Tara National Park is one of Serbia’s most breathtaking natural treasures and a top destination for travelers seeking pristine wilderness, adventure, and tranquility. Nestled in the western part of the country, this national park is famed for its lush forests, dramatic canyons, sparkling lakes, and panoramic viewpoints. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Tara National Park promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Balkans.
History of Tara National Park
Tara’s journey as a protected area began in the 19th century, with formal conservation efforts intensifying in the mid-20th century. The park was officially established in July 1981, initially covering 191.75 km². In 2015, it was expanded to nearly 250 km², incorporating the Zaovine Landscape of Outstanding Features. Tara National Park encompasses the Tara and Zvijezda mountains, forming a large bend along the Drina River. Its management office is located in Bajina Bašta, a charming town that serves as a gateway to the park.
The park is renowned for its ancient forests, particularly the rare Serbian spruce (Pancic spruce), discovered in 1875. These forests, along with diverse flora and fauna, make Tara one of the richest and most valuable forested areas in Europe.
Attractions at Tara National Park
- Banjska Stena Viewpoint: Banjska Stena is the most iconic viewpoint in Tara National Park, offering jaw-dropping vistas over the Drina River canyon and Perućac Lake. It’s a must-visit for photographers and anyone seeking a panoramic perspective of the region’s wild beauty.
- Perućac and Zaovine Lakes:
- Perućac Lake: A stunning reservoir on the Drina River, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and boat rides. The lake’s turquoise waters are surrounded by forested hills and are dotted with unique floating houses.
- Zaovine Lake: Known for its crystal-clear water and scenic surroundings, Zaovine is ideal for relaxation, fishing, and nature walks.
- Drina River House: This quirky, solitary house perched on a rock in the middle of the Drina River has become a symbol of the area and a favorite photo spot. It has been featured in National Geographic and is easily accessible from the park.
- Rača Monastery: Dating back to the 13th century, Rača Monastery is a serene and historically significant site nestled in the park’s forests. It offers insight into Serbia’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
- Sargan Eight Railway & Drvengrad (Wooden Town): Take a nostalgic train ride on the Sargan Eight, a narrow-gauge railway that winds through the mountains, tunnels, and bridges of Mokra Gora. Nearby, Drvengrad (Wooden Town) is a traditional village built by filmmaker Emir Kusturica, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Viewpoints and Hiking Trails: Other notable viewpoints include Crnjeskovo, Bilješka Stena, Zmajevac, and Sokolarica, each providing different perspectives of Tara’s dramatic landscape. With over 290 km of marked hiking trails, the park caters to all levels of hikers, from easy walks to challenging treks.
Things to Do at Tara National Park
- Hiking: Explore a vast network of trails, ranging from short strolls to multi-hour hikes. Popular routes start from Kaludjerske Bare, Mitrovac, and Predov Krst.
- Wildlife Watching: Tara is home to brown bears, deer, wild boar, golden eagles, and the rare Serbian spruce. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find plenty to marvel at.
- Water Activities: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and swimming in Perućac and Zaovine lakes. The Drina River also offers opportunities for rafting and fishing.
- Photography: The park’s viewpoints, lakes, and unique sites like the Drina River House provide endless inspiration for photographers.
- Cultural Visits: Explore Rača Monastery, Drvengrad, and local villages to experience the region’s history and traditions.
Tara National Park – Entry Eligibility and Open Timings
- Visitor Centers: The main tourist information center in Bajina Bašta is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
- Park Access: Tara National Park is open year-round, with no official entrance gates. You can enter and explore the park at any time, but it’s best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
How Long to Spend at Tara National Park
While you can enjoy a day trip, spending 2–3 days allows you to fully experience Tara’s natural wonders, take part in various activities, and visit nearby attractions.
How to Get There
- By Car: Tara National Park is about 170 km (105 miles) southwest of Belgrade. The drive takes approximately 2 hours 40 minutes via the E763 and local roads. The main access points are through Bajina Bašta, Kaludjerske Bare, and Mitrovac.
- By Bus:
- From Belgrade: Direct buses to Bajina Bašta depart five times daily, taking around 3 hours 45 minutes. From Bajina Bašta, local buses or taxis can take you to various points in the park.
- From Other Cities: Buses from Kragujevac and Užice also connect to Bajina Bašta, with several departures daily.
- By Train:
- Sargan Eight Railway: While not a direct transport link to the park, this heritage railway is a popular tourist attraction and connects Mokra Gora with the surrounding region.
- From Belgrade: Trains run to nearby towns such as Kosjerić, from where you can take a taxi or bus to the park. The train journey takes about 3 hours.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available from Bajina Bašta, Užice, and other nearby towns. This is a convenient option for groups or those with luggage.
- By Boat: Boating is possible on Perućac Lake and the Drina River, but these are primarily recreational activities rather than means of transport to the park.
Eateries Nearby Tara National Park
After a day of adventure, enjoy local Serbian cuisine at these nearby restaurants:
| Restaurant Name | Location/Notes |
|---|---|
| Vinska Kuca Tara | Near park, local specialties |
| Restoran Vrelo | By the Vrelo River, famous for trout dishes |
| Restaurant Jeremicak | Kaludjerske Bare, traditional Serbian food |
| Kafana Kurta | Tara area, rustic ambiance |
| Hotel Javor | Offers local and international cuisine |
| Hotel Omorika | Hotel restaurant with a varied menu |
Other Attractions Nearby Tara National Park
- Drvengrad (Wooden Town): A unique ethno-village built by Emir Kusturica, featuring wooden architecture, cultural events, and artisan shops.
- Mokra Gora: Known for the Sargan Eight Railway and scenic landscapes.
- Višegrad (Bosnia & Herzegovina): Just across the border, home to the UNESCO-listed Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge.
- Uvac Special Nature Reserve: Famous for its meandering river and griffon vultures.
- Zlatibor Mountain: A popular resort area with hiking, skiing, and wellness centers.
Tara National Park is one of Serbia’s most breathtaking natural treasures, nestled in the western part of the country near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Established in 1981, Tara National Park spans dense forests, deep river gorges, pristine lakes, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is especially known for its preservation of the rare Pančić’s spruce, a species that dates back to the Ice Age. With countless trails, Tara National Park offers hiking routes for every level, from leisurely scenic walks to challenging mountain treks with panoramic views. The Drina River canyon, one of the deepest in Europe, adds to the dramatic landscape and provides opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and photography.
In addition to natural wonders, Tara National Park is home to cultural gems such as traditional wooden houses, the Rača Monastery, and archaeological sites that reflect Serbia’s deep historical roots. Whether you’re camping under the stars or exploring its charming eco-villages, Tara National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Serbia’s wilderness.