Kravice waterfall excursion, Ston,Meugorje, Mostar

Kravice Waterfall Excursion, Ston, Medjugorje, Mostar: An Authentic Day in Herzegovina

This full-day tour from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded glimpse into Herzegovina’s stunning landscapes and historic sites. It covers everything from the dramatic beauty of Kravice Waterfalls to the historic walls of Ston, the spiritual vibe of Medjugorje, and the iconic charm of Mostar’s old town. The itinerary is packed with diverse experiences, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and local flavor.

What stands out most is the guide’s local insights, especially around the waterfalls and restaurant recommendations—these little touches can make the day even more memorable. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves a fair amount of driving, which might be a drawback if you prefer shorter trips or more time at each stop.

This tour suits those who want a flexible, guided taste of Herzegovina’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s particularly appealing if you’re interested in scenic landscapes, historic towns, and optional cultural or culinary experiences. If you’re looking for a laid-back yet comprehensive day trip, this could be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary with optional visits to Medjugorje and oyster tasting
• Comfortable transportation with a knowledgeable guide making the drive informative and safe
• Well-paced stops allowing enough time to enjoy waterfalls, towns, and local treats
• Authentic experiences such as sampling local food and exploring historical sites
• Value for money considering the variety of destinations covered
• Mixed reviews highlighting exceptional guides but also some concerns about the level of commentary and organization

Exploring the Whole Day: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early, with departure from Dubrovnik at 8 a.m. The first stop is Ston, a historic fortified town renowned for its massive city walls that stretch over 5 km, making them the second-longest in Europe. Here, you’ll enjoy a brief 30-45 minute break to soak in the views, take photos, and perhaps imagine life defending these walls centuries ago. Ston is also known for its salt production and local oysters, making it a good place to stretch your legs and take in some history before heading further into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

After crossing the border into Herzegovina (a smooth process with the included tax and voucher), the journey continues to the Kravice Waterfalls. This is the star attraction, with lush greenery surrounding the cascade as water plunges into a clear, inviting pool. The ticket costs around $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 7-18, and the hour you spend here can be quite refreshing—whether you choose to simply admire the view, snap photos, or dip your toes in the cool water.

Pro tip: If you opt to visit Medjugorje, the time at Kravice shortens to about 30 minutes, but many find the spiritual atmosphere of Medjugorje valuable—especially if you’re interested in religious or cultural experiences. Expect a quick 30-minute visit, enough to get a sense of the town’s peaceful vibe.

Visiting Medjugorje: Spiritual or Quick Stop?

Medjugorje is included as an optional stop, and it’s often described as a quiet, reflective place, famous for its religious significance. Visiting here is likely to be a quick, 30-minute stop, giving some travelers a chance to light a candle or take in the serene surroundings. Some reviews indicate that if you’re interested in the spiritual aspect, it’s worth the visit; others might prefer to skip it if time is tight.

Mostar: The Heart of the Trip

Arriving in Mostar around 1:15 p.m., you’ll find plenty of time to explore the Old Town, with its iconic stone bridge, the Stari Most, which dates back to the 16th century. The town itself offers a lively mix of traditional markets, cafes, and historical sites. Many travelers recommend wandering through the cobbled streets, taking in the blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture.

The tour includes free time for sightseeing, during which you can decide to visit local restaurants. Our reviewers often highlight the quality of the food—some recommend specific restaurants like Restaurant Sadrvan, praised for its delicious local dishes and friendly atmosphere.

Optional Oyster Tasting in Doli

On the way back to Dubrovnik, there’s a short 10-minute stop in Doli for oyster tasting. Each oyster costs about 1 euro, offering a taste of the local seafood. This optional activity is a hit with seafood lovers and a fun way to indulge in some regional flavors.

The Logistics: Timing and Comfort

The tour’s schedule is designed for a relaxed pace, with clear timing expectations. The drive from Dubrovnik to Ston takes about an hour; then, another hour and a half to Kravice. The guide’s expert commentary enhances the experience, though reviews suggest some variability—some travelers felt the commentary was minimal, especially during the transfer portions.

The group size caps at 8, which makes for a more intimate experience and allows the guide to be more attentive. The transportation is comfortable, and a bottled water per person is included, which is appreciated on hot days.

Cost and Value

Priced at $353 for a group of up to 8, this tour offers a balanced mix of destinations and experiences. Considering the included border taxes, the voucher for Mostar, and the diverse stops, it’s a fair price. The optional activities—Medjugorje visit, oyster tasting—are paid separately, allowing flexibility based on your interests.

While some reviews mention that the guide’s commentary can be hit or miss, others praise the guide’s expertise and attentiveness. It’s worth noting that some travelers found the tour more enjoyable when the guide was engaging and helpful in recommending local restaurants and attractions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip works best for travelers who want a comprehensive day out with a flexible schedule. If you’re interested in nature, historic towns, and authentic regional experiences, you’ll find plenty to love here. It also suits those who appreciate a small-group environment, allowing for more personalized attention.

However, if you prefer detailed guided commentary at every stop or a more organized, less spontaneous pace, you might want to explore other options. The optional stops—Medjugorje and oyster tasting—are perfect if you’re open to customizing your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Herzegovina day trip from Dubrovnik offers a good balance of scenic beauty, history, and local flavor, all within a manageable schedule. It’s especially attractive for those who want to see a variety of highlights without the stress of planning multiple separate trips.

The stops at Kravice Waterfalls and Mostar are definite highlights, with the guide’s local insights making the experience richer. The optional visits to Medjugorje and Doli can add a spiritual or culinary dimension, making the day even more memorable.

While there are some differences in guide engagement and pacing, overall, this tour delivers a solid value, especially considering the diversity of stops and the intimate group size. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Herzegovina’s natural beauty and historic charm in just one day.

FAQs

How early do we need to depart from Dubrovnik?
The tour starts at 8 a.m., so expect to be ready for an early start to make the most of the day.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, the schedule is designed for approximately 30-45 minutes at Ston, an hour at Kravice, and around 30 minutes in Medjugorje if chosen. Mostar offers free time for exploration.

Do I need to buy tickets for Kravice Waterfalls?
Yes, tickets cost about $10 for adults and $5 for children aged 7-18—these are paid on-site.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes border taxes, a voucher for Mostar, and a bottle of water per passenger. The waterfal ticket and activities like oyster tasting are extra.

Is the guide’s commentary helpful?
Reviews vary; some travelers praise Daniel (the guide) for his professionalism and helpful tips, while others found the commentary minimal during certain segments.

Can I visit Medjugorje if I’m not religious?
Absolutely. The visit is brief and offers a peaceful, cultural snapshot rather than a full religious tour.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to the waterfalls?
The drive from Dubrovnik to Ston takes about an hour, with another hour and a half to Kravice.

Are there any restrictions during the tour?
Smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during transport or at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

This day trip from Dubrovnik provides a well-rounded insight into Herzegovina’s landscapes and towns, all while keeping comfort and authenticity front and center. Whether it’s the allure of Kravice’s waterfalls, the historic charm of Ston, or the vibrant streets of Mostar, this tour offers a memorable slice of Bosnia and Herzegovina in just one day.