From the rushing rapids of the Vrbas River in the north to the epic peaks of Sutjeska National Park in the south, Bosnia and Hercegovina is a giant, natural playground for outdoor activity enthusiasts, bordered by Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro.
This small nation has been discovered by an increasing number of adventurous pioneers in search of authentic outdoor experiences. “Bosnia and Hercegovina combines the best of old-world Europe with untouched nature that’s hard to find elsewhere on the continent,” says Thierry Joubert, director of Green Visions, a Sarajevo-based ecotourism operator with two decades of experience. “Visitors are always surprised by the high quality of adventure here. They enjoy being the first among their friends to explore this incredible country.”
Hiking Trails and Mountain Peaks
Mountains dominate Bosnia and Hercegovina’s landscape. The peaks of the Dinaric Alps provide a stunning backdrop and shape much of the country’s character. Villages perched atop plateaus overlook gorges, and rivers weave through valleys and around massifs. During summer, rural families herd sheep amidst wildflower carpets, while they gather wood for warmth during snowy winters.
Numerous trails crisscross the area, allowing travelers to embark on one-day hikes or multi-day adventures connecting the country’s summits. Various mountain associations manage huts (both manned and unmanned) and welcome trekkers to famous peaks and massifs. For day hikes and longer excursions, Sarajevo-based Green Visions serves as an excellent source for information, advice, and group outings.
In recent years, the Via Dinarica mega hiking trail has transformed trekking in the Western Balkans. Following ancient trading paths, military tracks, and shepherds’ trails, it stretches from Slovenia through Croatia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Serbia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia. One segment links Sutjeska, the oldest national park in Bosnia and Hercegovina, to Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park. This epic hike leads mountaineers to the highest peaks in both countries: the 2386m Mt Maglić in Bosnia and the 2523m Bobotov Kuk in Montenegro.
Multi-Day Cycling and Mountain-Biking Trails
Bosnia and Hercegovina has embraced the bicycle tourism trend, enabling travelers to explore the country’s less-visited rural areas. Cyclists can traverse farms and fields, refill their water bottles at natural springs, and stay at locally owned B&Bs and homestays that serve fresh vegetables, homemade breads, and burek (a flaky pastry filled with meat).
The Ćiro Bike Trail follows the path of a narrow-gauge railway built by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which operated from 1901 until the 1970s. Today, this corridor has been transformed into a 160km cycling route that connects Mostar in Hercegovina with Croatia’s coastal city of Dubrovnik. This route primarily consists of paved roads with sections of packed gravel, following the Neretva River south from Mostar before veering east towards the viniculture region of Popovo Polje and the charming city of Trebinje.
The country’s most ambitious biking project is the new cross-border Trans Dinarica mountain-bike trail. Designed as a two-wheeled version of the Via Dinarica hiking trail, it commences in Slovenia, crosses Croatia, and concludes in Bosnia and Hercegovina. This path focuses on technical single-track riding, complemented by a mixture of broader dirt and gravel roads. Currently, the available path in Bosnia comprises a 10-day journey connecting Mostar to Sarajevo, with lodging arranged in villages, hotels, B&Bs, and homestays.
Raft the Rapids on Four Spectacular Rivers
Bosnia and Hercegovina’s clean, invigorating, and often swift-flowing rivers weave through canyons and gorges that slice through its mountains. Four major rivers dominate the country’s rafting opportunities. The Una River bisects the city of Bihać in the northwest corner and flows through the Una National Park. Una RC Kiro Rafting offers multi-day packages that include a series of waterfalls, beginning with the iconic 18m-high Štrbački Buk.
To the east, the Vrbas River winds through the city of Banja Luka and has hosted the World (2009) and European Rafting Championships (2009 and 2015), with future events scheduled. The Kanjon Rafting Centre provides various options to navigate the course, tackle rapids, and enjoy the surrounding landscape through different activities such as canyoning.
To the south, the Neretva River serves as Hercegovina’s primary waterway. Originating high in the mountains, the river flows through steep canyons, lakes, and reservoirs, passing Mostar on its route to the Adriatic Sea. Adventurers looking for a thrill can join Europe Rafting in Konjic, where rafters will navigate the exhilarating rapids beneath Prenj Mountain, past converging tributaries, and through the remarkable Neretva Canyon.
The most remarkable canyon experience in Bosnia and Hercegovina cradles the Tara River, which connects the country to Montenegro. The Tara Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in Europe, offering some of the most rigorous rafting in the region. Adventurers will be challenged with navigating the waters, assured in the knowledge that many certified outfitters lead trips through this UNESCO-protected area. One reputable operator is Foča-based Highlander Rafting Kamp, which offers multi-day excursions with overnight stays in riverside bungalows, all featuring excellent meals.
Take the Plunge from Stari Most
For a unique leap into adventure, consider diving (or jumping) from Mostar’s renowned Stari Most (Old Bridge). From a height of 24 meters, the turquoise Neretva River flows underneath the bridge with an appearance of calmness. However, travelers should exercise caution: this activity is not for the faint-hearted, nor is it something anyone can undertake impulsively. Candidates must complete training sessions with the local Bridge Divers’ Club.
Originally constructed in the 16th century by the Ottoman Empire, the bridge was destroyed during the 1990s conflict. It was restored a decade later and reopened in 2004. By 2005, the bridge and the Old City of Mostar, with its charming stone and cobbled streets, cafes, shops, and restaurants, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, Mostar is one of the country’s most visited destinations and serves as an annual stop on the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series tour.
To attempt the jump, visit the local Bridge Divers’ Club office at the western entrance to the bridge. For approximately €35, they will guide you for some (much lower) training dives; if successful, you can try the real thing, earning a certificate and lifetime membership in the club. Nevertheless, be mindful of the inherent dangers—improper diving may lead to severe consequences.
Ski Slopes That Starred in the 1984 Winter Olympics
Winter sports are also integral to life in Bosnia and Hercegovina. Back in 1984, the world gathered in Sarajevo, the nation’s capital, for the Winter Olympic Games. The alpine skiing events occurred on two mountains, Bjelašnica and Jahorina, both situated just south of the city.
Ski Centar Bjelašnica, which hosted the men’s Olympic downhill events, is roughly a 45-minute drive southwest of Sarajevo. Its highest point stands at 2067m. Lifts elevate skiers to six distinct pistes, with the longest extending over 3km. In total, there are approximately 10km of groomed trails suitable for every skill level. Daily lift passes are around €18.
East of Bjelašnica, approximately 30km southeast of Sarajevo, the Jahorina Olympic Centre offers seven lifts serving 17 slopes. Encircled by cabins, B&Bs, and lodges, it presents various options for families and experienced skiers alike, featuring everything from groomed pistes to tree skiing and deep powder. Day passes here cost €25.
