While contemplating the questions to feature on our FAQ page, one inquiry was particularly popular on Google: “Is Lake Skadar worth visiting?“

The answer is simple for us at Kingfisher. Absolutely yes! Skadar Lake National Park is more than just a destination; it’s an unforgettable experience waiting to unfold, and you should not miss your chance when in Montenegro! With its rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, a visit to Lake Skadar promises to captivate all your senses. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid birdwatcher, or simply seeking tranquillity amidst stunning landscapes, Lake Skadar has something unique waiting for you.

We have explored this topic in depth in one of our blog posts. Click here to read more.

And you don’t need to listen to us (our job is to promote the lake everywhere). Listen to hundreds of thousands worldwide who were left breathless by Lake Skadar’s beauty!

You don’t need a car to visit the National Park Lake Skadar! Various alternative transportation options are available based on your starting point and preferences. If you favour the convenience of public transportation, buses or trains provide easy access to Lake Skadar.

• Virpazar, a charming town nestled between Bar and Podgorica, serves as the main entry point to the lake. Virpazar is accessible via both railway and bus connections, unlike other villages around Skadar Lake.

However, if you value the flexibility of driving, having a car offers added convenience for exploring the area at your own pace. Additionally, it allows you to cover more landscapes and delve deeper into nature. But in the end, whether or not you require a vehicle depends on your travel preferences and itinerary.

Getting to Lake Skadar largely depends on your starting point and preferred mode of transportation. Several routes are available, whether you’re coming from coastal towns like Budva or Bar, the inland city of Podgorica, or elsewhere. The easiest way to reach the lake is from Podgorica, with eight to ten trains travelling between Bar and Podgorica daily and stopping at Virpazar.

For in-depth help and explenation read our blogpost: How to get to Lake Skadar National Park: Transportation tips and travel guide

The main gateway to Lake Skadar: Virpazar

Virpazar is the main gateway to Lake Skadar and the most easily accessible location. Public transportation services typically extend only as far as Virpazar, making it convenient for travellers without private vehicles. This charming town lies between Bar and Podgorica and offers both railway and bus connections, making it an ideal starting point for your journey to the lake.

Below are some tips for reaching Lake Skadar using public transportation, depending on your starting point:

How to get from Ulcinj to Lake Skadar?

• Take a direct bus from Ulcinj to Virpazar or travel via bus to Bar and then by train to Virpazar.

How to get from Bar to Lake Skadar?

• Travel by train or bus directly from Bar to Virpazar.

How to get from Budva and Kotor to Lake Skadar?

• Begin with a direct bus line from Budva/Kotor to Sutomore. From there, opt for either a train or a bus to Virpazar.

How to get from Podgorica to Lake Skadar?

• Travel by train or bus directly from Podgorica to Virpazar.

For all other cities, you should see which of the previously mentioned starting points is nearest, and you should first get to that one.

Timetables and Resources

To plan your journey efficiently, you can check the train timetable here. Again, note that Virpazar is not a central station and lies between Bar and Podgorica. Additionally, you can find bus timetables here.

Determining the best time of year for your Lake Skadar journey depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. Whether you visit during the vibrant spring months or the serene autumn season, each time of year offers its unique charm and beauty on the lake. However, there are a few factors to consider when planning your visit.

Spring and early summer (April to June) offer mild weather, blossoming flora, and abundant birdlife, making it an excellent time for birdwatching enthusiasts, nature photographers and nature lovers. The lake’s water levels are typically higher during this period, enhancing the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Alternatively, late summer and early autumn (September to October) provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing a tranquil and immersive experience on the lake. During this time, you can witness the stunning colours of fall reflected in the lake’s clear waters, creating a picturesque setting for your boat tour.

July and August bring warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, making them popular months for visitors to explore Lake Skadar. While these months may see more crowds and tourists, the vibrant atmosphere on the lake creates a lively and dynamic experience. It’s an excellent time to connect with fellow travellers, share experiences, and enjoy this stunning destination together.

Additionally, the summer months offer ideal conditions for swimming and water-based activities, providing refreshing opportunities to cool off in the lake’s crystal-clear waters. If you enjoy a lively ambience and meeting other travellers, July and August can be exciting times to embark on a boat tour of Lake Skadar.

Swimming in Lake Skadar is safe and a must if you ask all of our previous guests! Swimming breaks during our boat tours are conducted in the middle of the lake, as it’s considered the safest area for swimming. Our experienced guides carefully select locations away from dense vegetation and potential hazards, ensuring guests a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

On the other hand, if you choose to swim independently, you must consider some factors to ensure a pleasant and risk-free experience. The lake’s water quality is typically good, meeting European standards for bathing water quality. However, while swimming in Lake Skadar can be a delightful way to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and pay attention to ensure a safe and enjoyable swim.

One consideration is the presence of aquatic vegetation. While some areas may be clear and suitable for swimming, others may have dense vegetation that could pose obstacles or entanglement risks. Additionally, be mindful of any signs or warnings indicating unsafe areas for swimming.

Another factor to consider is the lake’s depth, which can vary significantly in different areas. While most of the lake is shallow near the shore, deeper areas are further out. It’s essential to assess your swimming abilities and choose a suitable location.

Additionally, Lake Skadar is home to various wildlife, including snakes and fishes. While encounters with snakes are rare, it’s possible to encounter them near the shore, particularly in areas with dense vegetation. Avoid swimming in areas where you can find snakes, such as thick reeds or marshy spots.

Lastly, be aware of potential hazards, such as submerged rocks or branches, especially if swimming in less frequented areas. As with any natural body of water, exercising caution and swimming within your comfort level is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

While there are numerous spots around the lake where you can swim, two popular locations are the beaches at Godinje and Donji Murići. These picturesque spots boast clear waters and stunning surroundings, making them ideal for a relaxing swim in Lake Skadar. Please note that you can reach these spots only by car. You can read more about hidden swimming spots in our blogpost: Best spots for swimming in Montenegro: Hidden gems of Lake Skadar

If you are on foot and are still deciding about doing a boat tour but still wish to experience swimming in the lake, self-guided kayaking offers an excellent alternative. Kayaking allows you to explore the lake’s beauty up close while reaching secluded spots for swimming. Our team is happy to guide you on how to reach the small, hidden beaches via kayaking, ensuring you have a memorable and enjoyable adventure on Lake Skadar.

Lake Skadar’s depth varies throughout its vast expanse. The lake is in a cryptodepression state, meaning some parts of its bottom are below sea level. These unique areas, known as “Eyes,” are fascinating features of the lake, with approximately 30 scattered across its surface. The most profound Eye is the Radus Eye, reaching depths of 60 meters, although some data suggests even greater depths. The lake’s average depth is around 6 meters despite these deeper areas. This variation in depth creates diverse aquatic environments within Lake Skadar, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into its complex and dynamic ecosystem.

The most stunning viewpoint in the Lake Skadar area is undoubtedly the Pavlova Strana Viewpoint. Situated near Rijeka Crnojevića, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Named after the local poet Pavle Rovinski, it has become a must-visit attraction for all visitors to the area. On the other hand, this viewpoint is accessible by car only.

For those seeking a viewpoint reachable by foot, you can find one near Besac Castle, a 10-minute walk from Virpazar.

You can find another remarkable viewpoint in Godinje. This viewpoint can be reached on foot from Virpazar, although it would take approximately 40 minutes to walk.

When considering accommodation options at Lake Skadar, we recommend booking with our trusted partner firms, Draga’s Rooms and Kingfisher Apartments. Both establishments offer comfortable and convenient lodging options to ensure a pleasant stay during your visit to Lake Skadar. By booking with our partners, you can enjoy quality accommodations and excellent service, enhancing your overall experience in this stunning destination.

While there isn’t a designated footpath encircling the entire lake, numerous well-marked trails lead you through some of the most picturesque areas of Lake Skadar. From walking along old military trails to enjoying stunning lake vistas from the surrounding hillsides, each hike offers a unique perspective of this captivating landscape.

1. Rijeka Crnojevića to Obod: This scenic route takes you past the ruins of Obod village, the seat of the Crnojević Dynasty centuries ago. Along the way, you’ll encounter historical landmarks such as Obod Cave and old watermills, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
2. The Waterfalls and Springs of Walnut Valley: This hike leads you along old military trails used by the Ottoman Turks, crossing over ancient bridges and through deserted woodland. One of the highlights is the opportunity to cool off in natural spring-fed pools and beneath waterfalls along the way.
3. Medieval Hill Village to Magical Beach: This route takes you over Mount Sutorman to the fortified medieval village of Upper Godinje, offering stunning views over the lake. You can also extend the hike and take a detour to Pješačac beach for swimming and sunbathing.

While Lake Skadar is generally not plagued by abundant mosquitoes, it’s always wise to be prepared, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Like other Mediterranean regions, mosquitoes exist, but they’re not typically found in swarms. However, if you venture into wooded or marshy areas, you may encounter them. We recommend bringing insect repellent to mitigate any concerns about mosquito bites. Additionally, if you know you have a severe reaction to mosquito bites, it’s a good idea to pack antihistamines, as these may be challenging to find locally.

Skadar Lake hosts more than 280 different bird species. During your tour, you may spot birds such as pygmy and great cormorants, herons, egrets, various gulls and ducks, and even Dalmatian pelicans (a rare sight, seen only with a bit of luck). You can read more about this topic in our blog post: Lake Skadar Birdwatching: 8 bird species that can be spotted in Montenegro

Absolutely! The Dalmatian pelican, considered globally vulnerable, is one of the lake’s most remarkable inhabitants. You may also encounter protected species such as the pygmy cormorant and the ferruginous duck. Our tours are carefully planned to observe these birds in a respectful manner, ensuring their habitats remain undisturbed.

Read more about the birdwatching experience here: Lake Skadar Birdwatching: A complete guide to Montenegro’s avian paradise

Kingfisher is committed to eco-friendly practices by maintaining a respectful distance from animals, minimising noise, and adhering strictly to designated routes to safeguard sensitive habitats. Music is not played on our boats, and our traditional wooden vessels blend seamlessly into the natural environment. We use modern, low-noise engines to reduce disturbance further. Importantly, we do not enter protected bird zones or reserves, setting us apart from some other operators.