The hike to the top Maja Podgojes is a must when visiting Gusinje, Montenegro. It’s convenient location and breathtaking views of the Prokletije Mountain Range makes it one of the best hikes in the area. This hike is good for the active family and anyone looking for a great way to spend the day. The views from the top are outstanding for a considerably short hike. Get ready for adventure with this Maja Podgojes Hiking Guide!

HIKE DETAILS

Hike Duration: The hike will take you about a total of 4 hours.

Hike Distance: The total distance of the hike is about 8 kilometers.

Hike Difficulty: I rate this hike at a moderate to beginner difficulty level. There are very few steep inclines and a very simple trail to follow.

Hike Incline: The elevation gain is about 1000 meters.

HOW TO GET TO THE MAJA PODGOJES TRAILHEAD

From Gusinje the trailhead is about a ten minute car ride away. Type in Gropa Vezirova into your GPS and this will lead you to the road that climbs up the back side of Maja Podgojes. If you are looking to hike the entire way, park your car on the side of the road and begin your hike. If you are looking to cut some work off the hike, continue driving as far as you desire. Be aware the road can get rough, so go as far as you are comfortable then park somewhere off to the side. Make sure you allow room for other vehicles to pass.

NAVIGATING MAJA PODGOJES TRAIL

Luckily, the majority of this trail is covered by a small dirt road. Simply, follow this road to the top until it stops. Feel free to cut some corners when you see fit as the road keeps a steady incline and if you are in shape corners can be cut. The first half of the trail will be under the cover of the forest. When you reach the opening at the top you will have a view of Gusinje and Plav in the distance. While facing in this direction the trail continues to your right. Follow the road for about another half hour and it will come to a stop. From this point you are almost to the top of Maja Podgojes. Continue in this direction and you will soon come to a massive rock that looks over the Prokletije Mountain Range. From here, take off your bag, unpack your lunch and enjoy your well earned views.

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. Click the link for more information and feel free to reach out with any questions!

MY EXPERIENCE HIKING MAJA PODGOJES

Like most of my initial hikes in Montenegro, I was lead by a 70 year old trail blazer named Zuvdo. I didn’t know what to expect, but every hike I take with him is a mix of a lecture and leisure. Probably, one of my favorite combinations. This hike turned out no different. It was a beautiful day, filled with wisdom, breathtaking views and good laughs. When you look at the mountain from Gusinje, it doesn’t look like much, but I’m telling you the view from the top is like no other. You get a unobscured view into the valley and some of the highest peaks in Montenegro. The hike to Maja Podgojes is one of my favorite for it’s ratio of effort put in to quality of views.