Hiking in the Polish Carpathians

Welcome to Krakow, a city steeped in history and architectural splendor. After settling into your hotel, meet your tour leader and fellow travelers at 6 pm in the hotel reception. The rest of the day is yours to relax or explore the city at your own pace. Don't miss the chance to try pierogi, a traditional Polish dumpling, at a local restaurant.

Start your day with a guided walking tour of Krakow, visiting Europe's largest medieval square, Rynek Glowny, the majestic Wawel Castle, and the vibrant Kazimierz district. In the afternoon, we'll drive to Zawoja, a charming village nestled in the Outer Carpathian Mountains. Depending on our arrival time, you may opt for a leisurely walk in the Babia Gora range, offering your first glimpse of the stunning Carpathian Mountains.

Today, we'll venture into the heart of Babia Gora National Park for a full-day hike to the peak of Babia Gora, also known as Witches Mountain. As we traverse alpine meadows and ancient forests, we'll stop at a local shepherd's hut for a refreshing cup of tea. From the peak, enjoy panoramic views of the Carpathian ranges and the Tatra mountains. After descending via a different route, we'll return to our hotel in Zawoja for a well-deserved rest.

We'll start the day with a drive to Zverovka village in Slovakia, where we'll embark on a guided hike to Grzes peak. Enjoy the stunning views of the forested peaks of the western Tatra before descending to Polana Chocholowska for lunch. In the afternoon, we'll head to Zakopane, a popular Polish ski resort known for its unique timber architecture. After a day of hiking, unwind with a hearty stew and a glass of local plum brandy.

Rise and shine for an early morning hike in the Tatras Mountains. We'll walk through the stunning Five Polish Lakes Valley, passing the highest waterfall in the Tatras, to reach Wielki Staw, a beautiful natural lake. Here, you can choose to return to Zakopane with your leader or join your mountain guide for a challenging ascent to Kozi Wierch, the highest peak entirely within Poland. Whichever option you choose, you're sure to enjoy breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

Today, we'll leave Zakopane and head to the stunning Dunajec Gorge, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. Follow the Pieniny Way along the gorge, marveling at the towering limestone cliffs and lush forests. We'll end the day in the spa town of Szczawnica. If you prefer a more leisurely day, you can opt to travel down the Dunajec River on a traditional wooden raft.

Our last hike of the trip takes us to the peak of Trzy Korony, or Three Crowns. We'll start by crossing the Dunajec River on a small wooden boat, then ascend through the forest to reach the summit. From the observation deck, enjoy panoramic views of the river, gorge, and Pieniny National Park. After descending, we'll drive to Krakow, where we'll spend our last night.

Our unforgettable journey comes to an end after breakfast. You're free to depart at any time, but if your flight is later in the day, you can store your luggage at the hotel. If you have time, consider an optional morning excursion to Oswiecim, the site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp.