Planning a trip to northern Montenegro and wondering about the best things to do in Durmitor National Park? Durmitor is one of the most spectacular mountain regions in the Balkans - a UNESCO World Heritage Site with glacial lakes, peaks above 2,500 metres and the deepest canyon in Europe. In this guide we cover the top activities in Durmitor and around the town of Žabljak (often spelled Zabljak), from easy lakeside walks to full-on adrenaline adventures.
Top Things to Do in Durmitor National Park
1. Raft the Tara River Canyon
The Tara Canyon reaches a depth of around 1.3 km at Ćurevac, making it the deepest canyon in Europe. The best way to experience it is from the water. Our one-day Tara River rafting tour starts at Šćepan Polje, where a van takes you to the Brštanovica put-in for roughly 14 km of rapids and turquoise water. It costs €75 per person (€55 for children up to 12) with breakfast and lunch included. For true wilderness lovers, there's a three-day, 63 km rafting expedition for €360.
2. Go Canyoning in Nevidio Canyon
On the edge of Durmitor, near Šavnik, lies Nevidio Canyon - the last conquered canyon in Europe. Over 1.6 km you'll jump from cliffs up to 8 metres high, squeeze through passages just 25 cm wide and ride natural water slides. The tour takes 3-4 hours in the canyon and costs €120 per person, including full equipment and a licensed guide. Learn more about its history in Nevidio - The Last Conquered Canyon in Europe.
3. Beginner Canyoning in Grabovica
If it's your first time, Grabovica Canyon is the perfect introduction: wide, sunny and full of crystal-clear natural pools. The season runs from mid-April to mid-June, and the tour costs €100 per person.
4. Walk Around the Black Lake (Crno Jezero)
The Black Lake is the symbol of Durmitor and sits about 3 km from the centre of Žabljak. The loop trail around the lake is easy, family-friendly and surrounded by dense pine forest. This is where most visitors pay the national park entrance fee.
5. Hike Bobotov Kuk
At 2,523 m, Bobotov Kuk is Durmitor's most famous summit. The hike is demanding and not for beginners, but the panorama from the top is unforgettable. The best hiking season is from late June to September. If you don't know the terrain, go with a guide - contact us to arrange a guided hike in Durmitor.
6. Discover the Glacial Lakes
Durmitor has 18 glacial lakes, known locally as "mountain eyes". Beyond the Black Lake, Zminje Lake, Jablan Lake, the Škrka lakes and Devil's Lake (Vražje jezero) are all worth a visit.
7. Cross the Đurđevića Tara Bridge
The Đurđevića Tara Bridge rises around 170 metres above the river and is one of the most photographed spots in Montenegro. Thrill-seekers can fly across the canyon on a zipline. Find out how to get there in our Pljevlja and Tara Bridge travel guide.
8. Drive the Durmitor Ring Road and Sedlo Pass
The Durmitor Ring is a scenic loop of about 80 km that crosses the Sedlo pass, passes the Sušica Canyon viewpoint and winds over high plateaus with jaw-dropping views. It makes a perfect day trip by car or motorbike.
9. Visit Piva Lake and Plužine
The emerald Piva Lake near Plužine is framed by vertical cliffs, and the road toward Šćepan Polje runs through dozens of tunnels carved straight into the rock. Read how to get to Plužine and Piva Lake.
10. Winter Sports in Žabljak
In winter, Žabljak turns into Montenegro's main ski resort. Savin Kuk and Javorovača offer downhill slopes, and there are also Nordic skiing tracks and ski-touring routes.
Practical Tips for Visiting Durmitor
| Nearest town | Žabljak (about 1,456 m above sea level) |
| Park entrance fee | Commonly around €5 per person per day, cash (check on site) |
| Best for hiking | Late June - September |
| Rafting season | April - October |
| Canyoning season | Grabovica April - June, Nevidio June - October |
- Carry cash - many places have no phone signal or card payments.
- Mountain weather changes fast, so pack a warm layer even in summer.
- Download offline maps before you set off.
- For adventure activities, always choose licensed guides.
Not sure how to get there? See our guide on how to get to Žabljak - and if you need a ride, we also offer transfers across Montenegro.
Book Your Durmitor Adventure
Whether you choose Tara River rafting, Nevidio canyoning or a gentle day in Grabovica, our team with over 15 years of experience is ready for you. Book online with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
