Two Lakes Hike, 6 Hours

Overview

This six-hour hiking tour leaves from the Port of Ohrid and heads up into National Park Galichica. After a 45-minute drive, the walk starts at 1600 metres above sea level and climbs to a high point of 2000 metres, following a 6.3 km trail that takes about three and a half hours to hike. From the ridge you can see both lakes at once, which is the signature view of the route. The return transfer to Ohrid takes another 45 minutes.

The trail is described as easy to medium, with 400 metres of climbing up and the same coming back down, so it suits reasonably active walkers and families rather than serious trekkers. Along the way the guide points out the park's plants and animals, and the route passes ruins left over from the First and Second World Wars. A basic lunch package, half a litre of water, an energy bar, park entrance and transport are all bundled into the price.

Several people who describe themselves as not especially fit said they managed fine. One review notes a cloudy, windy day in the mountains.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Port of OhridThe group gathers at the Port of Ohrid on Kosta Abrash in Ohrid.
2. Drive to the trailheadA 45-minute vehicle transfer climbs into National Park Galichica to the starting point at 1600 metres above sea level.
3. Hike the Two Lakes trailAround 4.5 hours on the trail including break time and a picnic, climbing to a high point of 2000 metres with views over both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.
4. Drive back to OhridA 45-minute return transfer brings the group back down to town.
5. Arrive at Port of OhridThe tour ends where it began, at the Port of Ohrid.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical things shape the day on this hike, from the weather on the ridge to what food and gear to plan for.

• Fitness and pace. The trail is classed as easy to medium with a steady 400 metres of climbing. Several travellers who called themselves not very fit said the frequent short breaks made it manageable, though one reviewer found some sections steep and the descent slippery on rocks.
• Layers and weather. One review describes cloud and wind on the ridge, and another mentions being able to borrow windbreakers when jackets were forgotten. The listing notes equipment needs depend on the season.
• Food and drink. A basic lunch package, half a litre of water and an energy bar are included.
• Footwear. Bare feet are not allowed on the tour. One traveller also cautioned about slipping on rocks during the descent, so keep that in mind when choosing what to wear.
• Nature and history talk. The guides give running commentary on the park's flora, fauna and history, including the wartime ruins along the route. Multiple reviews highlight how much they learned about the plants, animals and the country generally.
• Getting there. There is no hotel pickup. Meet the group at the Port of Ohrid on Kosta Abrash; transport to and from the trailhead is then included for the whole drive up the mountain.

Common issues. Weather can cancel the day entirely, since the operator calls off tours in bad conditions, with a full refund offered in that case. The mountain weather also disappoints on its own: one reviewer had cloud and wind instead of the expected views. One traveller found parts of the hike tougher than expected, with steep sections and a rocky, slippery descent. Equipment needs shift with the seasons, so confirm what to bring before setting out.

Common Questions