Adventure Hiking in Bosnia
Hike the best of the Via Dinarica, through dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional village life and the untamed beauty of Rakitnica Canyon
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guidesAccommodation
2 nights in a hotel, 2 nights in guesthouses and a night in a mountain hutMeals
All meals includedTransfers
All airport and local transfers.Permits & Fees
All hiking permits and entrance feesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?
Cross the dramatic Rakitnica Canyon that divides the Bjelasnica and Visocica Mountain ranges, one of the least explored canyons in the Balkans
Savour the warmth of Bosnian hospitality and indulge in rustic, home-cooked meals as you stay in rural villages tucked deep into the wild mountain landscape
Enjoy nights in Mostar and Trebinje, two of Bosnia's prettiest cities. Walk their cobbled streets and enjoy the evening atmosphere with meals out at local restaurants
Key Information
Day 1
Head to Bosnia and explore Mostar
Driving
Hiking
Meet the group transfer at Dubrovnik Airport before a scenic drive across the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina. Watch the landscape transition from the Adriatic Coastline to the rugged mountainous terrain of the Balkans. Upon arrival, you can stretch your legs by walking around the quaint city taking in the cobblestone streets of the Ottoman Quarter and its famous Stari Most bridge. This iconic arched bridge spans the emerald waters of the Neretva River and stands as a symbol of resilience, having been destroyed during the Bosnian war in 1993 and later fully restored. In the evening head to a traditional Bosnian restaurant for a welcome dinner, where you'll have the chance to get acquainted with your guides and fellow adventurers over some tasty local food.
Day 2
Hike the hunting trails of King Karadjordjevic
Hiking
Venture into the wilderness of Cvrsnica Mountains, home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Bosnia. After a short drive, reach Diva Grabovica, a picturesque valley beneath towering cliffs and ridges. This region is part of the Dinaric Alps and offers breathtaking views of jagged peaks and deep gorges carved by tributaries of the Neretva River. Your hike follows the ancient hunting trails once used by King Karadjordjevic. Starting in the Diva Grabovica Valley, you'll ascend through dense beech forests, after two and a half hours of steady climb, you arrive at Zljeb, an awe-inspiring viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the largest rock face in the Balkans. Here, take a break to enjoy a packed lunch, surrounded by the imposing peaks of Cvrsnica, Mali, and Veliki Medvjed. After soaking in the views, descend back to the valley floor before transferring to the traditional village of Umoljani, nestled in the heart of the Bjelasnica Mountains. Tonight, you'll stay in a simple mountain lodge where you can enjoy a delicious homemade dinner, and experience the warmth of Bosnian hospitality.
Day 3
Explore the Olympic Mountain and Bosnia's highest village
Hiking
The next two days will immerse us in the rugged beauty of the Bjelasnica Mountains, home to many of the events from the 1984 Winter Olympics, including alpine skiing. Today’s hike will take us through one of the most picturesque and culturally rich areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Leaving Umoljani you pass the historic 'Seven Watermills' before continuing along a ridge that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The trail then leads you toward Obalj Peak and into the remote highlands, passing villages where modern life gently co-exists with centuries-old customs. As we approach the edge of the village you'll be rewarded with an exceptional view of the Rakitnica River, Obajl Peak and the Visocica Mountain. This is a place where time slows down and the natural beauty is overwhelming. After four or five hours hiking you'll reach Lukomir, Bosnia's highest village at 1496m where you will spend the night. The village is famous for its medieval tombstones, known as stecci, which date back to the 14th century.
Day 4
Cross the Rakitnica Canyon on the Via Dinarica
Hiking
Embark on one of the most exhilarating days of the trip, crossing the rugged Rakitnica Canyon as you make your way from the Bjelasnica to the Visocica Mountain range. The trail follows an old shepherd's path down into the canyon before reaching a high suspension bridge that crosses the river at far below. You then ascend steeply from the canyon floor, following a path that winds through the rugged terrain; the breathtaking scenery makes it a rewarding journey. At the top, you arrive in the remote village of Bobovica, a peaceful mountain settlement nestled in the hills. From here, the trail continues over expansive meadows, offering a gentler pace as you hike across lush green fields. The Visocica Mountain Range looms large on your right, its imposing presence a constant companion as you make your way toward the small village of Tusila and the Vrela Mountain Hut, where you will spend the night. This day offers a unique blend of challenging terrain, cultural immersion and jaw-dropping natural beauty - a true highlight of the Via Dinaric trail.
Day 5
Summit peaks of the Visocica Mountains
Hiking
Driving
Today you'll aim to take in some of the best peaks of the Visocia Mountain Range. Starting directly from the mountain hut you'll climb through a dense forest of beech trees. After about 45 minutes of steady climbing, you'll emerge into a breathtaking natural amphitheatre with Vito Peak (1960m) standing in front of you. From here the trail leads up a steep climb onto the ridge and to your first summit. Here you are rewarded with 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. At the top of Vito Peak, you'll take a well-deserved picnic stop with the stunning backdrop of the Dinaric Alps. After lunch, descend along the ridge, following a scenic path to the second peak of the day, Drstva (1808m). The trail from Drstva takes us swiftly down before circling back to Tusila Village. Meet the van and drive on to the charming city of Trebinje, known for its wine, iconic bridge, and for being one of the prettiest cities in Bosnia.
Day 6
Goodbye Bosnia
Driving
Wake up in the quiet town of Trebinje and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to the airport to catch your flight home.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia
1330
Ends
Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia
1130
Transfers
Your adventure begins at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) where you will meet your host and fellow adventurers in the arrivals area at 13:30. Please schedule your flight to arrive more than 30 minutes before this time. At the end of the trip you will be dropped back at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) at 11:30, so you're free to catch any flight departing after 12:30. Alternatively, you can always stay on and explore Dubrovnik further. There are regular airport shuttle buses to and from Dubrovnik Airport and the city centre for those that are arriving early or staying on after the trip.
Travel options
There are regular flights to Dubrovnik from airports across the UK and Europe.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
All the food on this trip will be freshly made, local fare. Dishes are typically hearty with plenty of cheese and other dairy products, as well as dried meats, breads and local fruits and vegetables.
During the hikes a picnic lunch is provided and typically includes bread, cheese, sausage, meat and vegetarian options, salad, chocolate bars, cookies and trail mix.
When staying in the mountains you'll be served traditional hearty and rustic dishes typical of the rural regions of Bosnia. Dishes such as Cevapi - grilled mince and sausage - are a staple, often served with flatbread and a side of creamy Kajmak, a local cheese. Slow-cooked stews like begova čorba, a rich, velvety soup made with chicken and vegetables, offer warmth and comfort in the cool mountain air.
Dinners in Mostar and Trebinje are in local restaurants known for their good food and great locations.
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Mostar
In Mostar, you'll stay in the comfortable Hotel Almira. Situated in the heart of the old town and just 30m from Mostar's famous bridge. You'll stay twin-share in en-suite rooms with air-con and wifi. The hotel also has a terrace to enjoy views of the old town and bridge.
Mountain Pensions in Umoljani and Lukomir
As you cross the mountains you'll stay in the attractive highland villages of Umoljani and Lukomir, the highest in Bosnia. Here you'll stay in traditional 'pension' guesthouses, known for their welcoming atmosphere and home-cooked food. In Umoljani the pension has twin-share en-suite rooms, while the guesthouse in Lukomir has 3-4 person same-sex dorms with shared bathrooms.
Vrela Mountain hut
Your final night in the mountains is at the Vrela Mountain Lodge, a mountain refuge with room for 40 hikers and one of three official Via Dinarica Centres in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You'll be in good company to share stories from the trail and enjoy the cosy restaurant and common areas. You'll stay in same-sex 4-bed dorms with shared bathrooms on each floor.
Trebinje
In Trebinje you'll stay at the 3-star Hotel Apis, a short walk from the town centre, river and old bridge. Rooms are en-suite on a twin-share basis.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for the nights in Mostar and Trebinje for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Moderate
This trip has been rated moderate due to 4-5 hours of hiking each day with plenty of up and down along the way (up to 850m per day). You'll be walking in a remote mountainous environment on sometimes uneven terrain. However, with a little preparation this trip is designed to be manageable for most, with a focus on taking in the scenery and mountain culture rather than overly challenging hikes. There's plenty of time each day to complete the routes at a comfortable pace with rest stops as you go.
It is worth getting in some preparation hikes at home ahead of this trip. The best approach is practising back to back days of similar length in hilly terrain, so you are best prepared to enjoy the trip and the rigours of hiking for 4 days consecutively in the mountains.
What will I need to carry?
On each day of hiking you will only need to carry a day pack with snacks, waterproofs and personal items, with your main luggage being transported to the next accommodation for you.
The exception is day 3 on the hike to Lukomir, where there is no vehicle access. On this day you will need to carry some overnight items such as spare clothes and toiletries etc. Your main luggage will be waiting for you at the Vrela Mountian hut the next day.
Summer is the best time to visit Bosnia, with daytime temperatures ranging from 24 - 30 degrees Celsius, but cooling down in the evening and at night. Most days on this adventure are spent in the mountains where the temperature can be cooler, ideal for hiking. The weather can be wet and changeable at any time of year, so it's worth packing waterproof clothing.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
- Waterproof liner for kitbag or rucksack / drybags
CLOTHES
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Buff or neckscarf
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Sleepwear
- Hiking boots (worn-in)
- Sandals/trainers
SLEEPING
- Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Headtorch or torch
- Reusable water bottle x1 litre (or x2)
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Additional Post-Trip Night Double Room (BB) in Trebinje
Payable Before Departure
Additional Post-Trip Night Double Room (BB) in Trebinje
… Per Night
Additional Post-Trip Night Single Room (BB) in Trebinje
Payable Before Departure
Additional Post-Trip Night Single Room (BB) in Trebinje
… Per Night
Additional Pre-Trip Night Double Room (BB) in Mostar
Payable Before Departure
Additional Pre-Trip Night Double Room (BB) in Mostar
… Per Night
Additional Pre-Trip Night Single Room (BB) in Mostar
Payable Before Departure
Additional Pre-Trip Night Single Room (BB) in Mostar
… Per Night
Optional Private room Upgrade (2 nights: Mostar and Trebinje)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private room Upgrade (2 nights: Mostar and Trebinje)
… Per Person
Private Arrival Transfer (Dubrovnik to Mostar)
Payable Before Departure
Private Arrival Transfer (Dubrovnik to Mostar)
…
Private Departure Transfer (Trebinje to Dubrovnik)
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure Transfer (Trebinje to Dubrovnik)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 143kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
The Via Dinarica is a long-distance hiking trail connecting eight countries through the Balkans, the main 'white trail' follows the spine of the Dinaric Alps. The trail was created to promote sustainable tourism, foster regional cooperation, and showcase the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Western Balkans - an inspiring example of how adventure tourism can bring people, and even countries, together!
In the event of poor weather such as heavy rain, strong winds and/or storms, it is possible that conditions may become unsafe to complete the planned hikes on this trip. Your guide will assess the conditions and weather forecasts and make a decision with your safety in mind. If it becomes necessary to make a change to the planned itinerary, an alternative hike or activity will be offered.
There will be one guide leading your group, as well as a driver on the days with transfers.
Excess luggage can be left in the van, where it will be transported with you and available each evening except for night 3 in Lukomir.
We recommend checking out the country specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
Tap water throughout this trip is drinkable. You'll also come across a few mountain springs during the hikes.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Trip Leader: EUR 40-50 per person Local Support Driver: EUR 20-25 per person.
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Saturday 14th June 2025
to Thursday 19th June 2025
New Trip Offer - Next 2 spots available at 10% off
