5.0

Hike the Sharr Mountains in Kosovo & North Macedonia

Two countries, a couple of 2500m peaks and a spectacularly wild border-hopping route through forests and over mountain ridges

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
  • All accommodation3 nights in hotels, 1 night in a mountain hut, 2 nights in guesthouses and 1 night wild camping
  • MealsAll breakfasts, all lunches and 6 dinners
  • TransfersAirport transfers and everything in between
  • EquipmentAll of your camping equipment
  • Small Like-minded GroupsSolo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people

From…excluding flights

Highlights

  • Trek 95km of the High Scardus Trail, one of Europe's newest long-distance hiking routes known as the 'Soul of the Balkans'

  • Tackle the lofty summits of Ljuboten (2498m) and Tito (2748m) for the best views in the rugged Sharr Mountains

  • Hike along the border between Kosovo and North Macedonia, brimming with glacial lakes, alpine plateaus and dramatic limestone cliffs – eyes peeled for bears, boars, lynx and deer

  • Bunk down in a cosy mountain hut, wild camp in a remote spot under the stars and rest your weary legs in a spa hotel

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Meet your crew in Pristina

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 detail

    Arrive in Pristina, Kosovo's capital – the youngest capital city in Europe. Meet your fellow travellers and get a quick pre-trip briefing with your host, before getting a good night's sleep ahead of your first day of hiking tomorrow.

    Day 2

    One summit, two countries

    Hiking
    7 - 8 hours · 15km · 1500m up · 1078m down
    Mountain hut
    Twin or triple share
    All meals included
    Show Day 2 detail

    After breakfast in Pristina you'll be driven to the village of Shterpce, close to the border with North Macedonia, where your hike into the wild Sharr Mountains begins. Starting at 1000m, you'll hike up through an enchanting forest (eyes peeled for lynx and bears) before the trail opens to a panoramic view of the entire Sharr range. You'll hike up to the summit of Ljuboten, a local favourite, which at 2498m stands alone from the peaks around it and can be seen from both Pristina and Skopje. Having climbed up in Kosovo, you descend into North Macedonia, as you make your way to the country's oldest mountain hut. The historic Ljuboten Mountain Hut – built in 1931 – promises a warm and cosy evening of traditional food, good company and intriguing tales of the surrounding mountains and their adventurous history.

    Day 3

    Hike the border ridge and cool off at Livadica Lake

    Hiking
    5 - 6 hours · 15.5km · 870m up · 2050m down
    Guesthouse
    Multi share
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    After fueling up with a hearty mountain breakfast an exciting day of hiking awaits. Warm up your legs on a charming single-track trail to start the day before reaching the bottom of a rocky scramble. As you ascend, enjoy Ljuboten's quirkily named rock formations – including Ljuboten's Neck, Goat Rock and Pointed Rock. Your midday reprieve awaits at the picturesque Livadica Lake, offering not only the chance to refuel but also an opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim (braving the cold lake waters if you fancy it). The views from this vantage point are nothing short of spectacular. After lunch, it's downhill back into Kosovo and the mountain village of Lubinje, where your guesthouse awaits.

    Day 4

    Another border hopping trail

    Hiking
    5 - 6 hours · 12km · 1300m up · 1200m down
    Hostel
    Same sex dorm
    All meals included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Hop in the van for a quick transfer to today's start point above the village of Lubinje, one of the most lush and captivating sections of the Sharr Mountains. Venture through the heart of a dense forest, where the trail winds its way amidst towering trees and serene surroundings. As you climb, the trees thin to reveal a panoramic vista of high, rugged peaks. Ascend the pass that marks the border with North Macedonia discover to a refreshing oasis – a natural spring and small lake beckon for a brief respite before the final ascent. Having conquered the pass, enjoy a gradual descent to the charming Macedonian village of Vetjse.

    Day 5

    Waterfalls and glacial lakes

    Hiking
    5 - 6 hours · 17km · 700m up · 850m down
    Spa Hotel
    Twin or triple share
    All meals included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Another quick transfer takes you to the start of today's trail, which weaves beneath some of the Sharr Mountains' most stunning peaks. You'll hike up through pasture, over rocky terrain and past waterfalls until reaching the glacial gem of Karanikola Lake. After another incredible day, and a thorough exploration of the northern Sharr Mountains, it's time to descend to the remote village of Bozovce before driving on to the resort of Popova Shapka. After a few nights in rustic mountain accommodation, kick back and relax with a night in a spa hotel complete with a pool and sauna, a chance to rejuvenate before tomorrow's big day.

    Day 6

    Climb Tito and wild camp under the stars

    Hiking
    6 - 7 hours · 15km · 1200m up · 750m down
    Wild camping
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Limber up the legs for another big day of climbing, tackling the highest peak in the Sharr Mountains. At 2748m, Tito is also the second-highest summit in North Macedonia – the highest not shared with a neighbouring country. At the summit stands a curious tower overlooking stunning 360-degree views of the expansive mountain range you have traversed. Taking a detour from the summer trail on the way down takes you to a hidden camping spot on the mountain for a unique night under the stars. Your hosts will prepare a comfortable wild camp, complete with warm food brought up from the valley. It's sure to be a special night and the perfect way to end your mountain adventure.

    Day 7

    Glacial lakes and mountain scenes

    Hiking
    5 - 6 hours · 20km · 650m up · 1200m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Wake up in your beautiful wild camping spot, have breakfast, and embark on your final day of hiking out of the mountains. Last is definitely not least, as another stunning day's walk awaits. Descending from camp you reach the Smreka River before climbing above Bogovinje Lake, the largest lake in the Sharr Mountains. You traverse Kosovo's 'Silent Waters', passing Shutman Lake and finally descend to the village of Brod. Celebrate with a beer at a local hotel before your host drives you on to Prizren, where you have the evening to enjoy the charming city. Head out and swap stories with your new hiking friends over a traditional Kosovan meal.

  8. Day 8

    Goodbye Kosovo!

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 8 detail

    After breakfast in Prizren, and a short walk around the old city, your host will transfer you back to Pristina and the airport.

Practical Stuff

Getting There

Nearest airport
Priština International Airport (PRN)
Pick up
Pristina Airport
Arrive by 22:30 on Day 1
Drop off
Pristina Airport
13:00 on Day 8

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

You'll be collected from Pristina Airport on Day 1 in time for flights arriving before 22:30, and taken to your hotel in the city. You host will drop you back at Pristina Airport at 13:00 on Day 8 (or back in Pristina city if you prefer, at 13:30). If you arrive outside of these times or wish to be dropped in Pristina city and then head to the airport later on your final day, your host can arrange private airport transfers for an extra cost. Please see Optional Extras for more details.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Pristina from major airports across the UK and Europe.

Trip level explained

Level 4

Moderate-Challenging

This trek has multiple long days with plenty of climbing up and down, so you should be in good shape and used to walking in the hills for consecutive days. Although not technically difficult, the hiking and topping a number of peaks is bound to make you puff so some strong walking legs will go a long way. The Sharr Mountains are pretty similar to most European mountain climates: cold and snowy in the winter and sunny and pleasant in the summer.

We recommend going on this trip between May and October when daytime temperatures in Pristina average between 21-27°C and days are usually in the region of 10-17°C in the mountains. It gets cool at night with the potential for temperatures to hover only a few degrees above freezing, so make sure you pack some warm clothing too.

Like any mountain environment, be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. Although the summers are generally nice and warm, the rain can set in without a moment's notice, so do pack accordingly. A layering system is essential in the mountains.

What will I need to carry?

You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you, and then a good-sized and comfortable backpack to carry personal items during each day of hiking. You'll have access to your main luggage on nights 4, 5 and 7. Between these nights (i.e. days 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7), you'll need to carry overnight belongings and your daily hiking kit, lunch and water.

High Altitude Factors To Consider

This trip visits locations at or above 2500m. At this altitude some people may experience symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness (opens in new tab), also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Previous experience at high altitude is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with altitude by carefully managing the rate of ascent and the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided. Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover up to the maximum altitude visited on this trip as well as emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.

Climate Factors To Consider

This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep as cool as possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke (opens in new tab). Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.

Remote environment: factors to consider

Some parts of this trip take place in areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited. This may mean that reaching medical care takes longer than you might normally expect, or that local medical facilities have fewer resources than those you may be used to at home.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, initial treatment may be provided locally before onward travel to a larger hospital or city for further care. Evacuation could involve changing the planned route or using different forms of transport to reach appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may also be intermittent in some locations.

Your guide is trained to manage situations in remote environments and will monitor the group and respond appropriately if any issues arise. However, it’s important that you let your guide know straight away if you feel unwell or experience any health concerns during the trip.

Before booking, consider your personal health and ability to travel in locations where access to medical care may be delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before travelling.

All travellers must have suitable travel insurance that covers the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation if required.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided hike to summit Ljuboten (2498m)
  • Guided hike on the Kosovo-North Macedonia border ridge, via Livadica Lake
  • Guided hike from Lubinje to Vetjse
  • Guided hike to Bozovce, via Karanikola Lake
  • Guided hike to summit Tito (2748m)
  • Guided hike from the Smreka River to Brod

  • Expert, local, certified English-speaking guides

  • 2 nights in city hotels
  • 1 night in a historic mountain hut
  • 2 nights in village guesthouses in the mountains
  • 1 night in a 4-star spa hotel
  • 1 night wild camping under the stars

  • All (7) breakfasts of local produce
  • All (6) packed lunches
  • 6 hearty dinners

  • Group arrival transfer from Pristina Airport (Kosovo) on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Pristina Airport (Kosovo) on Day 8
  • All transfers during the trip

  • All of your camping equipment

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Museum Hotel, Pristina, Kosovo. Photo: Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

    Pristina

    Stay

    Pristina

    Your first night will be spent in Pristina (Kosovo), usually at the Museum Hotel. You'll be in twin-share rooms with private bathrooms. It's in an excellent location and offers friendly service.

  • Ljuboten Mountain Hut, Sharr Mountains, Macedonia - Photo: Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

    Ljuboten

    Stay

    Ljuboten

    You'll spend one night in the Ljuboten mountain hut (North Macedonia). The hut was built in 1931 and has a capacity of around 35 people. You'll stay in same-sex shared rooms with 2-3 people per room, with shared toilets and kitchen facilities. Breakfast, a packed lunch, and a traditional dinner are all provided while at the hut.

  • Bozovce Village, Sharr Mountains, Kosovo. Photo Host Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

    Village guesthouses

    Stay

    Village guesthouses

    On Day 3, you'll stay in a guesthouse in the mountain village of Lubinje in mixed-gender shared rooms with up to 4-5 people per room. On Day 4, you'll stay in the Hostel Hana in Vetjse (North Macedonia) in same-sex dorms with shared bathroom facilities.

  • Hotel Scardus, Photo Host - Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

    Popova Shapka

    Stay

    Popova Shapka

    For the night in Popova Shapka (North Macedonia) you'll stay in the Hotel Scardus, a 4-star spa hotel with pool and sauna facilities. You'll be in a same-sex twin- or triple-share rooms, which are ensuite. Breakfast, a packed lunch and dinner are included during your stay.

  • Tents on the ridge line

    Tito camp

    Stay

    Tito camp

    Your sixth night will be spent camping under the stars with stunning views of the mountain range when you unzip your tent in the morning. You'll share a tent with one fellow adventurer tonight.

  • Hotel Alvida, Prizren. Photos Host Butterfly Outdoor Adventure

    Prizren

    Stay

    Prizren

    Your final night will be spent in a hotel in Prizren (Kosovo). This will usually be the Hotel Alvida Prizren, which offers rooms with private bathrooms, an excellent location and friendly service.

What You'll Eat

Throughout the trip, the food reflects local flavours and traditions. Each morning in your accommodation, you'll enjoy local delicacies like homemade bread with Sharr cheese, fresh veggies, eggs, mountain tea, and Turkish coffee for breakfast. When h…

Food and Dietary info

Throughout the trip, the food reflects local flavours and traditions. Each morning in your accommodation, you'll enjoy local delicacies like homemade bread with Sharr cheese, fresh veggies, eggs, mountain tea, and Turkish coffee for breakfast. When hiking, picnic lunches include a sandwich, fruit and biscuits (if you think you'll want more than this, you are advised to bring some snacks with you). Dinners include savoury burek pies, hearty casseroles, spiced sausages, roasted lamb, stuffed peppers and fresh vegetables. On the last night you’ll enjoy a celebratory dinner together at a local restaurant where you’ll have a choice from a few dishes; any extra orders and drinks are payable separately.

Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just let your host know on booking.

Optional Extras

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Extra night in Pristina
…

Upgrades

Optional Private Room and Tent Upgrade (Nights 1, 5, 6 and 7 only)
…/per person

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and solo tent can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).

Transfers

Private Airport Transfer
…/per person

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Ratings & Reviews

5.030 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
4.0
Itinerary
5.0

Latest Reviews

  • Kate E.

    Although the weather significantly changed the state of play (autumn hiking to winter hiking), our travels, adventures and experiences were not compromised a a consequence. In fact our guide Uta made the trip even more memorable and meaningful. We were guided through the conditions expertly to ensure not only did we see and climb as much as we should have, we also got some winter skills training and the opportunity to experience a whole new realm of mountain activity. Thanks to Uta and welcoming Kosovan and North Macedonian hospitality we had a five star experience and came away much richer in knowledge both about the mountains and the countries. Highly recommend! Definitely planning a visit again.

  • Jakub K.

    What a trip! We were all expecting warm weather, but instead, we got snow – definitely not what we packed for! ❄️😅 Because of that, the original programme had to change a bit, but honestly, it turned out even better than expected. Big shoutout to our guide Uta, who was absolutely amazing! She quickly reorganised everything so we could still go trekking despite the surprise weather. The new plan worked out perfectly – we still got to experience the beauty of the area, just with a wintery twist! The food throughout the trip was so good – every meal was a treat. And the group? Just awesome. Great vibes, lots of laughs, and an all-around fun crew to travel with. Despite the unexpected snow, it was a fantastic trip. Would definitely recommend it – just maybe pack for all seasons, just in case! 😉

  • Ian L.

    This was a great trip, we had very early snowfall for October which changed the schedule for the week and made the hiking slightly harder. Our guide Uta was exceptional, and worked so hard for us, having to change most of the accommodation and planned hikes for the entire week as well as sorting out extra transport. But she still took us on some incredible hikes! She is an incredible person. The food in the huts,hostels and hotels was plentiful and very nice.

  • Hannah J.

    Just loved it. I adored the wildcard weather event which flipped the itinerary on its head. Uta handled it with ease and grace and it turned out to be a brilliant trip. Winter hiking was so fun and added an extra special touch to this adventure. Thank you Uta for keeping it incredible despite some very obvious challenges.

  • Joanna K.

    Everything about that trip was absolutely incredible. What was meant to be an autumn hike unexpectedly turned into a snowy adventure — and it couldn’t have been more magical! ❄️ Uta was phenomenal; her vast experience shone through every step of the way, and I felt completely safe with her guidance. The Sharr Mountains did not disappoint, and the food was honestly the best I’ve ever had on a trip. I’m giving Uta and MBA a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this unforgettable experience!

  • Benjamin S.

    It was a much changed itinerary due to unprecedented early snowfall. So, this review is left mainly to praise our guide, Uta, for her ability to rearrange alternative treks and accommodation. She was excellent, first class. I've got around 25 'small group' trips under my belt with various companies and have not come across a finer guide.

  • Nicole M.

    A great trip with beautiful scenery and some adorable places to stay each night.

  • Andyzonfrillo

    First adventure with much better adventures. Was fantastic. Will be looking at more of their trips.

  • kathleen z.

    This was our first MBA trip and we were more than impressed. Kosovo and N Macedonia are absolutely stunning - the scenery and mountains are beautiful and totally untouched by tourism. We rarely saw other walkers. The hikes took us through varied terrain and topography. The food was beyond amazing - local, fresh and different every day. The accommodation was perfectly rustic and local - such lovely people along the way. Our fellow hikers were an amazing group - great fun and truly fantastic people. Maybe best of all was our guide Nadir - an unassuming local with an endless depth of knowledge about the area and mountains. We felt in good hands with this mountain ranger who kept us safe and entertained us with his stories - a real sweetheart with a great smile and better laugh. Can’t say enough good things about this trip - thank you Nadir, Uta and Meto - a fantastic introduction to MBA and hiking in the Balkans

  • SOPHIE B.

    loved the trip, the group were all lovely, good variety of accom and food! Nadir the guide was great, he knew the area very well and had lots of facts to tell us! There was a decent amount of places to fill up water on the hikes but did need to carry a decent amount of water with us.

Customer Photos

5.030 reviews
  • 5 stars (29)
  • 4 stars (1)
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)
Showing all 30 reviews

  • Autumn adventures with a twist!

    Kate E. October 2025
    Although the weather significantly changed the state of play (autumn hiking to winter hiking), our travels, adventures and experiences were not compromised a a consequence. In fact our guide Uta made the trip even more memorable and meaningful. We were guided through the conditions expertly to ensure not only did we see and climb as much as we should have, we also got some winter skills training and the opportunity to experience a whole new realm of mountain activity. Thanks to Uta and welcoming Kosovan and North Macedonian hospitality we had a five star experience and came away much richer in knowledge both about the mountains and the countries. Highly recommend! Definitely planning a visit again.

  • GREAT TRIP!!!

    Jakub K. October 2025
    What a trip! We were all expecting warm weather, but instead, we got snow – definitely not what we packed for! ❄️😅 Because of that, the original programme had to change a bit, but honestly, it turned out even better than expected. Big shoutout to our guide Uta, who was absolutely amazing! She quickly reorganised everything so we could still go trekking despite the surprise weather. The new plan worked out perfectly – we still got to experience the beauty of the area, just with a wintery twist! The food throughout the trip was so good – every meal was a treat. And the group? Just awesome. Great vibes, lots of laughs, and an all-around fun crew to travel with. Despite the unexpected snow, it was a fantastic trip. Would definitely recommend it – just maybe pack for all seasons, just in case! 😉

  • Hiking in Kosovo and North Macedonia

    Ian L. October 2025
    This was a great trip, we had very early snowfall for October which changed the schedule for the week and made the hiking slightly harder. Our guide Uta was exceptional, and worked so hard for us, having to change most of the accommodation and planned hikes for the entire week as well as sorting out extra transport. But she still took us on some incredible hikes! She is an incredible person. The food in the huts,hostels and hotels was plentiful and very nice.

  • I loved it!

    Hannah J. October 2025
    Just loved it. I adored the wildcard weather event which flipped the itinerary on its head. Uta handled it with ease and grace and it turned out to be a brilliant trip. Winter hiking was so fun and added an extra special touch to this adventure. Thank you Uta for keeping it incredible despite some very obvious challenges.

  • Unforgettable experience

    Joanna K. October 2025
    Everything about that trip was absolutely incredible. What was meant to be an autumn hike unexpectedly turned into a snowy adventure — and it couldn’t have been more magical! ❄️ Uta was phenomenal; her vast experience shone through every step of the way, and I felt completely safe with her guidance. The Sharr Mountains did not disappoint, and the food was honestly the best I’ve ever had on a trip. I’m giving Uta and MBA a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for this unforgettable experience!

  • It was a much changed

    Benjamin S. October 2025
    It was a much changed itinerary due to unprecedented early snowfall. So, this review is left mainly to praise our guide, Uta, for her ability to rearrange alternative treks and accommodation. She was excellent, first class. I've got around 25 'small group' trips under my belt with various companies and have not come across a finer guide.

  • Loved it

    Nicole M. September 2025
    A great trip with beautiful scenery and some adorable places to stay each night.

  • Great trek

    Andyzonfrillo September 2025
    First adventure with much better adventures. Was fantastic. Will be looking at more of their trips.

  • Excellent trip in a gorgeous area

    kathleen z. September 2025
    This was our first MBA trip and we were more than impressed. Kosovo and N Macedonia are absolutely stunning - the scenery and mountains are beautiful and totally untouched by tourism. We rarely saw other walkers. The hikes took us through varied terrain and topography. The food was beyond amazing - local, fresh and different every day. The accommodation was perfectly rustic and local - such lovely people along the way. Our fellow hikers were an amazing group - great fun and truly fantastic people. Maybe best of all was our guide Nadir - an unassuming local with an endless depth of knowledge about the area and mountains. We felt in good hands with this mountain ranger who kept us safe and entertained us with his stories - a real sweetheart with a great smile and better laugh. Can’t say enough good things about this trip - thank you Nadir, Uta and Meto - a fantastic introduction to MBA and hiking in the Balkans

  • amazing trip and great views

    SOPHIE B. September 2025
    loved the trip, the group were all lovely, good variety of accom and food! Nadir the guide was great, he knew the area very well and had lots of facts to tell us! There was a decent amount of places to fill up water on the hikes but did need to carry a decent amount of water with us.

  • Awesome

    Sarah W. September 2025
    What an incredible week with Uta as our guide in the Sharr Mountains. It was definitely challenging but I just loved the remoteness and how unspoilt the landscape is. Just incredible.

  • One of the best hikes

    Wayne P. September 2025
    This is my 3rd trip with MBA and perhaps the best so far. To hike where there are next to no people is great. Mountains are so quiet with some paths difficult to find because they are hardly used. the hiking was challenging. The mountain accomidation was basic and we could have done with more than one loo between the 14 of us a couple of evenings when we all wanted a shower but the views made up for it. Only grumble was the first nights hotel. I expect more from a city hotel, even a basic one, only one key per room and with reception shut most of the time it was a pain. limited facilities and very average rooms. did not spoil a really good week.

  • Great Hiking Adventure

    David L. August 2025
    I would really recommend this trip. Great hiking through stunning and totally unspoilt terrain. Well organized and Uta is an excellent guide.

  • An amazing hiking adventure

    Victoria L. August 2025
    This was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Uta is truly a legend of a guide and has so much to share about hiking but also about her passion for developing sustainable tourism in Kosovo. The hikes are challenging, and it was hot , but they were manageable and the experience of deserted trails and untouched landscapes was well worth the effort. A truly unique trip and one that you will feel privileged to experience. We had a fantastic group to travel with as well, everyone was so welcoming and enthusiastic.

  • Wonderful mountains

    Sharon N. August 2025
    The trip was fantastic - beautiful walking, friendly people and great atmosphere in the group. The hotel in Prishtina was disappointing, but the trip still gets five stars overall because everything else was so brilliant. The mountains are lovely, and hiking through them we had varied landscapes, and a chance for a dip in two mountain lakes. We saw few other people, and often felt like we had the mountain to ourselves. Uta is an amazing guide - so passionate about the mountains and about Kosovo. She looked after the group not only in the mountains, but also in the evenings, making sure that all goes smoothly in the accommodations. She was respected by everyone we came across. Would definitely recommend this trip to any keen hiker.

  • Amazing adventure

    Emily M. August 2025
    Honestly one of the best MBA treks I've been on. An awesome group, with so much to share and so many laughs. An incredibly remote trek, where we saw so few people. Brilliant hospitality in the various mountain huts and guesthouses (and I have quite tricky dietary requirements to accommodate). Fantastic guide, who knew what she was about and kept us all together beautifully. Stunning scenery, with not only gorgeous trekking but also mountain lakes to take a dip in. I couldn't imagine a better experience.

  • Amazing trip!

    Yvonne K. August 2025
    Amazing trip with great hiking, wonderful scenery and friendly people. Uta was an exceptional guide. Can highly recommend this trip to anyone who loves hiking.

  • Awesome trip!

    Kelley I. August 2025
    This was my 14th trip with MBA and it was just as exceptional as all the others. Great hikes that all had their own personalities & terrain, great views, great cultural introductions & history lessons, new foods to try and gracious hosts at each stop along the way. Uta was a great guide along with her husband, Meto. I would highly recommend this trip,

  • Incredible!

    Siobhan H. August 2025
    What an amazing trip. Exactly what I had hoped for and more. The scenery was varied and so incredibly beautiful, made even better by being untouched by masses of tourists. At times we felt like the only people up in the mountains. The accommodation and food was so much better than I was expecting, it was all delicious, though I did also get though almost all of the snacks I bought! To top it all off we had Uta as our guide. What an incredible woman, a true champion of Kosovo, the mountains and women in the mountains! I'll definitely be going back to explore more of Kosovos mountains.

  • Amazing trip to the Sharr mountains

    Ida A. July 2025
    I highly recommend this trip to anyone looking for a multi-day hike off the beaten track. Our group was very well taken care of and our guide (Meto) was incredibly knowledgeable about the area and kept everyone in great spirit the whole way. The scenery is beautiful and varied and the our hosts at the guesthouses, mountain hut and hotel were all very warm and welcoming. The accommodation and food (loads of local specialties) were great, too! All in all an unforgettable trip to a part of the Balkans that seems lesser known, but deserves more attention!

  • Sharr Mountains of Macedonia & Kosovo in July - Wow!

    Richard C. July 2025
    Just come back from the 8 day Sharr Mountain hike - what a brilliant holiday! Stunning scenery, challenging hikes each day and comfortable and different places to stay with great and diverse food and interesting people to meet. Our guide Meto, did an excellent job, pacing each walk to suit the group, showing us different scenery each day and organising some wonderful places to stay with really tasty local food (including wild blueberries and strawberries on route!). Not to mentin the locally made lemonade and blueberry juice and baklava! When he needed to change plans due to changeable weather, or for team members needing to take a day out due to a sore knee, Meto was able to do this calmly, seamlessly and without compromising our holiday. If you want a man who is passionate and knowledgeable about the Sharr Mountains, you need Meto! While the walks were challenging, the pace was adjusted to ensure everyone enjoyed themselves. The holiday was definitely graded appropriately graded (challenging), but is not beyond the fitness level of an averagely fit hill walker / hiker - I say this as the oldest guy on the team by 20+ years! All in all a memorable holiday that went all too fast - I highly recommend it.

  • Sharr is a rockstar. !

    JOAN F. July 2025
    From start to finish this trip was exceptional. The sharr mountains are soo majestic and the beauty is impossible to label. The mountains are alive with flowers, animals, and all the bugs sang magical tunes all week. Our guide Meto was brilliant, very knowledgeable, a great attitude,and set a great pace. I loved every step of this adventure. woohooo. !!

  • I cannot recommend this enough!

    Anne L. July 2025
    I cannot recommend this enough! The guide (Meto) was great, the scenery was stunning and everyone we met (drivers, hosts etc. ) was so friendly. Oh, and the food was amazing too.

  • An untouched part of Europe

    Trystan C. July 2025
    Stretching along the southern border of Kosovo and North Macadonia, the Sharr Mountains are wild and rugged. It is an amazing and untouched part of Europe. What truly set this hike apart was the rich tapestry of wildflowers in full bloom. Insects would brush past you as you lay in the grass, showing how healthy nature is in this part of the world. Uta, our guide, was a bit of a local legend. Someone with vast treking experience. She did an excellent job getting us from point to point. L. At times, you were truly isolated from the rest of the world, hiking in areas very few have trod. The food was excellent everywhere we went, and incredibly plentiful. The accommodation was equally good, but the best were those small guesthouses run by locals. The hiking was challenging, but the lower altitude makes it more than manageable. Remember to pack light, you always need less than you think.

  • A fabulous week

    Sarah K. June 2025
    I loved this experience. The group were the best bunch of people I’ve met on a tour and totally made the trip for me. Uta is a total rockstar and celebrity in her field. She’s accomplished more than any mountain guide I’ve met before, and seemingly everyone in Kosovo & Macedonia knows and admires her. It was a privilege to hike with her. The mountains are stunning and the hikes are very challenging but doable with good fitness and sturdy knees. Blisters can be a problem due to the steep ascents/descents everyday. If the group is fit you will cover 5 peaks on the Titov day doing the winter trail. Accommodation and food on the hiking days exceeded my expectations and were consistently excellent, but the city hotels in Pristina and Prizren were disappointing: far from the centre, cramped, dated. Additional luggage forwarding and better pre-tour communication would improve this product.

  • Sharr Superlatives

    Birgid N. June 2025
    Splendid scenery, sumptuous suppers, sustainable sightseeing, sage shepherding by Kosovo's national treasure, Uta Ibrahimi

  • Paul M Europes Hidden Gem

    Paul M. October 2024
    This was an Incredible trip to a less visited region of Europe. The scenery throughout the hikes in both Kosovo and North Macedonia was absolutely breathtaking. This part of Europe can only be described as one of Europe's hidden gems. The trip also combines seeing the sights of Kosovos capital Pristina and also the city of Prizren on the final night. The guides were extremely helpful and friendly, the traditional Kosovan and North Macedonian food choices were incredible. I couldn’t recommend this trip enough.

  • Amazing hiking adventure off the beaten track!

    Lena H. September 2024
    This was my first trip with Much Better Adventures and I’m over-the-top excited about how amazing it was! The trip takes you on an adventure off the beaten track in stunning Kosovo and North Macedonia, crossing borders in the mountains (how cool is that?), through stunning and varied nature. Add to this, various challenging hikes with breathtaking views, super friendly locals, delicious food and fantastic guides who love to share their passion for the mountains (thank you so much Uta, Meto and Nadir). And not to forget an amazing group of fellow adventurers to share all the special moments and lots of laughs with. If you're looking for an epic hiking adventure off the beaten track, I highly recommend this trip!

  • The road less travelled

    Hannah K. September 2024
    This is truly an incredible trip full of wild scenery and wide open spaces far away from main tourist routes. The Sharr Mountains are breathtaking and hopping between Kosovo and Macedonia was a great experience. We stayed in some unforgettable locations - from mountain huts to local villages - and the food was always delicious. If you're looking for a very varied multi-day hiking trip that's challenging but super rewarding look no further.

  • Fantastic multi day hike experiencing

    Sophie W. September 2024
    Fantastic multi day hike experiencing the best of the Sharr Mountains, across the Kosovan - Macedonian border. Fantastic food, and great experience staying in local villages and mountain huts in a relatively tourist-free part of the world. Would highly recommend this trip

Before You Travel

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag and liner
  • Roll mat
What do I need to bring?

BAGS

  • Duffel bag for excess kit
  • Day pack (35+ litres/big enough to carry overnight belongings on some trekking days - see FAQs for more details)

CLOTHES

  • Waterproof jacket and trousers
  • Warm jacket or fleece
  • Thin, wicking base layers (top and bottom)
  • Additional upper body layers and trousers/shorts (not cotton)
  • Hiking boots/shoes (worn-in, waterproof)
  • Walking socks
  • Warm hat and gloves
  • Something to sleep in

OTHER

  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Sun protection
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Head torch
  • Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks (opens in new tab)

FAQs

Yes, you can leave any luggage you don't want on the hike with the host, it will be transported by vehicle and available on Days 4, 5 and 7.

This trip visits locations at or above 2500m, where some people may experience symptoms of Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

Previous experience at altitude doesn’t guarantee the same response again – your body can react differently on each trip. However, having been at altitude before is still valuable: it gives you a better understanding of how your body might respond, what symptoms to look out for, and how to manage your pace and energy levels.

Your guide is trained to manage the risk of altitude sickness by controlling the rate of ascent, monitoring group wellbeing, and responding appropriately if anyone feels unwell.

Before booking, we recommend considering your personal health, particularly if you have any pre-existing conditions, and consulting a medical professional if you’re unsure. Arriving early to allow your body to acclimatise can also make a big difference.

Your travel insurance must cover the maximum altitude reached on this trip and include emergency evacuation.

This trip operates in areas where daytime temperatures can reach extreme highs, where limited shade and high humidity can also be a factor. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of dehydration or heat-related illness. Your guide will adjust the pace and monitor the group closely, but hydration, proper clothing, and sun protection are essential.

Before travelling, consider your ability to be active in high temperatures and consult a medical professional if you have concerns – especially if you have any cardiovascular or heat-sensitive conditions. Arriving a day or two prior to the trip may help you adjust gradually to the heat.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

The Sharr Mountains are pretty similar to most European mountain climates: cold and snowy in the winter and sunny and pleasant in the summer.

We recommend going on this trip between May and October when daytime temperatures in Pristina average between 21-27°C and days are usually in the region of 10-17°C in the mountains. It gets cool at night with the potential for temperatures to hover only a few degrees above freezing, so make sure you pack some warm clothing too.

Like any mountain environment, be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. Although the summers are generally nice and warm, the rain can set in without a moment's notice, so do pack accordingly. A layering system is essential in the mountains.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 220.86kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

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Departure dates

  • Thursday 18th June 2026

    to Thursday 25th June 2026

    Last minute - Host approval required

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