Hike, SUP and Kayak Montenegro's Coast
Explore the National Parks and World Heritage Sites of this beautiful Balkan coastline with a paddle in hand
Hike, SUP and Kayak Montenegro's Coast
Explore the National Parks and World Heritage Sites of this beautiful Balkan coastline with a paddle in hand
DURATION
LOCATION
ANNUAL LEAVE
SEASON
GROUP SIZE
MEETING POINT
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel
DIFFICULTY
This is an active trip. You'll need to be a confident swimmer and be reasonably fit but no previous experience is needed for the activities.
Hike through the spectacular Lovcen National Park and tackle a trail high above the historical fortified town of Kotor
SUP into the lush wetlands of Skadar Lake and paddle the Bay of Kotor at sunset against a mountainous backdrop
Kayak along the rugged Adriatic coastline and into the mesmerising Blue Cave, snorkelling in clear waters by idyllic beaches
Day 1
Welcome to Montenegro!
Hiking
Your host will pick you up from either Podgorica Airport or Tivat Airport – sit back and enjoy an hour's drive to your hotel, situated in the heart of Lovcen National Park. Part of the Dinaric Alps, you'll be greeted by a cool mountain climate and green surroundings. Get to know your guide and travel companions over lunch before heading out for a hike to the ancient village of Majstori and it's abandoned chapel.
Day 2
Hiking in Lovcen National Park and sunset SUP
Hiking
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Set off early from the hotel for a circular hike on the Wolf Trail. Tackle a spur to Babina Glava at 1,447m, taking in the wonderful scenery, local culture and diverse natural habitat of the spectacular Lovcen National Park region. You'll learn all about the significance of this mountain range to Montenegrins and how it gave the country its name, 'Black Mountain' before you make your way back to the hotel for lunch.
Admire magnificent views of Tivat and Kotor as you descend 1,100m in 12 minutes on the new Kotor Cable Car on your way to your first SUP spot. You'll have a basic lesson before a memorable sunset SUP in the beautiful Bay of Kotor.
Day 3
SUP in Skadar Lake National Park
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Embark on a water-borne exploration of the winding Crnojevica River by SUP. Paddle downstream amidst floating water lilies as the river snakes into the heart of Skadar Lake National Park. A protected wetlands environment, this is one of Europe's most important bird habitats. Enjoy the dramatic scenery - keeping your eyes peeled for the rare Dalmatian Pelican. A support boat will be on hand to pick up any paddlers who get tired along the way. After lunch at a restaurant by the river, you'll return by boat and then drive to the coastal town of Tivat (approx 1.5 hours), your base for the rest of the trip.
Day 4
Hike to Fort Vrmac from Muo
Hiking
Lace up your boots for an uphill hike from the city of Muo up through dense forest and some exposed sections to Fort Vrmac, one of the best preserved historical fortifications in the area. While you'll be making your way up the steep ridge for the majority of the hike, there are a series of long and winding switchbacks all the way to the top, which makes the ascent feel more gradual, and you will be rewarded with spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor.
Day 5
Kayaking in the Adriatic
Kayaking
Take to the Adriatic waters today to explore the many caves and coves along the rugged coastline of Lustica Peninsula by kayak, stopping for some sea swims and snorkelling along the way. Paddle into the Blue Cave, the largest of the Lustica Peninsula caves which gets its name from the reflections of blue light that bounce off the water. Enjoy a picnic lunch and relax on a quiet beach.
Day 6
Goodbye Montenegro
Your adventure comes to an end today, with a group transfer provided around lunchtime from the hotel to either Tivat Airport or Podgorica Airport.
Included
Guides
Expert, local, English-speaking guides
Accommodation
5 nights in hotels
Meals
5 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner
Transfers
Airport transfers and everything in between
Equipment
All SUP and kayaking equipment
Not Included
Flights to and from the meeting point
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips for your guides
Some meals as described
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Mediterranean dishes are prominent in coastal Montenegro – often fish and meat accompanied by pasta, rice and vegetables. In the mountains, the cooler climate and Turkish influence means hardier dishes like mutton, pork, and potatoes are staples of the average diet. Throughout the country, dairy products are constant at breakfast, where you'll also encounter priganice (fried dough balls, served savoury with cheese, or sweet with honey).
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Lovcen National Park
For two nights you'll stay at the Monte Rosa, a beautifully situated rural hotel in the heart of Lovcen National Park. Standing at an elevation of 1240m, the area enjoys a cooler climate and gives direct access to walking trails and the surrounding mountains – it's the ideal basecamp for an active adventure.
Tivat
In the picturesque coastal town of Tivat, you'll stay at the comfortable Palma Hotel, centrally located on Kotor Bay with its own small beach. Stroll along the shore to the marina and discover the local bars and restaurants serving up typical coastal cuisine.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Podgorica or Tivat Airport
11:30 on Day 1
Ends
Podgorica or Tivat Airport
Afternoon of Day 6
Transfers
Your host will pick you up from either Podgorica Airport or Tivat Airport on the morning of Day 1 and you are advised to arrive before 11:30am. The transfer from either airport to the start hotel in Lovcen National Park takes approximately one hour. At the end of the trip there will be a group transfer to both airports, departing around lunchtime, therefore you are advised to book flights departing after 3pm. The transfer from Tivat to Podgorica Airport takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. Arrival and departure transfers are only included in the trip price if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 6.
Travel options
Direct flights are available from the UK to both Podgorica and Tivat airports.
You may also consider flying to Dubrovnik in neighbouring Croatia and making your own way independently to one of the pickup points in Montenegro - let the host know your arrival plans prior to travel.
Pre- and post-trip accommodation in Tivat can be booked - see Optional Extras for pricing.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- All SUP, kayaking and snorkelling equipment
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Softshell duffel bag or rucksack
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
- Waterproof liner for kitbag/rucksack, or drybags
CLOTHES
- Waterproof jacket
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar for cooler evenings
- Plenty of clothes changes for getting wet often
- Sun hat
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in)
- Swimming shoes/footwear suitable for water activities
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Toilet kit (toilet paper, biodegradable bags to carry paper out to dispose of)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Reusable water bottle x1 litre
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Additional night in Tivat (01May-07Jul & 10Sep-31Oct)
Payable Before Departure
Additional night in Tivat (01May-07Jul & 10Sep-31Oct)
… Per Night
Additional night in Tivat (08Jul-09Sep)
Payable Before Departure
Additional night in Tivat (08Jul-09Sep)
… Per Night
Additional night in Podgorica
Payable Before Departure
Additional night in Podgorica
… Per Night
Private Room Upgrade (01May-07Jul & 10Sep-31Oct)
Payable Before Departure
Private Room Upgrade (01May-07Jul & 10Sep-31Oct)
… Per Person
Private Room Upgrade (08Jul-09Sep)
Payable Before Departure
Private Room Upgrade (08Jul-09Sep)
… Per Person
We had an amazing week in Montenegro. It is a beautiful country with a lot to offer. The trip was very well organised by Jeffrey and his team. The activities were fun and exciting and included bonuses such as a ride in the new Kotor gondola and a visit to an old fort to watch the most amazing sunset.
Raf, our guide was great, read the group well and was supportive and encouraging.
There was also flexibility with different options offered for activities according to the weather or group preferences / capabilities.
I wouldn’t describe this as ‘easy’ as advertised but as long as you have a reasonable level of fitness and stamina, you’ll be ok. Would highly recommend this trip.
I’ve been on four MBA trips and this has been the best so far. Montenegro is a beautiful country, and this trip shows some of its best elements. The mix of activities keeps it fun and interesting, and Jeffrey and the team are great guides who go above and beyond to accommodate the guests and to make sure you’re having a good experience. The highlights for me were the national park paddle-boarding trip along the beautiful river which finished with a delicious lunch, and spending time in Tivat, which exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend this trip to anyone!
We had a fantastic adventure in Montenegro! Great weather, beautiful country: the coastline and water is clean and not overdeveloped. The activities are well organised and balanced in terms of challenge without being excessive. The local team did a great job in moving us around, accommodating wishes and sharing knowledge and tips. Recommended!
Beautiful place to visit and nice to go from mountains to the sea all in one trip. Be prepared for a slightly more difficult trip than the rating, but Jeff and Igor are always able to accommodate changes if you need more rest time etc.
Jeffrey and the team (Igor and Raffa) were fantastic hosts! We had a great time and enjoyed exploring Montenegro. Suggestion would be to take ear plugs as the mountains were on occasion noisy at night. Thanks again team!
Tour was amazing. We had lots of fun - group was super nice, we had a great host and his team was amazing! We were a bit unfortunate with the weather towards the end but Jeffrey did a great job by providing alternatives, like an extra SUP tour, which was my favorite! We got great food, especially the seafood lunches were super delicious. A tip for future travellers - once in Tivat, the following two restaurants are worth visiting for dinner: One (in the Yacht Marina) and Ponta Veranda (good 20 min walk from the hotel).
All in all, I can only recommend the tour :-) enjoy!!!
Overall this was a lovely trip - beautiful country, amazing company and fun activities. It was great to be have the variety of staying in both the mountains and by the coast, and do both some hiking and some water sports.
Unfortunately due to some poor weather we were not able to do all the activities mentioned but our tour guide Jeffrey switched around the itinerary so we were able to do as many as possible.
The activities were more challenging than expected - partially due to the hot weather and choppy seas. I would not recommend to do this trip with absolutely no SUP experience, but you do not need a lot - I did one intro lesson before this trip and was very grateful for this!
As this is a relatively new tour there are still some organizational kinks to be ironed out, to improve efficiency, but I would not want this to be a deterrent for anyone thinking of booking as it is a great trip. If anything - it could have been longer as I was very sad when it ended!
What an awesome week. Montenegro is beautiful.
The river SUP was one of my highlights.
Unfortunately due to bad weather, we were unable to do the blue cave and kayaking. However, Jeffery was really good at finding alternatives and moving the itinerary so we could make the most of our stay.
Would highly recommend (hopefully your have an amazing group like me)
Great trip with a lovely group! Highlight was paddleboarding through Lake Skadar. Some tweaking required to trip with it being so new which has been fed back to MBA
Montenegro is a beautiful country for the activities of hiking, kayaking and paddle boarding with great company of the group we were with. I'm sorry to say that I personally wouldn't travel with the local partner again and have fed this back to MBA. I hope they can resolve the issues and it is definitely a country to go visit.
We've crunched the numbers to work out the total carbon footprint of this trip, and plant enough trees to suck 2x as much back out the atmosphere.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 257kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal for 2023 to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. For every person booked with us since 2016 we’re planting enough trees to suck at least 2x more carbon out the atmosphere than is emitted by their trips. All native trees, as part of amazing projects that are re-foresting degraded land, tackling the biodiversity crisis and supporting local communities at the same time. We go further than that too, also funding re-wilding projects worldwide to help protect important keystone species from extinction. See the reforestation and re-wilding schemes we support. See our carbon action plan.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
No previous experience is required for participation in, and enjoyment of, the activities included in this trip. You should be reasonably fit, particularly for the hikes and sea kayaking, and should be a confident swimmer due to the water-based theme of the trip.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
You should bring one or two refillable water bottles and refill them each morning and at regular opportunities during the days. Your host will make sure that you have access to plenty of drinking water during the activities.
Montenegro has a hot, dry climate, particularly during the mid-summer months of July and August when temperatures can reach over 30°C, so come prepared for warm weather. In the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn temperatures are slightly lower, typically in the upper teens to the upper twenties (degrees Celsius) during the daytime. Mountainous areas, even those close to the coast, are typically 3-6 degrees cooler compared to the coast, especially at night.
No, as the trip doesn't start and end in the same accommodation, it isn't possible to leave excess luggage.
We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.
No. You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you, and then a small daysack to carry personal items during each day.
As the water-based activities on this trip are weather dependent, it is possible that the running order will be altered by the host in reaction to local conditions. In the event that a particular activity isn't possible because of weather conditions, a suitable alternative activity will be arranged instead.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're in good company. Our adventures are typically made up of a mix of solo travellers and small groups of two or three friends who simply love adventure, pushing themselves and meeting awesome like-minded people. See here for more info about our lovely bunch of Much Better Adventurers.
Want to book a private trip? Just tap ‘Private Group’ in the dates and prices tab.
Your trip is led by carefully curated local hosts and expert guides. See here for more info about the guides we work with.
Pay In Installments
You can choose to pay for this trip in as many installments as you like, with no interest or fees.
Full Financial Protection
Your money is safe. Every booking is fully financially protected.
