Mostar and Kravice waterfalls full day tour

Planning a day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most captivating sights without the hassle of driving yourself. The Mostar and Kravice waterfalls full day tour promises a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and local culture, all wrapped into a roughly 12-hour adventure. It’s a popular choice for those who want a guided, stress-free experience that covers highlights like the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Mostar and the stunning Kravice Falls.

What we love about this tour is the professional guidance—having both a coach driver and local guides means you get comprehensive insights and a smooth ride. The scenery along the way is often breathtaking, especially with the chance to see the famous Old Bridge of Mostar and the tumbling Kravice waterfalls. One thing to consider, however, is that the day is quite long, with some reviews mentioning a lengthy journey of over 5 hours each way, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with an early start and a full schedule.

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to experience Bosnia’s iconic sights without the complexities of border crossings and self-driving. It suits those who appreciate guided excursions—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone short on time but craving a meaningful day out.

Key Points

• Convenient guided experience with pickup from Cavtat, saving you the stress of self-driving and navigation.
• Stunning scenery at Kravice waterfalls and in Mostar’s Old Town, perfect for photo buffs.
• Insightful local guides who explain the history and architecture, making the visit more meaningful.
• Long but rewarding day of approximately 12 hours, so good planning for meals and rest is essential.
• Cost includes transportation and guided tours, with optional entrance fees at your own expense.
• Authentic moments like exploring Kajtazs House or sampling local food options during your free time.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins Early and Expect a Long Day

Starting at 6:00 am from Cavtat, you’ll board a coach that takes you on a journey through scenic coastal and inland landscapes. Most reviews mention a long travel time—around 5.5 hours from Cavtat to Mostar—so brace yourself for a fair amount of time on the road, though the views are generally quite enjoyable. Some travelers note that the trip feels longer than expected, especially with border crossings, which can add over an hour to the journey, depending on border traffic.

The coach itself is usually a comfortable space, with a knowledgeable guide providing commentary along the way. It’s good to prepare for an early start, as you’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the ride rather than worry about navigating.

First Stop: Kravice Waterfalls – Bosnian Mini Niagara

Your first destination is the breathtaking Kravice Falls. These waterfalls are often described as a “mini Niagara” and offer a feast for the senses. The falls are quite impressive, tumbling over limestone and creating a misty, fragrant atmosphere. You’ll have about an hour to explore, take photos, and admire the power of nature.

Reviewers mention that in April, the water might be too cold for swimming, but the sound of the rushing water alone makes it worth the visit. Those who brought swim shoes appreciated the slippery stairs and slopes leading down to the water, which can be steep and uneven. There’s a small cabin where you can grab a drink and use the toilets, which is handy after the walk.

A notable tip from travelers is to bring cash—€10 for the waterfall entrance and €3 tourist tax—which you’ll pay there. While entry isn’t included in the tour price, the scenery alone makes the small additional fee worthwhile.

Exploring Mostar: UNESCO World Heritage Site

After the waterfalls, the coach heads to Mostar, where you’ll spend about three hours exploring the old city. The highlight, of course, is the Old Bridge (Stari Most)—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and the area around it. The local guide will take you on a walking tour, pointing out landmarks, narrow cobbled streets, and traditional Ottoman architecture.

Reviewers rave about guides like Oli, who was described as “very informative and entertaining,” helping make sense of Mostar’s complicated history. You’ll visit Kajtazs House, an Ottoman-era Turkish home turned museum, to gain insights into local life centuries ago. However, some travelers mention that the entrance fee to Kajtazs House is not included in the tour (around €2.50), so if you want to go inside, bring some cash.

During your free time, many enjoyed sampling the local food—Mostar is renowned for its affordable, delicious cuisine. Some reviewers appreciated the opportunity to sit at restaurants with views of the bridge, sampling traditional dishes or grabbing ice cream from the many shops lining the streets.

The Authentic Touches and Practical Tips

• Guides are a highlight—they bring history alive and give context to the city’s architecture and sights.
• Time management is key; some reviewers felt they only had around three hours, which is enough for sightseeing, but not for extensive shopping or multiple museums.
• Expect busy streets and some pushy vendors, especially near major sights, so keep your belongings close to avoid pickpocketing, as some travelers noted.

Return Journey & Overall Duration

The return trip is just as long as the journey there, often with some additional stops for bathroom or snack breaks. Some reviews mentioned being back in Cavtat around 7:30 pm—so be prepared for a full day. The tour provider arranges smaller transport for travelers staying in Cavtat, which is a big plus at the end of the long day.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $81.53 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price, especially considering the guided experience, transportation, and entry fees that are not included but are reasonably priced. Several reviewers praised the good value for money, highlighting the quality of guides and the breathtaking scenery.

One point to remember: the waterfalls entry fee of €10 and tourist tax of €3 are additional costs, so factor those into your budget. The tour also includes a local guide in Mostar and an English-speaking coach driver, which adds a layer of comfort and insight that self-guided trips lack.

While the long travel time can be tiring, many found it worth the effort because of the beauty and authenticity of the places visited. For those with limited time in the Dubrovnik area, this trip offers a concentrated dose of natural wonders and history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with guided commentary and don’t mind a lengthy schedule. It’s suited to those who enjoy scenery, history, and culture and are comfortable with a full day of travel. If you’re looking for a leisurely or private experience, this might feel a bit rushed, but for most, the highlights compensate for the long hours.

It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic sites, local guides, and good value—especially if you want to avoid the hassle of driving and border crossings yourself.

The Sum Up: Is It Right for You?

This tour stands out as a well-organized, value-packed way to see Mostar’s iconic sights and the spectacular Kravice waterfalls in a single day. The guides’ knowledge and the scenic stops make the experience memorable, even if the journey is lengthy. It’s especially suitable for those who want to learn about Bosnia’s culture and history while enjoying some of its most photogenic natural spots.

If you’re comfortable with a long day on the road and eager to explore without the hassle of planning, this trip delivers plenty of bang for your buck. Be prepared with comfortable shoes, cash, and a good attitude for a full adventure that leaves you with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts at 6:00 am from Cavtat. Make sure to specify your hotel or accommodation details at least 12 hours before, so they can notify you of any changes.

What’s included in the tour price?
Transportation with an English-speaking guide, a local guide in Mostar for 30 minutes, and guided tours of the Old Town. Entrance fees are not included but are reasonably priced at €10 for the waterfalls and €3 tourist tax.

How long is the drive to Mostar?
The journey from Cavtat is around 5.5 hours one way, depending on border crossing times. Expect a long travel day but with scenic views en route.

Can I swim at Kravice Falls?
While the waterfalls are stunning, April visits might be too cold for swimming. The walk down to the water involves some steep stairs and slopes, so good shoes are recommended.

Is there free time in Mostar?
Yes, approximately three hours are allocated for exploring, eating, and shopping. Many reviewers enjoyed sampling local cuisine and ice cream during this period.

What should I bring?
Cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, comfortable shoes, water, and possibly a light jacket depending on the weather. Bring some snacks or breakfast, as lunch is late in the day.

Can I go inside Kajtazs House?
Entry is optional; the guide mentioned a €2.50 fee if you want to visit, but it is not included in the tour.

Overall, this full-day guided trip strikes a good balance between natural beauty and cultural highlights. It’s a chance to see Bosnia’s treasures in a relaxed, informative setting—perfect for curious travelers eager to make the most of a single day.