Our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Skopje. Our first destination for today will be Matka near Skopje. It is impressive how this beautiful nature paradise is located so close to the bustling capital. We will join the boat ride at Matka Canyon that will take you through the canyon all the way to Vrelo cave and be amazed by the wild nature of Matka. The Vrelo cave in Matka is part of the top 77 of the best natural sites in the world by the New7Wonders project. The boat trip takes about 2 hours. Besides the fun boat trip through the canyon, Matka has much more to offer, such as caves, medieval castles, spectacular hiking routes and the option to go swimming in the turquoise waters. After this experience we will drive back towards Skopje. Overnight in Skopje.
Itinerary
Visit the capital, be amazed by the striking monasteries and churches, taste some delicious wines, stroll through the Old Bazaars and admire the beauty of the UNESCO-listed Ohrid lake and city on this 8-day tour of North Macedonia. This country has stunning national parks and cultural heritage sites worthy of a visit – discover the best of North Macedonia.
Tour program
Skopje – Matka – Skopje
Skopje – Veles – Winery
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we move on towards Veles. The city of Veles is focused on the production of porcelain and silk. Nowadays it has historical sites and natural attraction that are well-worth a visit. The city is also known for being the birthplace of Kocho Racin, the founder of North Macedonian modern literature. We will visit the clock tower, which sticks out from the other buildings and is the focal point of the city. The Gemidzi monument and the Ilinden Rebels monument will also be visited during our tour through the city. Outside of the center, we will see the Saint Panteleimon church on the side of a hill in a beautiful white colour and stunning painted icons on the inside.
The second destination for today is a famous winery, shaped as a castle, and the surrounding vineyards. Macedonians have a big affinity for wine that goes back centuries, proven by many archaeological findings. Even at the exact location of this winery, findings show connections to wine dating back to the 13th century. At this winery, we will have a chance to try some of North Macedonia’s finest wine. They use 11 different types of grapes from small vineyards in the region, besides the grapes they grow themselves. This place offers us the possibility to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and unwind from the daily stresses with a glass of wine in our hands. Overnight near the winery.
Winery – Bitola
Taking a step back in time, we will visit the ancient city of Bitola, the second largest and oldest city of North Macedonia. Bitola combines the old with the new, Ottoman buildings next to modern office buildings. Our tour continues to the ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, named after the legendary Greek mythical hero, and it dates back to approximately 4th century BC, but many of the remains discovered are from around 2nd century BC when the Romans invaded and conquered it. Heraclea has excellent ruins including an Amphitheatre once used for gladiator fights and preserved mosaic floors. The site is the most authentic well-preserved city from the ancient Macedonian empire in the whole country. We will also walk through the pedestrian boulevard full of shops, cafes and restaurants. Overnight in Bitola.
Bitola – St Naum – Galichitsa National Park – Ohrid
We will continue our tour to St Naum near the Albanian border and one of the most beautiful locations in N. Macedonia. On our way there, we will have to go through the Galichitsa National Park, located between the Albanian border, Ohrid Lake and Prespa Lake, with again stunning nature and impressive mountains. The monastery of St. Naum carries the name of a holy place. It is situated right at the source of River Crni Drim, which flows through Lake Ohrid. This monastery complex is part of the National Park Galichitsa and belongs to one of the strictly protected areas. Crystal clear, spring water reflects both the surrounding greenery and the mountain peaks in the background. You can have lunch in one of the restaurants there, or simply enjoy some time on the beach. In the afternoon we will drive towards Ohrid. Overnight in Ohrid.
Day tour of Ohrid
Ohrid is one of the most seductive destinations in N. Macedonia, indicated as one of the oldest human settlements in all of Europe. Ohrid city and Ohrid Lake are part of UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. Ohrid Lake and its surroundings where inhabited by the Illyrian Tribe of Enkeleys. The Lake was named by the Romans as “Lyhnidas” (the Light Lake). Our tour continues to the city of Ohrid (UNESCO world heritage) an important centre of Orthodoxy. We will continue our tour and visit the famous view point of church of St. John, the church of St. Nicolas and the mosque Halveti Hayati Tekke. Ohrid became an important centre for the Orthodox believers during the Byzantine Empire and is famous for its 365 Orthodox churches, said to have one church for each day of the year. During the Ottoman Empire the city grew on the hills and surrounding areas by the lake. Today the city is famous for its architecture, the churches, the castle on top of the city, the amphitheatre, the beautiful view of the lake surrounded by mountains and the pearls from the lake. Overnight in Ohrid.
Ohrid – Jance Village – Mavrovo National Park
Our journey continues towards Mavrovo National Park. Looming high along Drini valley you will be amazed by the wild nature and high Mounties. Our first destination will be the picturesque village of Janche, located by the winding canyon of Radika in Mavrovo National Park. It is one of the oldest settlements in the Miyak region and it still keeps the authentic smell of untouched nature. The village is characterized by traditional architecture of North Macedonia, with houses arranged in a row, making up a complex unity. The region offers several local tourist attractions which we will try to discover during the day. Our final destination for today will be Mavrovo, a natural and national wonder of green verdant countryside. Mavrovo National Park, one of the most famous skiing destinations and the largest park in N. Macedonia. The park area is home to other interesting natural phenomena like: waterfalls, glacial lakes, alpine bogs and rare karst relief. Many travellers choose to stay in Mavrovo for both ski and summer seasons. During the summer season the park truly converts into a lush carpet of deep-green. Overnight near Mavrovo National Park.
Mavrovo – Tetovo
Our next destination is Tetovo. The city is located in the North Macedonian region where the largest ethnic group is Albanian, which explains the differences in appearance from the other cities that we have visited on this tour. The Pena River flows right through the city with on the sides some interesting landmarks, such as the Hamam of Tetovo, and the beginning of some boulevards. We will also visit the “painted mosque’’, Sharena Dzamija, in the old part of the city. This mosque is covered with geometric and arabesque ornaments in a Middle Eastern style, unique for the Balkan region. The Leshok monastery is another site in Tetovo worthy of a visit. The monastery has an excellent location to enjoy some fresh air and appreciate the surroundings. Inside of the monastery, you can find all sorts of frescos from different periods - the outside is just as impressive. Overnight in Tetovo.
Tetovo – Skopje
After finishing our breakfast in Tetovo, we will have a city tour of Skopje, the capital of Macedonia. The city has European, Ottoman and even Asian influences. The Stone Bridge connects the new part to the old part of the city. Impossible to miss in Skopje is the Alexander the Great Statue in the center. Another bridge that stands out is the Art Bridge that leads to the Archaeological Museum. The bridge is lined with flamboyant street lanterns and statues of Macedonian artists and musicians. We will wander through the Old Bazaar of Skopje, the biggest one in the Balkans, that combines the modern way of living with centuries of history. The cross on top of the mountain can be seen kilometers away from Skopje and has become a symbol of the city. The city tour of Skopje remarks the end of this amazing experience through history and culture.
Cancellation Policy
Choose Balkans - Terms and Conditions
1. Scope of Application
These terms and conditions (GTC) set out the agreement between Choose Balkans ("TO") and the customers ("Customer(s)") for tours and services provided by TO. If third-party providers are involved, TO only acts as an agent and follows their terms. The present GTC form an integral part of any individual contract independently of the medium through which the contract is closed.
2. Conclusion of Contract / of Booking
Bookings can be made through various channels, including the internet, travel agencies, hotels, tourist information centers, email, Facebook, WhatsApp, phone, or in person. The Tour Operator (TO) does not accept non-binding reservations. If a booking is made by a third party (such as a travel agent or an individual booking for other customers), you are considered the main contact person and are responsible for all payments, changes, and cancellations related to the booking. You must also ensure that all participants are informed and have agreed to these General Terms and Conditions (GTC). By making a booking, you confirm that you have obtained all necessary consents and that the provided information is accurate. TO is not liable for any errors or omissions in the booking details. The booking is confirmed once the terms of offer are fully agreed to without any changes, conditions, or exceptions.
3. Requirements
3.1 Mandatory insurance requirements All customers are responsible for securing their own health and travel insurance for the
duration of the tour. The customers acknowledge that insurance coverage is not included in the cost of any tour offered by the Tour Operator, and they are required to arrange and cover the cost of separate insurance. The Tour Operator recommends that customers carefully choose an insurance policy that provides comprehensive coverage, including medical, trip cancellation, and coverage for any activities planned during the tour. Customers should ensure that their insurance is adequate for their needs and provides full protection. Additionally, customers are advised to inform their insurance provider of the details of their trip, including the destinations, duration, and activities covered by the booking, to ensure that the necessary coverage is in place.
3.2 Passport, Visa, Immigration, and Health Requirements
It is the customer’s responsibility to obtain and carry all necessary documentation for travel, including a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months after your return), visas, permits, health certificates (such as vaccination records), and insurance policies. The
customer is solely responsible for ensuring they have all required documents before the tour and for any costs incurred due to missing or incorrect documentation. The Tour Operator is not liable for any loss or expense caused by the customer’s failure to secure proper travel documentation. We recommend consulting the relevant authorities for up-to-date information, as we do not provide advice on travel documents. Requirements may change, so check for the most up-to-date information well in advance.
3.3 Age Requirements
Anyone under 18 is considered a minor and must be accompanied by an adult. One adult may accompany up to two minors. Unless otherwise stated, the minimum age for tours is 2 years old. Bookings with minors are subject to the Tour Operator's approval. The accompanying adult is responsible for securing any necessary consents and documentation for the minor(s). The Tour Operator is not responsible for any costs or losses resulting from failure to meet legal travel requirements. Adults are jointly responsible for the supervision, behavior, and well-being of the minors on their booking. The Tour Operator does not provide care services for minors
and is not responsible for chaperoning or supervising them.
4. Tour Price and Payment Terms
The Tour Price per person (hereafter referred to as "Tour Price") is outlined in Choose Balkans tour price list and includes VAT. Prices are subject to change per Section 6, and the applicable Tour Price will be based on the date of booking. At the time of booking, a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total tour cost is required per person. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days before the tour start date. If the bookings are made 60 days or fewer before the tour start date, full payment is required at the time of booking.
4.1 Agreement to Terms
By confirming your booking via Choose Balkans’ official communication channels (email, Facebook, WhatsApp, phone call, or other means), you acknowledge that you have read and agreed to these terms and conditions.
5. Cancellations / Changes in Bookings by the Customer
The Tour Operator (TO) does not provide cancellation insurance. It is recommended that travelers obtain their own coverage to protect against unforeseen circumstances.
5.1 Non-Refundable Deposit and Payment Terms
A deposit of 50% of the total tour value is required at the time of booking and is strictly non-refundable. The remaining balance must be paid no later than 60 days before the tour start date.
5.2 Cancellation Procedure
To cancel a booking, you must notify TO in writing through official channels (e.g., email, Facebook, WhatsApp, or other communication methods). The cancellation becomes effective only after written confirmation is received from TO.
5.3 Cancellation Fees
Cancellation fees are determined based on the time prior to the tour start date and are as follows:
• Cancelations 60+ days before the tour start date: You forfeit 50% of the tour cost
• Cancelations between 59 to 46 days before the tour start date: You forfeit 75% of the tour cost
• Cancelations 45 days or less before the tour start date: You forfeit 100% of the tour cost
6. Changes/ Cancellation in Bookings by TO
6.1 Operator-Initiated Changes: We reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary, accommodation, or other tour components if necessary. If significant changes occur, we will inform you as soon as possible and offer a comparable alternative if needed.
6.2 Operator-Initiated Cancellations: The Tour Operator (TO) reserves the right to cancel a tour at its sole discretion if it is significantly impacted, hindered, or made impossible due to force majeure, adverse weather conditions, official measures, political unrest, strikes, demonstrations, traffic disruptions, road closures, or other unforeseeable events. This also applies if the minimum required number of three fully paying participants for regular tours is not reached. In such cases, the Tour Price already paid will be refunded and no further claims for compensation will be considered.
7. Changes in Tour Prices or Services
The Tour Operator (TO) reserves the right to adjust the Tour Price based on the price list or agreed price in the event of extraordinary circumstances. These circumstances include, but are not limited to:
• Changes in third-party provider rates, such as transportation companies
• Introduction or increase of taxes, charges, or fees If the Tour Price changes due to extraordinary circumstances, customers will be notified at least three weeks before the tour starts. If the new price exceeds the original price by more than 10%, customers have the option to:
• Cancel the booking in writing within 5 days of being notified, receiving a full refund of the amount already paid, or
• Choose an alternative tour of equal value at no extra rebooking fee. TO also reserves the right to change the tour program, shorten the tour, or offer alternatives due to extraordinary circumstances. Any additional costs incurred will be the responsibility of the customer. TO will promptly inform the customer of any changes. If the alternative solution is more expensive or unreasonable, the customer may cancel the booking free of charge, and a refund will be processed in the same way the original payment was made. No further compensation for damages related to changes in price or services will be provided.
8. Delays, Missed Arrangements, and Curtailment
8.1 Delays Caused by the Guest
If a guest is delayed and unable to join the tour or any scheduled activities on time (due to personal reasons, travel delays, etc.), the tour operator (TO) is not responsible for any missed arrangements or changes to the itinerary. The guest assumes full responsibility for arriving on time. If a customer is late to the departure or meeting point, TO may leave after waiting 5 minutes for a half-day tour or 10 minutes for a full-day tour, without refund or compensation. Any additional costs incurred, such as returning to the starting point, will be the customer's responsibility.
8.2 Delays Caused by the TO
While we strive to ensure that all tours operate as scheduled, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, road closures, mechanical breakdowns, or other factors beyond our control may cause delays. In the event of a delay, we will make reasonable
efforts to minimize the impact on your itinerary, but we cannot be held liable for any delays or consequences arising from them.
8.3 Missed Arrangements
If a guest misses any part of the tour due to their own delay or inability to meet the scheduled itinerary (e.g., missing transportation, activities, or accommodation check-in), the TO will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the guest in a manner that causes minimal disruption to the group’s schedule. However, the TO is not obligated to rearrange missed services or refund the guest for missed arrangements. Any additional costs associated with missed arrangements, including transport or accommodation, will be borne by the guest.
8.4 Curtailment by the Guest
If a guest chooses to leave the tour early or cut short their participation for any reason (e.g., personal preferences, health issues, etc.), the TO will not be responsible for any refunds or compensation for the remaining portion of the tour. The guest will also be responsible for any additional costs incurred as a result of curtailing the tour, such as rebooking transportation, accommodations, or activities.
9. Terms of Participation
Tours are subject to the terms published by the Tour Operator (TO), including details such as language and tour guiding. Identification: The lead participant must present an ID or passport at check-in. Failure to do so may result in exclusion from the tour without a refund. All customers must carry an ID or passport for tours abroad. Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
Assistance: Vans and minivans do not have ramps. Customers requiring assistance with boarding should arrange it themselves.
Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for service dogs. Health and Insurance: Customers must inform TO of any health conditions. It is the customer's responsibility to have adequate health, accident, and travel insurance, including coverage for sports activities (if applicable). Substance Use: Customers must not join a tour under the influence of drugs, medication, or excessive alcohol.
Compliance and Behavior: Customers must follow TO’s terms, third-party provider rules, and staff instructions, including adhering to meeting times and using seat belts or child safety seats where applicable. Customers are expected to behave respectfully and
comply with local laws and regulations during the tour. Disruptive, aggressive, or dangerous behavior may result in removal from the tour. Exclusion: If a customer is excluded from the tour, no refund will be provided, and no claims for damages will be accepted.
10. Liability
10.1 Limitation of TO’s Liability
Customers undertake all activities at their own risk. Any liability of TO is limited to the Tour Price as well as any direct damages caused willfully or by gross negligence by TO. TO’s liability for slight negligence, assisting persons as well as consequential damages and lost profit is excluded. TO does not assume any liability in case of non- fulfillment of contractual obligations that results from omissions or contract violation by the Customer (in particular due to violation of the terms of participation in section 7). TO does not assume any liability for the disappearance of personal items, cash, valuables, luggage, photographic equipment, etc. as well as loss, theft, damage or misuse of checks and credit cards.
10.2 Exclusion of Liability for Offers of Third-party Providers and in Case of Force Majeure TO does not assume any liability for the offers and services of third-party providers nor does TO assume any liability for damages based on circumstances that are beyond TO’s control, such as force majeure, natural events, catastrophes, changes in program due to non-adherence of train, bus or ship transportation companies or other third-party providers to their schedules, etc. Customer undertakes to claim any damages directly
from the third-party provider.
10.3 Customer’s Liability
All activities for which TO acts as an agent and which are carried out by third-party providers or are organized and/or carried out by Customers themselves incur at Customer’s own risk. TO is not liable for the consequences of any accident. TO expects from each Customer a considerable degree of personal responsibility. Customers only participate in activities that are compatible with their physical condition, in particular their health and physical efficiency. Customers are in particular responsible for an adequate equipment (clothing, footwear, sun protection, etc.).
11. Deadline for the Assertion of Claims
If you have a complaint regarding your tour, please inform the tour guide or localr epresentative immediately so that they can assist in resolving the issue. Customers ’ claims towards TO due to non-fulfillment or fulfillment not in accordance with the contract must be asserted within 10 days after the contractually agreed Tour date in writing with a detailed explanation of the claims. A complaint vis-à-vis the Tour guide is not sufficient. Claims received by TO after expiry of this deadline cannot be accepted anymore, except if Customers prove that they were faultlessly prevented from meeting such deadline.
12. Data Protection
Customers acknowledge and agree that their personal data, including but not limited to name, address, telephone number, date of birth, nationality, and gender, may be collected by the Tour Operator (TO) for the purpose of facilitating booked tours as per the contract. This data may be shared with third-party providers strictly as necessary to fulfill the reservation. The TO is committed to safeguarding all personal information and ensuring that appropriate measures are in place to protect data privacy and security. Please refer to our Privacy Policy on our website for details on how we collect, use, and protect your data.
13. Amendments to these GTC
The Tour Operator (TO) reserves the right to amend these General Terms and Conditions (GTC) at any time by updating them on its official website on www.choosebalkans.com/terms. Any changes will take effect upon publication and will apply to new bookings made thereafter. For existing bookings, the terms in effect at the time of reservation will continue to apply unless otherwise agreed.
14. Severability
If any part of these General Terms and Conditions (GTC) is found to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, the rest of the terms will remain in effect. If a provision cannot be enforced, it will be replaced with one that closely reflects the original intent and purpose. The same applies if a missing provision needs to be addressed.
15. Applicable Law and Place of Jurisdiction Albanian law shall apply to the legal relationship between the Customer and TO (with the exclusion of conflict of law rules). For claims against TO, the exclusive jurisdiction of the ordinary courts at the seat of TO is agreed.
Tour Details
Accommodation
BB (Accommodation and Breakfast) for all overnights, in 3 stars hotels
Transport
Private transport provided by the company
Hotel pick up in Skopje
Hotel drop off in Skopje
Insurance
Optional
Other activities and services are not included
Flights
Flights are not included
Additional Services
Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites
Wine tasting at the Winery
Tourist taxes
International car insurance
Road taxes
Petrol
Additional Services
Lunches, Dinners, Drinks & Snacks
Souvenirs
Personal spending
Everything that is not mentioned in the included
* Tips are not a must in North Macedonia or the Balkans, however, our recommendation is to tip the tour leader/driver as an international practice to tip good service.
Meals
Breakfast
Guide
Professional tour leader
Good to know
Currency
Denar
Macedonia
Plugs and adapters
Plug type C
Plug type E
Plug type F
Customer reviews
Operator
Faq Tour
Photo gallery
