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Itinerary

Discover the wild heart of southern Poland on a six‑day trekking adventure which starts and ends in Kraków, taking us through the Tatra Mountains. You’ll trade cobblestone streets for rugged trails, wander emerald‑green glacial lakes, and soak sore muscles in world‑class thermal pools. Day one brings you to Zakopane—Poland’s “winter capital”—where wooden chalets and Goral folklore set the tone. Hikes to the stunning Morskie Oko and through Dolina Kościeliska reveal secret caves and alpine vistas, while a thrilling raft down the Dunajec Gorge adds just the right rush. After hard days on the trail, unwind in Chochołowskie Termy or drift among steam jets in your private hotel bathroom. You’ll return to Kraków with a new perspective on Polish mountain culture, stories of adventure, and memories of clifftop sunsets. This trip balances adrenaline and relaxation, perfect for travelers who want both epic hikes and a touch of comfort. Lace up your boots—Poland’s trails are calling.

A minimalist map showing a travel route that starts and ends at a point labeled 'Krakow'.

From Kraków to the Goral Capital

After arriving in Kraków before 3 pm, we board public transport to Zakopane, the charming foothill town of the Tatras. Check into your guesthouse, then join a guided walking tour through the wooden Krupówki promenade, browse local artisan stalls, and sample oscypek cheese. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with traditional Goral music. Zakopane’s alpine atmosphere is the perfect introduction to our mountain adventure.

Mirror Lake & Rysy Peak

The Great Alpine Lakes & The Rysy Trail Today’s hike follows the Palenica Białczańska → Morskie Oko trail, pushing deep into the mountains to reach Czarny Staw pod Rysami (The Black Pond). This is an epic ≈20 km round‑trip with ≈600 m elevation gain, taking between 6–8 hours. We’ll leave early around 6 am to beat the crowds, traversing old‑growth forests and crossing wooden boardwalks until we emerge at Morskie Oko—an emerald glacial lake surrounded by granite walls. After lakeside photos, we push our limits. We will tackle the steep, heart-pumping stone ascent up to the Black Pond, sitting directly beneath the towering, jagged peaks of Mount Rysy. Here, looking out over the sweeping valley below, we'll enjoy our packed lunch. After some rest, we'll return down. Moneypot covers our bus to the trailhead. In the evening, relax in Zakopane’s cafés or join a local folk evening.

Caves & Highland Huts

We venture into Dolina Kościeliska, a 9.5 km valley loop (≈3.5 hours) renowned for karst caves, traditional wooden shepherd huts, and limestone gorges. Your guide will lead you through Mroźna Cave (optional detour) and past the historic Knajpa Smocza Jama tavern. Learn about Goral shepherding and discover hidden waterfalls before returning to Zakopane for dinner.

Chochołowskie Termy & Chochołów

Recharge at Chochołowskie Termy, Poland’s largest thermal complex: indoor/outdoor pools, steam baths, and spa treatments. After lunch, explore the wooden village of Chochołów, with its UNESCO‑style thatched roofs and folk museum. Moneypot covers your transfer to the baths. Return to Zakopane for a hearty meal before the next day's trekking.

Dunajec Gorge on a Traditional Raft

Journey to Krościenko nad Dunajcem for a classic 3‑hour wooden raft trip down the Dunajec River, passing limestone cliffs and the Trzy Korony massif. This UNESCO‑protected gorge blends adrenaline with serene river scenery. Afterward, return to Zakopane for a final group dinner celebrating our journey.

Return to Kraków

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, then board your bus or train back to Kraków. We aim for an arrival before 11 am to fit afternoon flights. Reflect on your Tatras trekking, swap contact info with new friends, and perhaps squeeze in a last stroll through Kraków’s Old Town before your onward journey.

What's included

What's not included

Roundtrip flight to/from destination
  • Entrance to Tatra National Park - approx. USD20

  • Food and beverages when not specified
  • Trailhead Minibuses - approx. USD45

  • Local transport

  • All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Optional activities

Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.

Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.

  • Chochołowskie Termy - approx. USD40

  • Dunajec River Rafting - approx. USD55

  • Gubałówka Funicular - approx. USD15

Additional info

Learn more about accommodation, transport, and other useful travel information.
  • Accommodation

    5 nights accommodation in shared hotel rooms with private bathroom

  • Info on private roomsShow all details

Why WeRoad

  • Small groups, on average 11 people

  • Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure

  • Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed

The Group Leaders

Our Group Leaders are chosen because they’re people just like you: passionate travelers who share the experience authentically, while having the skills to take care of the organisation, and help you get the most out of every moment of the trip.

Find your flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

ArrivalKraków (KRK)
ReturnKraków (KRK)
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This is a WeRoadX

A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.

This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

About this trip

About WeRoad

About Poland

From$ 961
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$ 868
Book with $ 100
Free trip change
Interest-free installments