Durmitor National Park: Snowshoeing Hike to Base Camp - What’s Waiting at the Base Camp?

The Top 5 Zabljak National Park Tours

Explore the top national park tours in Zabljak, from adrenaline-filled paragliding to scenic snowshoe hikes and thrilling zipline adventures.

Zabljak, in the heart of Montenegro, is a perfect base for exploring Durmitor National Park — a place full of dramatic mountains, glacial lakes, and outdoor adventures. What sets Zabljak apart is its accessibility to a variety of activities that suit different interests, whether you’re craving adrenaline, scenic hikes, or cultural exploration. For example, if you’re after a unique perspective of Durmitor, a paragliding experience offers an unforgettable bird’s-eye view. Or, if you want to experience winter’s silence, the snowshoeing hike to the base camp lets you explore snowy forests and alpine lakes, much like the locals do. Zabljak’s variety of tours makes it a destination that can cater to thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and even those interested in cultural sights.

Quick Overview

In this guide, we’ve rounded up five of the best national park tours in Zabljak, each offering a different way to experience Durmitor. From soaring above mountains on a tandem paragliding flight to zooming through the park on a buggy tour, you’ll find options that match your pace and interests. Whether you prefer active outings like winch tandem paragliding, scenic adventures such as snowshoeing to the base camp, or full-day trips including ziplining and sightseeing, there’s something for all.

Now, let’s explore each tour in detail so you can pick the perfect experience for your trip.

1. Tandem Paragliding in Durmitor National Park

Tandem Paragliding in Durmitor National Park

At number 1, Tandem Paragliding in Durmitor National Park offers a high-flying way to see the landscape. For around $148.66, you get approximately 30 minutes in the air with a professional pilot, soaring above the rugged peaks and turquoise lakes of Durmitor. This experience is designed for anyone — no previous paragliding skills are needed — just a willingness to enjoy a bit of a thrill and trust your pilot.

The flight provides a spectacular vantage point, especially over the towering Durmitor massif. The pilot will guide you through the process, ensuring safety and comfort, and you’ll be surprised how peaceful and exhilarating flying feels. The reviews are perfect (5.0/5 from 9 reviews), with many travelers describing it as their most memorable moment in Montenegro. It’s ideal for adventure lovers or anyone eager to see the park from a unique perspective.

Bottom line: This tour is a fantastic option if you want a quick adrenaline boost with stunning views. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with heights but not necessarily looking for a physically demanding activity.

2. Durmitor National Park: Snowshoeing Hike to Base Camp

Durmitor National Park: Snowshoeing Hike to Base Camp

Number 2 on our list is a guided snowshoeing hike to Durmitor’s base camp, perfect for winter travelers or those wanting a peaceful nature walk. The approximately 6-hour tour is a deep dive into the park’s snowy forests, glacial lakes, and old water mill tracks. Starting from Hotel SOA, the journey takes you to Crno Jezero (Black Lake) for a quick tour and photo stop, then into the woods for a hike that leads you toward the mountain peaks.

What makes this tour stand out is the chance to explore the only base camp in Europe. Your guide shares insights on local flora, fauna, and history while you trek along snow-covered trails. After a couple of hikes around the park’s stunning scenery, you’ll warm up with tea, coffee, and snacks. The reviews are strong (4.4/5), and many appreciate the combination of active exploration and cultural insight.

Bottom line: If you enjoy winter landscapes and moderate physical activity, this snowshoeing adventure offers a memorable, authentic experience of Durmitor’s winter beauty with a knowledgeable guide.

3. From Kotor: Durmitor National Park and Tara Bridge Day Trip

From Kotor: Durmitor National Park and Tara Bridge Day Trip

Number 3 is a full-day private trip from Kotor that covers Durmitor’s highlights, including the breathtaking Tara River Canyon and Tara Bridge. For about 10 hours, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated itinerary, starting with pickup in Kotor. The trip features a visit to Black Lake, where you can stroll or take photos, then continues to the Tara River for a thrilling zipline crossing the canyon.

The zipline experience is a major highlight, offering an adrenaline rush and awe-inspiring views. The guide also points out local landmarks and explains the area’s geology. Many reviewers mention how Misko, the guide, is both personable and knowledgeable, making the trip all the more enjoyable. The trip’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage — you get scenic drives, stops at key sites, and an experience-packed day for a reasonable price.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers based in Kotor who want a full taste of Durmitor’s natural wonders, including the famous Tara Bridge and zipline.

4. Winch Tandem Paragliding – Durmitor National Park

Winch Tandem Paragliding - Durmitor National Park

Number 4, Winch Tandem Paragliding, offers an even shorter but equally spectacular flight. Lasting about 20 minutes, this experience is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to soar above Durmitor’s stunning landscapes. Unlike the standard tandem, this uses a winch system to lift you, providing a smooth, controlled flight with excellent views.

This tour is run by licensed pilots and includes all necessary equipment, with passenger insurance included. The reviews are quite positive (4.6/5), highlighting the professionalism of pilots and the unforgettable experience. It’s suitable for those who want a quick dose of adventure and spectacular scenery without a long commitment.

Bottom line: If you’re after a quick, safe, and scenic flight over Durmitor, this is a superb choice. It’s good as a standalone thrill or a complement to other activities.

5. Žabljak: Durmitor National Park Buggy Tour Guide & Drinks

Our final pick, Durmitor National Park buggy tour, combines the fun of off-road driving with sightseeing. For about $177 per person, you’ll spend five hours exploring lakes, villages, and viewpoints in a guided buggy ride. You can choose between a shorter or longer tour, with the longer including a local lunch at Nadgora and cold drinks.

This tour stands out for its mix of adventure and culture. The buggy is a fun way to cover more ground than a hike, and the guide points out local sites along the way. Reviewers comment on the thrill of the ride and the quality of the included lunch and drinks, like homemade juices and beer.

Bottom line: Well-suited for thrill-seekers who want a guided, comfortable way to see Durmitor’s scenery without strenuous hiking. It offers a bit of everything — exploration, local flavor, and excitement.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interest level. If you’re after a quick adrenaline hit, the paragliding flights or winch tandem are perfect. For a more laid-back, scenic experience, the snowshoeing hike offers a peaceful way to absorb Durmitor’s winter charm.

Travelers looking for a full day of sightseeing should consider the Kotor trip, especially if they want to combine nature with adrenaline activities like ziplining. For a fun off-road adventure with cultural flavor, the buggy tour offers a relaxed yet exciting way to explore.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like paragliding and ziplining, during peak seasons in spring and summer. Each tour offers a different way to experience the park’s rugged terrains and stunning vistas, so pick one that fits your style.

Final thoughts

Zabljak’s proximity to Durmitor makes it an ideal base for a variety of outdoor adventures. Whether you want to soar above the peaks, explore snowy forests, or drive through scenic valleys, there’s a tour to match. For those seeking thrills, tandem paragliding and buggy rides deliver excitement and stunning views. If you prefer peaceful nature walks, snowshoeing offers a serene escape. And if you want a day packed with adventure and cultural sights, the full-day trip from Kotor is hard to beat.

Start planning early, choose activities that fit your interests, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Montenegro’s spectacular Durmitor National Park.