
Bosnia & Herzegovina · Croatia
Hiking in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Hiking in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Duration
9 days
Start/End
Trebinje/Dubrovnik
Tour type
Group
Level
Very demanding
Accommodation
Hotel
Overview
Off the beaten track you hike through the primeval forest of Sutjeska National Park, climb Maglić, the country’s highest mountain, visit Sarajevo, the mountain village of Lukomir and Obalj, and follow the Neretva to Mostar and Dubrovnik. Long stages of up to ten hours and 1,300 metres of ascent.
If you're looking for adventure and want to travel off the beaten track, you'll discover a fascinating trekking world in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Between rugged wilderness, striking peaks, and warm hospitality, a pristine mountain landscape unfolds before you, still considered a hidden gem. In Sutjeska National Park, you'll hike through dense primeval forests and untouched nature, while the climb to Maglić – the country's highest peak – rewards you with a breathtaking panorama of the vast mountain landscape. Along the way, you'll encounter hidden waterfalls, clear glacial lakes from the Ice Age, and dramatic gorges like the impressive Neretva Gorge. A unique glimpse into traditional life awaits you in the mountain village of Lukomir, the highest village in the country. Here, time seems to slow down, and ancient customs are still very much alive. Besides immersive nature experiences, your travels will also take you to historic cities like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Dubrovnik. Their buildings and alleyways tell of a turbulent past and cultural diversity. This journey combines pristine landscapes, sporting challenges and authentic encounters – a hiking adventure in the heart of the Balkans that will be remembered for a long time.
Tour Code
Tour language
EnglishItinerary
Day 1
Trebinje
Hotel
Dobro došli – welcome to your adventure! Your individual journey will first take you to Trebinje. The first hotel of your trip is centrally located in the old town, directly on the banks of the Trebišnjica river, thus offering an ideal starting point for the coming days. The nearest airport is Dubrovnik Airport, about a 45-minute drive away. As there is no public transport between the airport and Trebinje, we recommend taking the organized group transfer (departure time on request). Alternatively, you can take an official taxi; the cost is approximately €75–100 per trip. In the evening, we'll get in the mood for the trip with a welcome dinner. At an idyllic winery high above the city rooftops, we'll enjoy regional specialties and a first glimpse of the rolling hills of Herzegovina – the perfect start to an exciting tour.
Trebinje
Day 1
Hotel
Dobro došli – welcome to your adventure! Your individual journey will first take you to Trebinje. The first hotel of your trip is centrally located in the old town, directly on the banks of the Trebišnjica river, thus offering an ideal starting point for the coming days. The nearest airport is Dubrovnik Airport, about a 45-minute drive away. As there is no public transport between the airport and Trebinje, we recommend taking the organized group transfer (departure time on request). Alternatively, you can take an official taxi; the cost is approximately €75–100 per trip. In the evening, we'll get in the mood for the trip with a welcome dinner. At an idyllic winery high above the city rooftops, we'll enjoy regional specialties and a first glimpse of the rolling hills of Herzegovina – the perfect start to an exciting tour.
Day 2
Sutjeska National Park
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 8 km, ascent 560 m, descent 623 m
Sutjeska National Park is the oldest national park in the country and, with the Perućica primeval forest area, preserves one of the last original forest areas in Europe. In the morning, a transfer will take you to your hotel in the national park. From there, you'll begin your hike to the idyllic mountain lake Donje Bare, nestled amidst dense forests and often covered in a thick layer of ice during the winter. After a fortifying lunch break, the trail leads through light beech forests and across wide clearings up to the 1,858-meter-high summit of Uglješin. Once you reach the top, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before you: the Zelengora mountain range stretches out before you, while the striking rock faces of Volujak rise majestically into the sky. From there, you hike for about an hour and a half along the Tovarnica ridge to Lake Gornje Bare. The highest peak in the country – Maglić – accompanies you on the horizon throughout your hike. Back in the valley of Tjentište, a well-deserved dinner awaits you at the hotel – the perfect end to a scenic day of hiking.
Sutjeska National Park
Day 2
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 8 km, ascent 560 m, descent 623 m
Sutjeska National Park is the oldest national park in the country and, with the Perućica primeval forest area, preserves one of the last original forest areas in Europe. In the morning, a transfer will take you to your hotel in the national park. From there, you'll begin your hike to the idyllic mountain lake Donje Bare, nestled amidst dense forests and often covered in a thick layer of ice during the winter. After a fortifying lunch break, the trail leads through light beech forests and across wide clearings up to the 1,858-meter-high summit of Uglješin. Once you reach the top, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before you: the Zelengora mountain range stretches out before you, while the striking rock faces of Volujak rise majestically into the sky. From there, you hike for about an hour and a half along the Tovarnica ridge to Lake Gornje Bare. The highest peak in the country – Maglić – accompanies you on the horizon throughout your hike. Back in the valley of Tjentište, a well-deserved dinner awaits you at the hotel – the perfect end to a scenic day of hiking.
Day 3
Ascent to the summit of Maglic and Lake Trnovacko
Hotel
Walking time approx. 9-10 hours, hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 1306 m, descent 1289 m
approx. 1 h
After an approximately one-hour transfer, you'll reach Lovka Dernečište – the starting point for a true summit adventure. Today you'll tackle the highest mountain in the country: Maglić. It belongs to the Dinaric Alps and also marks the border with Montenegro. Surefootedness and a head for heights are absolutely essential for this climb. The trail leads you first through dense forests, later across open, rocky terrain. On well-maintained, sometimes narrow paths, you traverse steep slopes and climb steadily uphill past rugged rock formations. After about three to four hours, you finally reach the 2,386-meter summit. Once there, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view that stretches far across the mountain landscape and into Montenegro – the perfect spot for a well-deserved rest. Then you cross the border and hike down to the emerald-green shimmering Lake Trnovačko. Its distinctive, kidney-shaped silhouette and the lush green forests surrounding it give this glacial lake an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. After a peaceful break by the clear water, you continue your journey to Prijevor. There, your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the Tjentište valley – filled with the impressions of an impressive day exploring borders and summits.
Ascent to the summit of Maglic and Lake Trnovacko
Day 3
Hotel
Walking time approx. 9-10 hours, hiking distance approx. 15 km, ascent 1306 m, descent 1289 m
approx. 1 h
After an approximately one-hour transfer, you'll reach Lovka Dernečište – the starting point for a true summit adventure. Today you'll tackle the highest mountain in the country: Maglić. It belongs to the Dinaric Alps and also marks the border with Montenegro. Surefootedness and a head for heights are absolutely essential for this climb. The trail leads you first through dense forests, later across open, rocky terrain. On well-maintained, sometimes narrow paths, you traverse steep slopes and climb steadily uphill past rugged rock formations. After about three to four hours, you finally reach the 2,386-meter summit. Once there, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view that stretches far across the mountain landscape and into Montenegro – the perfect spot for a well-deserved rest. Then you cross the border and hike down to the emerald-green shimmering Lake Trnovačko. Its distinctive, kidney-shaped silhouette and the lush green forests surrounding it give this glacial lake an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. After a peaceful break by the clear water, you continue your journey to Prijevor. There, your transfer will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the Tjentište valley – filled with the impressions of an impressive day exploring borders and summits.
Day 4
Sarajevo
Hotel
Today, a transfer will take you to the capital city of Sarajevo. During a joint orientation tour, you will gain fascinating insights into the city's historical and cultural sights – and begin to better understand its multifaceted and eventful history. In the oriental-influenced old town quarter of Baščaršija, numerous coffee houses invite visitors to take a break, while small craft shops offer traditional goods and unique souvenirs. The cityscape is characterized by the harmonious blend of different cultures, religions, and eras – mosques, churches, and synagogues are often just a few steps away from each other. Topographically, Sarajevo lies in a valley basin, framed by the Bjelašnica and Igman mountains. Thanks to this location, the city hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics – an event whose impact is still felt today. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Explore centuries-old religious buildings, visit the impressively restored town hall, or immerse yourself in one of the many museums. Stroll through vibrant markets and sample the local cuisine – Sarajevo is best experienced with all your senses.
Sarajevo
Day 4
Hotel
Today, a transfer will take you to the capital city of Sarajevo. During a joint orientation tour, you will gain fascinating insights into the city's historical and cultural sights – and begin to better understand its multifaceted and eventful history. In the oriental-influenced old town quarter of Baščaršija, numerous coffee houses invite visitors to take a break, while small craft shops offer traditional goods and unique souvenirs. The cityscape is characterized by the harmonious blend of different cultures, religions, and eras – mosques, churches, and synagogues are often just a few steps away from each other. Topographically, Sarajevo lies in a valley basin, framed by the Bjelašnica and Igman mountains. Thanks to this location, the city hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics – an event whose impact is still felt today. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Explore centuries-old religious buildings, visit the impressively restored town hall, or immerse yourself in one of the many museums. Stroll through vibrant markets and sample the local cuisine – Sarajevo is best experienced with all your senses.
Day 5
Bukovik summit and Skakavac waterfall
Hotel
Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 11 km, ascent 957 m, descent 1228 m
approx. 30 minutes
After about a half-hour drive, you'll reach the popular picnic spot in Crepoljsko. From here, your hike begins today, leading up to the 1,534-meter-high summit of Bukovik. The trail leads you across lush green meadows and through fragrant coniferous forests to the Bukovik Hut. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Sarajevo nestled in the valley below. After a short rest at the hut, you'll soon reach the summit – the highest point north of the capital. From here, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the mountain ranges to the south and the diverse landscape surrounding the city. Afterwards, you'll hike through shady pine forests to the impressive Skakavac Waterfall. With a drop of 98 meters, it's the highest waterfall in the country and a popular destination for Sarajevo residents. The source of the river of the same name is nearby. Here, a relaxing lunch break with tea and coffee awaits you before you continue through dense forest to the base of the cascading waterfall. The perfect end to the day is a short hike to a cozy lodge. Enjoy a refreshing drink, reflect on the day's experiences, and put your feet up before heading back to your accommodation.
Bukovik summit and Skakavac waterfall
Day 5
Hotel
Walking time approx. 5-6 hours, hiking distance approx. 11 km, ascent 957 m, descent 1228 m
approx. 30 minutes
After about a half-hour drive, you'll reach the popular picnic spot in Crepoljsko. From here, your hike begins today, leading up to the 1,534-meter-high summit of Bukovik. The trail leads you across lush green meadows and through fragrant coniferous forests to the Bukovik Hut. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Sarajevo nestled in the valley below. After a short rest at the hut, you'll soon reach the summit – the highest point north of the capital. From here, you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the mountain ranges to the south and the diverse landscape surrounding the city. Afterwards, you'll hike through shady pine forests to the impressive Skakavac Waterfall. With a drop of 98 meters, it's the highest waterfall in the country and a popular destination for Sarajevo residents. The source of the river of the same name is nearby. Here, a relaxing lunch break with tea and coffee awaits you before you continue through dense forest to the base of the cascading waterfall. The perfect end to the day is a short hike to a cozy lodge. Enjoy a refreshing drink, reflect on the day's experiences, and put your feet up before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 6
Lukomir village and Obalj peak
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 9 km, ascent 717 m, descent 553 m
Today you'll spend the day in the Bjelašnica mountains. Starting from the village of Umoljani, you'll hike towards Gradina, a summer pasture for the local population for centuries. From there, you'll ascend via the Studeni stream to the Obalj ridge. With every meter of elevation gained, breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks unfold, including the striking Treskavica and the expansive Visočica. Following the gentle, sometimes steeper slopes, you'll eventually reach the 1,896-meter-high summit of Obalj. Far below lies your next destination: the mountain village of Lukomir. At 1,469 meters, it's the highest village in the country. Its medieval Stećci tombstones are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bear witness to the eventful history of this region. Time seems to have stood still in Lukomir. Many residents still maintain traditional ways of life and wear their costumes with pride. On the edge of the village, you can enjoy a magnificent view into the deep Rakitnica Canyon and across to the Obalj and Visočica mountains. After a simple but delicious, homemade late lunch, you will be taken back to your hotel in Sarajevo – filled with intense nature experiences and authentic encounters.
Lukomir village and Obalj peak
Day 6
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 9 km, ascent 717 m, descent 553 m
Today you'll spend the day in the Bjelašnica mountains. Starting from the village of Umoljani, you'll hike towards Gradina, a summer pasture for the local population for centuries. From there, you'll ascend via the Studeni stream to the Obalj ridge. With every meter of elevation gained, breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks unfold, including the striking Treskavica and the expansive Visočica. Following the gentle, sometimes steeper slopes, you'll eventually reach the 1,896-meter-high summit of Obalj. Far below lies your next destination: the mountain village of Lukomir. At 1,469 meters, it's the highest village in the country. Its medieval Stećci tombstones are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and bear witness to the eventful history of this region. Time seems to have stood still in Lukomir. Many residents still maintain traditional ways of life and wear their costumes with pride. On the edge of the village, you can enjoy a magnificent view into the deep Rakitnica Canyon and across to the Obalj and Visočica mountains. After a simple but delicious, homemade late lunch, you will be taken back to your hotel in Sarajevo – filled with intense nature experiences and authentic encounters.
Day 7
Neretva River - Mostar
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 8 km, ascent 507 m, descent 510 m
Today you have the choice between two special nature experiences: an optional rafting tour in the spectacular Neretva Canyon or a scenic hike above the river. The Neretva River is considered a jewel of Herzegovina. It meanders for over 200 kilometers through the region before emptying into the Adriatic Sea via a fertile delta. In its upper reaches, it is still known as the Rakitnica in some sections. This part of the canyon is among the best rafting areas in Europe. Depending on the season, you can expect rapids ranging from difficulty level 2 to 4. The wild gorge also serves as a refuge for animals such as bears and wolves. The approximately three- to four-hour rafting tour can be booked and paid for on-site (around €45). If you prefer to travel on foot, hike into the secluded hills around Kašići. From the canyon's edge, you'll be treated to magnificent views down to the emerald-green river. After an adventurous crossing of a suspension bridge, you'll reach the riverbank where the rapids from the little-explored Rakitnica Canyon flow into the Neretva. The breathtaking scenery accompanies you onward to an idyllic rest area – either in a cave or right by the water. The route then leads back via Konjic, where you'll meet up with the other participants of the rafting tour. In the evening, you'll finally reach your accommodation in Mostar – ready for new experiences in this historic city in Herzegovina.
Neretva River - Mostar
Day 7
Hotel
Walking time approx. 4-5 hours, hiking distance approx. 8 km, ascent 507 m, descent 510 m
Today you have the choice between two special nature experiences: an optional rafting tour in the spectacular Neretva Canyon or a scenic hike above the river. The Neretva River is considered a jewel of Herzegovina. It meanders for over 200 kilometers through the region before emptying into the Adriatic Sea via a fertile delta. In its upper reaches, it is still known as the Rakitnica in some sections. This part of the canyon is among the best rafting areas in Europe. Depending on the season, you can expect rapids ranging from difficulty level 2 to 4. The wild gorge also serves as a refuge for animals such as bears and wolves. The approximately three- to four-hour rafting tour can be booked and paid for on-site (around €45). If you prefer to travel on foot, hike into the secluded hills around Kašići. From the canyon's edge, you'll be treated to magnificent views down to the emerald-green river. After an adventurous crossing of a suspension bridge, you'll reach the riverbank where the rapids from the little-explored Rakitnica Canyon flow into the Neretva. The breathtaking scenery accompanies you onward to an idyllic rest area – either in a cave or right by the water. The route then leads back via Konjic, where you'll meet up with the other participants of the rafting tour. In the evening, you'll finally reach your accommodation in Mostar – ready for new experiences in this historic city in Herzegovina.
Day 8
Mostar – Dubrovnik
Hotel
In the morning you will explore Mostar, which was already an important trading center in Herzegovina in the 16th century and gained tragic notoriety during the war in the 1990s. The city's landmark is the famous Stari Most – the "Old Bridge" – which spans the Neretva River and connects the western and eastern parts of the city. Strolling through the winding alleys of the old town, you'll discover small workshops, hidden markets, and historic religious buildings – from the ancient basilica to the mosque. The blend of Ottoman heritage and Mediterranean flair gives Mostar a truly unique atmosphere. In the early afternoon, you continue your journey towards Dubrovnik – the famous “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Until the 18th century, the city was an independent republic and an important trading center. Today, its impressive old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along the mighty city walls offers fantastic views of the red tile roofs and the deep blue sea. Afterwards, stroll along the "Stradun," the gleaming main street with its white limestone slabs. The baroque buildings on both sides were rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of the 17th century as part of a unified reconstruction effort and still define the harmonious cityscape today. You spend the last evening of your hiking trip relaxing in the atmospheric streets of Dubrovnik – accompanied by the Mediterranean flair and the feeling of having experienced an extraordinary journey.
Mostar – Dubrovnik
Day 8
Hotel
In the morning you will explore Mostar, which was already an important trading center in Herzegovina in the 16th century and gained tragic notoriety during the war in the 1990s. The city's landmark is the famous Stari Most – the "Old Bridge" – which spans the Neretva River and connects the western and eastern parts of the city. Strolling through the winding alleys of the old town, you'll discover small workshops, hidden markets, and historic religious buildings – from the ancient basilica to the mosque. The blend of Ottoman heritage and Mediterranean flair gives Mostar a truly unique atmosphere. In the early afternoon, you continue your journey towards Dubrovnik – the famous “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Until the 18th century, the city was an independent republic and an important trading center. Today, its impressive old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk along the mighty city walls offers fantastic views of the red tile roofs and the deep blue sea. Afterwards, stroll along the "Stradun," the gleaming main street with its white limestone slabs. The baroque buildings on both sides were rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of the 17th century as part of a unified reconstruction effort and still define the harmonious cityscape today. You spend the last evening of your hiking trip relaxing in the atmospheric streets of Dubrovnik – accompanied by the Mediterranean flair and the feeling of having experienced an extraordinary journey.
Day 9
Dubrovnik
Today we say goodbye to an impressive journey full of nature experiences, cultural encounters and unforgettable views. Your varied hiking trip comes to an end, leaving you with many special memories. A shared transfer will take you comfortably to Dubrovnik Airport, from where you will begin your journey home. Goodbye – or perhaps until a new adventure in the Balkans!
Dubrovnik
Day 9
Today we say goodbye to an impressive journey full of nature experiences, cultural encounters and unforgettable views. Your varied hiking trip comes to an end, leaving you with many special memories. A shared transfer will take you comfortably to Dubrovnik Airport, from where you will begin your journey home. Goodbye – or perhaps until a new adventure in the Balkans!
Services
What's included
1x luxury hotel, 7x mid-range hotels
8x breakfast, 5x packed lunch, 4x dinner
All transport and transfers as described in the minibus
Luggage transport
English-speaking hiking guide
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Tip
meals and drinks not mentioned
Character of the trip
Fitness
Very demanding
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Nature-led
This hiking trip requires good to very good physical condition, sure-footedness and a head for heights.
- The hikes last approximately 4 to 10 hours, covering approximately 8 to 15 km and up to approximately 1,300 m of elevation gain and loss.
- The longest stage, with a walking time of approximately 9 to 10 hours, is particularly challenging.
You should definitely have experience with long mountain hikes.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Accommodation is in a double room; solo travelers will be accommodated together with a fellow traveler of the same gender – a single room can be booked for an extra charge (528–588 euros, depending on the date).
Notes on the trip
Notice
You should have a head for heights to climb to the summit of Maglic.
Meals
Breakfast in the Balkans typically consists of bread and pastries, dairy products such as yogurt and cheese, muesli, eggs prepared in various ways, smoked meats, honey, tea and coffee, milk, and juices. In Sutjeska, you can choose between a hot or cold breakfast. In Sarajevo, Mostar, and Dubrovnik, you can choose between a hot and a cold buffet. Lunch is a picnic with bread, cheese, sausage, meat and vegetarian pies, salad, chocolate bars, biscuits, trail mix, and coffee/tea. Dinner in Sutjeska consists of three courses and includes soup, a selection of traditionally prepared meats, vegetables, and dessert.
Bosnian cuisine
Typical Bosnian cuisine consists of ingredients such as tomatoes, potatoes, onions, garlic, peppers, cucumbers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, beans, and dairy products like milk, cheese, pavlaka (sour cream), and kajmak (similar to curdled cream). Meat dishes generally feature beef and lamb, and specialties include ćevapi, burek, dolma (stuffed vegetables with meat), and goulash. Desserts often have an Eastern influence, with baklava being very popular. The alcoholic beverage rakija, made from apples or plums, is also widespread in the region. Croatian and Montenegrin cuisine share similarities with Bosnian cuisine but are also heavily influenced by Greek and Italian cuisine. Vegetarian and other special dietary needs can be accommodated, but options are limited throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina—please inform us of any special requests when booking.
Notice in accordance with EU Directive 2015/2302:
This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
