
Montenegro
Montenegro - Guided hiking tour of national parks
Montenegro - Guided hiking tour of national parks
Duration
11 days
Start/End
Dubrovnik
Tour type
Group
Level
Demanding
Accommodation
Hotel / Mountain Refuge
Overview
On seven hikes of four to six hours you climb up to 2,000 metres – across mountain meadows, past mountain streams and clear lakes. You get to know the Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, Lake Skadar and Lovćen national parks, stay in mountain huts and with shepherds and finish at the Bay of Kotor.
This group tour of Montenegro, consisting of seven routes (4 to 6 hours each), takes us to altitudes of 2,000 meters. The route traverses fragrant mountain meadows, crystal-clear streams, and pristine lakes. During the excursions, we will explore four of Montenegro's national parks: Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, Lake Skadar, and Lovćen, each with its own unique charm, but together reflecting the diverse natural beauty of Montenegro. The Durmitor Mountains were declared a national park in 1952 and have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. This massif, with its spectacular peaks and crystal-clear mountain lakes, is sure to captivate any nature lover. Forty-eight mountains within the national park rise above 2,000 meters. Biogradska Gora National Park in Montenegro is one of Europe's last primeval forests, its origins dating back to the royal hunting grounds of King Nikola, which were left undisturbed for centuries. Ancient beech, fir, and oak trees with imposing trunks characterize the forest, transporting visitors to another era. Nestled in the Bjelasica Mountains (whose highest peak is Crna Glava, at 2,139 meters), a geological window where ancient bedrock outcrops, giving the landscape its rolling hills and rounded peaks, lie the mountain lakes of Pesica, Ursulovacko, and Sisko, also known locally as glacial lakes. This landscape, shaped by the Ice Age, makes Bjelasica a natural alpine pasture, where shepherds have grazed their flocks for generations and produced Kolasinski Lisnati Sir, a layered cheese similar to mozzarella, originating from the high-altitude alpine meadows. Sustainable tourism combines all these elements: excursions through the primeval forest, past Lake Biogradsko, and up to the mountain lakes, offer an immersive nature experience far removed from mass tourism. Biogradska Gora and the Bjelasica region thus constitute a destination that harmoniously blends geology, forest history, alpine culture, and culinary tradition. Lake Skadar is the largest inland body of water in the Balkans. It is covered in a magnificent display of flowers: water lilies as far as the eye can see. Skadarsko Jezero, as it is also known, is home to countless species of fish and birds. During a boat trip, we will have the opportunity to observe some of these species with our own eyes. The lake is also home to one of the last remaining pelican colonies in Europe. The Dalmatian pelican is the emblem of the lake. The border with Albania runs through the middle of the lake. Two-thirds of the lake belong to Montenegro and the remaining third to Albania. The third national park is Lovćen National Park. On one of its peaks, Jezerski Vrh (1657 m), lies the tomb of Montenegrin poet laureate Njegoš. From there, one can enjoy a magnificent view of the Bay of Kotor and, on a clear day, see the northern mountains, Bosnia, and even the Italian coast.
Tour Code
Tour language
GermanItinerary
Day 1
Arrival
Near Savnik: Ethno Village, p. Nevidio or similar (in shared cabins)
You will arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia, independently during the day. We will pick you up at Dubrovnik Airport. In the afternoon, we will head for the mountains. We will travel through Bosnia and Herzegovina (you only need your ID) for approximately 3 hours, passing through stunning landscapes, to our first destination near Šavnik. Our accommodation for the next two days is an "Eko Katun," a rustic mountain cabin nestled in nature. You will enjoy fantastic starry skies and hearty traditional meals.
Arrival
Day 1
Near Savnik: Ethno Village, p. Nevidio or similar (in shared cabins)
You will arrive in Dubrovnik, Croatia, independently during the day. We will pick you up at Dubrovnik Airport. In the afternoon, we will head for the mountains. We will travel through Bosnia and Herzegovina (you only need your ID) for approximately 3 hours, passing through stunning landscapes, to our first destination near Šavnik. Our accommodation for the next two days is an "Eko Katun," a rustic mountain cabin nestled in nature. You will enjoy fantastic starry skies and hearty traditional meals.
Day 2
Reaching for the sky
Near Savnik: Ethno Village, p. Nevidio or similar (in shared cabins)
Hiking time: 5.5 hours, ascent: 850 m, descent: 100 m
Today we venture into the highlands, traversing an alpine landscape. We'll begin by walking alongside a small mountain stream. Then we'll continue through forests, alpine meadows, and the rugged karst formations typical of the Durmitor Mountains. The hike ends at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters, at one of the highest mountain passes in Montenegro. From there, we'll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Reaching for the sky
Day 2
Near Savnik: Ethno Village, p. Nevidio or similar (in shared cabins)
Hiking time: 5.5 hours, ascent: 850 m, descent: 100 m
Today we venture into the highlands, traversing an alpine landscape. We'll begin by walking alongside a small mountain stream. Then we'll continue through forests, alpine meadows, and the rugged karst formations typical of the Durmitor Mountains. The hike ends at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters, at one of the highest mountain passes in Montenegro. From there, we'll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3
Mountain lakes in Durmitor National Park
In Žabljak: simple 3-star hotels such as Hotel Pavlovic, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5 hours, ascent: 200 m, descent: 400 m
In the morning, we head to Žabljak, located in the heart of Durmitor National Park. This is Montenegro's northernmost national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. What the Alps are to the Swiss, the Durmitor mountains are to the Montenegrins. Here you'll find 18 glacial lakes, the most famous of which is Black Lake (Crno Jezero). Over these three days, we'll explore the most beautiful corners of the national park on foot. We'll start from a high plateau with breathtaking views of the peaks and hike to Lake Jablan. Crossing through dense coniferous forests and colorful meadows, we'll continue to Snake Lake (Zminje Jezero). Depending on the season, a variety of herbs and flowers bloom here: from St. John's wort and sage to mullein, foxglove, gentian, and many more. From here, we will continue to Lake Barno, a smaller but equally beautiful mountain lake, and then return to Žabljak.
Mountain lakes in Durmitor National Park
Day 3
In Žabljak: simple 3-star hotels such as Hotel Pavlovic, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5 hours, ascent: 200 m, descent: 400 m
In the morning, we head to Žabljak, located in the heart of Durmitor National Park. This is Montenegro's northernmost national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. What the Alps are to the Swiss, the Durmitor mountains are to the Montenegrins. Here you'll find 18 glacial lakes, the most famous of which is Black Lake (Crno Jezero). Over these three days, we'll explore the most beautiful corners of the national park on foot. We'll start from a high plateau with breathtaking views of the peaks and hike to Lake Jablan. Crossing through dense coniferous forests and colorful meadows, we'll continue to Snake Lake (Zminje Jezero). Depending on the season, a variety of herbs and flowers bloom here: from St. John's wort and sage to mullein, foxglove, gentian, and many more. From here, we will continue to Lake Barno, a smaller but equally beautiful mountain lake, and then return to Žabljak.
Day 4
Excursion to the summit
In Žabljak: easy approx. 3* hotels such as Hotel Pavlović, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5-6 hours, ascent: 700 m, descent: 700 m
Today we venture into the highest reaches of Durmitor. The ascent to Prutas (2393 m) is considered one of the most beautiful mountain routes in the area. Its imposing peak, with its diagonally arranged rock slabs and verdant, grassy slopes, rises majestically above the landscape. From the summit, a breathtaking 360° panorama unfolds, encompassing the heart of the Durmitor massif. Among other attractions, we can admire Bobotov Kuk, at 2522 m, the highest mountain in the range, and the Sušica Gorge.
Excursion to the summit
Day 4
In Žabljak: easy approx. 3* hotels such as Hotel Pavlović, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5-6 hours, ascent: 700 m, descent: 700 m
Today we venture into the highest reaches of Durmitor. The ascent to Prutas (2393 m) is considered one of the most beautiful mountain routes in the area. Its imposing peak, with its diagonally arranged rock slabs and verdant, grassy slopes, rises majestically above the landscape. From the summit, a breathtaking 360° panorama unfolds, encompassing the heart of the Durmitor massif. Among other attractions, we can admire Bobotov Kuk, at 2522 m, the highest mountain in the range, and the Sušica Gorge.
Day 5
Biogradska National Park and overnight stay with shepherds.
In Žabljak: easy approx. 3* hotels such as Hotel Pavlović, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5.5 hours, ascent: 900 m, descent: 100 m
In the morning, we set off for Biogradska Gora National Park. Our hike takes us through majestic beech forests to Lake Biograd. There, we take a break and then continue our ascent to a rustic mountain pasture overlooking the lake. There, we experience authentic Montenegrin hospitality. Simple accommodations await us, along with a delicious dinner prepared by the owner herself. The vast starry sky and the solitude of the mountains are simply breathtaking. In an alpine meadow near Kolasin (no website, rustic wooden cabins for two people, linens included, shared bathroom and shower). We won't have access to our large luggage today. We need to prepare everything we need for the night in advance.
Biogradska National Park and overnight stay with shepherds.
Day 5
In Žabljak: easy approx. 3* hotels such as Hotel Pavlović, Hotel Žabljak or Hotel Polar Star
Hiking time: 5.5 hours, ascent: 900 m, descent: 100 m
In the morning, we set off for Biogradska Gora National Park. Our hike takes us through majestic beech forests to Lake Biograd. There, we take a break and then continue our ascent to a rustic mountain pasture overlooking the lake. There, we experience authentic Montenegrin hospitality. Simple accommodations await us, along with a delicious dinner prepared by the owner herself. The vast starry sky and the solitude of the mountains are simply breathtaking. In an alpine meadow near Kolasin (no website, rustic wooden cabins for two people, linens included, shared bathroom and shower). We won't have access to our large luggage today. We need to prepare everything we need for the night in advance.
Day 6
Excursion to Zekova Glava
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 5 hours, ascent: 600 m, descent: 450 m
A scenic route takes us along a ridge to Zekova Glava (2122 m). From here, we admire Lake Pesica, where we'll take a break later. In the distance, we can see the highest peak in the Bjelasica mountain range, Crna Glava ("Black Head"), at 2139 m. We continue to the Bjelasica ski resort, where we'll be picked up and taken to our accommodation in Kolasin.
Excursion to Zekova Glava
Day 6
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 5 hours, ascent: 600 m, descent: 450 m
A scenic route takes us along a ridge to Zekova Glava (2122 m). From here, we admire Lake Pesica, where we'll take a break later. In the distance, we can see the highest peak in the Bjelasica mountain range, Crna Glava ("Black Head"), at 2139 m. We continue to the Bjelasica ski resort, where we'll be picked up and taken to our accommodation in Kolasin.
Day 7
Circular hiking route in the Komovi mountains.
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 4 hours, ascent: 400 m, descent: 400 m
In the morning, we set off for today's starting point. Our destination is the impressive Komovi massif, a unique part of the Dinaric Alps, on the border with Albania. Unlike the gentle Bjelasica mountains, the Komovi mountains display their alpine side: rugged, wild, and pristine. Two important rivers of the region also originate here: the Tara and the Lim. Our hike follows a magnificent panoramic trail that winds through expansive alpine meadows. Always in view: the majestic peaks of Ljevorcki Kom (2453 m), Kucki Kom (2487 m), and Vasojevicki Kom (2460 m). Those who wish to take things easy today have the opportunity to do so. They can stay in Kolasin and take a stroll, or spend a wonderfully relaxing day in the alpine meadow, which is the starting and ending point of our excursion.
Circular hiking route in the Komovi mountains.
Day 7
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 4 hours, ascent: 400 m, descent: 400 m
In the morning, we set off for today's starting point. Our destination is the impressive Komovi massif, a unique part of the Dinaric Alps, on the border with Albania. Unlike the gentle Bjelasica mountains, the Komovi mountains display their alpine side: rugged, wild, and pristine. Two important rivers of the region also originate here: the Tara and the Lim. Our hike follows a magnificent panoramic trail that winds through expansive alpine meadows. Always in view: the majestic peaks of Ljevorcki Kom (2453 m), Kucki Kom (2487 m), and Vasojevicki Kom (2460 m). Those who wish to take things easy today have the opportunity to do so. They can stay in Kolasin and take a stroll, or spend a wonderfully relaxing day in the alpine meadow, which is the starting and ending point of our excursion.
Day 8
The Moraca Monastery and the Mrtvica Canyon
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 4 hours, ascent: 400 m, descent: 400 m
Today we continue south. On the way, we'll visit the small but important Orthodox Monastery of Moraca. Afterward, we'll walk along the turquoise Mrtvica River through the canyon of the same name to the Gate of Wishes. Those who wish can enjoy this beautiful spot overlooking the magnificent river. The rest of us will continue walking a little further upstream (weather permitting) before returning to the Gate of Wishes. Then, we'll return to Kolasin.
The Moraca Monastery and the Mrtvica Canyon
Day 8
In Kolasin: Hotel Brile or similar
Hiking time: 4 hours, ascent: 400 m, descent: 400 m
Today we continue south. On the way, we'll visit the small but important Orthodox Monastery of Moraca. Afterward, we'll walk along the turquoise Mrtvica River through the canyon of the same name to the Gate of Wishes. Those who wish can enjoy this beautiful spot overlooking the magnificent river. The rest of us will continue walking a little further upstream (weather permitting) before returning to the Gate of Wishes. Then, we'll return to Kolasin.
Day 9
Train and boat trip, Lovćen National Park and the Bay of Kotor
In the Bay of Kotor: Hotel Babilon or similar
In the morning, we boarded the train. The railway line between Kolasin and Podgorica is considered one of the most spectacular train journeys in Europe. Around midday, we arrived at Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans. During a boat trip through the still-pristine ecosystem of the national park, we discovered rare animals (more than 300 species of birds) and plants, as well as small islands with fortresses and abandoned churches. In the afternoon, we continued our journey to Lovćen National Park. Whether from Lake Skadar, Herceg Novi, or the northern mountains, the peaks are visible from every vantage point. Their cliffs rise abruptly from the Adriatic Sea. Atop Jezerski Vrh (1657 m) stands the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, Montenegrin's most famous ruler. We enjoyed views of Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia, and, on a clear day, even as far as the Italian coast. Afterwards, we continued to our final stop, the Bay of Kotor. We said goodbye to our guide with a farewell dinner.
Train and boat trip, Lovćen National Park and the Bay of Kotor
Day 9
In the Bay of Kotor: Hotel Babilon or similar
In the morning, we boarded the train. The railway line between Kolasin and Podgorica is considered one of the most spectacular train journeys in Europe. Around midday, we arrived at Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans. During a boat trip through the still-pristine ecosystem of the national park, we discovered rare animals (more than 300 species of birds) and plants, as well as small islands with fortresses and abandoned churches. In the afternoon, we continued our journey to Lovćen National Park. Whether from Lake Skadar, Herceg Novi, or the northern mountains, the peaks are visible from every vantage point. Their cliffs rise abruptly from the Adriatic Sea. Atop Jezerski Vrh (1657 m) stands the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, Montenegrin's most famous ruler. We enjoyed views of Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia, and, on a clear day, even as far as the Italian coast. Afterwards, we continued to our final stop, the Bay of Kotor. We said goodbye to our guide with a farewell dinner.
Day 10
Adriatic coast
In the Bay of Kotor: Hotel Babilon or similar
The trip concludes with a relaxing day in the Bay of Kotor. You can swim, take a boat trip around the beautiful bay, and visit Kotor's Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Our local agency will be happy to help you arrange a boat excursion.
Adriatic coast
Day 10
In the Bay of Kotor: Hotel Babilon or similar
The trip concludes with a relaxing day in the Bay of Kotor. You can swim, take a boat trip around the beautiful bay, and visit Kotor's Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Our local agency will be happy to help you arrange a boat excursion.
Day 11
match
In the morning, it's time to say goodbye. If you wish to extend your stay in the region, we would be happy to help and advise you. To coincide with the return flights, a transfer to Dubrovnik airport will be arranged around noon (arrival at the airport will not be before 11:00, so departures will not be before 13:00). Note on hiking trails in Montenegro We offer mountain excursions to altitudes of up to 2000 meters. If weather conditions require it, we will adapt the routes to ensure everyone's safety. Your accommodation During our trip to Montenegro, we stayed in small, simple hotels, but also in what are known as katuns. These are small camps with wooden cabins in remote areas. There, surrounded by nature, we enjoyed simple yet hearty local food around a campfire, accompanied by good Montenegrin wine and, of course, the fantastic starry sky far from civilization. Regarding travel dates
match
Day 11
In the morning, it's time to say goodbye. If you wish to extend your stay in the region, we would be happy to help and advise you. To coincide with the return flights, a transfer to Dubrovnik airport will be arranged around noon (arrival at the airport will not be before 11:00, so departures will not be before 13:00). Note on hiking trails in Montenegro We offer mountain excursions to altitudes of up to 2000 meters. If weather conditions require it, we will adapt the routes to ensure everyone's safety. Your accommodation During our trip to Montenegro, we stayed in small, simple hotels, but also in what are known as katuns. These are small camps with wooden cabins in remote areas. There, surrounded by nature, we enjoyed simple yet hearty local food around a campfire, accompanied by good Montenegrin wine and, of course, the fantastic starry sky far from civilization. Regarding travel dates
Services
What's included
Overnight stays in hotels (double rooms)
3 nights in mountain refuges (one of them in a simple alpine refuge) with shared bathroom/toilet.
10 x breakfast
1 x Picnic lunch
6 prices
Boat trip on Lake Skadar
Transfers and luggage transport on the days of the program.
Guided tour in German
to/from Dubrovnik airport
5 lunch packs
Program as described, including 7 guided excursions.
National park entrance fees
Group visit with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 14 participants.
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Advice
Supplement for single room: €285 (single rooms only available in hotels).
Possible excursions on day 10
Drinks with dinner
Character of the trip
Fitness
Demanding
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Pure nature
This hike requires a good level of fitness and balance. Be prepared for mountain hikes lasting approximately 4 to 6 hours, with daily ascents of up to 900 meters, including in Durmitor and Biogradska National Parks. The trails are sometimes rocky and steep.
You'll change accommodations several times: the first few nights will be spent in rustic mountain cabins in shared rooms, followed by stays in simple or better hotels. Sturdy hiking boots, trekking poles, and waterproof mountain clothing are essential. To enter through Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, German citizens only need their ID card.
Dates and prices
Group dates
