Mountains cover around 80% of Macedonia's territory and impress travelers with boundless vistas. There are numerous gorgeous hiking routes, but the most popular ones are those located in Skopje, Mavrovo National Park, and the Shar area. Generally, treks start and finish in the capital.
The mountains of Vodno, Skopska Crna Gora, Matka canyon, and Karadzica can be reached within a day, and the best part is that you don't need any special equipment or physical training to complete the hike.
The Mavrovo, Shar, and Pelister ranges usually make one trail, considered a medium-challenge activity. The path runs through magical landscapes with snow-covered peaks, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows. During the 10-day hike, you can also spot the area's wild residents, like bears, lynxes, wolves, and chamois.
Whether you prefer a short or a long trek, whether you go with a guide or by yourself, whether you want to camp or rent an apartment, hiking in Macedonia can do it all—so don't hesitate to accept the challenge.
Practical info
What is the optimal period for hiking in North Macedonia?
North Macedonia provides an ideal hiking experience from March to November due to the clement, sunny weather. During this time, the trails are conducive and free of extreme temperatures and humidity. Nonetheless, weather patterns shift rapidly, and visitors need to stay up-to-date with the latest local forecasts and prepare for sudden changes in temperature and precipitation. Show more
In which regions of North Macedonia can trekkers find the most popular hiking spots?
Hikers can uncover popular routes in the Shar mountains area, Skopje, and Mavrovo National Park. Skopje highlights include Karadzica mountains, Vodno, Matka canyon, and Skopska Crna Gora. On the other hand, the Mavrovo, Shar, and Pelister ranges offer more challenging options that can last up to seven to ten days with picturesque views of glacial lakes, snow-covered peaks, and alpine meadows. Show more
What type of wildlife can people observe while hiking in North Macedonia?
The Shar mountains area is an excellent opportunity to observe animals such as lynxes, bears, wolves and chamois while on a hike in North Macedonia. This region features numerous fields, forests, and water sources, providing a refuge for wildlife such as these. During the breeding season, they can become temperamental and might seem more aggressive. Hence, visitors should maintain their distance and avoid physical contact at all times. Show more
What is the difficulty level of the hiking routes in the Mavrovo, Shar, and Pelister regions?
Trekkers must possess a reasonable level of fitness as the trails in the Mavrovo, Shar, and Pelister ranges are of medium difficulty and can take up to seven to ten days. The routes run through rocky areas with steep slopes, often featuring uneven terrain. Tourists must thus make sure to have appropriate hiking footwear, carry necessary essentials like water, food, and protective gear. It is also advisable to consult a professional guide to ensure adequate planning and avoid unnecessary risks. Show more
Can visitors find hiking guides in North Macedonia, and how can they book a hiking tour?
Visitors seeking hiking guides in North Macedonia can contact several tour operators or tourist agencies to sort a guided hike. The National Tourist Information Center provides visitors with the most extensive array of brochures, maps, and recommendations, making it an excellent place to locate reliable guides. The costs range from 20 to 30 euros per day, depending on the length and difficulty of the hike. The guides possess vast knowledge of the landmarks, culture, and natural history of the area, as well as fluent English. Show more
