Montenegro beauty – The Tara River
By Anđela Zotović
The Tara River flows through the northern region of Montenegro and stands as one of the most beautiful and significant rivers in Southeastern Europe. Known for its exceptional hydrological complexity, crystal-clear waters, and the breathtaking beauty of its canyon section, Tara has earned the nickname “The Tear of Europe.” Its waters are rich in dissolved oxygen, creating ideal conditions for diverse plant and animal life.
Geomorphologically and hydrologically, the Tara is incredibly varied: along its course, it features numerous natural springs, waterfalls, rapids, basins, and tributaries, all contributing to its dynamic landscape. In the Tara Canyon alone, 85 springs and 169 rapids have been recorded. The Tara River is fed primarily by the Veruša and Opasanica, with its largest springs emerging beneath Mount Maglić (2,412 m). The Tara’s flow is significantly boosted during the rainy season by these sources. Across its 146 km course from source to where it joins the Drina, the river stretches approximately 146 km. Veruša and Opasanica are the Tara’s principal headwaters. Veruša has a course of about 14 km. Opasanica is formed by several smaller streams Lučka, the Kozeljska River, Kurlaj, the Turjačka River, and Margarita. The highest springs are Bijela Voda, situated at around 1,650 m, and the source below Planinac at about 2,153 m. The Opasanica’s length is roughly 12 km.
In the Tara River basin there are many well-known springs, including Milačka Vrela, Svinjača, Plasnica, Ravnjak, Bjelovac, Čarbudžak, Mušova Vrela, Ljutica, Bijela Vrela, Lazin Kamen, Nikolića Vrela, Likića Vrela, Kućišta, Kaluđerovac, Bajlovića Sige, and others.
Right-bank tributaries of the Tara River: Drcka (13 km), Skrbuša (7 km), Svinjača (12 km), Jezerštica together with the Biogradska River (11,5 km), Bjelovićka River (9 km), Rudnica, Vaškovska River, Selačka River (12 km), and Draga (11,5 km).
Left-bank tributaries: Pješčanica (5,5 km), Pčinja (9,5 km), Plašnica (14 km), Štitarička River (13,5 km), Bistrica (6,5 km), and Sušica (15 km).
The total length of the Tara River, measured from its highest headwaters beneath Mount Maglić, is 156 km. From the junction of the Veruša and Opasanica rivers to its confluence with the Drina (specifically near Šćepan Polje), the length is approximately 144 km. The Tara Canyon, stretching from Kraljevo Kolo to Šćepan Polje, extends roughly 80 km. The catchment area of the Tara River basin covers around 2,040 km2. Average annual discharge at Trebaljevo is 25.0 m3/s, while at Šćepan Polje it reaches 79.4 m3/s. The river’s flow varies significantly, ranging from a low of 9.0 m3/s to a maximum of 3,388 m3/s.
In 1977 the Tara River was included in the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” programme, and in 1980 the Tara Canyon became part of UNESCO’s World Natural Heritage under Durmitor National Park. This protection reflects its global importance for nature conservation and biodiversity.
The Tara River Canyon is the deepest in Europe and the second deepest in the world, just behind the Grand Canyon in the United States. In places, it reaches depths of up to 1,300 m. With a length of about 78 km, it ranks among the most striking geomorphological formations in Europe.
The canyon is home to rare species of fish, birds, and forest plants, making this a vital area for biodiversity. The forests surrounding the river are lush and varied, and the river itself provides habitat for many endemic and endangered species.
Tara is highly attractive for tourism, especially adventure and ecotourism. In particular, the area is popular for:
• Rafting on the Tara River considered one of the best in Europe due to its natural rapids and stunning scenery;
• Hiking and walking tours along the canyon;
• The Đurđevića Tara Bridge, standing 172 meters high, is one of the most famous bridges in the region;
• Eco camps and educational excursions.
Many tourists come specifically to experience navigating and descending the canyon, which offers an unforgettable adventure and a glimpse into the untouched wild nature of the Balkans.
The renowned geographer W. Dervis K. Chesterich once led his students through the canyon and noted that “the Tara Canyon is the most beautiful in the world after the Colorado,” confirming its exceptional scientific, educational, and aesthetic value.