🇲🇪 Montenegro in Numbers: Fascinating Facts and Figures for Travellers and First-timers ✨

22 September 2023 | Andjela Djokic

Montenegro, a hidden gem in the Balkans, is a country that packs a surprising punch for its size. With a population of less than 1 million, it stands as one of the smallest countries in Europe. But don't let its size fool you; Montenegro is a land of astonishing natural beauty and intriguing statistics that make it a must-visit destination, with four distinctive natural seasons. In this article, we will dive deeper into the numbers that define this enchanting country.

Natural Wonders

🏞 Montenegro is home to the second deepest canyon in the world and the deepest in Europe, the Tara River Canyon. This breathtaking natural wonder plunges to depths of 1,300 meters, making it a haven for adrenaline addicts and nature enthusiasts.

⛰ Rising above the Boka Bay is the world's highest mausoleum, the Mausoleum of Njegoš (Bishop & Duke of Montenegro). Set atop Mount Lovćen, the mausoleum offers visitors not only a glimpse into Montenegro's history but also, panoramic views of the stunning landscapes that spread up to Italy on a sunny clear day.

🌿 The country offers five impressive national parks, preserving its diverse ecosystems, which range from coastal beauty to rugged mountain terrain. You can read about the National Parks of Montenegro in one of our previous articles, here. Additionally, Montenegro boasts numerous nature parks (read more here), demonstrating its growing commitment to environmental conservation.

🛶 Montenegro is a land of water, with an abundance of lakes and rivers dotting its landscape. It is home to numerous lakes and rivers, offering opportunities for boating, swimming, kayaking, canyoning and white-water rafting.

🗻 The country features an impressive number of around 150 peaks towering over 2,000 meters high, attracting hikers and mountaineers from around the world. In winter, these mountains turn into a white, wild paradise for (well-guided!) ski-touring. Here is an example. In any season, the peaks provide stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside, making the effort to reach them incredibly rewarding.

🚵♀️ Approximately 80% of Montenegro's surface is covered by mountains, earning it the distinction of being one of the most mountainous countries globally. These mountains not only provide unparalleled natural beauty but also offer a playground for adventure seekers, with activities such as hiking, trekking, and rock climbing.

Demographics & Environment

👥 Montenegro is also known for its people, who rank as the world's second tallest and the tallest in Europe on average. This unique attribute adds an interesting dimension to the country's identity.

⚡️ In 2023, Montenegro earned another mention, having the highest density of thunderstorm lightning in the world. While this might sound electrifying, it's a testament to the country's dynamic weather patterns and stunning natural phenomena.

💚 Despite its small size, Montenegro has serious experts, and informal & formal groups of citizens who are taking its environmental responsibility seriously. This commitment is vital to safeguarding its unique biodiversity and maintaining its status as an official ecological country by its Constitution. Read more about it here.

Fun Facts

🍔 For gastro travellers & foodies seeking a unique experience, Montenegro is a McDonald's-free country. Unfortunately, Burger King has made its debut recently, but Montenegro still retains its charm as a place where local cuisine and culinary traditions thrive.

😴 There is a regional saying that Montenegrins are lazy, so we took advantage of this and today Montenegro hosts the Laziness World Championship, an event that celebrates the art of relaxation. This unusual competition showcases the country's sense of humour and its ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. Check out more at this link. 

🇲🇪 As you can understand from all the above, Montenegro is a small but captivating country that offers an array of natural wonders, unique statistics, and cultural experiences. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a new and exciting destination, Montenegro has something to offer every traveller. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this remarkable land of contrasts and we’ll make sure to share more interesting stories with you in the meantime. ✨