Budzowa Igła ('Budza's Needle') is one of the Tatra Mountains' most intriguing rock towers — boldly outlined from a distance, yet surprisingly elusive up close. This contrast between its dramatic silhouette and its ability to blend into the surrounding ridge makes it a fascinating target for climbers and curious hikers on the Orla Perć trail.

The needle stands in the long eastern ridge of Świnica peak, between Przełęcz Nowickiego pass and Wielka Buczynowa Turnia. It is the tallest and most slender of several rocky teeth along this section of the ridge. Interestingly, although the famous Orla Perć trail passes right beside it, the tower is almost invisible from the path — hidden by a small rocky mound. Only from a greater distance does it reveal itself as a distinct and striking feature of the ridge. In autumn light, with low sun catching the wet granite, the needle takes on an almost theatrical quality.

• The easiest approach starts from Przełęcz Nowickiego pass — this is the standard starting point for climbing Budzowa Igła from the Dolinka Buczynowa side.

• Climbing is permitted only from the Dolinka Buczynowa side — access from other directions is not allowed.
• The easiest route is graded II on the Tatra climbing scale — basic climbing skills are required.
• First recorded ascent was made in 1932 by W.H. Paryski and companions.
• The tower lies within Tatra National Park — stay on designated climbing routes.

The tower was named in honour of Józef Budz, the chief assistant of Walenty Gadowski, the creator of the legendary Orla Perć trail — a fitting tribute to one of the unsung heroes of the Tatras.