How to Visit Matka Canyon from Skopje: Budget Guide by Bus 🚌🇲🇰

I have to confess right away — I actually filmed this intro a few days after my visit to Matka Canyon. When I went to edit the video, I realised I hadn’t pressed record on the opening clip. Classic me.

Anyway, let’s go through exactly how to get there, where to buy your ticket, and what to expect once you arrive at this incredible natural spot just outside Skopje, North Macedonia.

🚌 Where to Catch the Bus

At the Skopje main bus station, you’ll see two types of buses:

• White buses — These are intercity buses that go to Serbia, Albania, and other cities in Macedonia.

• Red buses — These are local city buses.

  
  

To reach Matka Canyon, you need Bus 60, which departs from the red local bus area.

🎟 Where to Buy Your Ticket

Head to the small ticket booth near the local bus stops. Just tell the lady, “Bus 60 to Matka Cave,” and she’ll let you know the next departure time.

This same bus also passes Skopje City Mall, the city’s biggest shopping mall — so it’s a handy route for a shopping trip too.

🏞 Arriving at Matka Canyon

The bus drops you at the final stop, right next to the river. You’ll immediately notice two paths — one to the left and one to the right.

At first, I wasn’t sure which way to go. For reference, take the main road (not the smaller dirt trail). The path follows the river and leads you straight toward the canyon.

Be warned — the bus ride itself isn’t the most comfortable. It was hot, crowded, and definitely not air-conditioned. But hey, that’s the budget way!

🌞 Before You Start Walking

First tip: bring sunscreen. The Macedonian sun is very strong, and you’ll be walking for about 1 kilometre from the bus stop to the main entrance of the canyon.

If you enjoy hiking, there are tons of trails here. But I was going for the “lazy budget” option — no taxis, just the local bus and a bit of walking. You can walk from Skopje (about 13 km), though I wouldn’t recommend it unless you really like long treks.

🚶‍♂️ Exploring the Canyon Area

You’ll soon come across a car park, tour buses, and a professional kayak course. It’s an impressive setup — ropes, equipment, and everything — and the scenery is incredible.

The best part about Skopje is that you’re never far from nature. Just 13 km from the city, you’ve got high cliffs, a turquoise river, caves, and hiking routes all around.

🧗‍♂️ Finding the Path (and Getting Lost)

I tried following the river trail — which turned out to be very overgrown. Nettles everywhere, slippery sections, and I even got a few cuts and bruises.

If you’re with kids or not in great shape, I wouldn’t recommend this path. Take the main road instead — it’s safer and more direct. Still, the adventurous side of me wanted to see where it went, so I kept going for a while before climbing back up to the road.

💦 The Canyon and the Dam

Eventually, you’ll reach the Matka Dam, which provides hydroelectric power for the area. From here, follow the road toward the main canyon entrance — you’ll see a few cafés, parking spots, and small kiosks along the way.

This is also where you can find taxis waiting for visitors heading back to the city.

🍦 Ice Cream Stop

After that hot walk, I decided it was time for a break — ice cream time! I grabbed a Fruity Frutter and cooled off while taking in the view of the river. Simple pleasures.

🚤 Boat and Kayak Options

If you want to get out on the water, you’ve got a couple of great budget options:

• Short boat ride – €4 (or 200 Macedonian denars)

• Extended trip including the caves – 500 denars (~€8)

  
  

You can also rent kayaks and paddle along the canyon yourself. The water is crystal clear, and the cliffs towering above make it a breathtaking experience.

🕳 Visiting Vrelo Cave

The highlight of the trip is Vrelo Cave, believed to be one of the deepest underwater caves in the world (though not officially confirmed). The cave system extends below the river and features beautiful illuminated sections you can explore on foot.

You can see right to the bottom of the water — it’s that clear. Definitely one of the most unique natural sights in North Macedonia.

✈️ What’s Next?

That’s the end of this little adventure — and yes, I forgot to record the outro on the day too!

If you enjoyed this post, subscribe to the Budget Nomad YouTube channel and stick around — more budget travel adventures are coming soon!

💡 Quick Tips for Visiting Matka Canyon

✅ Take Bus 60 from Skopje local bus station✅ Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks✅ Expect a short walk (1 km) from the bus stop✅ Boat trips: 200–500 MKD (€4–€8)✅ Best time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat✅ Avoid the overgrown trail — stick to the main road