Sarajevo: Swimming in waterfalls and discovering Herzegovina

Sarajevo: Swimming in Waterfalls and Discovering Herzegovina — An In-Depth Review

Taking a day trip from Sarajevo into the heart of Herzegovina offers a chance to witness some of Europe’s most breathtaking natural scenery alongside fascinating historic towns. This guided tour, operated by Bosnian Tours, covers everything from the shimmering Kravica Waterfalls to the ancient streets of Poitelj and the lively atmosphere of Mostar. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines nature, culture, and history, all in a comfortably small group.

What stands out most about this trip is the inclusion of a swim at the Kravica Waterfalls, which is often highlighted as a true highlight by travelers. The tour also features gifted local guides who are fluent in English and passionate about sharing their homeland, making the experience both informative and engaging.

One consideration is the relatively packed itinerary — with stops at six different locations packed into a single day, you’ll need to be ready for a full, energetic schedule. But for those who love seeing multiple highlights in one trip, this tour offers fantastic value and authentic insights. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and outdoor adventure without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.

This tour suits those eager to explore off the beaten path, appreciate stunning scenery, and enjoy the camaraderie of a small group. If you’re after a comprehensive day packed with natural beauty and cultural gems, this could be your perfect Bosnian adventure.

Key Points

• Beautiful Waterfalls: Famous Kravica Waterfalls offers a refreshing swim and scenic photo opportunities.
• Local Guides: The driver also acts as a guide, providing authentic insights and fluent English commentary.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Covers six sites including historic towns, natural wonders, and scenic views.
• Value for Money: Competitive pricing includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and guided visits, with optional entrance fees.
• Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Includes Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a private vehicle, making the long day comfortable.

Exploring the Heart of Herzegovina: What to Expect

Sarajevo to Herzegovina — Starting the Journey

The tour begins with a pickup in Sarajevo, where a comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi and air conditioning awaits. The small group size (up to 7 people) promises an intimate experience, and the driver, also serving as your guide, is fluent in English. This means you get real-time insights and tailored answers to your questions, plus the convenience of door-to-door service.

Scenic Drive and Break at Jablanica

The first stop is Jablanica, roughly a 20-minute drive from Sarajevo. Here, travelers often take a quick photo, enjoy the views, and stretch their legs. Some reviews mention that the scenic drive itself is enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to admire Bosnia’s rolling hills and pastoral scenery. The brief stop is enough for a quick look or a snack before heading toward the waterfalls.

Kravica Waterfalls — The Highlight

A primary reason many choose this tour is the Kravica Waterfalls, often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful waterfalls. With a full hour allocated here, visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or relax on the grassy banks. Reviewers like Katrine loved the opportunity to swim and appreciated the guided tour and scenic views.

Some travelers mentioned that the owner of the tour is very knowledgeable and speaks English well, enhancing the experience with interesting commentary. The waterfalls are photogenic, with cascading tiers and lush surroundings, ideal for capturing memories or just soaking in the natural beauty.

Activities at Kravica include swimming, kayaking, and simply wandering around. But keep in mind, entrance tickets (around 10 EUR) are not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Poitelj — The Historic Town

Next, the tour visits Poitelj, a small yet captivating town. Here, you can expect a quick walk through the cobblestone streets and a guided overview of its history. Reviewers appreciated the friendly guides, noting that Vekas, the guide, excels at sharing Bosnia’s stories and answering questions.

Blagaj — Lunch and Tastes

Afterward, the group stops at Blagaj, known for its stunning Tekke (Sufi monastery) by the Buna River. This is a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch, often at a restaurant near the river. Food tasting is included, and the reviews highlight the delicious local cuisine and the picturesque setting. A full hour gives enough time to enjoy a meal, take photos, and explore the area.

Mostar — The Iconic Bridge

The final destination is Mostar, famous for its historic bridge and lively old town. The tour provides about 45 minutes here—a decent amount of time to walk around, take photos, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Reviewers like Imaan point out the friendly guides and the wealth of stories about the city.

Overall Value and Experience

The tour balances scenic beauty, cultural insights, and outdoor activities. The small group size and the driver-guide model ensure you receive personalized attention, and the inclusion of Wi-Fi and air conditioning keeps the transport comfortable even during the warmest days.

While the full-day schedule is ambitious, it’s designed for travelers who want to see as much as possible without the hassle of planning. The price, which covers pickup and drop-off, guided visits, and a local driver, is competitive considering the number of sites visited and the quality of the experience.

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, especially highlighting swimming at Kravica as a major highlight. Many emphasize that the tour offered an authentic and well-organized look at Herzegovina’s treasures, with Vekas and Emir often singled out for their excellent guiding.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear for the waterfall.
• Entrance fees for Kravica are not included, so prepare around 10 EUR.
• Food and drinks are also at your own expense, but lunch at Blagaj is highly recommended for its scenic setting.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around towns like Poitelj and Mostar.
• The tour operates on a flexible schedule, so check availability in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to combine outdoor fun with cultural sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who appreciate stunning waterfalls, historic towns, and scenic drives, and who don’t mind a full day on the move. Families, couples, or solo travelers interested in authentic Bosnia experiences will find this trip rewarding.

It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors to Bosnia who want an organized, guided day with local insights. If you’re looking for a relaxing, straightforward way to see Herzegovina’s highlights without the stress of planning, this tour fits the bill.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to spend more time in each location, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, be prepared for a busy schedule, especially during peak seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi and air conditioning in the vehicle, and a guided commentary from your driver-guide. Entrance fees to Kravica Waterfalls are not included (around 10 EUR), and food and drinks are at your own expense.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately one day, starting with a pickup in Sarajevo and returning at the end of the day. Exact start times depend on availability, so check in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a camera for all the beautiful sights.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the itinerary is family-friendly, especially for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English fluently?
The driver-guide speaks fluent English, and their commentary is engaging and easy to understand. Small group size ensures personalized attention.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, entrance tickets to Kravica Waterfalls (around 10 EUR) are paid separately. Lunch and personal expenses are also at your own cost.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic combination of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and local insights—all wrapped into a single memorable day. Whether you’re a nature lover eager to swim in waterfalls or a history enthusiast strolling through ancient towns, you’ll find plenty to love here. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and great value, it’s a recommended way to see Herzegovina’s highlights without the hassle of self-organizing.