Peaks, Trails and Flavors of Macedonia

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Midscale

Group size

2-10 tourists,
over 14 y.o.

Begin a five-day adventure through the breathtaking Macedonian mountains, where natural beauty, tradition, and gastronomy meet. Each day offers a new perspective as we explore the country’s most scenic landscapes, from serene valleys to rugged peaks. Along the way, discover the warmth of local culture, engage with mountain communities, and savor authentic Macedonian food and wine. This journey is more than just hiking—it's a celebration of flavor, heritage, and nature. As you follow hidden trails and take in panoramic views, each moment reveals a deeper connection to the land. Experience the soul of Macedonia, where every step is rich with stories, sights, and tastes you’ll never forget.

Price is per person in a group of two.

Kostantin C. is the provider and guide of this trip

The provider speaks: English

Konstantin is an UIMLA guide and instructor who specializes in risk management in adventure tourism. His top priorities are client safety and satisfaction throughout the tour. Using a coaching approach, he supports and motivates each participant to successfully achieve their tour goals.

The tour guides you'll probably meet as well

Ilija

Ilija is representative of the younger generation in mountain guiding. He is actively engaged in alpine climbing, ski mountaineering and mountain biking. A licensed mountain guide according to UIMLA – International Mountain Leader standard since 2014. You can meet him very often on the rocks in the canyon Matka near Skopje, Demir Kapija gorge or ice and mixed routes near Ostri Vrv Peak on Karadzica Mountain near Skopje. With his mountain bike he can be met almost everywhere in the Macedonian mountains. Ilija is a professor in the Department of Production at the Faculty of Dramatic Arts at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje. He is president of Macedonian Alpine Climbing Federation.

Tadej

Tadej is amazing at hiking in the mountains, finding routes, locations, areas that you could dream of, and destinations that would shock you with how beautiful they could be. Not only is he good at hiking, but he could never get lost in the mountains; he has a sense for them like nobody else, a passion and feeling towards them that nobody could ever recreate; truly, he sees them as his home and therapy that could fix anything of his. Tadej not only enjoys hiking but is also extremely good at skiing. As soon as he sees a touch of snow, he will run up mountains like there is no tomorrow and make sure to enjoy every single bit of skiing he has. He’s also incredible at rock climbing and finding ways to get to the top of the climbing point, as if it were easier than it looks. His experience does not stop there since biking is another one of his amazing passions and sports. He rides with freedom and will never forget any tour he has done with a bike. Tadej is one of a kind; his energy is endless, his focus is strong, and so is his passion for guiding and showing people the beauty that is kept secret in the mountains. He’s full of grace and will make sure you always have a smile on your face, so don’t let any worry ruin you.

Dragan

Dragan is passionate about the mountains in every sense. He has literally been on the mountain since birth, which is not surprising considering his father Stevo, has been a member of the oldest mountaineering club in Macedonia – Ljuboten, which has a hundred years of existence, for more than seven decades. Dragan finds it difficult to manage his time in the sweet agony of choosing his next mountain adventure among hiking, mountain biking, trail running, skiing, or snowshoeing. But of course, his sons and his wife Cece, are his top priority, with whom he shares a passion for the mountains. Dragan is a licensed UIMLA guide, and he served as the technical secretary of the Macedonian Association of International Mountain Leaders, where he is a member of the instructional team for training new mountain leaders.

Riste

Riste is an alpine climber with 10 years of climbing experience. During his mountain guide training process he fell in love with mountain biking as well. Avid explorer of new adventures in the mountains, he can be found in all regions of Macedonia. Licensed mountain guide since 2014, president of the Alpine club Matka from Skopje and a member of Macedonian Mountain Rescue Team, Asklepij. Working as an IT engineer, and living with his wife Jasna and his sons Gorazd and Vedran.

Vojkan

As a passionate mountaineer with a deep love for the rugged beauty of Macedonia’s peaks, I am excited to share the wonders of the great outdoors with others. With a UIMLA license in hand and a heart full of adventure, I stand as a beacon of safety, knowledge, and enthusiasm for those seeking to explore the majestic Macedonian mountains. From the towering heights of Shar Mountain to the breathtaking landscapes of Mokra, Korab, Deshat, Jablanica, Galičica, and Skopska Crna Gora, I possess an intimate understanding of Macedonia’s diverse mountainous landscapes. Safety is paramount in my hiking adventures. With rigorous training and adherence to international standards, I prioritize the well-being of my clients above all else. Throughout my work, I strive to foster a deeper connection between people and nature while preserving Macedonia’s wilderness for generations to come. I am fluent in English, and Italian as well as in the languages of the Balkan region: Serbian, Croatian, and Bulgarian.

Kosta

Kosta is a passionate hiker, mountain biker, skier, and recently an international mountain guide according to the UIMLA standard. He believes in the concept of continuous and lifelong professional education. In both his primary profession and his role as a Mountain Guide, he emphasizes the importance of risk management as a key determinant of success and client satisfaction, while maintaining the integrity and trust of both professions.

Tour highlights

Summit Iconic Balkan Peaks

Hike to the highest summits in the region, including Tito’s Peak (2747 m) and Golem Korab (2764 m), experiencing breathtaking views.

Authentic Food and Wine Experiences

Enjoy traditional Macedonian cuisine and wines, from warm mountain dinners to cultural meals in Skopje—an immersion into the flavors of the Balkans.

Diverse Nature and Cultural Heritage

Explore the rich biodiversity of Mavrovo and the Šar massif, visit Bigorski Monastery, and encounter local shepherd life.

Route details

Meet at Skopje airport (time depends on arrival). Optional city tour if schedule allows.

Transfer to Popova Šapka mountain resort (1700 m). Welcome dinner and overnight stay.

Difficulty

Moderate

Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Accommodation

Comfort

Midscale

Hotel

4 nights

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Skopje

Calculate tour price with tickets from your city

Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

Accommodation;
Hiking in three national parks;
Enjoying traditional food and local wines at homes of local villagers;
City tour in Skopje, capital of Macedonia;
Visit Monastery St. John the Baptiste.

Extras

Airplane tickets;
Personal expenses.

Group size

2-10 tourists, over 14 y.o.

Duration

5 days

4 nights

It's important to know

Everybody has to know that the right clothing and equipment is essential for a successful mountain trip. There will be some items and travel clothes which you will want to pack for the journey which will not be required on the tour in the mountains, so these may be left at your hotel and collected at the end, a light fold away small bag is useful for these items.

The following list is a combination of suggestion, advice and our experience of what you will need. For additional information’s do not hesitate to contact us.

This is what we think essential for safety and basic comfort.

Navigation

Compass
Map

Sun protection

Sunscreen
Lip balm
Sunglasses

Clothing – warm weather

Wicking T – shirt (synthetic or wool)
Wicking underwear
Quick – drying pants or shorts
Long – sleeve shirt (protecting from sun, bugs)
Rainwear (jackets, pants – waterproof and breathable)
Sun – shielding hat
Bandana or Buff

Clothing cool weather

Wicking long – sleeve T – shirt
Wicking long underwear
Hat, cap, skullcap, balaclava or headband
Gloves or mittens
Rainwear (jackets, pants – waterproof and breathable)
Fleece jacket or vest, and pants

Footwear

Hiking Boots suited to terrain and conditions
Trekking socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares
Gaiters (for snow conditions)

Other

Backpack 30 – 45 liters
Trekking poles
Energy food and beverages
Water bottle or camelback
Nylon cord (5 meters)
First aid kit
Knife or multi – tool, duct tape strips
Headlamp with extra batteries
Camera
Wet wipes and toilet rolls
Small Ziploc plastic boxes
Notebook & Pencil
Money belt

Dates and Prices

Any dates on request during the season

20 May – 1 Nov

Request to book