Uvac River Meanders | Where to Go on a Trip?!

Uvac River Canyon is one of the most famous natural attractions in Serbia. It is renowned for its breathtaking landscape, featuring a winding river course and steep cliffs that rise up to 250 meters above the river at some places.

The Uvac Canyon is located in the southwestern part of Serbia, between Nova Varoš and Sjenica, in the Zlatibor District. It is part of the Uvac Special Nature Reserve, established in 2001 to protect the unique natural and cultural resources of this region.

A Canyon of Marvelous Beauty

The geology of the Uvac Canyon is its distinctive feature that makes it truly unique. The canyon has been formed over millions of years through a combination of various external factors, primarily physical and chemical erosion. By eroding and dissolving the rock beneath it, the Uvac River has carved a deep and narrow gorge, creating recognizable meanders "squeezed" between the rocks. The steep canyon cliffs are composed of sedimentary rocks, mainly sandstone and limestone, shaped by erosion over time. And the process continues.

In addition to this picturesque landscape shaped by geomorphology, the Uvac Canyon is home to diverse flora and fauna. The reserve is the habitat of numerous endangered species, including brown bears and griffon vultures that nest on the canyon cliffs.

When combined with the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, it is clear why the Uvac Canyon is a highly popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.

How to Reach the Uvac Canyon?

The Uvac Canyon is located in a remote and rural part of Serbia, so it is advisable to plan your visit in advance. The canyon can be accessed from Nova Varoš, Sjenica, or Ivanjica. It is possible to reach these places by bus, but from there, you will need to proceed on your own by car or through a pre-arranged organized tour. It should be noted that the road to the canyon is poorly marked and not well-maintained, so besides driving on rough dirt or gravel roads, you will also need to walk a few kilometers at the end.

Viewpoints in the Uvac Canyon

The beauty of the Uvac Canyon can be enjoyed from several viewpoints arranged on both sides of the river. Among the most popular viewpoints in the Uvac Canyon are: Molitva, Veliki Vrh, Ravni Krš, Ledeni Vidikovac, Golub, Ravanje, and others. The most accessible and therefore most visited is the Molitva viewpoint. It can be easily reached by car in dry weather conditions by taking the Ivanjica-Sjenica road and turning towards the village of Ursule. However, it's important to know that reaching most of the mentioned viewpoints in the Uvac Canyon involves hiking, which requires a certain level of fitness. Therefore, if we are not in good physical condition, it's not the best idea to visit multiple viewpoints in one day.

How Long Does the Uvac Canyon Tour Last?

Naturally, the time required for a walk through the Uvac Canyon will depend on the pace and chosen route. In addition to numerous viewpoints located at the highest points of the canyon, there are several trails that wind through the canyon and offer different perspectives of the landscape. Some of the trails are short and easy, while others are longer and more challenging. All in all, it is recommended to allocate at least a full day for exploring the canyon. For true nature enthusiasts, spending a night at one of the campsites will provide an additional special experience and allow for leisurely enjoyment of the natural beauty.

The duration of the Uvac Canyon tour will also be influenced by the time spent on numerous other activities that can be organized here. Exploring the canyon from the water by boat, visiting numerous caves, observing griffon vultures, or simply taking a break at one of the hospitality huts are just some of the options.

Which Season is Best for Exploring the Uvac Canyon?

During most of the year, the Uvac Canyon is an area where its permanent residents - the river, plant, and animal life - take the lead. Due to the isolation of the area, bears, wolves, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species have found their peace in this part of Serbia. Their activity is highest in spring and autumn, so it is not uncommon for curious visitors to have an encounter with some of these hosts by deviating from the usual routes. The Uvac Canyon is also known for its beautiful wildflowers that cover its slopes in spring, which can be particularly interesting for biologists and botanists. Winter is a period when the Uvac Canyon is usually covered in snow, and the few roads are difficult to pass, so unless you are a great enthusiast, visiting the canyon in winter is not the best idea. Therefore, summer is the ideal time to visit the canyon, but even then, it is advisable not to embark on a hike without proper footwear and a walking stick.

Are There Any Dangers in the Uvac Canyon?

Exploring the Uvac Canyon can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but it is important to be aware of potential dangers and take appropriate precautions. Some potential hazards to be aware of include steep cliffs and rocky terrain, unexpected encounters with wild animals, unpredictable weather conditions, or getting lost in an area where there is not always a signal for help. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of your surroundings and be prepared and equipped for outdoor activities to ensure a safe and pleasant trip.

In this regard, when exploring the Uvac Canyon, it doesn't hurt to bring the following:

• Water - make sure to bring enough water to stay hydrated during hiking.
• Snacks - pack high-energy snacks that don't take up much space, such as granola bars, to provide a quick energy boost.
• Sun protection - the Uvac Canyon can get quite hot during summer, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Comfortable footwear - wear comfortable shoes with sturdy soles for walking on rocky terrain.
• Warm clothing - even in summer, the microclimate of the canyon can change suddenly, so it's wise to bring a raincoat and a layer of warm clothing.
• First aid kit - a basic first aid kit is a good idea for any outdoor activity, in case of minor injuries or accidents.
• Topographic map or GPS device - essential tools to help you navigate and stay on track during hiking.
• Emergency whistle - an emergency whistle can be useful in case you need to signal for help.
• Trash bag - to keep the Uvac Canyon clean (or even better than you found it), it's useful to have a trash bag to dispose of your waste or any litter you may come across during your hike.

For a complete experience and to fully explore the wonders of this beautiful canyon, it is recommended to plan a multi-day stay, either in one of the campsites within the canyon or in an apartment in the nearby Zlatar area.