North Macedonia offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours that cater to different interests, fitness levels, and time constraints. It’s a country where history, nature, and local culture blend seamlessly, making guided experiences a smart way to get to know the region. Whether you’re cruising on Lake Ohrid’s crystal waters, exploring ancient monasteries, or hiking through rugged mountains, North Macedonia’s tours deliver authentic, memorable moments. One favorite? The Lake Ohrid Kayaking with beach and BBQ lunch stands out for its combination of active fun and relaxation, perfect for those who want a balance of adventure and leisure.
For those interested in exploring beyond the usual sights, the Tour Around the Lake Albania from Ohrid is a fantastic way to see the borderlands and experience local life firsthand. Meanwhile, the Jeep Safari in National Park Galicica offers a rugged adventure for nature lovers, with stunning panoramic views and chances to spot wildlife. With so many options, it’s easy to find a tour that fits your curiosity, energy level, and schedule.
1. Tour Around the Lake Albania from Ohrid
At number 1, this Tour Around the Lake Albania from Ohrid offers a fascinating cross-border experience, perfect for those interested in discovering the differences and similarities between North Macedonia and its neighbor, Albania. For just $46.26 per person, you’ll enjoy a 7-8 hour journey that includes a visit to Pogradec, a small lakeside town with a lively marketplace and charming promenade. The tour begins with a coffee break at the Bay of the Bones Museum, where you can picture the ancient pile dwellings.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to explore Lin, a traditional village where you can walk to the Roman Basilic and learn about local rural life. The guide offers cultural insights into the patriarchal versus modern lifestyles, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. You’ll taste homemade products at the marketplace and walk around the town’s park and boulevard. The trip is highly rated for its well-organized structure and the engaging commentary, with reviews calling it “one of the best value days out we have had.” It’s ideal for curious travelers who want an authentic glimpse into local culture and are comfortable with a full day of touring.
Bottom line: This tour combines history, culture, and beautiful scenery across two countries, at a very reasonable price, perfect for travelers eager for a mix of exploration and culture.
2. Jeep Safari National Park Galicica
Number 2 on our list is the Jeep Safari in National Park Galicica, which is perfect for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. For about $87.27, you get 6-7 hours of thrilling off-road exploration through one of the Balkans’ most stunning protected areas. The tour kicks off at the park’s entrance, where rugged jeeps whisk you away for photo stops and panoramic views of Lake Ohrid and beyond.
The route takes you through Velestovo village, across forests with low-trunk plants, and past mountain pastures. You’ll pause at a natural mountain lake, where native hospitality shines during a traditional Macedonian meal in a local garden—an experience that’s both scenic and delicious. The second part of the tour involves more jeep rides, with plenty of time to enjoy the mountain vistas and crisp mountain air. Reviewers praise the hosts for their friendliness and expertise, describing the trip as “great value for money.” It’s suited for travelers who want an active day in unspoiled nature, with the flexibility to stop and photograph or simply soak in the landscape.
Bottom line: This tour offers a perfect mix of adventure and scenic beauty, ideal for travelers who want a hands-on experience of Macedonia’s mountain wilderness.
3. Lake Ohrid Kayaking with Beach and BBQ Lunch
Number 3 is the Lake Ohrid Kayaking with beach and BBQ lunch, designed for active travelers who also want some downtime. For $59, you’ll spend about 6.5 hours paddling across the lake, exploring its scenic shores, and stopping at secluded beaches accessible only by water. The tour begins with kayaking along the shoreline, giving you a chance to see landmarks like the Bay of Bones and the fishing village of Trpejca.
The highlight is a wild beach where a grilled Macedonian meal awaits, served at a rustic restaurant accessible solely by boat. This balance of paddling and relaxing on a quiet beach makes for a memorable day. The water’s changing colors—from blue to turquoise to green—adds to the visual feast. Guests appreciate the helpful guides and the opportunity to enjoy nature at a relaxed pace, with one reviewer describing it as “a relaxing kayaking trip with tasty food and friendly staff.” It’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and looking for both activity and serenity.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for active travelers wanting a scenic, laid-back day on the lake with a delicious local meal.
4. Full Day Jeep Safari Pelister Tour from Ohrid and or Bitola
The Full Day Jeep Safari in Pelister is a top pick for those craving mountain adventures and impressive vistas. For $77.51, this 7-8 hour tour combines off-road exploration with a scenic hike. Starting from Ohrid or Bitola, the day includes a drive through the mystical Pelister National Park, crossing forests and pastures before reaching the mountain summit at 2,200 meters.
Once at the top, you’ll embark on a short hike around the small lakes, enjoying the fresh mountain air and spectacular views. During the ride, there are plenty of photo stops and the chance to learn about the flora and fauna from a botanist guide. The highlight is hiking to the mountain lakes, where clouds often hover at eye level, creating a magical atmosphere. Reviewers comment on the knowledgeable guide and the awe-inspiring scenery, with many noting the value of the full-day experience. It’s well-suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and want to see Macedonia’s mountainous beauty.
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive mountain experience, combining off-road driving with light hiking, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
$77.51 per person
5. St. Naum Monastery Boat Trip from Ohrid
Number 5 on our list is the St. Naum Monastery Boat Trip from Ohrid. For around $60, it’s a full-day excursion that combines scenic lake cruising with cultural discovery. Starting from Ohrid’s harbor, the boat takes you past hidden gems like the Bay of Bones and traditional fishing villages, with commentary on the area’s history. The highlight is a guided visit to the 9th-century monastery of St. Naum, where legends of Saint Naum and the Cyrillic alphabet come alive.
The boat stops for a rowing experience over the springs of the Black Drim River, giving you a different perspective of the landscape. Afterward, you have free time to swim, explore, or enjoy a local meal. The cruise back offers another chance to soak in the lake’s calming beauty. Reviews note the peaceful atmosphere and historical insights, making it ideal for culture lovers or those seeking a relaxed day on the water.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day combining lake views, history, and leisurely boat rides, suited for those who want to explore Macedonia’s spiritual and natural sides.
6. E-Bike Tour Across The Border From Ohrid
The E-Bike Tour Across The Border is perfect for active travelers eager to cover more ground. For $80.98, you’ll cycle about 94 km around Lake Ohrid, crossing into Albania and visiting villages like Radozda, Struga, and Pogradec. The tour starts at 9 am and includes stops at the National Park Galicica and historic sites in Lin and Pogradec. The e-bikes make the long distances feasible without too much fatigue.
What makes this ride unique is the chance to see both North Macedonia and Albania’s diverse landscapes, from mountain peaks to lakeside villages. Reviews praise the beautiful scenery and the flexibility of electric bikes, which make challenging sections manageable. You’ll enjoy photo breaks at stunning viewpoints and a relaxed lunch in Pogradec with views over the lake. It’s ideal for those comfortable on a bike and wanting an active, scenic experience that includes border-crossing.
Bottom line: This tour offers an energetic way to see the region’s natural and cultural richness, especially suited for confident cyclists.
$80.98 per person
7. Bigorski Monastery and Duff Waterfalls from Ohrid & Struga
Number 7 features the Bigorski Monastery and Duff Waterfalls, a day for lovers of spiritual sites and natural beauty. Priced at $52.06, it’s a 7-8 hour trip that takes you into the Mavrovo National Park. The highlight is the Bigorski Monastery, renowned for its masterful wood-carved iconostasis and tranquil atmosphere. You’ll have time to explore the monastery, learn about its legends, and enjoy the surrounding forest.
Afterward, the tour continues to the Duff Waterfalls, where a short walk leads to powerful cascades hidden in the mountains. The walk is accessible and provides a peaceful connection with nature. Visitors note the impressive iconostasis and the serenity of the monastery, along with the scenic waterfall hike. It’s a good choice for those interested in religious sites, architecture, and scenic hikes.
Bottom line: This tour combines cultural and natural highlights in a full-day experience, suited for history and nature enthusiasts alike.
$52.06 per person
8. Hike in Mountain Villages with BBQ Beach Afternoon from Ohrid
Completing our list, the Hike in Mountain Villages with BBQ Beach Afternoon is ideal for active travelers who want to see the Galica Mountains up close. For $57.93, this 6-7 hour tour begins with a guided hike through forests and traditional villages, crossing about 2 km at your own pace. The hike offers breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid, which lies 500 meters below.
After the hike, you’ll visit the Bay of the Bones museum, an archaeological site that reconstructs a prehistoric lake settlement—an intriguing mix of history and scenery. The afternoon is reserved for relaxing at a beach with a barbecue, offering a perfect finish to the active day. Reviewers mention the stunning vistas and the informative guide, making it suited for those who enjoy a combination of physical activity and cultural exploration.
Bottom line: This tour balances hiking and cultural visits with a relaxing seaside lunch, ideal for travelers looking for a full day of outdoor activity.
$57.93 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
Consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For cultural and historical insights, the St. Naum Monastery Boat Trip offers a peaceful day, while adventure lovers may prefer the Jeep Safari in Galicica or the Pelister Jeep Safari. If you want a mix of active and leisure time, the kayaking and e-bike tours are excellent choices. Budget travelers can find great value in the Lake Albania trip, offering a full day of cultural discovery. For those seeking scenic hikes paired with local cuisine, the Hike in Mountain Villages blends outdoor activity with authentic food.
Book early, especially for popular tours like the jeep safaris and kayaking, to secure your preferred dates. The best time to go is late spring through early fall when weather is most accommodating for outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts
North Macedonia boasts a variety of tours that cater to different tastes—from cultural excursions and spiritual visits to active adventures in mountain parks and lakeside leisure. For a well-rounded experience, the Tour Around the Lake Albania offers a rich mix of culture and scenery, while the Jeep Safari in Galicica appeals to those craving a rugged mountain journey. Active types will likely enjoy kayaking or mountain hikes, and history buffs can enjoy monasteries and archaeological sites.
No matter what your interests or fitness level, North Macedonia’s tours provide authentic, memorable ways to explore this lesser-known corner of Europe. Early booking is recommended, as many of these experiences receive excellent reviews and fill up quickly during peak season.