Bosnia & Herzegovina Adventure

Dobro dosli! Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm in Sarajevo, the capital and largest city that sits on the Miljacka River, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps. If you arrive early, maybe take a stroll through the Ottoman-era bazaar of Bascarsija, visit the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina or explore the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque. This evening, head into the surrounding hills for a cooking demonstration and welcome dinner with your local hosts, Mersiha and Mustafa, in their home overlooking the city. Learn how to make burek (Bosnian pastry stuffed with meats), then enjoy a hearty, homemade meal of dolma (stuffed vegetables) while Mersiha and Mustafa share stories about Sarajevo, Bosnian cuisine and the life they love here. (D)

Hop aboard the public bus to Jajce, arriving around midday with time to grab some lunch. Then, take a walking tour with a local guide through this small town that captures the spirit and history of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Jajce is the birthplace of Yugoslavia – you’ll visit the AVNOJ Museum to learn about Jajce and Bosnia in the 20th century. On the way, stop by the 22 m tall Pliva Waterfall in the centre of town. This small town dates back to ancient times and maintains a mix of cultures and religions. Tonight, you have free time to explore Jajce at your own pace – maybe wander its narrow streets, relax by the river or see the incredible views from the top of the town at the 14th-century fortress overlooking the valley. (B)

Head south via private transfer towards Mostar, stopping in Livno along the way. When you arrive in Livno, head up to the base of Cincar Mountain in 4WDs to take in the views of the Dinaric Alps before venturing off-road in search of the wild horses that call these foothills home – there are around 400 to 800 of them, descended from working horses released decades ago. After, continue on to Mostar, famed for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), which stands as a symbol of reconciliation and unity. This bridge has been host to a 450-year-strong diving tradition, and one of the longest-running diving competitions in the Balkans is held here each summer. Tonight, learn all about this historic city on a guided walking tour, then maybe find a local restaurant for dinner – your local leader will have the best recommendations! (B)

Spend the day exploring the nature, history and flavours of the Herzegovina region – the southern part of the country. Stop at Blagaj Tekke – a dervish monastery perched above the Buna River at the base of a towering cliff. Explore the sacred site and museum, wandering through Ottoman architecture and colourful rooms. Next, stop in Stolac and pop into Mehmedbasica Kuca (a historic house) where a local family preserves the tradition of making smokvara (a traditional fig cake) – try a slice yourself! You’ll then embark on a short hike to Kravica Waterfall near the city of Ljubuski. When you arrive, maybe relax with a dip in the waterfall and soak up the nature surrounding you before heading back into town for the night. (B)

This morning, sit down to a homemade breakfast with local specialties like dried meats or fried bread. Then, drive to Umoljani, a mountain village on the slopes of Bjelasnica. From here, set out on a circular hike to the mountain village of Lukomir – the country’s highest and most remote village, perched at almost 1500 m above sea level and home to only around 15 residents. Today's hike winds up and down the rolling mountains. When you arrive in the village, you'll be welcomed into a local home to taste some homemade cheeses and freshly baked meat pies. Mingle with the villagers, explore the stone houses, then make your way back to Umoljani for an evening in the mountains. (B/L/D)

This morning you'll drive to Sarajevo. After checking into the hotel, set out on a guided walking tour of the city. Here you’ll visit the shop of Bosnia’s sole female coppersmith, Nermina Alic, who learned the trade from her father and continues the family business today, using traditional methods to handcraft coffeepots, candleholders and plates. Wander through the narrow streets of Bascarscija, where each lane is named after a traditional craft once practiced there. Tonight, maybe head out for a farewell dinner and top your adventure off with a slice of Sarajevska baklava. (B)

Your expedition comes to an end after breakfast today in Sarajevo. If you'd like to extend your adventure, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time. (B)