WHY IS PERUĆICA KNOWN AS THE “LUNGS OF EUROPE”?

Hidden in the heart of Sutjeska National Park, in the southeastern part of Republika Srpska, the Perućica primeval forest is one of the region’s most valuable natural treasures.

PHOTO: NP Sutjeska

This strictly protected nature reserve preserves a unique world of ancient forests, towering trees, rare plant and animal species, and spectacular landscapes that reveal the power of nature.

Covering approximately 1,434 hectares, Perućica is one of the few areas in Europe where natural processes continue almost entirely undisturbed by human activity. Due to its exceptional ecological value, it is often referred to as the “lungs of Europe”, while its scientific and educational importance has been recognised since the mid-20th century.

A FOREST WHERE NATURE HAS THE FINAL SAY

Perućica is home to trees more than 300 years old, some exceeding 50 metres in height, while parts of the forest remain almost inaccessible. Its botanical richness includes more than 170 recorded species of trees and shrubs, as well as over 1,000 species of herbaceous plants.

What makes this primeval forest particularly special is that the natural cycle of growth, decay and regeneration takes place without conventional forestry interventions. Fallen and dead trees become part of a new cycle of life, providing habitats for numerous organisms and helping maintain the ecosystem’s natural balance.

Perućica is therefore much more than a dense forest. It is a natural laboratory of great importance for studying forest ecosystems, understanding natural processes and preserving biodiversity.

A HABITAT FOR RARE PLANT AND ANIMAL SPECIES

The extraordinary diversity of Perućica is also reflected in its wildlife. Bears, wolves, roe deer, wild boar, foxes and badgers inhabit the forest and its surrounding areas, alongside numerous species of birds, amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates.

One particularly interesting fact is that nine species of woodpeckers have been recorded in Sutjeska National Park. These birds depend on old, damaged and dead trees, which provide food and suitable places for nesting.

Protecting these habitats is one of the key reasons why Perućica remains under a strict conservation regime, allowing its delicate ecological processes to continue with minimal human interference.

SKAKAVAC WATERFALL – A SYMBOL OF WILD BEAUTY

One of the most impressive natural attractions associated with Perućica is Skakavac Waterfall, which plunges more than 70 metres into the heart of the primeval forest.

The waterfall, deep forested valley and steep mountain cliffs create a remarkable landscape of lush greenery, rugged rock formations and flowing water. In the distance rises Mount Maglić, the highest peak in Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the surrounding mountains add to the grandeur of this natural setting.

The Beškita and Dragoš Sedlo viewpoints offer visitors panoramic views of the primeval forest and its surroundings. These viewpoints can be reached on foot or by car, while entry into the forest itself is permitted only with a guide authorised by Sutjeska National Park.

This controlled access allows visitors to experience the area's natural beauty while helping protect its sensitive ecosystem.

A NATURAL TREASURE RECOGNISED IN 1952

Perućica came to the attention of forestry researchers in 1938, when experts exploring the area around Mount Maglić identified exceptionally valuable stands of beech, fir and spruce, including trees exceeding 50 metres in height.

Because of its scientific importance, the area was withdrawn from regular forestry management in 1952. Two years later, it was granted protected nature reserve status.

Since 2017, Perućica has been included on UNESCO’s Tentative List, further highlighting its significance as part of Europe’s natural heritage.

Today, it remains one of the most valuable areas within Sutjeska National Park and an important reason why nature lovers, hikers, photographers and researchers travel to the southeastern part of Republika Srpska.

AN UNFORGETTABLE ENCOUNTER WITH NATURE

A visit to Perućica offers the opportunity to experience a natural environment that has become increasingly rare in modern Europe. Not every part of the reserve is crossed by marked forest trails, nor is the wilderness designed to accommodate unrestricted access. Instead, its value lies precisely in its largely untouched character and the need for visitors to respect its rules and boundaries.

For those exploring Sutjeska National Park, the viewpoints, Skakavac Waterfall and surrounding mountain landscapes provide an opportunity to discover one of the most striking natural settings in Republika Srpska.

Perućica reminds us that nature’s greatest treasures are not always those that have been developed or made accessible at every turn. Sometimes, their greatest value lies in preserving them in their original state – as a natural legacy for generations to come.