From Krakow: Slovakia Treetop Walk and Zakopane Tour

Imagine crossing borders from Poland into Slovakia, walking above the forest canopy on a 600-meter treetop walkway, then winding down to the vibrant town of Zakopane. This tour, costing $147 per person and running around 11 hours, packs in a mix of nature, culture, and breathtaking scenery. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary ensure you experience the best of the Tatra Mountains without the stress of planning every detail.

What we love most? The stunning views from the treetop walk and Gubaówka hill are genuinely awe-inspiring, offering a perspective that few other experiences can match. Plus, the opportunity to explore Zakopane’s lively Krupówki Street, filled with regional foods and crafts, makes the trip both scenic and culturally enriching.

One thing to consider? The day involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so if you’re not a fan of long days on your feet or sitting in a van, this might be more effort than some travelers want. However, for those who love mountain vistas, charming towns, and unique outdoor experiences, this tour offers excellent value.

This trip is perfect for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and those looking for a full-day adventure that combines outdoor activity with local flavor. It suits travelers who appreciate expert guidance, comfortable transport, and a well-paced schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Stunning Mountain Views: Experience panoramic vistas from the treetop walk and Gubałówka Hill.
Expert Guides: Friendly drivers and guides provide informative commentary and ensure smooth logistics.
Cultural Charm: Explore Zakopane’s lively Krupówki Street, sampling regional cheese and local drinks.
Comfortable Transport: Modern vehicles and streamlined schedules make the long day manageable.
Flexible Experience: Includes free time for photos, shopping, and relaxing at each stop.
Value for Money: All major attractions and transport are included, offering a hassle-free day with great sights.

If you're drawn to exploring Krakow on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out from Krakow

The day begins with a hotel pickup, which is a real convenience. Knowing you’ll be collected from your accommodation helps eliminate early morning stress. The modern van, described as clean and comfortable, is a plus, especially considering the 2.25-hour drive into Slovakia. This part of the journey sets the tone—relaxing and scenic, with helpful commentary from your guide.

Crossing into Slovakia and the Treetop Walk

The highlight for many is the Treetop Walk Bachledka, about 6 miles from the Polish border. The walk itself spans 1,960 feet on a wooden pathway elevated roughly 79 feet in the air, offering a unique perspective on the forest and mountains. For those with a fear of heights, you might find the spiral observation tower at 105 feet a little intimidating, but the views are well worth it.

The walk takes about 1 hour on foot, but a cable car option is available if you prefer to save energy or avoid a climb. Once at the top, you’ll have ample time to soak in the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Multiple reviews mention how stunning the scenery is—one traveler called it “really impressive,” and another pointed out how the long wooden boardwalk above the treeline is a “cool clear day” highlight.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Drive and Zakopane

After descending via cable car, the journey continues in a comfortable van toward Zakopane. The drive through the mountains presents plenty of opportunities for photos, especially as you approach the famed mountain town. Zakopane is about 62 miles south of Krakow, and it’s often called Poland’s winter capital, thanks to its dramatic peaks and ski resorts.

In Zakopane, the group gets a photo stop and free time to explore Krupówki Street. This bustling promenade is full of restaurants, shops, and street performers. Many reviews mention how lively the street is, with some describing it as having a “Christmas feel,” especially during the winter months. Here, you can try Oscypek, a traditional highlander cheese, and sample local alcohol—an authentic taste of regional culture.

While you're exploring Krakow, here are other experiences we've looked into

Gubałówka Hill and the Funicular

Next, your guide arranges a ride on the funicular to Gubałówka Hill, a must-visit. The view from the top is often described as breathtaking—on clear days, you can see the entire range of the Tatra Mountains stretching to the horizon. It’s a highlight that many travelers rave about, with some saying it’s “brilliant” and “really good.”

The time at Gubałówka Hill is flexible, allowing you to enjoy a meal or browse the souvenir stalls. The return cable car ride provides another chance to savor the scenery before heading back down.

Final Stop at Gubałówka and Return to Krakow

After a scenic ride back down and a bit more exploring, you’ll hop into the van for the return journey, which takes about 2 hours. The driver’s helpful commentary and smooth driving contribute to a relaxed ride back to Krakow.

Overall Value and Experience

All the major attractions—the treetop walk, funicular rides, and free time—are included in the $147 price, making it a good deal for a full day of sightseeing. The tour’s pace is generally well-balanced, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. As one reviewer noted, “The whole day was paced really well,” which is no small feat considering the itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine outdoor fun with cultural exploration. If you enjoy stunning mountain vistas, walking among treetops, and wandering lively markets, you’ll find plenty to love. Those who value knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport will also appreciate the professionalism and friendliness of the crew.

Keep in mind, it’s a full day—long drives and some walking are involved—so it’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of a schedule. If you’re looking for a relaxed, leisurely day, this might feel a bit busy, but most reviews indicate the balance is just right.

FAQs

How long is the total trip?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, with most of that time spent traveling, exploring, and enjoying stops.

What’s included in the price?
All transportation, tickets for the gondola lift at Bachledka, the treetop walk, funicular to Gubałówka Hill, and free time in Zakopane are included.

Can I skip parts of the tour?
The schedule is structured to maximize the experience, but you’ll have some free time at each major stop, especially in Zakopane and Gubałówka Hill.

Is the treetop walk suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the walk is about 600 meters on a wooden pathway. If your children are comfortable with heights and walking, it’s generally suitable.

How steep is the drive into the mountains?
The drive offers scenic mountain views; specific steepness isn’t detailed but is generally manageable for comfortable vehicles.

What is the guide’s role during the day?
Your guide, such as Dawid or Tomasz, provides commentary, helps with tickets, and ensures smooth logistics, making the experience more enjoyable.

Is there free time to shop or eat?
Yes, especially in Zakopane’s Krupówki Street and Gubałówka Hill, where you can browse shops or grab a meal.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
The reviews mention a Christmas-like atmosphere, suggesting winter is popular, but the views and outdoor activity are enjoyable year-round.

Are there any physical requirements?
Some walking is involved, especially at the treetop walk and Gubałówka Hill, so be prepared for a moderate level of activity.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and camera gear are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic views and walk.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day for those eager to see stunning mountain vistas, walk among treetops, and explore a lively mountain town. It balances outdoor adventure with culture, all while providing professional guides and reliable transportation.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, a fan of mountain scenery, or someone who relishes authentic local foods, you’ll find this trip rewarding. The inclusion of multiple scenic stops, free time, and expert guidance makes it a strong choice for anyone looking to extend their Polish adventure beyond Krakow’s historic core.

Travelers who appreciate a carefully organized day with a mix of activity and relaxation will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s a great way to see the Tatra Mountains from several angles—above the trees, from the mountainside, and from the town streets—without the hassle of planning each step yourself.

Whether you’re visiting Poland for the first time or returning for another glimpse of its natural beauty, this trip offers a memorable blend of sights, tastes, and mountain air.