Discover North Macedonia’s Hidden Gem: Jasen Nature Reserve
Deep in the Balkans, this grandiosely named nature reserve might just be the best-kept secret among Europe’s national parks. Home to the rare Balkan chamois (wild goat) and endangered Eurasian lynx, North Macedonia’s Jasen is one of the region’s most ecologically significant areas. While there are no deluxe hotels or ski resorts, outdoor activities range from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and spelunking.
An unusual history
Comprising approximately 24,000 hectares of forested mountains, deep caves, lakes, and underground rivers, this protected area takes up a large chunk of North Macedonia’s central mountain massif. The reserve reaches a height of almost 2500m at Mt Karadzica, while the canyon lake at Matka (meaning ‘womb’ in Macedonian) is so deep it is still uncharted, resulting in a nomination to become one of the new Natural Wonders of the World.
Matka, located at the park’s northern tip, is popular with weekenders due to its proximity to the capital, natural beauty, and impressive hiking opportunities. The Matka area features frescoed Byzantine woodland churches, hosting around 15 Orthodox Christian churches or monasteries dating back to between the 13th and 15th centuries.
The park is also home to more than 30 important historical or archaeological sites, ranging from Stone Age cave art to Hellenistic and late Roman settlements. Notable is the 6000-year-old ‘Adam of Govrlevo’ statue, an anatomically precise Neolithic sculpture considered one of the oldest and most important discoveries in the world.
Jasen’s recent past, cloaked in Cold War history, includes tales of secret underground military bunkers and tunnels allegedly constructed by former Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito, adding a touch of mystery to this stunning nature reserve.
A haven for wildlife
Wildlife enthusiasts will find plenty to marvel at in Jasen’s oak, beech, and black pine forests. The mountain rivers are inhabited by freshwater crabs and river trout, while more than 160 bird species, including golden eagles and peregrine falcons, can be spotted soaring overhead. The park is home to 47 mammal species—almost one-third of the total found in Europe—such as wild boar, deer, brown bears, hares, wolves, and a unique subspecies of the European Souslik (ground squirrel). Recent conservation efforts have led to an increase in Eurasian lynx, with sightings rising from six in 2009 to eleven today.
Hunting in the reserve is highly controlled and accessible only to specially arranged groups, providing a unique opportunity to pursue deer, wild boar, the rare Balkan chamois, or mouflon (wild sheep).
Park activities
Visitors can enjoy an array of outdoor activities including recreational fishing, paragliding, and kayaking on Lake Kozjak. Caving is available through the Macedonian Speleological Federation, offering experiences suitable for both beginner and advanced spelunkers. However, most caves are for serious adventurers, descending up to 500m and stretching for 1500m, frequently threatened by flooding from underground rivers.
Jasen’s winding mountain trails and access roads are perfect for mountain biking, enabling exploration of the park’s terrain beyond the typical hiking routes. Park managers can recommend the most suitable paths for biking enthusiasts.
For avid skiers, a helicopter can be rented for unforgettable skiing on untouched terrain, fitting up to eight skiers for €4000 per day. The helicopter transports you to the peak of Mt Karadzica (2470m), where expert skiers can navigate multiple routes down to Kula at 500m, the park’s entrance.
Make it happen
To visit the park, it’s advisable to reach out to the English-speaking park management via email or phone at least one week prior to your visit. While there is no entrance fee to the park, a guided day hike costs €20 per person (preferably for groups of 8 to 15), which includes a home-cooked lunch made from the park’s organic produce and local game, as well as transport to and from Skopje. The park management can assist with arranging various activities tailored to your interests.
While camping is not permitted, visitors can stay at a rustic hunting lodge in Kula for €50 per person, inclusive of breakfast, with bookings managed through the park administration.
