Tara Mountain National Park – Serbia’s Wild Heart

tara mountine view

Tara Mountain

Welcome to Tara, Serbia’s emerald mountain, where dense forests, winding rivers, and tranquil landscapes invite you to reconnect with nature. As one of the most beautiful and biodiverse areas in the Balkans, Tara enchants visitors with its untouched wilderness, panoramic viewpoints, and a soothing atmosphere that feels worlds away from urban life. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a hiker, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Tara has something special for you.

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Exploring Tara: A Symphony of Nature

Tara is a place where nature takes the lead. The mountain’s rugged terrain is covered with thick pine forests, vibrant meadows, and the crystal-clear waters of the Drina River. Known for its diverse flora and fauna, Tara National Park is home to the rare Pančić spruce, brown bears, and countless bird species.

Wander through the park’s numerous trails that wind through ancient woodlands and lead to breathtaking viewpoints like Banjska Stena. The panoramas of the Drina Canyon and Lake Perućac are nothing short of spectacular, especially during sunset.

Tara is also a haven for those seeking peace and solitude. Quiet mountain lodges, cozy cabins, and traditional wooden chalets blend harmoniously with the landscape, offering the perfect spot to unwind.

Tara National Park – A Natural Sanctuary

Established in 1981, Tara National Park covers around 220 square kilometers of lush landscapes, dense forests, and dramatic gorges. It is one of Serbia’s most significant protected areas, safeguarding a wide array of wildlife and plant species.

The park’s emblematic Pančić spruce (Picea omorika), discovered by botanist Josif Pančić, is one of the rarest conifers in the world and can only be found in this region. Besides its botanical uniqueness, the park is home to brown bears, wolves, deer, and numerous bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

The Drina River, flowing through the park, forms deep canyons and emerald-green lakes, perfect for kayaking and fishing. The park’s well-marked trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes, accommodating visitors of all fitness levels. Exploring Tara National Park means stepping into a world where nature’s beauty remains untouched and thriving.

National Park Tara – Entrance Fees & Services (2025)

Welcome to Tara National Park, one of Serbia’s most beautiful protected areas. Below you’ll find detailed information about entrance fees, guided tours, equipment rentals, and other services for visitors.

Important Notice on Currency

All prices listed here are in Serbian dinars (RSD), the official currency of Serbia. Payments at the park are accepted mostly in cash and in dinars.

For your convenience, approximate conversions into euros are provided based on the current exchange rate:

1 EUR ≈ 117 RSD (as of June 2025)
Please note that exchange rates may vary. Check the current rate before your visit.

Entrance Fees National Park Tara
Service Price (RSD) Approx. Price (EUR)
Visitor Center Admission
School children500.43
Other visitors1000.85
"Crveni Potok" Reserve Admission
School children500.43
Adults1000.85
Children accompanied by parentsFreeFree
"Forest Cinema" Admission
Per person500.43
Combo Ticket ("Forest Cinema" + "Crveni Potok")1000.85
Guided Tours & Special Access Fees
Service Price (RSD) Approx. Price (EUR)
Guided tour (up to 6 hours)5,50047
Guided tour (over 6 hours)7,20062
Access to restricted zones + park activities (max 8 persons)3,60031
Interactive Workshop, Bear Watching & Multimedia Presentation Fees
Service Price (RSD) Approx. Price (EUR)
Interactive educational workshop (per person)1000.85
Bear watching tour (per person)6,00051
Multimedia presentation at Visitor Center3,00026
Multimedia presentation outside Visitor Center4,50038
Bike, E-Bike, Kayak & Equipment Rentals fees and prices
Service Price (RSD) Approx. Price (EUR)
Bicycle Rental
1 hour3002.55
6 hours1,0008.50
Daily1,50012.75
Electric Bicycle Rental
1 hour6005.10
3 hours1,50012.75
6 hours2,50021.25
Daily3,40028.90
Kayak (daily)2,00017.00
Walking sticks (daily)5004.25
Binoculars (daily)1,20010.20
Fishing Permit Prices and Fees
Permit Type Price (RSD) Approx. Price (EUR)
Annual Fishing Permit5,50047
7-day Fishing Permit2,60022
Daily Fishing Permit1,30011

Note:
The prices listed here are current as of the time of writing and are sourced from the official National Park Tara website (https://www.nptara.rs/). Prices may change without prior notice. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please consult the official website directly.

Top Things to Do on Tara

Tara is an outdoor paradise. Start your adventure by hiking one of the many trails, such as the Crveni Potok or the Perućac Lake Loop. Each path reveals a new facet of Tara’s beauty, from deep gorges to tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls.

Visit the small village of Mitrovac, where you can learn about local culture and enjoy homemade food at rustic mountain inns. For a bit of history, explore the Rača Monastery, an important spiritual and cultural site dating back to the 13th century.

For a more active day, rent a kayak and paddle through Lake Perućac or take a scenic boat ride down the Drina River. Don’t miss the famous “House on the Drina” — a tiny wooden house perched on a rock in the middle of the river, an iconic symbol of the area’s harmony with nature.

Tara – A Mountain of Stories

Tara’s beauty lies not only in its landscapes but in its stories and traditions. The locals take pride in their heritage, preserving old crafts and customs. One of Tara’s most cherished legends tells of a hidden treasure buried deep in the forest — a secret guarded by the mountain’s ancient trees.

Don’t miss visiting the Wooden Town (Drvengrad) on Mokra Gora, a unique ethno-village created by filmmaker Emir Kusturica. It’s a cultural hub where art, film, and tradition come together in a scenic mountain setting.

Ready to explore Serbia?

Book your stay at Tara and immerse yourself in Serbia’s mountain magic. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer nature retreat, Tara’s timeless charm will leave you refreshed and inspired.

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Mount Tara, Serbia

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Where is Tara Mountain on map?

Tara Mountain National Park is located in western Serbia, near the town of Bajina Bašta, close to the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. As one of the country’s most stunning natural areas, Tara captivates visitors with its dense forests, rugged landscapes, and the emerald flow of the Drina River.

Travel Tips
  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes — trails in Tara can be uneven and rocky, so comfortable and durable footwear is a must.

  • Bring cash — some smaller inns and local shops may not accept cards.

  • Prepare for changing weather — mountain weather can shift quickly; pack layers and waterproof gear.

  • Rent a car — to fully explore Tara and nearby attractions like Bajina Bašta and Mokra Gora, having your own transport is ideal.

  • Respect nature — Tara is a protected national park; please follow marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.

  • Plan ahead — some popular trails and accommodations can fill up during peak season (summer and autumn), so book in advance if possible.

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