The Magnificent Waterfalls of the Tara River Canyon
Hidden Power, Beauty & Wild Nature
The Tara River Canyon is home to some of the most spectacular and diverse waterfalls in Europe — from powerful karst springs to delicate moss-covered cascades.
Each waterfall tells its own story, shaped by underground rivers, limestone formations, and seasonal changes.
💧 Must-See Waterfalls
Manita Vrela (Crazy Springs)
One of the most mysterious waterfalls in the canyon.
Its name comes from its unpredictable nature — fed by underground lakes and karst channels that react instantly to weather conditions.
- The most photographed waterfall on the river
- Located along the one-day rafting route
- Strongest during May and June (snowmelt)
In summer, it can completely dry up — only to suddenly reappear after heavy rain, bursting from the cliffs with incredible force.
Bailovića Sige Waterfall & Cave
Often considered the most beautiful spot in the canyon.
A massive travertine (tufa) waterfall where water flows from a hidden underground lake inside a cave, cascading down approximately 30 meters over moss-covered terraces.
The vibrant green moss and turquoise water create a surreal, almost Avatar-like landscape.
Lake & Cave Bailovića
Follow the water upstream and you’ll discover:
- A large cave opening
- A crystal-clear freshwater lake inside
A true natural phenomenon.
Jovičića Sige Waterfall
A more delicate version of Bailovića Sige.
- Forms elegant “water curtains”
- Flows over limestone barriers
- Constantly builds new rock formations
Rich in calcium carbonate, it creates a fairytale landscape of:
- Tiny pools
- Mossy terraces
- Natural “stone ladders”
Ljutica Waterfall (The Angry River)
Located near the Đurđevića Tara Bridge.
Despite being only 130 meters long, the Ljutica River is one of the shortest in the world — yet incredibly powerful.
- Up to 100 m³ of water per second
- Explodes from the base of a cliff
- Creates constant mist and a thunderous roar
You can often hear it before you see it.
Crna Vrela (Black Springs)
Powerful karst springs emerging from deep canyon shadows.
- Exceptionally cold water (even in summer)
- Dark appearance due to shaded limestone crevices
These springs are a vital source of oxygen-rich water for:
- Grayling
- Trout
Interestingly, this water originates from Black Lake (Žabljak).
Urva Waterfalls
Located near the confluence of the Urva River and the Tara.
- Rugged and wild in appearance
- Easily accessible from the lower canyon road (Grdijevići area)
A great stop during rafting — especially with the nearby Triftar river bar for a cold drink.
Ivanova Korita Waterfall
A peaceful and intimate waterfall.
Named after a local legend, “Ivan – Deba,” known for making some of the best rakija in the canyon.
- Smaller and calmer than Ljutica
- Crystal-clear water
- Natural stone basins
Active year-round with an average temperature of 5°C — perfect for a refreshing summer break.
Mlinski Potok (Mill Stream) Waterfall
Hidden within a dense, ancient forest.
Historically used to power watermills, today it offers a serene, almost rainforest-like atmosphere.
- Moss-covered rocks
- Soft, melodic water flow
- About a 20-minute walk from the river
Šipčanica Waterfalls
Best viewed from Strmena Stijena viewpoint.
A dramatic vertical cascade system where water drops hundreds of meters down the canyon walls.
From above, it appears as:
- Dozens of white “threads”
- Disappearing into the canyon depth
Bijela Vrela (White Springs)
These springs burst directly from the canyon cliffs.
The water hits rocks with such force that it turns into white foam, creating a strong visual contrast against the dark limestone.
Dobra Voda (Good Water)
A series of small, crystal-clear cascades deep inside the canyon.
Known among rafters as a natural water station:
- Drink directly from the rock
- Ice-cold, mineral-rich water
A true hidden gem.
📅 Best Time to Visit
For the most powerful and photogenic waterfalls:
👉 Late April – June (snowmelt season)
This is when:
- Manita Vrela is at full strength
- High-cliff waterfalls are most active
🚣 Rafting Access
The best way to experience most of these waterfalls is by river.
👉 A 2-day rafting trip (Splavište → Šćepan Polje) covers the entire natural “waterfall trail.”
🌊 Final Impression
The waterfalls of the Tara Canyon are not just sights — they are living systems.
From violent karst explosions to silent mossy flows, they represent the full spectrum of nature’s power and beauty.
Each one is different.
Each one is unforgettable.
