Active Tours in Montenegro: Hiking, Rafting, and Canyons

Active Tours in Montenegro: Hiking, Rafting, and Canyons

Montenegro is a paradise for those who prefer active adventures over lying on the beach. Mountains rise just beyond the coastline, and the country is dotted with canyons, rivers, lakes, and national parks. All of this makes it a perfect destination for hiking, trekking, rafting, canyoning, and mountain adventures.

You can book these activities in advance online — through platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide, which feature verified tours with ratings and reviews. We’ve put together a curated selection of the best active tours from both sites: below, you’ll find recommended options for each type of adventure — from hiking to canyoning and rafting.

Hiking and Trekking

1. Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park is one of the best places for trekking in Montenegro. Here you’ll find alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, pine forests, and dramatic mountain ridges. The most popular trails include routes around Black Lake, to the summit of Bobotov Kuk (2,523 m — the highest peak in the park), and across plateaus with panoramic views and wildflower meadows.

There are trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. You can join a guided day hike or opt for a multi-day route with overnight stays in the mountains. It’s a perfect way to experience the wild, open, and nearly untouched side of Montenegro.

2. Prokletije Mountains (on the border with Albania)

The Prokletije Mountains are the most rugged and remote mountain region in Montenegro, located near the borders with Albania and Kosovo. This area is perfect for experienced trekkers and those seeking solitude in nature. Most routes begin in the Grbaja Valley, where dramatic peaks tower over lush valleys and glacial lakes.

Popular hikes include the Valušnica Pass, the panoramic viewpoint at Talijanka (Talačingrad), and the ascent to Zastan peak. The region is rarely crowded and has minimal infrastructure — but that’s exactly what makes it special. Here, you’ll experience the mountains almost entirely on your own.

3. Biogradska Gora National Park

Biogradska Gora is one of the oldest national parks in Europe and a true gem of central Montenegro. It’s home to one of the last remaining primeval forests on the continent, with centuries-old trees, mossy streams, and crystal-clear glacial lakes.

The heart of the park is Biogradsko Lake, surrounded by a well-marked walking trail — perfect for a peaceful nature stroll. More experienced hikers can follow longer trekking routes to high-mountain pastures (katuns) and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Bjelasica mountain range. This park is ideal for day hikes in a wild, untouched setting — especially in early autumn, when the forest turns vivid shades of gold and red.

Rafting on the Tara River

The Tara River is one of the cleanest rivers in Europe and the top rafting destination in Montenegro. It flows through the Tara Canyon, the deepest in Europe and second only to the Grand Canyon worldwide. Rafting here isn’t just a sport — it’s an adrenaline-filled adventure through waterfalls, towering cliffs, and untouched wilderness.

Routes vary in length and difficulty — from easy one-day trips to multi-day tours with overnight camping by the river. Most tours start near Žabljak or the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, and usually include transport, equipment, safety briefing, and meals. It’s the perfect way to combine nature, excitement, and team spirit.

Canyoning (Descending Waterfalls and Gorges)

Canyoning is one of the most thrilling and visually stunning outdoor activities you can try in Montenegro. It involves navigating wild gorges by jumping into natural pools, swimming, climbing, and squeezing through narrow rocky passages with waterfalls. The most popular spot for canyoning is the Nevidio Canyon, a dramatic and scenic gorge that has become a favorite among adventure seekers. The route takes around 2–4 hours, guided by professionals, and requires basic physical fitness.

For more experienced trekkers, other canyons like Međurečki or Škurda near Kotor are also options — though they are more technically demanding and usually require advance coordination. Canyoning in Montenegro is the perfect way to combine raw nature, adrenaline, and the icy rush of mountain rivers.

Cycling Tours

Exploring Montenegro by bike is a fantastic way to discover the country at your own pace, connect with the landscape, and reach places that are often inaccessible by car. Cycling tours range from leisurely rides along the coast or through rural areas — with stops for swimming and local tastings — to more challenging routes with mountain climbs, overnight stays, and dramatic changes in scenery.

Popular routes include Mount Lovćen, the Kotor Serpentine, around Lake Skadar, the Bjelasica Plateau, and the Durmitor region. Most tours include bike rental, a guide, and technical support along the way. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for active travel without going full-on extreme.

Paragliding and Zip Line

Paragliding in Montenegro offers a chance to see the country’s landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Flights usually launch from coastal mountain slopes — such as Brajići near Budva or Velika Plaža beach in Ulcinj. They are done in tandem with an instructor and require no prior experience. In just a few minutes, you’ll soar above the Adriatic Sea, mountains, and coastal towns, gaining a whole new perspective on Montenegro. The weather conditions here are often perfect for paragliding — with plenty of sunny days and steady winds.

If you’re looking for a less technical adrenaline rush, zip lining is a great alternative. The most famous line stretches above the Tara Canyon, near the Đurđevića Tara Bridge — 1,000 meters of flight over the river and about 30 seconds of pure thrill. Zip-lines are also available in Lovćen, Kotor, and at several mountain passes, offering an exciting way to enjoy Montenegro’s landscapes from above.

Kayaking

Kayaking in Montenegro offers a unique way to experience nature — from the water. The country features many scenic routes for both relaxing paddles and more active explorations. One of the most popular spots is Lake Skadar, where you can glide through water lilies, past island monasteries, and flocks of birds. Coastal areas also offer great options — such as Budva and the Bay of Kotor, where you can paddle along cliffs, hidden beaches, and historic fortresses.

Tours are available for all skill levels, from short outings to full-day adventures. Most packages include kayak rental, a life jacket, a waterproof bag, and a guide. It’s a perfect choice for those who want outdoor activity without too much adrenaline.

Tips:

• Always go with a certified guide — for most routes, this isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a requirement.
• Pack warm clothes — even in summer, mountain areas can get chilly, especially after water-based activities.
• Consider package tours with accommodation — many providers offer bundles that include transfers and overnight stays.