The Best of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Active tour

The Best of Bosnia & Herzegovina

Hiking – Rafting – Food & Wine Experience
8 days adventure

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  • 4 Experiences4 Exp

  • March - NovemberMar - Nov

  • 12 Meals Included

  • Sarajevo

  • Sarajevo

  • Relaxed

  • 4*/5* hotels

  • Small Group

  • 2 UNESCO Sites

Introduction

If you had to choose only one country to present the Balkans to you, Bosnia &Herzegovina would surely be the best choice!

Its glorious nature, mainly undiscovered, is represented by: rugged Dinaric Mountains, tiny access to the Adriatic coastline, idyllic and fertile valleys, pristine rivers and lakes. Rich cultural heritage comes from a blend of ethnical and religious abundance from the ancient times. All the diversity of the turbulent history, memorable flavours of the traditional cuisine and warm hospitable locals will give an incredible experience.

  • Blend in with the locals in the vibrant Baščaršija bazaar in Sarajevo
  • Be amazed by the rare sight of virgin nature in Rakitnica River Canyon
  • Feel the power of nature on your rafting adventure on the Tara River
  • Discover the most liked Herzegovina’s wine cellar – winery of Tvrdoš monastery
Map
Itinerary

Day 1Arrive Sarajevo

Set among the hills, along the Miljacka River, Sarajevo has quite a picturesque outline that already gives a hint of the splendour of mixed traditions. Some say that name, coming from the Persian word for palace or mansion, already has set its destiny of natural and cultural abundance. It would be impossible to point out one crucial thing about this incredible city. There is a lot of everything here: sounds, smiles, flavors and rituals. Try to embrace the genuine hospitality of locals and make sure you enjoy the traditional cuisine of Bosnian capital.

Overnight: Sarajevo

Day 2Sarajevo Food Experience Walking tour® - Springs of Bosnia River & Tunnel of Hope

 

Dive into Sarajevo Food Experience Walking tour® that will please both your mind and stomach. With a concept of combining history and cuisine, the past will look more alive and the gastronomy will get a deeper meaning! Storytelling starts with eclectic Vijećnica (City Hall), originally dated from the end of the 19th century and reopened in 2014, and anecdotes about “Inat-house” (spite house) or Šeher-Ćehaja Bridge. The very heart of the downtown, Baščaršija with authentic souqs and crafts shops from the Ottoman era, and the fascinating Gazi Husrev-bey mosque follows. Once distinctly multicultural Sarajevo today can be seen in traces: examples are the Museum of the Jews, the Orthodox Church from the 16th century and Catholic cathedral of Sacred heart. Tour starts on a river and ends above it, on the most known bridge – Latin bridge, where the successor to the Austro-Hungarian throne Franz Ferdinand was shot, consequently causing the First World War.
Among the highlights, quite number of places, significant for locals, and different food shops will bring you a chance to feel a true pulse of the city. The best examples are small, family-run gastro points with expertise in a unique traditional specialty. You will have a chance to taste: authentic meat pie known as ‘burek’, the most famous Bosnian delicacy ‘ćevapi’ in homemade bread and the most gorgeous looking and tasting sweet called ‘tufahija’. You will also enjoy “domestic coffee” and a slightly forgotten refreshing drink called ‘boza’. To this already colorful painting of Sarajevo, final touch is a visit to the Bezistan, a lively bazaar (a market from the 16th century) with a great variety of fragrances, colours, fabrics…
The tour continues to the Sarajevo Airport zone where the “Tunnel of Hope” is located – it is a war tunnel built during the siege of Sarajevo in 1993. Just like the old, medieval tunnels, its main purpose also was to connect the city under siege with the free territory, but eventually, it became the symbol of hope. For the end of the day, take a final spin to Sarajevo’s green oasis, The Springs of Bosnia River. This remarkable area around the spring of the river, to which this country owes a part of its name, is turned into a beautiful park. Several small islands and verdant plains with small waterfalls are connected with old-time wooden bridges. If you feel like getting the full experience of this little paradise, get on a horse carriage ride through the beautiful oak valley.
In your free time we highly recommend you not to miss Sarajevo brewery museum where along the great beer you can enjoy number of urban legends from its over 150-year long history.

Overnight: Sarajevo

Day 3Lukomir Village: Hike the highest and most isolated village in Bosnia

 

The picturesque ride through Bjelašnica Olympic Mountain will take you to Umoljani village known by the UNESCO World Heritage site – Dolovo Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards. Umoljani village is right where our hiking adventure begins, with a goal to reach Lukomir village, the highest and most isolated village in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located at 1.500 meteres of altitude. On your way to Lukomir you will reach Gradina, a small settlement primarily used by the locals as a base (camp) for summer pastures. As hike continues upwards, spectacular panoramic view of Studeni potok (Cold Stream) and its valley spreads around. At the end of the three-hour-hike the reward is expecting you: conquering the peak Obalj (1.896 metres high). Once at the top, you will experience an extraordinary view of the peaks of the mountains Bjelašnica, Treskavica and Visočica, as well as the Rakitnica River Canyon and many faraway villages. After a short refreshment, your hike continues down to Lukomir, an exceptional village with a 600-year-long tradition, an unforgettable and one of a kind experience. Don’t miss the great opportunity to learn about their own tradition, cooking methods, and clothing that have remained intact in this village from the medieval ages. A true treat will be meeting the locals and learning first-hand about the difficulty, but also simplicity of life in the mountains. Savour a traditionally prepared lunch and coffee (included), and take some fantastic photos of the medieval stone-made mountain houses.

After the lunch break, you will hike back through one of the least discovered canyons in Europe, the canyon of the Rakitnica River. As you hike through the canyon, 800 metres deep and, in some places, only 1 metre wide, you will be amazed by the rare sight of virgin nature in its full glory. The hiking route leads all the way to the starting point so the circle for this day is closed.
With body and mind full of impressions, take a seat and relax on your way back to Sarajevo.

Overnight: Sarajevo

Day 4NP Sutjeska with Perućica Rainforest & Trnovačko Lake

 

One more day of flourishing gem of nature of Bosnia is ahead of you. National Park Sutjeska, located about 100 km away from Sarajevo, represents one of the oldest parks in Bosnia with an area of 175 km2 comprised of magnificent, untouched and pristine wild nature. After a short walk, enter the park and rainforest Perućica, one of the two last standing rainforests in Europe, dating 11.000 years back. Fun fact: some parts of the forest are completely unattainable by foot, while some trees are 300 years old, with a height of over 50 metres. A true laboratory of nature! Your next point to rest and relax is a photo-stop at the viewpoint Dragoš Sedlo (1.242 metres high), where magnificent view reveals in front of you – the waterfall Skakavac (grasshopper) whose water glides with full force through the steep 80-metre-high rocks. Ascend to the plateau Prijevor and discover some magical panoramic views of this park and nearby mountains: Maglić, Zelengora and Volujak. The peak Maglić (2.386 metres) is dominating among them as the highest peak in Bosnia & Herzegovina, situated right on the border with Montenegro.
From Prijevor, hike continues untill you reach the last jewel of today’s trip – Trnovačko Lake, meaning that trail crosses the Montenegrin border. The lake is located at a height of 1.517 metres and it’s well known for its exceptional pure and clear water. What makes it so special and lovely is its unique shape of a heart! Trnovačko Lake is one of the seven glacial lakes that adorn Zelengora – one of the most beautiful mountains of the Dinaric Alps system. Due to their round shape, great depths and mesmerizing beauty, they are also known as ‘mountain eyes’.
The adventure becomes complete only during well-deserved rest in the heart of the National Park and a picnic-lunch with homemade specialties, typical for this region.
Leisurely hike back for 1.5 hours, and move on with your trip to the rafting camp situated on the river Drina. At the end of this very dynamic day, you’ll have plenty of time over dinner to reflect on your day and relive all the gorgeous impressions and memories from the great hike. Use this time to unwind and prepare for the next day rafting adventure.

Overnight: Rafting camp

Day 5UNESCO’S Tara River Canyon with rafting

 

You have certainly heard that Tara River goes by the name “Tear of Europe” due to its purity. You can drink water from its stream anywhere you catch it, in every part of its flow. Tara River’s canyon is 1.300 metres deep, which makes it the greatest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world, right after Colorado River in USA. Since 1977, Tara canyon is under the protection of UNESCO, and it’s in the category of 25 the most important world natural heritages. Experience a rafting adventure full of joy, excitement and exhilaration on a river in emerald green and turquoise colour variations, surrounded by lush and vibrant nature. As a part of your team, extremely skilled and trained guides will be there for you, every step of the way for the 22 km ride that stretches from Montenegro to Bosnia and Herzegovina. If the weather allows, you will spend some great time by the fire, hanging around with the open-hearted locals.

Overnight: Rafting camp

Day 6The Essence of Herzegovina: Sutjeska Memorial Park – UNESCO’s Blagaj – City of Mostar

 

After exploring Bosnia, it is time to get to know Herzegovina! The first stop is near Tjentište, also known as the Valley of Heroes, where you will visit Sutjeska Memorial Park. Sutjeska is very well known as the location where one of the most prominent battles in history took place during World War Two, on the territory of former Yugoslavia. The battle is known as the Battle on Sutjeska or Operation Schwarz. It represented one of the central points of the partisan resistance to the occupier during World War II, and the unique monument, as a symbol of the Brutalist architecture of former Yugoslavia, is there to keep this story alive for many generations to come.
The day continues to Blagaj (a site on the UNESCO Tentative List), an old town from the 15th century where the Kosač noble family ruled. The dervish’s house in Blagaj is considered to be the crib of Islam of today’s Bosnia and Herzegovina, settled in a fairy-tale scenery, beneath the cliffs, on the shores of the emerald green river Buna.
Later on, head to one of the most beautiful cities of the Balkan Peninsula, Mostar. The central point of the walking tour is the symbol of the city, Balkan TOP 10 and the most photographed sight in the country – the Old Bridge (a UNESCO protected landmark). Use your free time to blend in with the locals on the busy cobbled streets of old town, climb to the top of Koški Mehmed Pasha Mosque tower or simply enjoy a homemade coffee at its courtyard, check out the Crooked Bridge and the old tanner’s quarter Tabhana. An absolute must is to taste traditional meals on the banks of the crystal clear Neretva River, with an amazing view of the bridge rising above.

Overnight: Mostar

Day 7The Essence of Herzegovina: Medieval Počitelj village – Tvrdoš Monastery – Trebinje town

 

Getting the full picture of Herzegovina heritage requires moving forward in the direction of Trebinje. On the route is the medieval village Počitelj, protected by UNESCO thanks to its authentic oriental architecture. Fortified town of Počitelj was built by Bosnian king Stefan Tvrtko I in 1383, but it was never really confirmed. The town’s significance has varied throughout history and two most important periods were during the 8 years of the rule of Hungarians and 2 centuries of Ottomans’ rule. If you are lucky enough, you will have a chance to meet some of the locals, chat with them and be treated with some of homemade delicacies.
Carry on with the adventure driving towards the south of Herzegovina to the medieval Serbian Orthodox Monastery Tvrdoš, dedicated to the Rising of the Holy Mother of God. Built at the beginning of the 16th century today it still represents the center of Orthodox Christianity of the region. Thanks to the high-quality soil and flat terrain large vineyards have been grown ever since which is why the monastery it is also known for its wine, carefully preserved in the old stone basement dating back to the 15th century. Here, you will have the exceptional opportunity to enjoy the authentic wine varieties (native to this region) of Vranac and Žilavka, as well as hear the incredible stories of the monks who take care of the winemaking process.
The next destination of the day is Trebinje, a picturesque town with a wonderful blend of different cultures. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, and see the most important sights of charming Trebinje. The Arslanagića Bridge, a dream for artists and photographers alike, takes visitors 400 years back in time. Make your way to the so called ‘Poet’s Square’ and take a seat under the 115-year-old trees, the symbol of the town. Feel the unique energy of this beautiful townplace, where Emir Kusturica, the world-famous movie director, made one of his last movies, with Monica Belluci in the leading role. The highlight of Trebinje sightseeing must be a visit to the Hercegovačka Gračanica church, set on top of the hill above the town. The beautiful view of the sunset over Herzegovina is a perfect way to end the day.

Overnight: Trebinje

Day 8Departure day

Departure from Sarajevo or any non-listed airport.

If you would like to book pre or post tour accomodation, you can do that during  check out process
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Inclusions

Countries visited

Bosnia and Hercegovina

Accommodation

Standard package:

  • 2 BB in Sarajevo in Hotel Old Town 4* | Holiday 4* | Colors Inn 4* or similar
  • 1 FB (full board) and 1 HB (half board) in Rafting Camp near Tara river in authentic log cabins
  • 1 BB in Mostar in Eden Hotel & Spa 4* | Kriva Ćuprija 4* or similar
  • 1 BB in Trebinje in Hotel Central Park 4* | SL Industry 4* or similar

Superior package:

  • 2 BB in Sarajevo in Hotel Courtyard by Marriot 4* superior | President 4* superior | Swissotel 5* or similar
  • 1 FB (full board) and 1 HB (half board) in Rafting Camp near Tara river in authentic log cabins
  • 1 BB in Mostar in Hotel Mepas 5* | Mostar 4* superior or similar
  • 1 BB in Trebinje in Hotel Central Park 4* | SL Industry 4* or similar

Meals

  • 12 Meals Included

Entrances

  • Springs of Bosnia River
  • Tunnel of Hope
  • Sutjeska NP with picnic lunch
  • Blagaj

Experiences

  • Sarajevo Food Experience Walking Tour®
  • Lukomir Village lunch
  • Tara River rafting
  • Wine tasting in Tvrdoš Monastery

Transportation

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers
  • Transportation throughout the tour according to the itinerary

Additional

  • Professional tour guidance throughout the tour
  • VAT, accommodation taxes and city taxes
  • Tour logistics and organization by a licensed local agency

I'm a solo traveller, is there a single supplement?

If you are travelling alone, not as part of a joint private tour, and want to book an exclusive private tour (guide & vehicle) with accommodation in a single room, please send us a request via enquiry form on the right side, and we will get back to you imediately with an offer for your Adventure tour.

Do you require a visa for this holiday?

Due to the various number of nationalities of our customers it is hard to unify information regarding Visa requirements. It is the responsibility of the passengers to get acquainted with visa requirements of all the countries they are travelling to or will be in transit. Make sure to get all the information from government’s foreign travel advisories, relevant authorities or contact us for help.

Can you explain the Activity level - Relaxed marked above?

On our tours marked RELAXED you will be spending 2 to 3 hours walking or cycling throughout cities, during sightseeing or hiking down the well-maintained tracks, with no steep ascents or descents. With free time in the afternoon and including Local Experiences such as typical food and wine tasting, boat rides etc. they offer great opportunity to meet, explore and experience new destinations. These tours (level of activity) do not require previous experience and are ideal for travellers who enjoy active holiday but are not in a great shape.

What is cancellation policy?

CANCELLATION BY THE GUEST

In case of cancellation by the guest, refund policy will be applied by the terms stated in the list below. The guest is obligated to send official written cancellation notice. Given refund policy will be applied from the time of receiving the notification in writing. The shown refund amount represents a percentage of the total tour price.

For cancellation up to 60 days before departure – 100% refund.
For cancellation from 59 days till 46 days before departure – 90% refund.
For cancellation from 45 days till 31 days before departure – 80% refund.
For cancellation from 30 days till 16 days before departure – 70% refund.
For cancellation from 15 days till 8 days before departure – 50% refund.
For cancellation from 7 days till the day of departure – 0% refund.

Beside all standard reasons, cancellation policy will also apply if tour participant cancel the tour with a reason that includes medical ground, visa issues, jury service etc.

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