Matka Canyon
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Matka Canyon, a stunning gorge with emerald waters, ancient caves, and scenic hiking trails near Skopje.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Matka Canyon
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Matka Canyon, a stunning gorge with emerald waters, ancient caves, and scenic hiking trails near Skopje.
"A must-see if you’re visiting Skopje, offering gorgeous canyon views and refreshing water activities."
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail and cave steps can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for exploring the Matka Cave, as it's dark inside and your eyes need time to adjust.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Matka Cave Boat Tour
Matka Lake
Explore the stunning natural formations and cool, fresh air of the cave on a memorable boat trip.

Canyon Walking Trail
Along Matka Lake
Hike alongside the emerald waters for breathtaking views of the canyon's dramatic cliffs and natural beauty.

Kayaking or Pedal Boating
Matka Lake
Get up close to the water and enjoy a refreshing adventure paddling through the serene canyon.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Matka Canyon
Getting Around Matka Canyon
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Trip to Matka Canyon
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail and cave steps can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for exploring the Matka Cave, as it's dark inside and your eyes need time to adjust.
Trip to Matka Canyon
Matka canyon temperatures
💧 Pack water & snacks
Especially if you plan to hike the trail. Options can be limited or recycled.
♻️ Leave no trace
Help preserve the canyon's beauty by taking all your trash with you.
Matka Canyon Trip
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail and cave steps can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
🔦 Bring a flashlight
Essential for exploring the Matka Cave, as it's dark inside and your eyes need time to adjust.
💧 Pack water & snacks
Especially if you plan to hike the trail. Options can be limited or recycled.
♻️ Leave no trace
Help preserve the canyon's beauty by taking all your trash with you.
🚌 Bus schedule is tricky
Be prepared for unreliable bus times. Consider walking further out for the bus stop when leaving.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matka Canyon is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the emerald waters and dramatic cliffs, making it a must-visit near Skopje. Visitors enjoy boat tours to the cave, kayaking, and hiking the scenic trails. However, some reviews mention unreliable bus schedules, aggressive taxi drivers, and mixed experiences with food quality at local establishments.
"It’s a must be there place when the temperatures are high. You can either take a boat, pedal boats, kayak or jump and dive from the rocks like all the locals. Make sure you go where the locals go to be safe when jumping into the water.
So crystal clean and refreshing artificial lake. It has been built for the Dam that produce free energy for Skopje.
By the side to the Dam you could see an opening where the soldiers camp to protected the Dam during the II World War as it has been a target to be destroyed which has never happened.
The Cave is such a nice and cold stop with a fresh air, nature shaped walls and lake inside. Many of this cave is still not discovered as some places are very narrow.
Very high steps leading to the cave, slippery surface and rails inside due to the nature of this place and some small uneven stones, so make sure you do not fall while admiring the cave. And use a torch 🔦 to see where you going while your eyes get used to the darkness.
Not recommended for elderly or unfit people. I nearly made it 😂
(Only shows how unfit I am at the moment).
However the boat trip is for everyone who loves being by the water.
And after you can enjoy a drink or food at a local restaurant that serve fantastic food."
Angel Joy
"It was a great short boat drive in a gorgeous canyon with natural beauties. Unfortunately wife did not preferer the longer trip to the caves but I heard they were great as well. We also walked the trail before the boat trip quite some distance. Definitely suggest to younger group do that but go prepared with food and beverages.
BUT CARE ABOUT THE NATURE AND DO NOT LITTER.
It is not difficult to bring them back and dump in a bin. The less litter means, other people also allows your foot steps."
Mehmet Oral Alp
"A must-see if you’re visiting Skopje. Unfortunately the bus timetables are very unreliable and the buses don’t seem to follow it, and taxis will haggle you aggressively while you are walking out or waiting for the bus. When you leave, make sure you walk further out to reach the bus stop.
The trail itself is beautiful. It takes you along the water, and you get amazing views of the Canyon. Unfortunately at the end the trail ends abruptly, though opposite the cave you can’t see anything. Nonetheless the views are worth it! Even better if you can rent a kayak or take a boat."
Ethan P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by bus, though schedules can be unreliable. Taxis are also available but may haggle on price. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the surrounding areas.
Matka Canyon is located about 17 kilometers southwest of Skopje, making it an accessible day trip. Travel time can vary depending on traffic and mode of transport.
Many visitors opt for a taxi or a pre-booked tour for convenience. Public buses are an option but require careful planning due to their unpredictable schedules.
Yes, driving is possible and offers the most flexibility. There is parking available at the canyon, though it can fill up during peak times.
Yes, numerous tour operators in Skopje offer day trips to Matka Canyon, often including transportation and guided activities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the canyon itself is generally free. However, there are fees for specific activities like boat tours to the caves, kayaking, and pedal boat rentals.
Matka Canyon is accessible year-round. The restaurants and activity providers typically operate during daylight hours, with specific times varying by season.
Prices for the boat trip to Matka Cave can vary, but expect to pay around 10-15 Euros per person for a shared boat tour.
While you can often purchase tickets on-site, booking in advance might be advisable during peak season to secure your preferred time slot.
The walking trails along Matka Canyon are free to access. Enjoy the scenic views without any additional charges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can take a boat tour to Matka Cave, rent kayaks or pedal boats, hike the scenic trails, swim (in designated areas), and enjoy the natural beauty.
Yes, the Matka Cave is a highlight, offering a unique experience with its natural formations and cool interior. The boat trip there is highly recommended.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to hike. Bring swimwear if you intend to swim, and a light jacket as the cave can be cool.
The walking trails can be uneven, and the cave has many slippery steps. The boat trip is more accessible, but the cave itself might be challenging for some.
Yes, swimming is possible in designated areas of the artificial lake, especially popular with locals during hot weather. Be mindful of safety and local advice.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes located near the dam and the monastery, offering local cuisine. Some reviews suggest being cautious about food quality.
You can find traditional Macedonian dishes, grilled meats, and seafood. Some vendors also sell snacks like roasted corn.
While convenient, some visitors have reported mixed experiences with food quality. Bringing your own snacks and water is a good backup plan.
Picnicking is a great option, especially if you plan to hike. Just remember to pack out all your waste to keep the canyon clean.
Typically, Macedonian restaurants offer some vegetarian dishes like salads and vegetable-based stews, but it's always good to check the menu.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along the walking trail, the entrance to the Matka Cave, and the dam offer stunning photographic opportunities. The emerald green water is a key feature.
The natural beauty makes photography easy. However, the cave can be dark, so a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities is helpful.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the canyon's colors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the area.
While not common, some private guides might offer photography-focused tours, especially for those interested in capturing the natural landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, prioritize safety. Ensure they wear appropriate footwear for any walking, and keep a close eye on them near the water. Bringing plenty of snacks and drinks is crucial, as food options can be limited or of questionable quality. Consider the cave's steps and potential slipperiness when deciding if it's suitable for very young children or those with mobility concerns. The walking trails offer beautiful views but might be challenging for strollers.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on activities, consider renting a kayak or pedal boat for a more affordable water experience compared to organized boat tours. Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended, as on-site options can be pricier and reviews on quality are mixed. This approach allows you to enjoy the natural beauty without significant expense.
💑 Couples
Consider a hike along the trails for stunning panoramic views, perfect for enjoying the scenery and each other's company. The Matka Cave visit, with its cool, mysterious atmosphere, can also be a unique shared adventure. Enjoying a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants, while being mindful of reviews, can cap off a lovely day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Matka Canyon by Water
When choosing a water activity, consider the boat trip duration. While shorter trips are available, longer ones often include more of the cave's interior. For kayakers and pedal boaters, the emerald green water is a constant companion, creating a serene and picturesque environment. Remember that while the water is refreshing, it's an artificial lake created by a dam, so be aware of any local guidelines regarding swimming.
Hiking the Matka Canyon Trails
While the trail offers incredible vistas, it's important to be prepared. Reviewers suggest wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear as the surfaces can be slippery, especially after rain. It's also wise to bring plenty of water and snacks, as amenities can be sparse further along the path. The trail can extend for a considerable distance, so assess your fitness level and the time you have available. Remember to respect the environment and pack out all your litter to preserve the canyon for others.
Visiting the Matka Cave
Accessing the cave involves navigating high steps and a slippery surface, so caution is advised. Visitors are strongly recommended to bring a torch or use their phone's flashlight to better see the cave's features and avoid tripping. Due to the challenging terrain, the cave is not recommended for the elderly or those with significant mobility issues. However, for those who can manage the steps, the natural beauty within is a rewarding experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit