Discover the lake
Montenegro's Five National Parks Compared
Around 7.7% of Montenegro is protected as national park, across five very different landscapes: a wetland lake, a high limestone massif, a primeval forest, a coastal mountain and a remote alpine range.
- National parks
- 5
- Protected
- ~7.7% of the country
- Skadar Lake
- Established 1983
- Durmitor
- Established 1952
- Biogradska Gora
- Established 1952
- Lovćen
- Established 1952
- Prokletije
- Established 2009
Skadar Lake
The wetland park in the south: Southern Europe's largest lake, 280+ bird species, water lilies, island monasteries and a river canyon. The only park best explored by boat, and the easiest to reach from both Podgorica and the coast.
Durmitor and the Tara canyon
The high north: limestone peaks above 2,500 m, glacial lakes including the Black Lake, and Europe's deepest river canyon at Tara. Hiking and rafting country, three to four hours from the coast.
Biogradska Gora, Lovćen and Prokletije
Biogradska Gora protects one of the last primeval forests in Europe around a glacial lake — an easy, beautiful half-day. Lovćen rises directly above Kotor, with the Njegoš mausoleum and views over half the country. Prokletije, on the Albanian border, is the wildest and least visited, for serious mountain walkers.
- Wildlife and water: Skadar Lake.
- Peaks and rafting: Durmitor and Tara.
- Ancient forest: Biogradska Gora.
- Views near the coast: Lovćen.
- Remote hiking: Prokletije.
Fitting them into a trip
On a short trip, pair Lovćen with Skadar Lake — they sit on the same road from the bay, and a canyon boat tour is only half a day. With a week, add Durmitor and Biogradska Gora in the north. Park fees are modest and an annual pass covering all five is available; ask us if you plan to visit several.
Plan your day on the water
Private boat tours from Restaurant Savina Luka in Rijeka Crnojevića — your group only, free private parking, swim stop included in season.
Frequently asked questions
How many national parks does Montenegro have?
Five: Skadar Lake, Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, Lovćen and Prokletije.
Which is easiest to visit?
Skadar Lake — 25 minutes from Podgorica, about 50 from the coast, and seen from a boat.
Is there a combined pass?
Yes, an annual pass covering the national parks exists. Ask us and we will point you to it.