Things to Do in Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park, Kosova / Kosovo

Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park, also known as the Accursed Mountains, represents Kosovo's crown jewel of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Established in 2013, this pristine wilderness spans over 63,000 hectares along Kosovo's border with Montenegro and Albania, encompassing some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in the Balkans. The park features towering limestone peaks, glacial lakes, dense forests, and traditional highland villages that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. The park is home to diverse wildlife including brown bears, wolves, lynx, and golden eagles, while its rugged terrain offers world-class hiking, mountaineering, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore ancient shepherd trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and experience the legendary hospitality of mountain communities. The park's remote location and challenging terrain have preserved its wild character, making it a paradise for adventurous travelers seeking authentic wilderness experiences in one of Europe's last untamed mountain ranges.

Top Things to Do in Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park

Multi-day Hiking and Trekking

Explore the park's extensive network of mountain trails, including routes to Gjeravica peak (Kosovo's highest at 2,656m) and the spectacular Peaks of the Balkans trail. These challenging hikes offer breathtaking views of alpine lakes, dramatic limestone formations, and pristine wilderness. The trails connect traditional mountain villages and provide opportunities to experience authentic highland culture.

Booking Tip: Book guided treks through local operators in Peja for €40-80 per day including guide and meals. Best hiking season is June-September when trails are accessible. Look for operators offering camping equipment and experienced mountain guides familiar with weather patterns.

Wildlife Photography and Birdwatching

The park's diverse ecosystems support over 200 bird species and numerous mammals, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Early morning and evening excursions offer the best chances to spot golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and possibly even brown bears or wolves. The varied habitats from alpine meadows to dense forests provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Booking Tip: Arrange wildlife tours with local guides for €30-50 per day who know animal movement patterns. Bring telephoto lenses and visit during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for best wildlife activity. Book accommodation in mountain villages for early morning access.

Cultural Village Experiences

Visit traditional mountain villages like Rugova and Boge to experience authentic highland culture and legendary Balkan hospitality. These remote communities maintain centuries-old traditions of sheep herding, cheese making, and mountain crafts. Visitors can stay in family guesthouses, participate in daily activities, and learn about the unique culture of Kosovo's mountain people.

Booking Tip: Contact villages directly or through Peja tourism office for homestays at €15-25 per person including meals. Best visited May-October when mountain roads are accessible. Look for families offering traditional activities like cheese making or wool processing.

Rock Climbing and Via Ferrata

The park's dramatic limestone cliffs offer excellent rock climbing opportunities for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging multi-pitch climbs. Several via ferrata routes have been established, providing safe access to spectacular viewpoints. The Rugova Gorge area is particularly popular for climbing activities with routes suitable for families and experienced climbers alike.

Booking Tip: Book climbing guides through adventure operators in Peja for €60-100 per day including equipment. Season runs April-October with best conditions in late spring and early autumn. Ensure guides are certified and provide quality safety equipment for via ferrata routes.

Alpine Lake Exploration

Discover the park's pristine glacial lakes, including the stunning Liqenat e Jezercës and other hidden alpine tarns nestled among towering peaks. These crystal-clear mountain lakes offer perfect spots for photography, peaceful reflection, and understanding the park's glacial history. The challenging hikes to reach these lakes reward visitors with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Balkans.

Booking Tip: Plan 2-3 day camping trips to reach remote lakes, with guided tours costing €50-80 per day. Best accessed July-September when snow has melted from high passes. Book with operators providing camping gear and experienced guides familiar with changing mountain weather.

Getting There

Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park is accessed primarily through the city of Peja (Peć), located about 85km west of Pristina. From Pristina's Adem Jashari International Airport, take a bus or taxi to Peja (1.5-2 hours), which serves as the main gateway to the park. From Peja, local buses and taxis can reach villages like Boge and Rugova that provide access to park trails. Visitors can also access the park from Montenegro via Rozaje or from Albania through Valbona, making it possible to explore as part of the international Peaks of the Balkans trail. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring different park entrances and nearby villages.

Getting Around

Transportation within the park relies primarily on hiking and walking, as most areas are accessible only by foot. Local buses connect Peja to gateway villages like Rugova and Boge during summer months, though services can be irregular. Taxis from Peja can reach trailheads for €15-30 depending on distance. For multi-day treks, arrange luggage transfers through local guides or travel light with backpacking equipment. Some villages offer donkey or horse transport for heavy supplies. Mountain bikes can be used on lower elevation trails, though most park exploration requires hiking boots and good physical fitness.

Where to Stay

Peja city center

Rugova village

Boge village

Drelaj area

Kuqishta village

Camping in designated areas

Food & Dining

Dining in and around Bjeshkët e Nemuna focuses on hearty mountain cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional preparation methods. Village guesthouses serve authentic dishes like flija (layered pancake), roasted lamb, homemade cheeses, and fresh trout from mountain streams. Many meals are prepared using ingredients from family gardens and livestock, providing an authentic farm-to-table experience. In Peja, restaurants offer both traditional Kosovo cuisine and international options before heading into the park. Pack snacks and energy foods for hiking, though many guided tours include traditional packed lunches. Mountain tea made from local herbs and homemade rakia (fruit brandy) are commonly offered by hospitable villagers.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park is from June through September when weather conditions are most favorable and mountain trails are accessible. Summer months (July-August) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for multi-day treks and camping, though this is also the busiest period. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) provide excellent conditions with fewer crowds, vibrant wildflowers or autumn colors, and comfortable temperatures for hiking. Winter visits are possible but require mountaineering experience and proper equipment, as heavy snow makes most trails impassable. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains year-round, so always be prepared for sudden temperature drops and precipitation.

Insider Tips

Download offline maps and carry GPS devices as cell phone coverage is limited in remote areas and trails can be poorly marked

Respect local customs in traditional villages by dressing modestly and accepting offered hospitality, as refusing can be considered offensive

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers mountain rescue and helicopter evacuation, as emergency services in remote areas can be limited and expensive

Things to Do in Bjeshkët e Nemuna National Park