This year, Montenegro’s national parks have attracted around 700,000 visitors, marking a significant increase compared to previous record years and highlighting the progress and responsible management of these natural areas, according to Bogdan Đurašković, an expert associate at the National Parks of Montenegro (NPCG).
Đurašković shared that nearly 300,000 people visited Durmitor National Park, around 100,000 visited Biogradska Gora, approximately 40,000 visited Prokletije, more than 105,000 visited Lovćen, and over 150,000 visited Skadar Lake.
“This is an additional incentive for us to develop a strategy aimed at extending the season by diversifying the range of attractive activities. This will encourage visitors to extend their stays and contribute to further improving the current tourism offer, while ensuring sustainable management that does not negatively impact biodiversity,” Đurašković explained.
He added that NPCG places particular importance on the pre-season period, which plays a crucial role not only in final preparations for the main season but also in generating income. During this time, any operational issues are addressed to minimize risks during the high season, ensuring quality service and an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
National parks in Montenegro offer a wide range of activities, and it’s hard to pinpoint the most popular, as tourists typically plan their visits to experience nature in its most authentic form.
NPCG highlighted the offerings in each park: Durmitor offers hiking, mountaineering, rafting, boating, and camping; Biogradska Gora features boat rides and visits to mountain lakes, as well as a chance to experience one of the last primeval forests in Europe; Prokletije offers mountain biking and exploration of pristine landscapes; Lovćen provides insight into Montenegro’s cultural and historical heritage, along with tastings of local gastronomic specialties; and Skadar Lake is perfect for recreational fishing, kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring its diverse flora and fauna.
Đurašković also emphasized the ongoing efforts to renew and improve existing facilities in the parks. New offerings include a barefoot walking trail and an updated Wolf Room at the Lovćen Visitor Center, along with a newly renovated children’s trail at Ivanova Korita, aimed at attracting visitors of all ages.
Additionally, NPCG is promoting bike rentals across all parks to encourage active tourism. Plans are underway to renovate the trail around Black Lake and to develop interpretive programs that will enhance visitors’ experience of the parks.
Tourism in Montenegro has seen significant growth in the 21st century, leading to initiatives focused on the valorization of natural, cultural, and historical sites to improve the country’s economic position in the region and beyond.
Đurašković believes that global trends, including the growing interest in nature-based tourism and healthier lifestyles, have contributed to this shift. He pointed out that this trend reflects a need for humans to reconnect with nature, and it underscores the importance of maintaining sustainable principles for the conservation of natural resources.
“The global trends benefit national parks but also obligate us to continue improving both tourism activities and overall park management in line with sustainable development goals,” Đurašković said. He also mentioned that modernizing marketing strategies and promoting naturally attractive areas are crucial to increasing both visitor numbers and awareness about the importance of preserving nature for future generations.
With tourism in national parks mainly focused on active leisure, a globally recognized trend, this type of tourism has gained popularity on the domestic market as well.
“We are pleased that this trend represents a shift in societal awareness, and one of its main goals should be the preservation of our natural and cultural heritage. This would be the best international advertisement for these areas,” concluded Đurašković.
