and 2nd deepest in the World (after the Grand Canyon in USA). It is no wonder that UNESCO inscribed Tara river into its program “The Man and Biosphere” due to its vast natural diversity and richness of life. Truly the best way to experience this natural phenomenon is along the Tara river white water rafting route. So if you visit Durmitor National Park and don’t experience Tara, you are missing a lot. Credibility of Tara river was proven in 2009, when the World Rafting Championship was held on the slopes of Tara river.
Our rafting gear consists of a neoprene suit and special rafting boots, helmet, vest and paddle. Water temperature during the summer season never goes above 11-12°C, meaning we will provide you with the best rafting gear available on the market to make sure everything goes smoothly. Funky Tours always collaborate with the best rafting companies, providing professional English speaking skippers and best of the best equipment.
Afternoon: Usually we are hitting rapids around noon and depending on the month of the summer season, rafting lasts between 3 and 4 hours. The later the summer months are, the lesser the water levels are, meaning, the longer the rafting is. The length of the most attractive part of the Tara rafting, from Brštanovica to Šćepan Polje, is around 20km.
>Tara white water rafting experience is full of amazing rapids and offers unique adventure
During the Tara river rafting, we are having so much fun on the rapids. Aside from admiring the natural wonders of this beautiful turquoise river, its rapids, its cleanliness, its high peaks, we are also learning about the natural diversity of the canyon itself, and what it means to the local community. Diving, swimming, chilling, cold drinks, adrenalin rush are all the beauties on our “menu” today.
Lunch: At the end of our rafting adventure, once we are back to our rafting camp we shall have a well deserved lunch. Lunch will be a combination of local Durmitor specialties with available vegetarian options. After lunch, having local coffee or cold beer, sitting at the banks of the beautiful Tara river and remembering all the amazing moments on your three-day adventure, will make you appreciate life even more. We guarantee it!
Late Afternoon: The last part of the trip is your transfer to your desired destination. Itinerary is adjusted to start and end in Kotor bay (Kotor, Budva, Perast, Herceg Novi) or Podgorica, while you can additionally opt to start or end in Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Tirana or even Belgrade as well.
Evening: On your own. Tour ends.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE TARE RIVER WHITE WATER RAFTING?
Funky Tours only collaborates with professional and licensed rafting organizations. Our job is to provide the best experienced rafting supplier and maximize safety for our guests. We prefer working with medium-sized organization which can be completely focused on the guest needs and safety.
Rafting at Tara river is ranked from 3 to 5 on the scale 1 to 6 of The International Scale of River Difficulty. The difficulty level depends on several factors of which the most important are: water levels, seasonality, number of rainy days and amount of rain, amount of snow on surrounding mountains in winter, beginning and the speed of snowmelt, number of sunny days in early spring and so on. As Tara river can be quite unpredictable, it means you should always be aware of the risks involved during the raft and should always keep your life jacket and helmet on.
Your experienced rafting guide (skipper) is trained exactly to know how to handle every situation you encounter during the rafting. Make sure to properly understand the briefing and follow the orders during the rafting adventure.
What Do I Need to Bring?
