Montenegro is a beautiful and vibrant country. From the Bay of Kotor to the Durmitor National Park, there’s plenty to explore. But whether you’re hiking rugged mountains or strolling through old town streets, it’s essential to stay healthy and safe while you’re here.
Staying Healthy in Montenegro
Montenegro has a good healthcare system. That said, it’s important to take steps to stay healthy on your trip. Here are some basic tips that will help you avoid any health issues.
Stay Hydrated
The summer months in coastal areas like Budva or Kotor can get very hot. Always carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated, especially when hiking in the mountains or beaches. Tap water is safe to drink in most city areas, but in rural places, you might want to stick to bottled water.
Be Aware of Food Safety
The food in Montenegro is delicious, with fresh ingredients used in local dishes. Try to eat in reputable restaurants, and avoid street food if the hygiene looks questionable. Stick with food that is freshly made, and don’t hesitate to ask for your meat to be cooked thoroughly. Wash fruits before eating them, and it’s best to avoid drinking tap water in some remote locations.
Seek Travel Insurance
Healthcare in Montenegro can get pricey for tourists, and it’s always best to have travel insurance in case of emergencies. A sudden illness or accident could ruin a vacation, so cover your bases and get travel insurance before you come.
Pharmacies and Medications
Pharmacies are available in most towns, and they’re well-stocked with basic medicine. If you’re bringing prescription medication, make sure it’s labeled and bring your doctor’s note just in case. You can also buy basic over-the-counter medicines for things like headaches, allergies, or digestive issues easily.
Recommended Vaccinations
Montenegro doesn’t have any mandatory vaccines for entry, but there are a few recommended vaccines to stay on the safe side.
Routine Vaccinations
Ensure you’re up to date with routine vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, and tetanus before you travel. These are standard vaccines many people already have, but it’s good to double-check your medical records.
Hepatitis A and B
Hepatitis A is recommended, especially if you plan to eat in rural areas or less-developed parts of the country. You might also want to consider getting vaccinated for Hepatitis B if you plan on engaging in activities that could involve medical treatment or sexual contact with local people.
Tick-borne Encephalitis
If you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking or outdoor activities in Montenegro, especially in the forested northern part, you may want to consider a vaccine for tick-borne encephalitis. This virus is transmitted by ticks and can be risky during the warmer months. It’s not very common, but prevention is better than treatment.
Important Emergency Contact Numbers
Sometimes things can go wrong, and having emergency numbers handy is crucial while traveling. Montenegro has a reliable emergency service system, so save these numbers on your phone.
Ambulance (Hitna Pomoć)
If you need urgent medical assistance, call 124.
Police (Policija)
If you run into any legal issues or need help from the police, dial 122.
Fire Department (Vatrogasci)
For fire emergencies, contact the fire department at 123.
General Emergency Number
If you’re unsure which local service to contact, you can dial the Europe-wide emergency number: 112.
Safety Precautions in Urban Areas
Montenegro is generally a safe country, but it’s always a good idea to stay aware and use common sense, especially in the bigger cities or tourist-heavy areas.
Watch Your Belongings
Pickpocketing isn’t extremely common, but it does happen in crowded places, especially in cities like Podgorica or during the peak tourist season in Kotor. Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables secure, and don’t leave your belongings unattended in public.
Be Careful at ATMs
If you’re withdrawing money, use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit areas. Avoid taking out large amounts of cash in crowded places. Skimming is rare, but it’s better to be cautious.
Stick to Well-lit Areas at Night
Montenegrin cities tend to be safe, but as a rule, it’s best to stay on well-lit and busy streets if you’re walking around at night. Avoid deserted areas, especially unfamiliar neighborhoods.
Public Transport Caution
Public transport, like buses, is safe to use, but be aware of your belongings during busy times. Larger cities like Podgorica have local bus services, and long-distance coaches are frequently available between cities. Stick to recommended transport services, and avoid getting into unmarked vehicles.
Safety Precautions in Rural Areas
Exploring Montenegro’s stunning nature means venturing into rural and sometimes remote areas. While this is an incredible experience, you’ll want to be more cautious in these regions.
Be Prepared When Hiking
Rural Montenegro, especially in the north, is full of epic landscapes perfect for hiking. If you’re planning to hike, bring enough water, snacks, and proper gear. It’s better to hike with someone or at least let someone know where you’re going, as many of these trails are far from towns.
Respect Wildlife
Montenegro is home to diverse wildlife, including bears and wolves in rural regions. These animals are usually shy and avoid humans, but it’s important to stay cautious. Don’t venture off marked trails, and avoid hiking at dusk when animals are more active. If you see any wildlife, give them their space and never try to approach them.
Pay Attention to Weather Changes
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check weather forecasts before going on a hike. If you’re caught in a storm, seek shelter quickly. The higher mountain regions of Durmitor and Prokletije can get cold even in summer, so bring layers.
Avoid Extreme Remote Areas Without a Guide
While adventure travel can be fun, don’t explore extremely remote mountain passes or dense forest areas without a professional guide. Being far from help raises the risk of accidents that can end your vacation early.
Stay Clear of Mines
While Montenegro has mostly cleared landmines following the Balkan conflicts in the 1990s, there may still be undiscovered mines in some remote areas near the border with Kosovo. Stick to designated hiking trails and avoid wandering off in these areas.
Healthcare Facilities for Tourists
If you do end up sick or injured, you will find healthcare clinics and hospitals in Montenegro, although availability can vary depending on where you are.
Hospitals in Larger Cities
Major cities like Podgorica, Kotor, and Budva have hospitals equipped to handle emergencies. Montenegro doesn’t have a public healthcare system for tourists, so you’ll either pay out of pocket or need your travel insurance to cover costs.
Smaller Clinics in Rural Areas
In smaller towns, you may only find small clinics. These are fine for minor issues but might not have the resources for serious health concerns. If possible, get to a larger city if you need more intensive care or specialist treatment.
Doctors and Language Barriers
Some doctors in Montenegro speak English, especially in touristy areas. However, it’s always helpful to have a basic translation app handy in case you need to communicate symptoms or concerns. A patient attitude goes a long way when navigating potential language barriers.
Final Thoughts on Health and Safety
Montenegro is a fantastic destination with a lot to offer. By keeping these health and safety tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying the beaches, mountains, and historic towns, instead of worrying about the risks. Stay informed, stay prepared, and savor every moment of your trip!
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