North Macedonia is a paradise for active travelers and adventure-seekers.
The ways to enjoy the nature of North Macedonia are limitless, but we’ve managed to narrow it down to five.
Here’s how you can get the best out of your time in North Macedonia.
1. Explore the Matka Canyon and climb the Vodno Mountain peak – a day trip from Skoplje
The Matka Canyon is a meeting spot of history and nature. They come together and form an oasis, hidden about 15km away from Skoplje.
This canyon lies on the Treska River, covering about 5000ha of land.
Here, you can admire not only caves and endemic plants but also explore monasteries and the remains of a medieval fortress.
Here, you can admire not only caves and endemic plants but also explore monasteries and the remains of a medieval fortress.
Things to the at the Matka Canyon:
- go on a boat ride – opt for the 1-hour-long one that will take you to a beautiful cave
- explore Vrelo Cave – some say it’s the deepest underwater cave in the world
- rent a kayak
- swim in the lake
- go paddleboarding
- try traditional food in an authentic restaurant
Things to the at the Matka Canyon:
Take a look at the virtual tour to see what wondrous beauty to expect in the Matka Canyon.
Another great way to spend a day near Skopje is to get to the Vodno Mountain peak.
And when we say ’get to’, we don’t mean hike nor climb, but – hop on the funicular and admire the amazing views on your way up.
Yet they’re nothing compared to the breathtaking view of the city that you’ll have at the Vodno Mountain peak.
Note: the funicular doesn’t work on Mondays.
Learn more about Skopje in our guide.
2. Feel the adrenaline rush at the ATV full-day tour of the National Park Galicica
The Galicica National Park is tucked in between two mesmerizing lakes – Lake Prespa, and the symbol of North Macedonia – lake Ohrid.
Booking an ATV tour would mean exploring charming North Macedonian villages from the comfortable back of an ATV.
We’d go for the full-day tour. The route is 70km long and you’ll be amazed by scenic views of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. Lunch and drinks are included.
3. Go mountain biking
Jablanica Mountain
The most beautiful mountain biking trail in North Macedonia would probably be the one on Mount Jablanica. It goes through villages, meadows, and forests.
Check out the bus schedule from Struga to Vevcani on balkanviator.com. Then follow the directions and enjoy your trip.
Mavrovo
Mountain biking in Mavrovo means enjoying the coast of Lake Mavrovo, before venturing deeper into the forest.
You can take a look at the bus timetable from Skopje to Mavrovo, and then follow the biking map.
Galicica
The Galicica mountain biking trail starts at Ohrid. Because of the 1400m elevation gain, it’s fit only for expert cyclists.
Mountain biking on Galicica is also bus-friendly since there are many departure times from Skopje to Ohrid.
4. Enjoy hiking
When it comes to hiking, each part of North Macedonia has something different to offer.
The Mavrovo hiking experience is a rather easy and kid-friendly one. Following these instructions, you can explore church ruins.
However, experienced hikers will be more interested in this hike to the highest mountain peak in both Albania and North Macedonia – Korab Mountain Peak.
Hiking in Shara Mountain means exploring pine forests, catching a glimpse of eagles, and exploring a lake that is completely white.
If you’re feeling up for a day hike, opt for the 32km trail to the Solunska Glava, the highest mountain peak of Jakupica Mountain. Solunska Glava actually means ’the head of Thessaloniki’. If you’re lucky and the skies are clear, you’ll get to see Thessaloniki and the Aegean Sea from this mountain peak.
5. Dare to go paragliding above Ohrid
If you’re feeling extra brave, you can spend 15 minutes in the air above Lake Ohrid.
On the paragliding flight, you take off from Mountain Galicica, at 1300m high, and land at a beach bar.
Now that is what we call an adventure!
Bonus: go on a wine tour
Since vineyards are technically outside, and North Macedonia is especially famous for its high-quality wine, we’ll allow ourselves to cheat and call a wine tour an ’outdoor activity’.
For example, you can book a tasting in the vineyards of the Zaharchev winery & distillery and learn how they make their wine.
Or you can opt for the full-day wine tour which includes visiting three wineries, and trying 5 different wines in each one, accompanied by cheese, bread, and prosciutto.
