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Welcome to Mavrovo National Park in North Macedonia, where your wildest dreams come true! If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, then this is the place for you. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, it’s easy to see why this destination has become a favorite among travelers in search of adventure in the Balkans.
But before you embark on your journey into nature’s paradise, there are some things that you should know about Mavrovo National Park. In this guide, I will provide all the information needed to make sure your visit is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. From finding accommodation to the best places to visit – everything you need to know about Mavrovo National Park lies ahead.
Whether you’re planning a week-long camping trip or just a day hike with friends, this comprehensive guide will ensure that nothing stands between you and enjoying every second of what this beautiful park has to offer. So let’s get started!
Location and Accessibility
Getting to Mavrovo National Park could not be easier with a one-hour drive from Skopje northwest towards the city of Gostivar where you can enter one of Europe’s largest protected areas.
From here you will find yourself surrounded by pure wilderness within minutes – ready to experience unforgettable adventures at every turn! With so much on offer, planning your trip should be easy and enjoyable.
Here are some helpful tips for exploring Mavrovo:
How to Get to Mavrovo National Park
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- Renting a car is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get to Mavrovo National Park. You can rent a car in both Skopje and Ohrid with prices starting at around 30€ per day. Make sure to compare prices and book your rental car through Giving Getaway, because once you complete a booking by using these search widgets, I will get a commission of which I will donate 50% to charity!
- It takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Skopje to get to Mavrovo Lake. From Ohrid, it takes 2 hours to get to Mavrovo Lake and approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to the southern entrance of Mavrovo National Park. If you decide to go to Mavrovo National Park, keep in mind that you will be driving on toll roads. Check this website for more information about the toll roads in North Macedonia.
- If you would rather take a bus to get to Mavrovo National Park, you should make sure to plan and contact the bus operator in advance. Ask them about the bus connection between Skopje and Debar, and make sure that the bus goes through Mavrovo National Park and stops in Mavrovi Anovi at Mavrovo Lake.
- The last option is to book a guided tour either from Skopje or from Ohrid. These tours usually include hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a private tour to some of the best attractions in the national park, and often lunch and/or dinner at local restaurants. Below you will find some of the best tours from Skopje and Ohrid to Mavrovo National Park.
Weather Guide and Map
Depending on when you visit, temperatures range from mild to cold during winter months. Be sure to check current weather conditions before venturing out into the park as it can change quickly and unexpectedly.
For a better orientation inside Mavrovo National Park, you can find maps online or purchase one at any tourist information center near Mavrovo National Park. The map will help you get an overview of the area so you can plan your adventures accordingly.
No matter what time of year you decide to visit Mavrovo National Park, planning can help make your experience more enjoyable and memorable. Now let’s take a look at some of the top attractions awaiting visitors within this majestic place.
Top Attractions
Mavrovo National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. With its stunning vistas, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it’s no wonder that this park draws visitors from all over the world.
No visit would be complete without checking out some of the top attractions in the park. Here is a list of the 10 best places to visit in Mavrovo National Park:
1) Mavrovo Lake
Mavrovo Lake will probably be the first attraction you will see in Mavrovo National Park. It is a large, artificial which is surrounded by lush green hills and mountains, making it the perfect backdrop for a peaceful picnic. You can drive along the lake or pick one of the plenty of hiking trails around to explore the surroundings.
2) Church St. Nikola
The St. Nikola Church is a relatively new Macedonian Orthodox church, built through the contributions of the local community. The church offers a beautiful view of the lake and features impressive frescoes inside.
3) Old Mavrovo Church
The Old Mavrovo Church (or St. Nicholas Church) was built in 1850 and served as the main village church of the area. It is particularly famous for being submerged in Mavrovo Lake, although in summer during periods of extreme drought, the church is accessible by foot.
4) Galichnik Village
Mavrovo National Park is full of hidden gems, and the enchanting Galichnik Village certainly makes that list. Located on the mountainside, this tiny village offers incredible views of Mavrovo’s valley. For those seeking a more immersive cultural experience, Galichnik Village also boasts several historical sites such as the Saint Peter and Paul church and the amphitheater on the village square.
5) Cave Alilica & Tresonce Waterfall
This cave is known for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, as well as for the Tresonce Waterfall. Its two cave openings, Gorna and Dolna Alilica are connected by a vertical sloping canal, and the length of Dolna Alilica is 600 m. Your hike to the cave and the waterfall starts in the village of Tresonche. From there it is 2.5 km (1.55 mi) one way.
6) Radika Canyon
Right at one of the main roads of Mavrovo National Park lies Radika Canyon. Its towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and sparkling river make it a great place to visit.
The canyon itself has various widths ranging from just two meters up to six or more, and heights that range from five meters up to twenty or more – all depending on where you decide to explore.
7) Sence Village
The village of Sence is a hidden gem in Mavrovo National Park. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the Radika Canyon below.
8) St. Jovan Bigorski Monastery
Being one of the most important cultural and spiritual landmarks in North Macedonia, St. Jovan Bigorski Monastery is nestled in the center of the national park and surrounded by lush forests. The monastery dates back to the 11th century and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.
9) Duf Waterfall
This beautiful waterfall is located in the western part of the national park near the village of Rostuša. The waterfall drops from a height of 30 meters and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
(Note that, as of March 2023, the location of the Duf Waterfall on Google Maps is wrong. Simply head to the village of Rostuša/Rostushe and leave your car in the parking lot of the old mosque, see flag 6 on the map. From there, walk the road up a bit and you will already see a sign to Duf waterfall to your left.)
10) Janche Village
From Galichnik, you can take a beautiful hike to Janche, a picturesque village that is located in the central part of the national park and is known for its traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage. If you don’t feel like hiking, you can also drive just drive there and save your energy for exploring the narrow streets and admiring the traditional stone houses and churches.
11) Elen Skok Stone Bridge
This historic bridge is located on the way to the villages of Mala Reka, Lazaropole, Gari, and Tresonche. It was built during the Ottoman era and is believed by some historians to have been located on one of the branches of the ancient Via Egnatia road. Today, it serves as a reminder of the region’s rich cultural heritage and provides a picturesque photo opportunity for visitors.
12) Lazaropole Village
This traditional village is known for its unique architecture and is a great place to experience Macedonian rural life. Here you can explore the village’s cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and local artisan shops.
These are some of the must-see places you should put on your list when visiting Mavrovo National Park. Whether you are looking for natural beauty or picturesque and historic villages, these places will not disappoint you. And in case you are looking for more adventurous activities, let’s check out the hiking options in Mavrovo National Park.
Hiking in Mavrovo National Park, 10 Trails From Easy to Difficult
Mavrovo National Park offers something for hikers of all levels. There are over 250 kilometers of trails to explore, ranging from easy hikes suitable for beginners to more challenging routes for experienced hikers.
Highlights include the Mavrovo Mountains, with their meadows, glacial lakes, and breathtaking summit views, as well as the Rostusha Mountains, with their stunning views of the surrounding countryside and small villages. With signs providing information about dangerous sections and potential photography spots, hikers can explore safely and enjoy the beauty of this park.
Here are 10 of the best hikes in Mavrovo National Park, ranked from easy to difficult:
1) Round Trail Mavrovo (Difficulty: Easy | Length: 5 km (3.1 mi) | Time: 1-2 h)
The Round Trail above Mavrovo village is the perfect choice for recreational hikers, as it is easy to navigate with the markers and signs that are along the path. It is mostly forested, so it can be done at any time of day, and the streams along the way provide a source of drinking water.
2) Mavrovo – Chavkarnik (Difficulty: Easy | Length: 4 km (2.5 mi) | Time: 1-2 h)
Mavrovo – Chavkarnik is an interesting trail with historical value. It starts at the ski center in Mavrovo and ends at the locality Chavkarnik near the sheepfold. The beginning is in the forest, and the end is in the zone of pastures with amazing panoramas and landscapes. The base is mainly soil and comfortable for movement and drinking water is in the sheepfold.
3) Galichnik – Janche Path (Difficulty: Easy | Length: 5.5 km (3.4 mi) | Time: 1-2 h)
The Galichnik – Janche path is a historically significant trail that leads to some of the most stunning views in the region. It is easy to follow and marked, with a source of water at Sofino Cesmice. The trail is mostly soil-based with some stone and does not present any major technical difficulties.
4) Info point – Peak Koza – Vrben (Difficulty: Easy | Length: 11 km (6.8 mi) | Time: 3-5 h)
Take a stroll through Mavrovo National Park and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mavrovo Valley and Gorna Reka region. This 11 km (6.8 mi) hike is easy and should take between 3-5 hours. The trail is well-marked and mostly soil and grass. Be sure to bring water with you as there are sources along the way, but they can be unreliable. From the peak of Koza, you can extend your journey to the Monastery of St. Petka or the Bunec safari park. You’ll find plenty of benches for resting, however, there are no shelters or catering facilities.
5) Lazoropole-Elen Skok (Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Length: 7 km (4.3 mi) | Time: 3 h)
The Lazoropole – Elen Skok trail is an old and beautiful path with a lot of history. It is marked and easy to follow, with moderate technical difficulties. A source of drinking water can be found at Lipovnik, about fifteen minutes away from Lazoropole.
6) Nikiforovo – Sandaktash (Difficulty: Easy to Moderate | Length: 8 km (5 mi) | Time: 2-4 h)
Nikiforovo – Peak Sandaktash is a trail with cultural significance, as it is tied to local customs and legends. It starts from the center of the village Nikiforovo, alongside the Petilepska River to Petti Leb, with the most wonderful source of drinking water in the park. The first part is in the forest, and the second part from the source to the top of Sandaktash is in the zone of pastures with beautiful landscapes and panoramas. The trail is marked and easy to follow, though caution must be used when there is fog.
7) Trnica – Vrben Path (Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 7 km (4.3 mi) | Time: 2-3 h)
The Trnica – Vrben path is a great way to explore the canyon of the Mavrovo River, and it is possible to combine it with trails to the village of Bogdevo for a circular tour. It is marked and mostly soil-based, with some forest and uncoated areas. Water is available in both villages, so it is advisable to bring sufficient fluids.
8) Sence-Volkovija-Trnica (Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 12 km (7.5 mi) | Time: 3-6 h)
Sence – Volkovija – Trnica is a great trail for those who love wild areas. It is located on the rocky slopes of the canyon Radika with a thick pine forest. Along the path opens up a wonderful view of the massif of Mount Korab. The path is visible and marked, but extra caution is necessary due to the nature of the relief. The base is mostly soil and is comfortable for movement. The best sources of drinking water are in the villages of Sence, Volkovija, and Trnica.
9) Mavrovo – Medenica – Galichnik (Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult | Length: 20 km (12.5 mi) | Time: 4-7 h)
The Mavrovo – Peak Medenica – Galichnik trail is a challenge for experienced hikers, with beautiful panoramic views of the Mavrovo Lake and Bistra mountain. The trail is marked and a map is a must, as it is mostly on open space. There are some sections where the trail is merged with roads for motor vehicles, and the elevation is mainly at the beginning of the trail. Be sure to bring plenty of water as there is only one source along the way.
10) Skudrinje – Krcin – Bitushe (Difficulty: Difficult | Length: 27 km (16.8 mi) | Time: 5-8 h)
Skudrinje – Peak Krcin – Bitushe is a mountaineering challenge through one of the most beautiful areas of the park. It starts from either the villages Bituse or Skudrinje, leading to the highest parts of Mount Krcin, with the option to climb Large Krcin (2341 m / 7680 ft). The first part is in the forest, and the second part from 1700 m (5580 ft) and above is in the zone of pastures. The trail is marked and easy to follow and there are 3-4 sources of drinking water.
For more details and inspiration, make sure to check this website which introduces even more beautiful hiking routes in the Mavrovo and Rostusha mountains.
Staying Overnight in Mavrovo National Park
Let us look at the best options for staying overnight in Mavrovo National Park in North Macedonia. We will discuss the various lodging and camping options available in this beautiful park, as well as all the necessary information needed to make an informed decision. So whether you are looking for a comfortable stay or an adventurous camping experience, this section will provide you with all the information you need to plan your stay in Mavrovo National Park.
The Best Accommodations in Mavrovo National Park
Mavrovo National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotel rooms. I will present three accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious:
- Tetka Viki has been welcoming guests since December 2020 and is a great accommodation located in Mavrovo with free WiFi and mountain views. It offers a garden and a terrace, two bedrooms, a kitchen, a flat-screen TV, a seating area, and a bathroom with a shower. Prices range from 30 to 50€ per night.
- Mia’s Favorite Hotel is situated in Mavrovo and offers a range of accommodation options ranging from 50 to 150€. The hotel features a terrace, allergy-free rooms, free WiFi, a bar, a restaurant, a garden, a sauna, a hot tub, and a kids’ club. The rooms come with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen, and towels, as well as a kettle and some rooms have a kitchen with a fridge. Guests can also enjoy a continental or halal breakfast, a spa center, and activities like skiing and cycling. Free parking and non-smoking rooms are also available.
- Mount House Mavrovo is conveniently located 30 km from the Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery and features a balcony, garden, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy the breathtaking views from the patio, or take advantage of the terrace and mountain views from the 2 bedrooms and living room. The holiday home is also fully equipped with a flat-screen TV, fridge, oven, and shower. Prices range from 100€ to 170€ per night depending on the number of guests.
There are plenty more options for accommodation in Marovo National Park, and you can easily find something that suits your needs using Giving Getaway’s search widgets and affiliate links. Every time you make a booking, I get a commission of which I donate 50% to charity, so you can help a great cause while enjoying a beautiful holiday, at no extra cost to you!
Camping in Mavrovo National Park
As of March 2023, there are no established campsites inside Mavrovo National Park. Camping in the wild is not officially permitted in Northern Macedonia; however, it is usually accepted by both locals and authorities.
If you decide that it’s worth taking the risk, it is important to avoid government buildings and busy tourist areas. But the locals are generally friendly and helpful, so you should have no trouble finding a suitable spot to camp in Mavrovo National Park.
I suggest you use the iOverander app or website to look for such spots. There you find recommendations from other campers, often with detailed information about access to water and nearby shops.
Wildlife in Mavrovo National Park
Mavrovo National Park is a haven for wildlife viewing. Its lush forests, rolling hills, and clear rivers provide the perfect backdrop to take in some of Europe’s most majestic creatures. Whether you’re an experienced nature enthusiast or just getting your feet wet, there are plenty of ways to get up close and personal with Mavrovo’s wildlife.
For starters, birdwatching is popular in several areas throughout the park. Birders can observe species such as golden eagles, hoopoes, red-billed choughs, bee-eaters, and more while enjoying the tranquility of their surroundings. The best time to view birds here is during spring migration when thousands flock to the area looking for food and nesting sites.
In addition to birds, visitors can also spot mammals like wolves, lynxes, wild boar, and deer roaming around the meadows and woodlands of Mavrovo National Park. It’s important to remember that these animals should be respected from a distance! If you’re lucky enough you may even catch sight of one of Macedonia’s iconic brown bears which inhabit certain parts of the park.
Coming across these animals is not just a mere theory, but it might happen and I’ve met people who have had encounters with brown bears and even the Balkan lynx, so it’s best not to venture too far off the beaten path alone. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to notify park rangers or someone else before embarking on a hike, just in case.
With so much diverse wildlife on offer at Mavrovo National Park it’s no wonder why it has become one of Europe’s top destinations for nature lovers alike. As we move on to exploring what else this beautiful national park has to offer let’s turn our attention towards its ski resorts.
Ski Resorts
Winter vacationers who are looking for an unforgettable experience should consider visiting the spectacular Ski Resort ‘Zare Lazarevski’ in Mavrovo National Park. Located on the slopes of the Bistra mountain and surrounded by the breathtaking Mavrovo Lake, visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities to keep them entertained.
The ski resort is equipped with eleven ski lifts and three cable cars, allowing skiers to experience the slopes at an altitude of 1,255 to 1,860 meters above sea level. The resort also features light and loudspeaker systems for night skiing from 19:00h to 00:00h and several coffee bars to warm up after a long day of skiing. For those who need a little more assistance, ski patrol, ambulances, snowmobiles, and machines for making artificial snow are also available.
The ski season typically starts in November and can last until April, making it the perfect destination for winter holiday enthusiasts. Visitors can also take advantage of the ski school, which employs first-class ski instructors and offers ski routes for alpine skiing, beginners’ slopes, advanced skiers’ slopes, and alpine skiing competitors’ slopes.
For those who need to rent ski equipment, there is a nearby parking lot with ski rentals or you can rent equipment inside the resort for only 200.00 denars per day.
Restaurants and Local Cuisine
From cozy restaurants offering traditional Macedonian dishes, to charming eateries serving international fare, there are plenty of options available in and around Mavrovo National Park.
Here are three of the best restaurants inside Mavrovo National Park:
- Mavrovo Caseficio Cesarina is an atmospheric restaurant located in Mavrovi Anovi right next to Mavrovo Lake. It offers a variety of delicious dishes for dinner and hot lunch, with plenty of vegetarian options and very good cakes. The portions are big and the staff is friendly and helpful, speaking English as well as providing quick service.
- Restaurant Medenica is located in the quaint village of Mavrovo and has recently been renovated. The staff is incredibly polite and friendly, and the food is delicious. Prices are very reasonable and they offer a variety of local specialties such as homemade sausage, pies, and ice cream. The atmosphere is great, with tables both inside and outside, making it a great spot for a relaxing meal.
- Hotel & Restaurant TUTTO in Mavrovo National Park in North Macedonia is the perfect place to experience traditional Macedonian cuisine. The food is locally sourced and fresh, and their renowned Ajvar (a roasted pepper dip) is a must-try. The hospitality is over the top, with polite and welcoming staff, and the great location offers beautiful views of Jance village, Radika River, and the surrounding mountain peaks.
When visiting Mavrovo National Park, be sure to try some unique local specialties, as North Macedonian cuisine is full of unique and delicious dishes.
Kebapi is a dish of grilled spiced meat, usually served with a side of onions, lettuce, and tomatoes. Another must-try is Tavce Gravce, a hearty dish of baked beans mixed with onions, garlic, and herbs. For a truly unique Balkan experience, Ajvar is a red pepper spread made from peppers, eggplant, garlic, and oil that can be enjoyed with almost any dish.
And finally, I highly recommend trying the traditional Macedonian Shopska Salad, a colorful dish made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers, topped off with a generous portion of feta cheese. For more inspiration, read this blog post with 15 traditional North Macedonian dishes recommended by a local.
Tips for Visiting
When visiting Mavrovo National Park there are plenty of things to do; from hiking trails along stunning mountain ridges to camping under starry skies. Whatever your plans may be, it’s important to plan and know how best to prepare for your trip. Here are some tips that will help make your visit enjoyable:
Bring all necessary supplies such as food, water, first aid kits, warm clothing, sun protection gear, etc., with you when heading out into the park. Don’t forget about bug spray too, especially if you’re planning on camping during your stay.
Make sure you also check local weather forecasts so you can be prepared for any changes in conditions while exploring Mavrovo National Park.
As stated earlier, better notify a park ranger, your accommodation host, or someone else before starting a long hike into the wilderness of Mavrovo National Park, especially if you’re alone.
Finally, don’t forget to respect the environment by taking care not to leave any traces behind after spending time outdoors. Be mindful of wildlife safety guidelines and take nothing but photos – leave only footprints. With these tips in mind, no doubt your visit to this beautiful national park will be one big adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Mavrovo National Park?
When you should visit Mavrovo National Park depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. In springtime, you can enjoy blooming wildflowers, lush foliage, and cascading waterfalls. The temperatures are mild during this time of year, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking or biking.
Summer brings bright sunshine and warmer days to Mavrovo – perfect for swimming in Mavrovo Lake or relaxing by its riverside. Wildlife abounds; from birds to deer to bears – there’s something here for everyone.
Autumn is also an excellent season at Mavrovo National Park. Crisp air with hues of reds, oranges, and yellows creates a breathtaking landscape unlike any other. This is also the best time to explore some of its hidden gems like ancient monasteries and churches tucked away in its forests.
And for those seeking peace and tranquility, winter offers just that: snow-covered peaks surrounded by stillness.
Are There Any Special Precautions I Should Take When Visiting the Park?
When visiting Mavrovo National Park there are a few things you should keep in mind before heading out on your adventure. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Mavrovo National Park, here’s what you need to know:
- Pack plenty of water and snacks. As with any outdoor activity, it’s important to stay hydrated and fueled while exploring. Make sure to bring enough sustenance for the entire day.
- Dress appropriately. The weather can be unpredictable at higher elevations so make sure you wear layers in case temperatures drop suddenly or if you get caught in bad weather. Also, sturdy hiking shoes are essential for navigating rocky trails safely.
- Respect wildlife. Keep your distance from wild animals and don’t feed them as this may cause dependence on humans for food which could lead to injury or death for both parties involved.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention when climbing steep sections and use caution around bodies of water—especially during winter months when ice formations can create slippery surfaces that can be dangerous for hikers who aren’t prepared for such conditions.
Are There Any Guided Tours of the Park Available?
Exploring Mavrovo National Park is an incredible experience and there are plenty of ways to take it in. One such way is by taking a guided tour of the park, which offers visitors an opportunity to truly appreciate its beauty and learn about the area’s history along the way.
Such guides are usually offered by tour operators sitting in Skopje or Ohrid. These tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a private tour to some of the best attractions in the national park, and often lunch and/or dinner at some of the local restaurants.
Click on the ads below for more information about guided tours from Skopje and Ohrid.
Are There Any Safety Considerations I Should Be Aware of When Visiting the Park?
Exploring Mavrovo National Park is like stepping into a paradise of beauty and adventure. Taking safety precautions should be a top priority for any traveler who wishes to experience the park’s wonders, however. From wildlife encounters to unpredictable weather conditions, there are plenty of considerations to keep in mind before embarking on your journey.
When it comes to wild animals, visitors may come across non-threatening creatures such as deer or boars; but they might also encounter more dangerous predators such as bears or wolves. To ensure your protection when hiking through the park, always stick to marked trails and stay alert within these areas – particularly during dawn and dusk hours. In addition, make sure you’re aware of all local regulations concerning fire hazards and campfire restrictions – especially during dryer months of the year.
In terms of weather patterns, sudden storms can occur without warning so make sure you’re prepared with appropriate attire and supplies if venturing out into the wilderness. Storms can bring heavy rain which can lead to flooding in certain areas so take necessary precautions if this happens while exploring the park. Also, remember that temperatures can drop significantly at night time so layers are essential for keeping warm throughout your travels here!
Having an understanding of potential risks beforehand will give you greater peace of mind when exploring Mavrovo National Park – allowing you to have a safer yet still unforgettable trip.
Are There Any Special Activities or Events for Children at the Park?
Mavrovo National Park is the perfect place for families looking to spend some quality time together in nature. Whether you’re searching for outdoor activities or events specifically tailored to kids, this park has it all.
When visiting Mavrovo National Park with your little ones, there are several special events and activities that will keep them entertained and engaged:
- Hiking trails designed for children with educational facts about the environment along the way
- Guided tours through forests and meadows on horseback
- Fishing trips near clear streams full of trout
- Arts & Crafts workshops where they can create unique souvenirs from their trip
- Bicycle rentals so they can explore at their own pace
At Mavrovo National Park parents don’t have to worry because safety is always a priority. There’s plenty of room for kids to run around without any danger thanks to experienced staff members keeping an eye out while they play. Plus, first aid kits are available throughout the grounds just in case!
Conclusion
Mavrovo National Park in North Macedonia is a stunning location that offers a range of activities for all ages. Whether you want to hike and explore nature, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views, Mavrovo has something for everyone.
With its unique landscape and wealth of wildlife, it’s no wonder why this park continues to draw visitors from around the world year after year. And while there, make sure to explore some of the national park’s top attractions, like Mavrovo Lake, the Old Mavrovo Church, and Galichnik Village.
Visiting Mavrovo is an experience like no other in the country, and I hope that in this comprehensive guide, you got all the information you need to make your visit as enjoyable and memorable as mine. But not just Mavrovo National Park is worth visiting. I suggest you free up some more time to also discover other parts of North Macedonia.
If you need some inspiration, feel free to read my blog post about the 30 best places to visit in North Macedonia, and also invite you to read my 10 reasons why Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia is worth visiting.
And if you are now planning your trip and at the same time want to support Giving Getaway in organizing future charity events, you can do so by using the search widgets or clicking on the ad banners on this website to book your next hotel, flight, rental car, and more.
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I love to read about this part of the world since it’s still so under the radar and probably totally underrated. Learning about Mavrovo National Park is absolutely fascinating and I’ll make sure to visit once I make it to Macedonia – I really need to travel more to the South East of Europe as there are so many hidden gems there.
I agree, when I planned to visit Mavrovo National Park I could find almost no helpful information about it, I wasn’t used to that since there are usually hundreds of blog posts about every place out there 😀 But North Macedonia is still under the radar. Its definitely worth visiting, especially this beautiful national park. 🙂
Good to know that the Mavrovo National Park is a short distance from Skopje and that a rental car is probably the best option to visit. I would have expected great outdoor sights, hikes, canyons and waterfalls. But interesting to learn that a visit to the Mavrovo National Park would also provide churches, small villages and a monastery too. All good reasons to plan to visit more than one day. A great guide for people visiting Macedonia.
Thank you Linda! I also didn’t expect such a beautiful monastery there in the middle of the national park, but it was really nice. This national park really has something for everyone!
Absolutely stunning! I’d prefer visiting in the spring, but the winter landscape is absolutely amazing. Very thorough review that any traveler can certainly benefit from. Thank you!
Glad you liked it Lorry! I’d say this national park is worth visiting in every season, I was there in summer, but I can imagine how beautiful it must be in the other seasons. Let’s hope you’ll get to see it in winter or spring and then you can let me know how it was. 😉
This looks like a beautiful park with lots to do year round. I love the variety of hiking trails! I don’t know much about North Macedonia but I’m intrigued to visit and learn more 🙂
I’m happy to hear that! It’s a fascinating country which is still completely under the radar. Especially if you love hiking I assure you that you would fall in love with North Macedonia immediately! 🙂
WOW! There are so many incredible hikes in Mavrovo National Park! I’d love to visit one day and take a few days hiking and camping!
Yea the park is pretty huge and pretty wild with a lot to explore, I am sure you would love it there!
It’s not just a good idea to notify park rangers before embarking on a hike, buying a ticket and registering yourself is mandatory: https://npmavrovo.mk/tickets . Also keep in mind that the hiking trails usually are not very well marked and the use of a GPS is recommended.
You’ve obviously put a lot of work into this website. Well done. However I’m curious about something. Towards the beginning of your piece you call Mavrovo one of the largest protected areas in Europe, or something to that effect. But the last few days I have been hiking in the forest above Leunovo and have encountered a lot of logging, with fallen trees, tracks bulldozed into the forest and a lot of rubbish left behind by those doing the work. To me this seems strange in a national park. I can’t see how it’s protected.