Hiking the Via Dinarica in Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina

Hiking the Via Dinarica in Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina

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8 Days From

$1616

Hiking the Via Dinarica in Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina

8 Days Starting in Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina and ending in Podgorica, Montenegro

Visiting: Sarajevo, Sutjeska National Park, Maglić, Tara River, Piva River Canyon, Durmitor National Park, Podgorica

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

604

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Fit

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1616

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Hiking the Via Dinarica in Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina (BiH) is an eight day small group tour, taking you through two national parks: Sutjeska in BiH and Durmitor in Montenegro. By day three of this trip, you are summiting Mount Maglic (2,386m), the highest in BiH. You get to celebrate this on a day of white water rafting the next day. There are plenty of opportunities for dips in Montengro’s Durmitor National Park too, such as at Skrka Lakes on your hike up to Skrka Pass (2,112m). Or in Zeleni Vir Lake en route to Bobotov Kuk (2,523m), Montenegro’s highest mountain

Highlights

  • Arrival in Sarajevo with a guided tour of the city's historical and cultural sights.

  • Hiking in Sutjeska National Park to Jagodino Lake and Kuk Summit with panoramic views.

  • Climbing Maglic, Bosnia-Herzegovina's highest mountain, with views over Montenegro and Trnovacko Lake.

  • Rafting on the Tara River, the deepest canyon in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Exploring the Sokolina Plateau with views of the Durmitor massif and Tara River.

  • Hiking to Å krka Lakes and Skakala Waterfall, with a chance to swim in glacial waters.

  • Climbing Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in the Durmitor massif, with views to the Adriatic Sea.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In Sarajevo

Location: Sarajevo

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Sarajevo

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia-Herzegovina. Our driver collects you from the airport and takes you to your accommodation. In the afternoon, there is the opportunity to learn about Sarajevo’s complex history through a guided tour of the major historical and cultural sights of the city (included). In the evening, meet for a welcome dinner and group briefing.

Day 2 : Transfer To Sutjeska National Park And Hike To Jagodino Lake And Kuk Summit 7Km

Location: Sutjeska National Park

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mladost or similar in Tjentište (Sutjeska National Park, Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

In the morning, transfer to Sutjeska National Park (approximately 2hrs). After arriving at our hotel in the Tjentiste Valley, start the hike from Papin Do Hut to Jagodino Lake. From the lake, continue over open terrain to the summit of Kuk (1,817m), right on the Montenegro border, offering panoramic views of Zelengora Mountain and the Volujak rock face. The descent follows a partial return route, taking just over an hour, with the stunning slopes of Lebrsnik and Volujak in the distance. After a lunch break near the hut, transfer through the Sutjeska River canyon back to the hotel for dinner (approx. 30 minutes). Before dinner, we take a short 10-15 minute walk to visit the Partisan Memorial of Sutjeska, honouring those who died during the Battle of Sutjeska in WWII. Walking for the day: 7km, 3-4h, ?450m ?450m

Day 3 : Lokva Dernecište – Maglic – Prijevor 15Km

Location: Maglić

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Tjentište

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The day begins with a transfer to Lokva Dernecište (approximately 1h). From here, head through woodland and across open mountainous terrain towards Maglic (2,386m), Bosnia-Herzegovina’s highest mountain. The ascent itself takes approximately four hours and the route follows fairly well-maintained mountain trails along steep cliffs. This section is by far the most demanding part of the tour, and please note that the route is exposed, so it is not recommended to anyone suffering from vertigo. Upon reaching the summit, stop for lunch and take in the views over Montenegro and Trnovacko Lake. Begin your descent towards the lake and head to the village of Prijevor, where you are transferred back to your accommodation in Tjentište. Walking for the day: 15km, 8-9h, ?1,300m ?1300m

Day 4 : Tara River Rafting

Location: Tara River

Accommodation Name: wooden bungalows at Tara River

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The famous Tara River follows the natural border between Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro and offers some of the best rafting experiences in Europe, with level II-IV rapids. A transfer takes you into Montenegro, to the starting point of the rafting trip (45mins), which is led by a professional guide. The Tara Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the deepest canyon in Europe, and the second deepest in the world. After the day of rafting, have an early dinner on the banks of the Tara River, once again back in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Your accommodation for the evening is in simple wooden bungalows next to the river.

Day 5 : Sokolina Plateau

Location: Piva River Canyon

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Sokolina

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A short transfer takes you from the rafting camp to Mratinje Dam, a 220m dam located in Piva River Canyon in Montenegro. Follow the trail, gradually ascending towards Sokolina Plateau. Walk across the plateau, ending the walk at your accommodation, located at the edge of Tara Canyon with views of Durmitor massif and the Tara River.

Day 6 : Sušica Mountain Hut – Škrka Lakes – Dobri Do

Location: Durmitor National Park

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Zabljak

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today’s hike starts from Sušica Mountain Hut, after a morning transfer (45mins). We then head to Lake Sušicko and Skakala Waterfall crossing rocky, mountainous terrain and forested trails, before arriving at Škrka Mountain Hut and Škrka Lakes. After a break for lunch, there is the opportunity to take a dip in the cold glacial waters. Continue on to Škrcko Ždrijelo Mountain Pass, located at 2,114m. From here, today’s route ends with a descent to the plateau and valley of Dobri Do.

Day 7 : Bobotov Kuk

Location: Durmitor National Park

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Zabljak

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The final day of hiking involves a climb of Bobotov Kuk (2,523m), the highest mountain in the Durmitor massif. After a morning transfer (30mins), today’s route starts relatively high at Sedlo Pass (1,900m), before leading over the grassy slope of Surutka. Head towards Zupci (2,309m), a series of jagged peaks that resemble teeth, as the translation of zupci suggests. Arrive at the glacial lake of Zeleni Vir, the highest lake in Durmitor National Park, from where your steep ascent up Bobotov Kuk begins. On a clear day, the view from the summit extends all the way to the Adriatic Sea. After lunch, begin your descent back towards Zeleni Vir, from where you are transferred to Zabljak.

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Podgorica

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, a transfer takes you to Podgorica Airport (2.5h) for your departure.

What's Included

  • Airport Transfer

    Our driver collects you from the airport and takes you to your accommodation in Sarajevo.

  • Guided Tour in Sarajevo

    Opportunity to learn about Sarajevo’s complex history through a guided tour of the major historical and cultural sights of the city.

  • Meals

    Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided in Sarajevo, Tjentište, wooden bungalows at Tara River, Sokolina, and Zabljak.

  • Tara River Rafting

    Rafting trip on the Tara River led by a professional guide.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are provided between various locations and activities throughout the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.

Mode of Transport

Transfers are provided between key locations, including airport pickups, hotel transfers, and transport to hiking and rafting starting points, ensuring a seamless travel experience across Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays in Sarajevo, Tjentište, and Zabljak, with nights spent in hotels and simple wooden bungalows by the Tara River, offering a mix of urban and natural settings throughout the tour.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in a mix of hotels and simple wooden bungalows. Accommodation is provided in Sarajevo, Tjentište, wooden bungalows at Tara River, Sokolina, and Zabljak, offering both urban and natural settings.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the tour.

  • What is the level of difficulty for the hiking activities?

    The tour includes various hiking activities, some of which are demanding, such as the ascent of Maglić, which is not recommended for those suffering from vertigo due to exposed routes along steep cliffs.

  • Is rafting included in the tour, and what can I expect from it?

    Yes, rafting on the Tara River is included. It offers some of the best rafting experiences in Europe with level II-IV rapids, led by a professional guide. The Tara Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the deepest canyon in Europe.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transfers are provided between key locations, including airport pickups, hotel transfers, and transport to hiking and rafting starting points, ensuring a seamless travel experience across Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro.

  • What are some of the highlights of the hiking routes?

    Highlights include hiking to Jagodino Lake and Kuk Summit, climbing Maglić, Bosnia-Herzegovina's highest mountain, and climbing Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in the Durmitor massif, with views extending to the Adriatic Sea.

  • Is there an opportunity to learn about the local culture and history?

    Yes, there is a guided tour in Sarajevo where you can learn about the city's complex history through its major historical and cultural sights.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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