Tucked away at the foot of the formidable Prokletije Mountains in the municipality of Gusinje, the Grlja Canyon offers an unparalleled adventure that stands out among the eight canyons of Montenegro. Its unique location in Vusanje, at the base of the Prokletije, imbues Grlja with a mystical aura, setting it apart from any other canyoning experience in the country. Venturing into Grlja feels like stepping into a scene from a science fiction movie, with its enchanting interior full of waterfalls, natural pools, swift currents, narrow passages, dark siphons, crystal-clear cold water, and the imposing presence of vertical cliffs towering over 60 meters on either side.
First conquered in 1987 by the "Kopaonik" rescue team from the Belgrade Mountaineering Club, led by speleologist Milutin Rudaković and mountaineer Husnija Šahmanović from Plav, Grlja Canyon has since captivated the hearts of adventurers. It's a place that truly deserves a commemorative plaque at its entrance, honouring these explorers who first unveiled its mysteries.
The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush
Grlja Canyon is a natural wonder that offers an adrenaline rush reminiscent of a sinkhole with its challenging terrain. Unfortunately, due to water levels, safe passage is only possible for a few months each year, from the second half of August to the end of October. The water temperature hovers around three °C, necessitating the wearing of two neoprene suits (one 5.5mm thick and another 3mm), two pairs of neoprene socks, and other essential canyoning gear to navigate this 500-meter-long canyon filled with thrilling obstacles.
For the past four years, we have been the first and only ones to lead commercial tours through this extreme canyon, offering a challenging and rich content adventure.
Your Adventure Begins
The journey starts at 10:30 AM near the canyon's entrance, on a large grassy parking area at the entrance to the Ropojana Valley in Vusanje. Here, adventurers gear up in neoprene suits and all the necessary equipment for the canyoning adventure.
At 11:30 AM, the adventure begins with a descent from above the first natural pool, specifically the Grlja Waterfall. Right beside the fence where most tourists gather to marvel at this natural wonder, we execute a 15-meter rope descent into the first pool, beginning a mystical canyoning and speleology-like adventure.
The tour is expected to last about 2 hours of intense canyoning. The experience is especially thrilling if the water level increases, creating stronger currents.
Upon exiting the canyon into a peaceful hamlet, our friend Adis Balić, the owner of a nearby restaurant by the Grlja, awaits to transport us back to our parked vehicles. After changing, lunch at the nearby restaurant, where we continue our camaraderie, is included in the canyoning price.
What's Included
All participants are provided with the necessary equipment (two neoprene suits of 5mm and 3mm thickness, 3mm thick neoprene socks, harnesses, and helmets), photos, a compiled video of the adventure, lunch and drinks at the restaurant, and the services of guides. Adventurers must bring their swimwear and appropriate footwear for canyoning, preferably sturdy shoes or sneakers.
Ensuring a safe passage through the canyon are three experienced guides who have been leading canyoning tours in Montenegro's canyons for over seven years, also founding members of the "Slobodni penjači-Cetinje" Sports Climbing Club.
Embrace the Extreme
Canyoning in Grlja offers an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the awe of Montenegro's natural beauty. It's an experience designed for those who seek to push their limits and immerse themselves in the wild, mystical heart of the Prokletije Mountains. Join us for a journey beyond the ordinary, where every step and leap brings you closer to the raw spirit of adventure.
Price of participation
The participation price is 125€