Exploring Durmitor National Park

This hidden national park is a beauty to behold. Here’s all the information you need for exploring Durmitor National Park.

Where is it and how to get there

Durmitor National Park is in North Montenegro, close to the Bosnian border. In summer there are hiking trails, and in the winter the region is converted into a ski resort. Zabljak is the town on the edge of the park and can be reached by bus or car. If you’re taking the bus, chances are you will have to stop in Niksic. I started in Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), took a bus to Niksic, stayed in a small hotel with a lady who didn’t speak English, then took the bus from Niksic to Zabljak in the morning.

If you’re on a budget like me, I highly recommend Hostel Hiker’s Den. If you’re alone, chances are you’ll be able to find other people to do a hike with! When I was there, they also had stray puppies roaming the yard and various backpackers just took them home with them.

Rafting the canyon

I decided to book a whitewater rafting tour in Tara Canyon with the hostel. You can find out more about the hostel and others tours they offer here

The drive up is amazing, and my drivers were great about stopping every few miles so we could take pictures. When you drive through the park, you’ll find beautiful scenery and a ton of sheep. The sheep herders spend all year watching over the sheep and the practice is passed down from generation to generation.

Once we arrived at the meeting point we had a delicious meal prepared by locals. We then had guides take us to the water to start our rafting adventure. The guides told us we wouldn’t need a water bottle because the river is so clear, you can drink out of it. Not totally sure about that but, when in Montenegro, do as the Montenegrins do!

The rafting trip took around 3 hours, with stops for drinks and even stops to cliff jump. The current was fast enough to be home, without being too difficult.

Although I didn’t have time (or the proper clothes. Even in summer it was pretty cold!) for hiking, I was able to see the region on my rafting trip and wish I could have seen more.

There are various hiking trails to different glacial lakes. You can even hike up to Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak on the range. Hikes are available for every level of experience.

Even though it was a short trip, it was definitely one to remember. I can’t wait for the next time and hope some of you will join me! To read more about Montenegro and other Balkan countries, check out my Hidden Gems