Climbing in Matka Canyon
Limestone walls above a green canyon lake, 30 minutes from Skopje. The closest place to climb from the city, with routes for first-timers and for experts.
- Distance
- 30 min from Skopje
- Routes
- Sport and alpine
- Level
- All levels
- Best season
- Spring and autumn
About the canyon
Matka Canyon lies southwest of Skopje along the river Treska. Its limestone walls hold short sport routes and multi-pitch lines up to 150 m, and the canyon is also home to medieval monasteries and Vrelo Cave.
In summer the sunny walls get hot in the afternoon, so we start early. Spring and autumn are the best months, and good winter days work too.
Climbing for every level
First time on rock
No experience needed. Your instructor sets up the rope, teaches you the knots and the belay, and climbs with you on easy routes.
Learn to climb
A course for people who want to climb on their own: safety checks, belaying, rope work and moving on rock.
Guided days for climbers
Already climbing? We show you the best routes at any crag in Macedonia, or join you as a climbing partner.
Multi-pitch and alpine routes
Long routes in Demir Kapija, Plocha and Matka and alpine climbs on Solunska Glava, with a licensed instructor on the rope.
What’s included
- Licensed rock climbing instructor
- Ropes, quickdraws and anchors
- Harness, climbing shoes and helmet
- Routes chosen for your level
What to bring
- Sports clothes you can move in
- Water and snacks
- Sun protection in summer
Make a day of it
After climbing you can kayak on Lake Matka, visit Vrelo Cave, or hike to the monastery of St. Nikola Šiševski.
Questions before you book
How do I get to Matka?
It is about 30 minutes by car from Skopje. If you don’t have a car, tell us and we arrange transport.
Is Matka good for a first climb?
Yes. Matka has easy routes as well as hard ones, so it works well for beginners.
Can I climb in Matka in summer?
Yes, but early. In July and August we start in the morning, before the walls heat up.
More adventures
Plan your day
Fill this in and send it on WhatsApp or Viber. We reply with dates and a price.