National parks in Montenegro were visited by 178.333 tourists from January to mid-June, which is 18 percent more than last year in the same period.
For less than 14 euros, nature lovers can buy an annual ticket and visit all five national parks in Montenegro an unlimited number of times throughout the year, the National Parks of Montenegro (NPCG) told "News".
They pointed out that the price of tickets, including annual tickets, has not changed compared to last year.
Last March, the Government of Montenegro made a decision according to which the daily tickets for all national parks increased in price by up to two euros, while at the same time the price of the annual ticket was reduced from 27 to 13,5 euros.
The entrance fee to Skadar lake NP was adjusted from four to five euros, Durmitor from three to five, Biogradska gora from three to four, Lovćen from two to three, and Prokletije from one to three euros.
The NPCG said that, in cooperation with commercial banks, "they made it possible for citizens to buy an annual ticket at an even more favorable price. Thus, by purchasing a ticket online, they will get a refund of up to 50 percent, that is, they will pay 6,75 euros.
Guests arrive from all over the world
They explained that the Decision on fees for the use of park assets does not include a specially created student ticket.
"However, organized and pre-announced groups of students can get a 50 percent discount on tickets. In addition, children up to the age of 15 do not pay entrance to the parks, while discounts are also valid for organized groups of mountaineers, union organizations and pensioners. These benefits are valid throughout the year, enabling all nature lovers to visit the parks often under favorable conditions", they told "Vijesti".
According to them, that company tries to make citizens happy with free entrance to national parks on special occasions, "such as Independence Day and Montenegro's Statehood Day".
"These initiatives aim to encourage citizens to spend more time in nature, get to know the wealth and diversity of the national parks of Montenegro, and develop awareness of the importance of preserving natural heritage," they said.
According to NPCG, Montenegrin national parks are visited by tourists from all over the world, mostly from European countries.
“... Such as France, Germany, Russia, Belgium, Poland and Great Britain. We are also seeing an increase in the number of tourists from China and Saudi Arabia. Traditionally, a large number of visitors come from the countries of the region, including Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia".
They pointed out that the increase in the number of visitors "confirms that the beauty of the nature of Montenegro and its national parks are increasingly attractive destinations for domestic and international tourists who like rest, recreation and an active stay in protected nature."
Most of them are lost in Durmitor, Prokletije and Lovcen
Despite this, the company told "Vijesta" that they had recorded cases of tourists who got lost while visiting national parks.
From September 2023 to May of the current year, NPCG recorded "a dozen cases where tourists got lost while visiting national parks."
"The safety of visitors is a priority, and we continuously cooperate with the Mountain Rescue Service of Montenegro and other competent institutions in order to minimize risks and ensure a safe experience for all visitors. The mountain tops of our parks attract both experienced hikers and beginners, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks that nature can bring," said the NPCG, adding that "thanks to the quick and efficient response of local rescue services, all tourists were found and returned safely ".
The National Parks told "Vijesta" that tourists often get lost on the mountain trails in the Durmitor, Prokletije and Lovćen national parks.
"Although the trails are marked and regularly maintained, the complex terrain and changing weather conditions can lead to disorientation. In connection with the safety of visitors, JPNPCG has on several occasions appealed to the users of national parks in order to have a safe and secure stay and movement in nature. Visitors are advised to use marked trails only and avoid deviating from marked routes. It is recommended to plan hikes in the early morning hours, especially for longer distances. The key is to bring enough water, energy snacks and UV protection. It is necessary to use suitable hiking clothes and shoes, avoiding summer shoes or slippers", they told "Vijesta".
They advised all visitors to get additional information about the weather conditions, as well as the condition of the trails before departure.
"... And they choose the path that suits their physical abilities. If they use the services of a guide, it is important to follow their instructions. Visitors are also invited to respect nature, do not leave litter and protect the environment. The safety of all visitors is a priority, therefore careful movement and caution are recommended," NPCG said.
The price of the guide depends on the tour
They also recalled the provision of a guide service, the price of which varies depending on the duration and type of tour. As they say to "Vijesta", in all national parks the price of using the guide service is 40 euros for a four-hour tour, and 80 euros for an eight-hour tour.
"Also, in Skadar Lake National Park, we organize special tours for bird watching that include transportation and a guide. The price for this service is 160 euros for a four-hour tour for groups of up to four people, while for groups of five to 12 people the price is 240 euros for four hours. These tours allow visitors to make the most of their time in the parks and enjoy the natural beauty that we offer," NPCG concluded.
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