Europe's Deepest Canyon, Second in the World
The Tara River Canyon, 1,333 metres deep, is the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world, right behind the Grand Canyon of Colorado. The Tara River, 144 km long, is the longest mountain river in Montenegro and stretches between the Durmitor and Sinjajevina mountains. Due to its crystal-clear water and exceptional biodiversity, the Tara is protected by UNESCO and ranked among the top three most attractive rivers for rafting in the world. The canyon offers spectacular landscapes, untouched primeval forest, and a range of adventure activities available throughout the year.
Location
Northern Montenegro
Canyon depth
1,333 m
Canyon length
78 km
River length
144 km
UNESCO protection
Since 1977
Water temperature
Up to 15°C
Highlights
The Đurđevića Tara Bridge is one of the most recognisable structures in northern Montenegro and a mandatory stop for every visitor to the canyon. It arches over the canyon at an impressive height, offering one of the most dramatic views in the entire country – the depth below the bridge reaches hundreds of metres, and the view down the canyon between green cliffs is breathtaking. The bridge is the starting point for multi-day rafting tours, but also a standalone tourist attraction worth visiting even without rafting. It is most beautiful in the early morning hours when mist rises from the canyon.
The Crna Poda complex within the Tara Canyon preserves one of the rare primeval black pine forests in Europe. The trees in this forest reach heights of over 50 metres and are up to 450 years old, making them living witnesses of the past that have outlived generations. The forest is part of the UNESCO protected area and is home to endemic plant and animal species. Passing by boat beside these ancient trees, while vertical cliffs rise on both sides, is one of the most powerful visual experiences of the canyon.
The Tara River Canyon, 1,333 metres deep between Obzir and Štuoc, is the second deepest canyon in the world right behind the Grand Canyon in the USA, but in terms of beauty it is surely first. The river is the cleanest in Europe – the water is crystal clear and can be drunk directly from the flow along its entire length. The canyon was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1977 because it meets no fewer than three criteria: geological, hydrological, and biological phenomenon. Along the canyon there are over 80 caves, numerous waterfalls accessible only from the river, and gravel beaches ideal for swimming in cold mountain water.
Brštanovica is the key starting point for single-day rafting and is situated at the beginning of the most exciting stretch of the Tara River with 22 rapids. Rafting camps along the bank offer an authentic overnight experience in bungalows beside the river, far from civilisation, accompanied by the sound of water and a starry sky free of light pollution. The tradition of rafting camps on the Tara stretches back decades, and the home-cooked food – pršut, kajmak, grilled trout, and priganice – is an integral part of the experience that keeps guests coming back. The camp is accessible by off-road vehicles and serves as a base for multi-day canyon expeditions.
The Bailovica Sige waterfall is the most photographed waterfall on the Tara River and one of the most beautiful natural sights accessible exclusively from the river during rafting. A mountain spring breaks through the rock and falls directly into the Tara, forming an icy cascade whose roar echoes off the canyon's stone walls. Surrounded by dense vegetation and vertical cliffs, the waterfall looks like a tropical paradise in the midst of mountain wilderness. Rafting guides regularly stop their vessels here so that visitors can photograph and enjoy the natural beauty.
What to do
Descend through 22 Tara rapids across Europe's deepest canyon, suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.
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Explore river channels, caves, and the wild canyon world from a kayak.
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Fishing on the Tara, renowned for its abundance of Adriatic trout, in crystal-clear water.
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An adventurous canyon descent combining swimming, climbing, and jumping into the water.
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Trekking along the canyon rims with views of the 1,333 m deep sheer cliffs.
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After an exciting rafting experience, recover with authentic mountain food in local restaurants along the canyon. Try the famous Durmitor lamb under the sač, kačamak with skorup and homemade cheese from the katun. Local honey from mountain apiaries and plum brandy perfectly complement the gastronomic experience of northern Montenegrin cuisine.
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Plan Your Visit
From Podgorica to Žabljak is approximately 125 km, roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes. The starting point for multi-day rafting is the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, about 26 km from Žabljak via road P5. Single-day rafting departs from Brštanovica, reached via local roads through Durmitor National Park.
The Podgorica–Žabljak bus line operates daily, with the first departure at 05:45 and the last at 17:05. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes, covering a distance of 125 km. From Žabljak to the rafting departure point, transfers are organised by local travel agencies and rafting camps.
The nearest airport is Podgorica Airport (TGD), approximately 125 km from Žabljak. Tivat Airport (TIV) is approximately 160 km away. Car rental is available from both airports, and rafting agencies often organise group transfers.
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