From the very start, the trip felt immersive and beautifully balanced. The wildlife in Kruger National Park was unforgettable, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat was a real highlight. We were very lucky spotting the ‘Top 5’ and most exciting was seeing 2 leopards to complete the set! I was equally captivated by the more rural, untouched areas, which showcased a quieter, more authentic side of South Africa. The Drakensberg Mountains were simply stunning, with dramatic scenery that felt almost prehistoric, it was a joy to hike around, with next to no one else there. Visiting the historic site of Rorke’s Drift added real depth to the journey. It was a rich, rewarding, and truly memorable experience!
Slovenia Hiking Tours
Slovenia Hiking Tours
Top 5 Slovenia Hiking Trails
1.Pokljuka Plateau
This alpine plateau stands in the Triglav National Park and stretches for almost 13 miles squared. Its diverse karst surface is home to pretty valleys, grassland and pine forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers to go hiking in Slovenia. As well as colorful wildflowers carpeting the ground, you’ll find shepherd’s huts, alpine cows grazing in the pastures, and an array of birdlife hovering overhead. If it’s wildlife and tranquility that you crave, the Pokljuka Plateau is the place to explore.
2. Lake Bohinj
Reflecting the rugged mountain peaks on its shimmering, emerald surface, Lake Bohinj is ridiculously pretty and is less crowded than Lake Bled during the summer months. It has a real authenticity about it and the views from here are jaw-dropping. The path around the lake lets you get back to nature as you hike below the circle of mountains that fringes its shores. In the warmer months, you can take a dip in the gin-clear water or simply relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air. At the western end of the lake, you’ll also find the cable car which takes you up to Vogel for some of the most extraordinary views over the Julian Alps.
3. Karavanke Mountain Range
This chain of limestone mountains stands on the border of Slovenia, Austria and Italy and is home to more than 1,200 species of flora. Hiking in Slovenia is unparalleled and the Karavanke Mountains offer some of the best trails in the country. Winding along alpine peaks, along valleys and waterfalls and below giant gorges, you’ll discover indigenous animals and learn about the region’s cultural heritage along the way. There’s a wide choice of trails suitable for both easy hikes and more demanding climbs. On our Lakes and Mountains tour of Slovenia, we head up to Golica mountain, known for its fields filled with wild white daffodils.
4. Martuljek Gorge
This beautiful gorge can be found at the end of a forest trail inside Triglav National Park where a series of waterfalls tumble down the steep sides. There are two hiking routes that lead you to the waterfalls, each following quiet forest tracks where you’ll meet some of the local wildlife. En route, there are several viewpoints where you can rest and take in the scenery, including the Lipovceva Hut which sells homemade soup and fruit juices from the open kitchen.
5. Lake Bled
The most famous of all Slovenia’s lakes is Lake Bled, spanning approximately 4 miles in length within Triglav National Park. The views surrounding its shoreline are to die for and you can complete the circular hiking route in around 1.5 hours, allowing for plenty of time to stop and take photographs. At the glacial lake, you’ll see its small island and castle, and there are many beautiful hiking trails that start from here. Alternatively, you might just want to sit by the banks and absorb the scenery or go for a dip at one of the several swimming spots.
Tim Laughton-Scott South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
Manish Vaid Walking the Amalfi CoastWalking the Amalfi Coast was my second trip with Exodus. What an amazing part of Italy. Lots of stairs on first few days. Thankfully we had good weather despite the time of year. Beautiful hikes and great scenery on most of our days.
Food was meant to be a highlight of the trip but we were told on arrival that the kitchen was closed in the hotel so we had to eat dinner at a local restaurant. The food was reasonable at the restaurant but very few vegetables or greens served.
However one evening we had a barbecue at the hotel that was very good. It was an additional cost though.
The company was great and lots of friends were made.
Our guide accompanied us on most dinners
Does Slovenia have good hiking?
Yes, Slovenia is renowned for its excellent hiking opportunities, offering a diverse range of trails that appeal to both seasoned hikers and beginners. The country’s landscape is incredibly varied, featuring the dramatic Julian Alps, lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes. Triglav National Park, which includes Slovenia’s highest peak, Mount Triglav, is one of the most popular hiking destinations, known for its rugged terrain and stunning vistas.
What month is best for hiking in Slovenia?
The best months for hiking in Slovenia are typically from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and stable, making it ideal for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes. June offers lush greenery and fewer crowds, while July and August are the warmest months, perfect for high-altitude hikes in the Julian Alps. September brings cooler temperatures and stunning autumn colors, creating a picturesque setting for hiking. These months also have the advantage of longer daylight hours, allowing for extended treks and ample time to enjoy the scenic beauty of Slovenia.
FAQs on Slovenia Hiking Tours
Where is Slovenia?
Located in Central Europe, Slovenia is a small, picturesque country. It is bordered by Italy to the west, Austria to the north, Hungary to the northeast, and Croatia to the south and southeast. To the southwest, Slovenia also has a short coastline along the Adriatic Sea, giving it access to the Mediterranean. Its central location makes it a crossroads of various cultures and a gateway to both the Alpine and Mediterranean regions.
How many days do you need in Slovenia?
Our Slovenia guided hiking tour is an 8-day long exploration of the Julian Alps that immerses you in everything this wonderful region has to offer, on and off the trail.
How do I plan a Slovenia hiking tour?
Planning a trip to Slovenia is easy when you book a hiking tour with Exodus. Detailed itineraries and trip notes provide comprehensive information about accommodation, transportation, food options, and essential details like visas and vaccinations. Once you’ve chosen your ideal trip, our expert team takes care of the logistics, allowing you to relax and anticipate the adventure that awaits in Slovenia.
Once you embark on your adventure, you’ll have an expert guide enhancing your vacation. You can rest assured that they’ll know the country better than anyone, but they’re not only there to show you the way. They’ll also give you some fabulous insights into local life, traditions and customs, as well as pointing out largely undiscovered hidden gems that lie away from the more well-trodden paths.
What gear is essential for a hiking tour in Slovenia?
Ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience by knowing the necessary gear for your tour. Checklists may vary based on the region and time of year, so it’s crucial to check your trip notes for all the details you’ll need to be well-prepared with appropriate clothing, footwear, and other essentials.
What is the currency of Slovenia?
The currency of Slovenia is the Euro (€).
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