If you’re looking to escape the city and see some of Montenegro’s most breathtaking natural scenery, this day tour from Podgorica offers a well-rounded taste of the country’s rugged beauty. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines lush forests, dramatic canyons, historic sites, and charming small towns—all packed into just over eight hours.
What we love about this trip is how it manages to balance spectacular scenery with cultural insights, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide who makes each stop come alive. The drive along the highest highway in the European Union is enough to set your camera to burst mode, and the walks through ancient forests give a sense of stepping back in time.
One small consideration is that the tour involves light walking and some uneven surfaces, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on their feet. It’s perfect for those eager to see Montenegro’s natural wonders without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you treasure authentic landscapes and a touch of history, this tour is a solid choice.
Key Points
- Spectacular scenery: From mountain vistas to dense forests and deep canyons, this tour showcases Montenegro’s natural beauty.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand the significance of places, adding depth to the experience.
- Convenience and value: All transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
- Authentic experiences: Visit a historic monastery, explore local markets in Kolasin, and hike through primeval forest.
- Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture stunning views of canyon cliffs, lakes, and forests.
- Limited walking: Light walking involved, suitable for most travelers, but some uneven terrain to be aware of.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Podgorica.
Comfortable Transportation and Planning
Starting from your hotel in Podgorica, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a real plus for travelers wanting a hassle-free experience. The journey is led by a professional guide speaking English, ensuring you get insightful commentary without the need to worry about directions or logistics. The transport is private, so you won’t be squeezed into a crowd, making the experience more relaxed.
The Drive Along the Highest Highway in the EU
The adventure begins with a scenic drive along the highway to Kolasin, which is notable for its cliff-side bends and tunnels—an engineering marvel that offers some of the most impressive views. The route itself is part of the attraction, revealing Montenegro’s dramatic mountainous terrain. As one reviewer described, “the drive is enjoyable as you can see the amazing landscape of Montenegro on the way.”
Exploring Kolasin
Once in Kolasin, you get about an hour of guided sightseeing. This is a good opportunity to wander this small mountain town and maybe browse stalls selling local products. The town’s laid-back charm makes it an ideal spot to appreciate Montenegro’s rural lifestyle. It’s also a chance to stretch your legs and prepare for the next segment of the day.
More Great Tours NearbyHiking Through Biogradska Gora National Park & Lake
The highlight for many visitors is the exploration of Biogradska Gora National Park. We loved the way this part offers a tangible sense of stepping into an ancient, untouched forest. The walk through the primeval forest involves stepping over roots of trees that might be centuries old—imagine the stories those roots could tell. The park’s lake, with its crystal-clear waters, is a perfect spot for photos and peaceful reflection.
The guided walking tour here lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights, listen to your guide’s stories, and enjoy the tranquility of Montenegro’s wilderness.
Visiting the Moraca Monastery
Next, you’ll visit the Moraca Monastery, a fascinating blend of religious history and medieval fortress architecture. Surrounded by high stone walls, the monastery has a mystical aura that transports you back in time. Inside, you might find the legend of the yellow stone intriguing—how this special stone was transported tens of kilometers from Tusine to build the monastery.
The 45-minute guided tour here provides insight into the monastery’s history and architecture. According to one reviewer, the monastery’s “sleeping quarters that can tell you some legend from this area,” add a layer of storytelling to the visit.
The Spectacular Moraca River Canyon
The tour’s finale is a photo stop at Moraca River Canyon, famous for the road E65, which clings to the canyon’s edge with countless bends and tunnels. This road is considered one of the most unique and interesting roads in the world—a true feat of engineering that offers jaw-dropping views. As one traveler put it, “the highway is built to connect Podgorica and Kolasin, and it will amaze you in every way.”
This stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but packed with opportunities to snap photos of the rugged canyon walls and rushing river below.
Return to Podgorica
After a day filled with natural beauty and historical sights, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel. Most trips finish around mid-afternoon or early evening, providing plenty of time to reflect on the day or plan your next adventure.
Analyzing the Value
At roughly 8 hours, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Montenegro’s mountain landscapes, forests, and cultural sites. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which adds value by saving you the hassle of arranging transportation. The guided aspect ensures you gain local insights that you might miss exploring alone, making it a richer experience.
One reviewer described it as “not too far away from Podgorica and the drive is enjoyable,” highlighting the ease of access and the scenic drive itself as a big plus. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guides, stating that “Tamara was very helpful and allowed us to discover authentic places,” which underscores the value of having an expert leading the way.
Considering the Tour’s Pacing and Suitability
The tour involves light walking, mainly on well-maintained paths, but the forest trail and canyon viewpoints may require some balance and agility. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues might need to consider this.
Since the tour is private, you have the flexibility to ask questions, linger at certain sites, or skip things if you prefer. The pay later reservation policy offers flexibility in planning your trip.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, scenic introduction to northern Montenegro without the hassle of organizing logistics. Nature lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers will find plenty to enjoy. The guided element ensures you learn about the places you visit, making the experience both educational and inspiring.
It’s ideal for travelers who prefer light walking but still wish to see forests, lakes, and canyons up close. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even solo, the private group setting makes for a personalized and intimate outing.
Final Words
This tour combines the best of Montenegro’s natural beauty and cultural heritage into a manageable day trip from Podgorica. It’s a great way to see stunning landscapes, historic sites, and experience authentic local charm without the stress of self-planning.
The scenery alone would make it worthwhile, but add in the knowledgeable guide, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the chance to explore primeval forests and ancient monasteries, and you’ve got a memorable, value-packed day. It’s well-suited for anyone who wants a taste of Montenegro’s wild side, especially those eager for scenic drives and authentic experiences.
If you enjoy stunning views, engaging stories, and peaceful nature, this tour makes a solid choice for your Montenegro itinerary.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and focus on the sights.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with a flexible start time depending on availability.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best for those comfortable with light walking on uneven terrain. Not suitable for wheelchair users.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended to enjoy walking and capture scenic views.
How many people are on the tour?
It’s a private group, so you’ll be with your own party and guide.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so consider packing some snacks.
What’s the highlight of the trip?
Most travelers mention the drive along the canyon and the walk through the primeval forest as top highlights.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers praise the guides for their friendliness and insight, making the experience more meaningful.
Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The views of the canyon, forests, and lakes provide excellent photo opportunities.
This tour offers a beautifully balanced look at Montenegro’s wild and historic side, perfect for travelers seeking authentic, scenic experiences with the comfort of expert guidance.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Podgorica
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