This section of the Peaks of the Balkans trail takes you from the village of Kucishte in Kosovo to the mountain hamlet of Babino Polje in Montenegro. This is a special border crossing hike that features the famous lake Liqeni i Kucishtёs and gorgeous mountain meadows. Lace up those smelly boots, grab your backpack and get ready for adventure with this Kucishte to Babino Polje Hiking Guide.
HIKE DETAILS
DISTANCE: 16km
DURATION: 7-8 hours
ELEVATION GAIN: 1,151m
ELEVATION LOSS: 1,109m
DIFFICULTY: Moderate
NAVIGATING FROM REKA E ALLEGES TO KUCISHTE
This transfer hike begins at the Guri i Kuk complex heading along the road south until it becomes a hiking trail marked with red and white circles. After about 2km you will reach the amazing glacial lake of Liqeni i Kucishtёs. Be sure to stop and take some time to enjoy the wonderful lake. Next, continue on the trail hugging the lake and you will lose some elevation through the forest and come to a climb to the next lake. Here you will find a fresh water source on you left side.
Finish the short climb and you will arrive at the next glacial lake Liqeni i Drelajve. From this lake the route follows southwest uphill to the Lugu i Shkodrёs pass. The pass is called Lugu i Shkodrёs (Shkodra pass) because it used to be the pass of an ancient path connecting this area with the city of Shkodra in Albania.
A water source can be found in Lugu i Shkodrёs pass. The route continues south uphill for approx. 400 meters until we reach Jelenka pass. From here, we can see the valley of Babino Polje. Start the hike southeast downhill and after approx. 1.5 kilometers we see a small artificial lake. The locals use this as a water reserve for donkeys, horses, etc. From here, the route follows southwest along a nearly-flat terrain until Ravno Brdo pass is reached. From Ravno Brdo pass, you have a very clear and beautiful view towards Babino Polje village. The path is not always visible because of the long grass, but it is not difficult to reach the village since you have a clear view of it. The path continues downhill along with many shepherd huts.
After an approximately 1 km hike downhill, we reach the village. After crossing the bridge, you have reached Babino Polje.
This hike is very special to me because it is my home coming hike. Whenever returning back to my home turf I get an awesome feeling that I hope you will feel too. Accommodation is easy to find in Babino Polje and be sure to get some good rest because tomorrow you get to hike to the amazing Lake Hrid.
HIKE WITH ME!
If you like what you see and want to be guided by a local, I guide this hike with Balkan Mountain Adventure Company. Adventure is what we do. These experiences have changed my life forever. I want everyone to share the joy of the mountains with me and experience the wonders of my home. BLKNMTN gives you the opportunity to explore like a local and have the adventure of a lifetime. We also provide a self-guided tour for those who want to take on the trail on their own. Click the link for more information and feel free to reach out with any questions!
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