From Kraków: Slovakia Treetop Walk Bachledka and Zakopane

Exploring the Tatra Mountains and Zakopane: A Practical Review of the Slovakia Treetop Walk Bachledka and Zakopane Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Kraków that combines nature, culture, and stunning scenery, the Slovakia Treetop Walk Bachledka and Zakopane tour might just be worth your attention. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what travelers rave about, it’s a well-organized way to see a couple of the most picturesque spots in the region without the hassle of self-driving.

One of the things we love about this trip is the ease of logistics—the door-to-door transport and guiding mean you can relax and actually enjoy the scenery, rather than stressing over directions or border crossings. Plus, the treetop walk itself offers one of the most captivating views of mountain pine forests that you can find in this part of Europe, making it a real highlight.

A possible consideration is the cost—around $276.57 per person— which might seem steep, especially if you’re on a tighter budget. However, when you factor in the transportation, entrance fees, and the unique experience of the treetop trail, many find the price reasonable for what’s included and the quality of the sights.

This tour is a good fit if you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and culturally interesting day trip. It’s especially suited for those who want to see iconic mountain views without the challenge of planning or navigating on their own, and who enjoy a bit of local flavor in Zakopane’s lively atmosphere.

Key Points

• Easy logistics with pickup, drop-off, and guided transport from Kraków
• Stunning views from the treetop walk and mountain cableways
• Cultural highlights in Zakopane, including wooden houses and folk architecture
• Optional slide descent for added fun and adventure
• Includes entrance fees and a small gift, making it good value for the experience
• Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most travelers with average fitness

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Treetop Walk in Bachledova

The star of this trip is undoubtedly the Bachledova Treetop Trail, located just across the border in Slovakia, about 10 kilometers from Poland. The walk itself is a 600-meter elevated wooden path perched between 18 and 24 meters high, held up by giant wooden pillars. As you stroll along, you’ll be surrounded by the crowns of trees, giving you a sense of walking within the forest canopy itself.

Travelers frequently mention the breathtaking panoramic views of the Tatra Mountains from the trail. It’s a quiet, almost surreal experience to walk above the treetops, with the forest stretching out below and mountain peaks in the distance. The trail is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with plenty of spots to pause and take photos.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt to descend via a slide, adding a dash of fun to the experience. One reviewer noted that the treetop walk was very cool, and the views made it worthwhile, even if they found it a bit strange that they didn’t receive a promised cheese tasting in the reserve.

Exploring Zakopane

After the treetop walk, the tour continues to Zakopane, known as the “winter capital of Poland”. This charming town is famous for its traditional wooden architecture and lively street life. You’ll have some free time to walk along Krupowki Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare filled with souvenir shops, cafes, and local eateries.

One highlight is the chance to see the ski jump hill used for the Grant Prix Ski Jump competitions. The tour includes a stop in the Chocholow village, renowned for its historic wooden houses built by local highlanders. These old structures offer a glimpse into regional craftsmanship and are great for photos.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is approximately 10 hours long, starting at 8:00 am with hotel pickup. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, making for a relatively intimate experience. The price of $276.57 covers admission fees, cableways to Gubałówka Mountain and the treetop walk (optional), and a small gift of traditional cottage cheeses to taste—adding a bit of local flavor.

While the tour doesn’t include a guide during the main attractions, a professional licensed driver and guiding staff ensure smooth logistics and safety. You won’t find included meals or drinks, so it’s wise to bring some snacks and water, especially if you plan to spend some time exploring Zakopane afterward.

What Travelers Say

The reviews give us a good sense of what to expect. Many travelers praise the scenic views and well-organized logistics. One reviewer called it an “amazing trip” with a “really good guide,” highlighting the overall positive experience. Others appreciated the value for money, noting that including transportation, entrance fees, and the cableways makes it quite a complete package.

However, there are some less favorable opinions. For example, one person was disappointed with the guide’s limited English and long monologues in another language, which somewhat detracted from the experience. Still, most agree that the breathtaking scenery and the unique treetop walk outweigh these minor issues.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Morning Pickup and Transfer

The trip begins early, leaving your Kraków hotel around 8:00 am. The driver, a licensed professional, handles all the logistics, so you can just sit back and enjoy the views. This is a big plus—no worries about border crossings or finding your way to the Slovakian border on your own.

Stop 1: Treetop Walk Bachledka

After about 30-40 minutes of driving, you arrive at the village of Bachledova in Slovakia. Here, the wooden walkway climbs into the forest canopy, offering a completely different perspective of the mountains. The route is more than 600 meters long, with sections that weave through the treetops, providing fantastic views and photo opportunities.

The walkway is held up by massive pillars and offers an experience akin to walking among the trees, with the Tatra Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. The elevation is manageable for most, and the walk is designed to be accessible, though some moderate physical activity is involved.

Reviewer Emilia loved the scenery, calling it a “really nice trip” with “beautiful views.” She emphasized that the experience was perfect for capturing great photos and enjoying nature.

Optional: Descend via Slide

For a dash of excitement, you can choose to slide down instead of walking back. While not everyone might want to do it, those who did found it added a fun element to the experience.

Visiting Zakopane and Nearby Villages

Post-walk, the tour takes you to Zakopane, where you’ll have time to explore. You can wander Krupowki Street, soak in the lively atmosphere, and browse local shops selling crafts and souvenirs. The visit to Chocholow village provides insight into traditional wooden architecture, which many travelers find charming and photogenic.

One reviewer mentioned that even without snow, Zakopane remained “a grace,” and the free time allotted was just enough to soak in the town’s vibe. The ski jump hill, used for major competitions, is an interesting sight for sports enthusiasts.

Final Stop and Return

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Kraków, arriving around late afternoon or early evening. The overall experience combines nature, culture, and a taste of Slovakian mountain leisure, all in one package.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers who want to see iconic mountain scenery from a safe and comfortable setting. It’s also perfect for those less keen on self-driving or navigating international borders. If you enjoy walking but want a lot of the adventure to be accessible, the treetop walk and cable cars are a good fit.

Travelers interested in regional architecture, local crafts, or simply exploring a lively mountain town will get a lot out of the Zakopane stop. Just be aware that some walking is involved, and the experience may not be suited for those with mobility issues due to the moderate physical demands.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Slovakia Treetop Walk Bachledka and Zakopane tour offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and convenience. For around $276, you get a well-rounded day that includes transportation, entrance fees, and a memorable wooden walk among the treetops with panoramic mountain views. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of planning border crossings and driving, while still enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery the region has to offer.

If you’re after a stress-free way to experience Slovakia’s forests and Poland’s mountain town, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to bring a camera, some snacks, and an open mind — you’re in for a day of scenic surprises.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and finishing in the late afternoon or early evening.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers admission fees, transportation with a licensed driver, cableways (to Gubałówka Mountain and optionally for the treetop walk), and a small gift of cottage cheeses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and the treetop walk are generally manageable for most physically fit travelers, but it’s best to consider your child’s comfort with heights and walking.

What are the main highlights I’ll see?
You’ll experience the treetop walkway’s panoramic views, explore Zakopane’s lively street and traditional wooden architecture, and have a chance to see the ski jump hill used for competitions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing flexibility should your schedule change.

If this kind of adventure sounds appealing—balancing scenic views with cultural stops—then it’s worth considering. Keep in mind the reviews suggest it’s a well-organized trip that delivers on its promise of beautiful vistas and easy access, perfect for a memorable day outside Kraków.