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Ancient beech forests and the 2,386-meter Maglić peak define this mountainous wilderness, home to brown bears and wolves in southeastern Bosnia.
Sutjeska National Park spans 17,500 hectares in southeastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Walk through the ancient Perućica Forest Reserve where 300-year-old trees tower overhead, watch the Skakavac waterfall plunge 75 meters down limestone cliffs, or climb Mount Maglić's 2,386-meter peak. The park's hiking trails lead through dense forests where bears and wolves roam, past crystal-clear mountain lakes, and up challenging alpine slopes.
The park lies 110 kilometers from Sarajevo and 20 kilometers from Foča city. Three daily buses run from East Sarajevo to Tjentište, the park's main village, with the journey taking about 2.5 hours. If you're driving from Sarajevo, take the M-18 south for 75 kilometers until you reach the M-20, then turn right toward Trebinje-Dubrovnik - Tjentište is 25 kilometers further.
Walk among trees over 300 years old in the 1,400-hectare Perućica Forest Reserve, one of Europe's last remaining primeval forests. The forest extends 6 kilometers in length and up to 3 kilometers in width. The Skakavac waterfall cascades 75 meters over limestone cliffs - you can see it from several viewing points along marked trails.
Nine marked trails cross the park. The longest route spans 22 kilometers and takes about 8 hours to complete. The Mount Maglić summit trail demands advanced hiking experience and strong physical fitness, while Zelengora mountain's paths suit intermediate hikers and include access to mountain huts. Pick up maps and check current trail conditions at the tourist information center next to Hotel Mladost. The Via Dinarica long-distance trail also runs through the park.
Eight glacial lakes dot Mount Zelengora's slopes, each with its own marked access trail. Brown bears and gray wolves inhabit the dense Perućica forests, while chamois climb the rocky areas near Maglić. Wild cats and foxes live throughout the lower elevations, and 300+ bird species nest in the park's various environments. The northern areas have a continental climate, while Mediterranean weather patterns influence the southern regions.
Stay at Hotel Mladost in Tjentište year-round, or use the mountain huts during hiking season. The tourist information center connects visitors with local guides who know prime wildlife viewing locations. In summer, swim at Tjentište's outdoor pool or bike the designated mountain trails. The OK Fest brings live music performances to the park each July.
