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Zla Kolata
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Zla Kolata is officially the highest peak in Montenegro, standing at 2,534 meters above sea level in the Prokletije mountain range on the border with Albania. It is part of the Kolata massif, which also includes the neighboring and slightly lower Dobra Kolata peak. This region, often referred to as the "Accursed Mountains," is defined by its extremely rugged limestone terrain, sharp ridges, and deep glacial valleys. For a long time, Bobotov Kuk was considered the nation's highest point, but modern surveys confirmed Zla Kolata's primacy. Reaching the summit is a demanding task for hikers, with routes typically starting from the village of Vusanje and passing through the Ropojana Valley. The climate in this area is strictly alpine, with long winters and significant snowfall lasting late into the season. The peak is situated within Prokletije National Park, established in 2009 to protect the unique biodiversity and pristine landscapes of the border region.
- Location: Montenegro
- Top sights: Maja e Thatë · Zla Kolata / Kollate e Keqe · Dobra Kolata / Kollate e Mires
- Nearby: Prokletije National Park (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -1 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 19 | 20 | 14 | 9 | 5 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 118 | 111 | 114 | 90 | 92 | 73 | 50 | 49 | 96 | 117 | 150 | 134 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The highly demanding approach mostly starts right from the village of Vusanje in the Gusinje area. The route actively enters the remote, fiercely wild Prokletije National Park and strongly requires careful route planning.
Best season
Strictly due to incredibly persistent snowfields and consistently severe weather conditions at very high altitudes, an ascent is only ever recommended during the absolute peak summer months of July and August.
Terrain & paths
Highly demanding alpine terrain featuring exceptionally extensive karst rock formations and steep ascents. Potentially very confusing border trails absolutely require completely reliable and confident mountain navigation skills.
What to bring
Heavy-duty alpine boots, totally reliable GPS navigation, and complete emergency equipment are mandatory. There are absolutely zero facilities, so carrying completely ample water and high-energy food is strictly mandatory.
Parking
Mostly, there is highly informal parking in the lower valley villages directly before the actual trailheads. Roads strongly leading to the start can be extremely rough, very often requiring perfectly suitable rugged vehicles.
Safety
The Prokletije mountains are exceptionally rugged and extremely isolated from help. Strictly due to the highly challenging terrain and the deeply confusing border crossing, hiring a highly experienced local guide is strongly recommended.
Time needed
A genuinely long, physically absolutely exhausting full-day alpine expedition. The truly heavy ascent and subsequent descent can easily take 10 to 12 entire hours, actively demanding an excellent and far-reaching physical endurance.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation of 2,534 meters
- Highest point in Montenegro
- Located in the Prokletije range
- On the Montenegro-Albania border
- Part of the Kolata massif
- Within a National Park since 2009
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zla Kolata (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Zla Kolata the highest mountain in Montenegro?
Yes, at 2,534 meters, it is officially the country's highest point, located in the Prokletije massif.
Is the mountain on the border?
Yes, it is located right on the border between Montenegro and Albania.
How difficult is the ascent?
The tour is very long and strenuous, requiring alpine experience and good orientation.
Where does the hike start from?
The usual starting point is the village of Vusanje in the Ropojana valley near Gusinje.
What does the name mean?
'Zla Kolata' roughly translates to 'Evil Kolata', referring to the rugged rocks.
Zla Kolata: where is it located?
Zla Kolata is located in Montenegro.
Zla Kolata: what is there to see?
Highlights include Maja e Thatë, Zla Kolata / Kollate e Keqe, Dobra Kolata / Kollate e Mires.
Zla Kolata: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zla Kolata: why is it worth visiting?
Zla Kolata is officially the highest peak in Montenegro, standing at 2,534 meters above sea level in the Prokletije mountain range on the border with Albania.
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