Rafting in Montenegro – Best Locations, Tips, Best Time to Go

Montenegro is a small country in the West Balkans that offers great adventures. It is well known for its natural beauty, with high mountains that give birth to sparkling rivers. Therefore, Montenegro is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Rafting in Montenegro is one of the best ways to experience the great landscapes and get an extra boost of adrenaline.

The activity is greatly centred around the stunning Tara River Canyon, which is Europe’s deepest canyon and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Memorable rafting on the Tara River in Montenegro offers thrills on the rapids. The clean waters are surrounded by spectacular views. Here, we present the best rafting locations and some useful tips so you can make the most of your visit.

The Best Rafting Spots in Montenegro

Montenegro is blessed with many rivers ideally suited to whitewater rafting. Each offers a unique experience. Beginners and experienced rafters are both catered for in this place.

Tara River Canyon

The Tara River Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” stretches 82 kilometers and sometimes descends 1,300 meters. It is the second deepest canyon in the world and is worth visiting by adventure seekers from all over the world.

Rafting Tara River is famous for its variety of rapids. The shorter tours, running for around 10-15 kilometers, are perfect for beginners or families to go for it. Or, if you’re an adrenaline junkie, go for the longer tours that stretch up to 50 kilometers deep in the heart of the canyon, rewarding you with a fast-paced adventure along with the incredible scenery of the Tara. 

You’ll watch waterfalls, steep cliffs, and untouched wilderness all along your way.

Spring is the adventurous time for rafting on the Tara, as this is when the water levels are high and the rapids are raging. Summer, on the other hand, brings calmer waters, which makes it suitable for sightseeing or family options.

Lim River

The Lim River is quieter than the Tara River. It flows through lush green sceneries, offering a more peaceful experience. The rapids here are relatively easy and thus an excellent choice for the inexperienced or those wanting to enjoy the rivers in a more leisurely fashion. 

Small picturesque villages can be seen from the raft as you float through scenic valleys, revealing glimpses into rural Montenegro. 

Zeta River

The Zeta River in Danilovgrad does not disappoint if you want adventure. Known for its strong currents and challenging rapids, it is perfect for experienced rafters. Emerald-green waters busy with white foam glisten under the sun. Read what things to do in Danilovgrad.

Piva River

The Piva River is a more stroked river for those interested in calmness. Its emerald-green waters might be the prettiest in the land. 

The river flows through a serene forest atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer a little peace while rafting. 

Hiking to the mountain, Trsa is often included by travelers looking for a complete experience, combining the adventure of rafting with land-based activities. 

Moraca River

The Moraca may not be as famous as the Tara, but it is still worth mentioning. With its gentle flow of water and peaceful environment, it is an unheard-of treasure for a perfect rafting trip: if you want something a bit more off the beaten path and a less traveled scenic route in Montenegro, this is your river.

Best Time for Rafting in Montenegro

The best time for rafting in Montenegro and other rivers is determined by the type of experience you desire. The rafting season stretches from April to October but offers a different experience in each month.

In spring, particularly in April and May, the water level is high due to melting snow. This means that the rapids are very strong, making them the best option for anyone seeking adrenaline. 

This particular season is characterized by the deadliest rapids and is, therefore, best for thrill-seeking and advanced rafters alike.

Summer months are known as the time for sunshine and lower water levels, creating slower rapids conducive to teaching beginner-level rafters and family runs. Summer is the best time to do some sightseeing, soaking all the goodness the canyons have to offer as you cruise downstream. 

Autumn lies between September and October when the weather cools down with very few tourists around. Water levels are still good for rafting, and colorful trees provide picturesque views. Thus, it’s a great time for some peaceful, relaxing experiences.

Tips For Rafting Trip in Montenegro

The more nice things you do to prepare for your trip, the more enjoyable your rafting trip in Montenegro is likely to be. 

Equipment

Picking the right clothing is essential. You should wear something that dries quickly, and a wetsuit would keep you comfortable in the water. 

Sturdy river/water shoes that offer excellent traction and protection for your feet are required. Another must is sunblock for your protection against the sun, as well as a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry. 

If you have a waterproof camera or a GoPro, take that for the ride for sure.

Tours

Book a tour that fits your experience level and the desired time on the river. Half-day tours are nice for beginners and those on a tight schedule. 

Full-day tours are for those eager to experience a good mix of rapids and scenic float sections. 

For real adventure lovers, multi-day tours allow further exploration of the rivers partnered with camping. 

Safety

Safety is very important in rafting. Pay attention to all instructions given by your guide and make sure to wear the safety gear issued, which could include a life jacket and helmet. 

Even if you don’t anticipate falling in, you’ll want basic swimming skills.

Montenegro rafting is suitable for most people; however, there are some age and health restrictions to be aware of. Generally, children under the age of six are not allowed to raft. Pregnant women and those who have a certain health concern may be advised not to raft. 

How To Get To Rafting Locations in Montenegro

Traveling to Montenegro is simple, with several options possible depending on the starting location.

The main airports serve Montenegro and form Podgorica Airport and Tivat Airport, which are pretty well connected with other regions of Europe. 

Podgorica is the one closest to the rafting hotspots, such as the Tara River, while Tivat is the better option if you’re staying around the seaside. 

Make sure you check on the visa requirements before your travel, since Montenegro is not in the Schengen, considering the traveling itinerary. 

Once you get to Montenegro, reaching the rafting camps is quite straightforward. For the rafting Tara River camps, you can easily drive from Podgorica in just about two hours and a half. 

Driving from Kotor would take about three hours. While public transport like buses is available, it might take longer by this means. Some rafting operators make transfers available, so it’s wise to check their guided tours that also cater for transportation.

While you’re in this area, you might want to include other activities while here, such as zip-lining over Tara Canyon, hiking in Durmitor National Park, Jeep Safari and visiting smaller towns up in the mountains like Pluzine or Zabljak.

Where To Stay For Your Rafting in Montenegro

Montenegro has loads of diverse accommodations for all pockets and tastes.

For immersion in the wilderness, eco-lodges and campsites beside rivers are your best bets. There is nothing like waking up with the sound of the river and forest around you.

Campsites and lodges typically offer hotel and guesthouse options for families or guests wishing to stay closer in comfort to the river rafting activities. Intimate, cozy rooms and the local Malagasy hospitality would be close at hand.

A lot of rafting operators would include packed deals into rafting camps, camping at a rafting camp means having a rich meal base, meeting fellow travelers, and putting things in one place. 

Before You Go To Rafting in Montenegro

Rafting in Montenegro is the adventure of a lifetime. The country is full of dramatic canyons, clean rivers, and enthralling rapids coupled with soft and serene stretches; hence, it has something for everyone. 

The adrenaline rush provided by the Tara River is rapids in the middle of the mountains or the gentle, peaceful flow of the Moraca, both would take you to amazing places.

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