If you are planning a trip to Durmitor National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage site covers glacial lakes, alpine meadows, dramatic canyons, and 48 mountain peaks higher than 2,000 meters. The best way to discover it is by renting a car. Public transport can bring you to Žabljak, the gateway town, but buses are often slow and limited. Turkish tourists will find Durmitor very different from the coast. The region has alpine weather, with cooler air even in summer and snow in winter. Our Durmitor National Park guide will list the best things to do in Durmitor National Park, the best time to visit, how to hike safely, and more.
Durmitor National Park is one of Montenegro’s most treasured landscapes. Its history and recognition show how important this alpine region is for nature and culture.
Over thousands of years, glaciers, rivers, and shifting geology shaped Durmitor's dramatic landscapes. The Tara River, with its deep gorge, carved Europe’s largest canyon, reaching 1,300 meters in depth. The peaks, valleys, and “mountain eyes” that are small glacial lakes scattered across the park are reminders that the ice age once covered these ranges.
Durmitor became a national park in 1952, protecting its unique environment. Later, in 1980, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance. The UNESCO listing also includes the Tara Canyon, one of the park’s most famous landmarks.
The park covers around 150 square miles of wilderness in Montenegro’s Dinaric Alps. It is home to wild forests, alpine pastures, and habitats for wolves, bears, and eagles. With its protected status, Durmitor balances tourism with conservation. This means you enjoy hiking trails, rafting trips, and skiing, while still experiencing unspoiled landscapes.
Durmitor welcomes travellers all year, but each season offers a different adventure. Knowing when to visit helps you plan the best activities.
Summer from June to September is Durmitor's peak season. Trails are open, the weather is warm, and the lakes are clear for walking and swimming. This is the best time for hiking and driving the Durmitor Ring, an 85-kilometer circular road with views of mountain peaks and valleys. Expect more crowds around Black Lake and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn brings golden forests and fewer visitors. You can still enjoy hiking with cooler temperatures. This is the most beautiful time to visit because of the vibrant colors and the quiet trails. However, rafting and canyoning tours usually stop by November.
Durmitor changes into a ski destination in winter (December to March). Snow covers the mountains, and the Savin Kuk Ski Resort becomes the main attraction, with lifts, slopes, and very low-priced passes. Skiing here is affordable compared to other European resorts.
Spring from April to May is a mixed season. Snow still covers higher peaks, but forests start to bloom with wildflowers. Lower trails open for easy walks near Black Lake, but serious treks are not recommended as paths remain icy. Some seasonal lakes, like Sušičko, are at their fullest in spring.
Getting to Durmitor is simple, but how you travel changes how much you can explore. Renting a car offers convenience, while buses provide budget options.
The fastest and most flexible option is to rent a car in Montenegro. From Podgorica, it takes around 2 hours to reach Žabljak. The drive takes three to four hours from the coast, like Kotor or Budva. Turkish travellers arriving at Podgorica or Tivat airports can easily pick up cars there.
Buses connect Podgorica, Kotor, and Nikšić to Žabljak if you travel without a car. The ride from Podgorica takes about 2.5 hours. From Kotor, the bus ride can take 4 hours. However, buses are sometimes crowded, late, and not frequent. You may need to pay extra fees for luggage. From Žabljak, some local buses and taxis go to Tara Canyon or nearby villages, but options are limited.
The Durmitor Ring is one of the most scenic drives in Montenegro. The road is around 76 to 85 kilometers, starting and ending in Žabljak. Driving the loop takes around 2 hours without stops, but most travellers spend a day exploring. The route includes highlights such as Sedlo Pass, which is 1,907 meters long and offers panoramic mountain views. You will also pass glacial lakes like Vražje Jezero (Devil’s Lake), known for its turquoise water, and Sušičko Lake, which often dries out in late summer. Small huts and traditional katuns (shepherd settlements) appear along the road, giving you glimpses of local life.
The Durmitor Ring is not a highway. The roads are narrow, winding, and sometimes without guardrails. Drive slowly and be prepared to pull over for oncoming cars or even herds of sheep. It is best to start in the morning, carry water and snacks, and download an offline map because phone signals can disappear in the mountains.
Durmitor is a paradise for hikers, with trails for every skill level. From short forest walks to steep climbs, you can choose the route that fits your energy and time.
One of the easiest and most famous hikes is around Black Lake (Crno Jezero). The 3.5-kilometer circular trail takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a slow pace. It is flat, well-marked, and suitable even for families. Another simple hike is the short trail to Curevac, a viewpoint over Tara Canyon, which takes about 2 hours on a round trip. The hike to Snake Lake (Zminje Jezero) also offers a quiet forest path and a chance to see one of Durmitor’s hidden green lakes.
For those with more energy, the trek to Jablan Lake is a rewarding option. Surrounded by cliffs, this blue glacial lake is reached after a 2- to 3-hour hike. You can also extend it to the Crvena Greda peak, which gives dramatic views over the valley. Another scenic option is the trail to Katun Lokvice, a mountain valley often used for camping.
The most famous hike in Durmitor is to the summit of Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak at 2,523 meters. Starting from Sedlo Pass, the hike takes six to seven hours and has steep, rocky sections that require good shoes and fitness. Another dramatic climb is to Prutaš Peak, which offers alpine scenery and views over Skrčka Lakes. These hikes are not for beginners, but they give you the best views in the park.
Durmitor is not only about mountains and lakes. The park is also home to Tara Canyon, a place of wild beauty and thrilling outdoor adventures.
The Tara Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe and one of the most dramatic Durmitor attractions. The Đurđevića Tara Bridge is the best place to see its scale. Standing 170 meters above the river, the bridge gives breathtaking views of the turquoise Tara River.
Rafting on the Tara River is a highlight for many visitors. Trips last three to five hours, passing cliffs and forests along the canyon walls. Prices are affordable compared to other European rafting spots. Multi-day rafting tours include camping by the river. Another option is canyoning, especially in Nevidio Canyon near Durmitor, where you swim and climb through narrow passages and waterfalls.
For adrenaline seekers, ziplining over Tara Canyon is unforgettable. Several operators offer different lengths of lines across the gorge, and many tours combine rafting with a zipline ride. The activity starts near the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, where small shops and operators organize the rides.
Durmitor is often called the land of the “mountain eyes” because of its glacial lakes. Each one has its own character, from peaceful forest pools to large turquoise waters near mountain peaks.
This is the most famous lake in the park and a symbol of Durmitor. Located near Žabljak, it is easily accessible and surrounded by pine forests. The lake consists of two parts, Small and Big Lake, which are connected throughout the year. You can swim, kayak, or simply walk around the 2.2-mile loop.
Durmitor has more than 18 glacial lakes. Zminje Jezero (Snake Lake) is quiet and hidden in the forest. Jablan Jezero sits at the base of Crvena Greda mountain. Vražje Jezero (Devil’s Lake), about 17 minutes from Žabljak, is known for its turquoise water and sandy shore. Seasonal lakes like Sušičko appear full in spring and early summer but often dry by August.
When visiting Durmitor, most travellers stay in Žabljak, the closest town to the park. This small mountain hub has many accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Staying here gives you easy access to Black Lake, trailheads, and restaurants.
If you are on a budget, there are family-run guesthouses. There are also hostels popular with hikers and backpackers. Mid-range visitors can stay in comfortable places with modern designs near popular sites. If you want more comfort, you can find boutique lodges and newer hotels with spa services, saunas, and mountain-view balconies.
Outside of Žabljak, you can stay in cozy bungalows near Virak or traditional Etno villages, where peaks surround wooden houses. These places are perfect for quiet nights and direct access to mountain trails. Some Etno villages also serve local Montenegrin food. If you visit in winter, many accommodations offer easy access to ski slopes, while in summer they serve as a base for hiking and lake trips.
Durmitor also has a rich culinary tradition, and after a day outdoors, you will find the local food warm and satisfying. In Žabljak, you can taste traditional Montenegrin dishes and international meals, giving you options for every appetite.
After hiking or rafting, nothing feels better than hearty Montenegrin food. A famous dish in Žabljak is Kačamak, made of cornmeal, butter, potatoes, and cheese. It is heavy but perfect after a long trek in the mountains. Other traditional meals include lamb cooked under the sač, fresh grilled meats, and thick soups that warm you during the colder months. You will also find homemade cheese and local wines, which many restaurants proudly serve from nearby farms and vineyards.
In town, you can find places serving traditional Montenegrin meals in a lively setting. Some spots focus on meat dishes and local recipes, while others offer Italian food like pasta and wine. There are also pizzerias and bakeries with quick and tasty meals. If you prefer to cook, you can buy groceries in the town center. Many guesthouses also provide home-cooked meals.
Visiting Durmitor is an unforgettable experience, but it helps to know a few practical tips before you go. From entrance fees to safety advice, being prepared ensures your trip is smooth and enjoyable.
Durmitor charges an entrance fee of around €3 to €5, or €6 for a three-day pass. Tickets are usually sold at the Black Lake entrance, and sometimes at other trailheads. Park rangers may ask to see your ticket inside the park, so always keep it with you. Multi-day passes are useful if you plan to explore different areas over several days.
The weather can change suddenly in the mountains, so bringing the right gear is important. Pack layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy hiking shoes. For longer hikes, carry enough water and snacks, and consider walking poles for steep or rocky paths. Since the mobile signal is unreliable, it’s best to download offline navigation apps. A small backpack for daily essentials will make your hikes easier.
Durmitor is safe, even for solo travellers, but it's better to let someone know of your plans before heading on a long hike. Respect nature by not leaving trash, avoiding open fires, and staying on marked trails. The air is fresh and the scenery is wild, but conditions can be harsh without preparation. In winter, roads and paths can be icy, so check weather reports before setting out. Following these simple steps helps you enjoy the park responsibly.
Durmitor National Park has high peaks, deep canyons, and clear lakes. For Turkish tourists, it is a cool break from the coast. Whether you want to stroll around Black Lake, the challenge of Bobotov Kuk, the thrill of rafting the Tara River, or the beauty of driving the Durmitor Ring, this park has it all. The best way to explore Durmitor is to rent a car with Final Rentals. With your own vehicle, you can enjoy freedom, reach remote hikes, and stop for views at your own pace.
