Explore Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Journey of Cultural Depths and Outdoor Thrills (8 Days)

Destination:Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Accommodation (Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar

Arrival Note:Upon your arrival at the airport, look for a welcoming face from our team, holding a sign with your name for easy recognition. While immediate hotel check-in might depend on your arrival time, rest assured, we’ve got your convenience in mind. Should you need to, securely store your luggage at the hotel reception or, alternatively, at our Funky Tours office. Your dedicated Funky Tours Host will be there right from the start, ensuring a smooth check-in process and helping you with all necessary details.

Morning/Afternoon:Relax during your 30-minute transfer from the airport and have a welcome drink with your host which will be a great opportunity to discuss the upcoming days, get personalised recommendations, and learn more about the adventures that await you in Bosnia. It’s also the perfect moment to ask any questions and get insider tips for your stay.

Post-briefing, dive into the heart of Sarajevo’s historic charm and energetic city center. Wander through vibrant squares, unwind in quaint cafes, and uncover treasures in local shops. The bustling markets offer a kaleidoscope of local culture, waiting for you to explore and immerse yourself in.

Dinner:For an authentic local dining experience, we suggest grabbing a special Bosnian pizza from bakery Mahir, a popular spot among locals. After picking up your pizza, head over to the Yellow Bastion, a historic viewpoint with panoramic views of Sarajevo. Enjoying Mahir’s delicious pizza while overlooking the city from this iconic spot offers a perfect blend of delightful cuisine and stunning scenery, embodying the vibrant spirit of Sarajevo.

Evening:Your evening in Sarajevo is a canvas of possibilities. Whether you’re looking to relax and acclimate to the local rhythm or eager to dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife, the Funky Tours team is on hand to recommend and organize a range of exciting evening activities.

Destination:Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Accommodation(Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B

Activity Note:Prepare for an enriching journey through Sarajevo’s storied streets today! Your experience will include navigating some uneven terrain as you explore the ruins on our Sarajevo Siege tour. Remember to bring water and check the weather forecast to ensure you’re comfortably prepared.

Morning:Starting at 10 AM, join us for a thrilling 2.5 to 3-hour walk through Sarajevo’s old town and city center. Our fantastic local guide will lead the way, revealing the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From medieval times to the present day, every step is a story waiting to be told.

Discover the charm of Sarajevo’s Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian quarters, where lively markets, bazaars, and stunning religious sites paint a vivid cultural picture. Our guide will show you the well-known landmarks and take you off the beaten path to hidden alleys full of secrets and stories.

You won’t want to miss the Latin Bridge, where the echoes of WWI’s beginnings still resonate. Plus, get exclusive insights into the 1984 Winter Olympics and the remarkable tales of resilience during the Siege of Sarajevo.

In summary, get ready for intriguing stories, local tips, hidden gems, and a special chance to meet local craftsmen – unique experiences that only our knowledgeable guides can unveil.

Afternoon:Your afternoon session (starting at 2 PM) is fully reserved for the important story of Siege of Sarajevo, the story of the impossible survival and story of the worst Genocide in Europe since the WWII. Funky Tours Top Experiences aims to deliver a clear and unbiased understanding of the topics we consider important for better overall understanding of the Balkans.

Your host for the afternoon session will be local Sarajevan, an ex Bosnian army soldier who during the 1990ies was directly involved in the resistance organised by the local people of Sarajevo. When joint force of Yugoslavian National Army, Serbian Paramilitaries and local Bosnian Serbs initiated general attack on Bosnia and Herzegovina with goal of taking the control of Bosnian capital, only a few people “got their heads” together and started organising resistance. Resistance which later proved crucial for defending Bosnian independence and saving hundreds of thousands of lives.

Places in focus will be Sarajevo’s infamous Sniper Alley and Hotel Holiday Inn, Sarajevo War Tunnel, Sarajevo Olympic Bobsled and Olympic mountain of Trebević, Jewish cemetery and numerous other locations scattered throughout the Bosnian capital, today serving as the memory of the 1990ies bloody years.

This afternoon, immerse yourself in the profound narrative of the Siege of Sarajevo, a story of resilience and the most devastating genocide in Europe since WWII. Funky Tours Top Experiences is dedicated to providing a clear, unbiased understanding of these pivotal events in Balkan history.

Your guide, a local Sarajevan and former member of the Bosnian army, played a direct role in Sarajevo’s resistance during the 1990s. His firsthand account offers a unique perspective on the defense against the combined forces of the Yugoslavian National Army, Serbian Paramilitaries, and local Bosnian Serbs, a resistance pivotal in preserving Bosnia’s independence and saving countless lives.

The tour highlights key locations like the notorious Sniper Alley, Hotel Holiday Inn, the Sarajevo War Tunnel, and Trebević Mountain with its Olympic Bobsled track. You’ll also visit the Jewish cemetery and other significant sites across Sarajevo, each a testament to the city’s tumultuous past.

The narrative is enriched with firsthand experiences of siege survivors, supported by verdicts from the ICTY (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia). Today, while the military conflicts in the Balkans have ceased, battles over denial and relativization of the genocide persist. Our mission is to ensure the accurate documentation and communication of these historical events, contributing to a deeper understanding of the Balkans’ recent history.

Dinner/Evening:On your own. Savor a delightful Bosnian dinner featuring classics like Begova Čorba, a hearty chicken and vegetable soup, and Bosanski Lonac, a traditional meat and vegetable stew slow-cooked to perfection. Complement your meal with a glass of Šljivovica, Bosnia’s renowned plum brandy, and taste the exquisite Herzegovinian wines—refreshing Žilavka white and robust Blatina red. Don’t miss out on Dolma, stuffed vegetables with a flavorful meat and rice filling, and end your meal with Tufahija, a sweet, walnut-stuffed poached apple.

Destination:Lukomir, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Accommodation(Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B – L

Activity Note:This day is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages, with a moderate level of demand. We make use of vehicles to transport you to the initial hiking point, ensuring a comfortable journey to the heart of our adventure.

Morning:Get ready for a scenic ride from Sarajevo, lasting 1.15 hours, that’ll take you right into the heart of Bjelašnica Olympic Mountain and the quaint village of Umoljani. Your guide, a true outdoor enthusiast with stories galore, will bring the beauty of Bjelašnica to life. Feel free to ask anything – from historical facts to personal anecdotes, your guide is an open book!

Umoljani village is a treasure trove of intriguing spots. You’ll check out the cool and refreshing Studeni Potok (Cold Creek) and the mysterious Stoned Dragon – Ažbaha, which sounds like something straight out of a legend. Don’t miss the Umoljani Mosque either, where you’ll hear the captivating tale of the Sarajevo Haggadah.

Ready to stretch your legs? The hike from Umoljani to Lukomir village is a 3.30-hour adventure, starting from an elevation of about 1275 meters and climbing up to the peak of Obalj at 1896 meters. The views? Absolutely Instagram-worthy! You’ll pass by the ancient Gradina settlement and soak in the panoramic beauty of Studeni Potok.

Reaching the top of Obalj is a ‘wow’ moment with the Rakitnica Canyon and the surrounding mountains unfolding before your eyes. After basking in the views and catching your breath, the journey down to Lukomir village at 1500 meters altitude offers fresh perspectives and more photo ops.

And here’s a fun twist – depending on the season, you might stumble upon nature’s little treats like blueberries, rose-hips, and mushrooms. It’s like a mini treasure hunt!

Once in Lukomir, we will step back in time. Village is known as the ‘harbour of peace’ to those who call it home and its roots stretch back over 600 years. It is the last bastion of semi-nomadic mountain life in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a living museum of traditions and customs.

Lunch:Get ready for a culinary highlight as soon as we reach Lukomir – a farm-to-table lunch like no other! Savour the flavours of Bosnia with dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, all lovingly prepared by the villagers. It’s an authentic feast for the senses and a rare chance to mingle with the locals over a cup of Bosnia’s famous coffee.

Our adventure in Lukomir goes beyond just tasting the local fare. We’ll explore the village mosque, wander past ancient Stećci tombstones, and scale the Vijenac peak for jaw-dropping views of the Rakitnica canyon, an 800-meter marvel of nature.

After a day filled with remarkable sights, sounds, and tastes in Lukomir, we’ll begin our hike back, carrying with us memories of a place where traditions thrive and every corner tells a story.

Afternoon:After our adventure in Lukomir village, the return journey is a pleasant 2.30-hour flat hike to Umoljani village, following the scenic path along the Canyon of Rakitnica river.

Rakitnica canyon is a hidden gem, often considered one of Europe’s most remote and unexplored canyons. Stretching over 26 kilometers, it divides the Bjelašnica and Visočica massifs, holding the title of the longest canyon in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Explored for the first time in 1956, it remains a seldom-trodden path, with only a handful of adventurers having ventured its full length. At some points, the canyon rises over 800 meters high while narrowing to a mere 1 meter in width, creating a challenging but awe-inspiring terrain.

Our trail will lead us along the upper edge of the canyon, offering a breathtaking perspective of this natural wonder. You’ll be able to witness the sheer grandeur of the landscape as we make our way back to Umoljani. Expect to arrive in Umoljani around 5 pm, with a return to Sarajevo by approximately 6.15 pm.

Evening:It’s the perfect time to wrap up an exciting day of exploration and enjoy some tasty dinner and vibrant streets of Sarajevo.

Destination:East Bosnia, Bosnia & Herzegovina & West Serbia, Serbia
Accommodation (Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B

Activity Note: The tour is adapted to all ages and is not physically demanding. Due to the distance of the locations, we use vehicles during the tour.

Morning:Prepare for an extraordinary journey that kicks off with a picturesque 45-minute drive from Sarajevo to Rogatica. Our first stop is the captivating Borak Stećci necropolis near Burati village, nestled in the misty forests of East Bosnia, recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Get ready for a bit of hiking as we delve into the unique history of the Medieval Bosnian Kingdom and explore scattered limestone blocks that dot the landscape.

Next, we’ll make our way to Višegrad, famous for its UNESCO-protected Ottoman bridge, a masterpiece constructed in 1577 by Grand Vizier Mehmed Pasa Sokolović. This bridge is renowned for its exceptional elegance and monumental architecture, playing a pivotal role in Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andrić’s novel ‘Bridge Over Drina’. To fully appreciate the region’s historical significance, we recommend reading the novel beforehand.

Upon reaching Višegrad, you’ll embark on a delightful river cruise along the vibrant green Drina River, followed by an exploration of the stone town of Andrićgrad. This modern settlement, dedicated to Ivo Andrić, offers insights into Yugoslavian cinematography through the lens of acclaimed local director Emir Kusturica.

Continuing our journey east towards the Bosnian-Serbian border, we’ll visit the Dobrun Monastery, a significant Serbian Orthodox monastery originally constructed in 1343. The well-preserved frescoes provide a glimpse into local history, all set amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

As we cross into Serbia, we enter the captivating “Šargan-Mokra Gora” nature park. Lunch awaits in the ethno village of Drvengrad, designed by movie director Emir Kusturica for his film “Life is Miracle.” Here, you’ll savor culinary delights in a unique setting that received the prestigious “Philippe Rotthier European Architecture Award.”

Afternoon:But the adventure doesn’t end there. Brace yourself for an extraordinary train ride—the famous “Šargan Eight.” This narrow gauge steam railway, originally constructed in 1925, features a track resembling the number 8 from above. Its remarkable engineering allowed it to ascend 300m over a short 3,500m distance, passing through 22 tunnels and 5 bridges. Today, it’s a must-visit for steam train enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.

Our journey continues with a stop in the awe-inspiring National Park Tara, established in 1981 and boasting extraordinary biodiversity. Here, you will enjoy stunning vistas, and explore hiking trails amidst unique Serbian spruce trees (Picea Omorica) while encountering diverse wildlife.

Don’t miss the highlight of our adventure—the breathtaking “Banjska Stena” viewpoint. From here, you’ll be treated to a spectacular panorama of Perućac Lake on the Drina River, forming a natural border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia.

Evening:Return to Sarajevo is planned in the very late evening, around 8-9 PM.

Destination:Sutjeska National Park
Accommodation (Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B

Activity Note:The tour is adapted to all ages and is not physically demanding. Due to the distance of the  locations, we use vehicles during the tour to get to the starting hiking point, but the rest of the tour is done on foot through beautiful wilderness of Sutjeska National Park.

Morning:Get ready for an exhilarating one-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our journey begins as we leave Sarajevo behind and head towards the captivating regions of Foča and Tjentište, known for their breathtaking mountainous terrain.

After approximately two hours on the road, we’ll arrive in Tjentište, our gateway to the renowned Sutjeska National Park. Tjentište is not just a place but a living World War II memorial, holding deep historical significance in the story of Yugoslavia. This historical narrative will be a prominent theme throughout our one-day program, offering you a fascinating insight into Balkan history.

The final leg of our journey involves a thrilling 45-minute drive along a gravel road, spanning around 17 kilometers, deep into the heart of Sutjeska National Park—a sanctuary of untouched natural beauty. Our destination is Prijevor, situated at an elevation of 1668 meters above sea level. From here, prepare to be mesmerized by panoramic views that encompass the majestic Maglić, Zelengora, and Volujak mountains.

En route to Prijevor, we’ll make a brief stop at an incredible viewpoint where you can admire the Skakavac waterfall in the heart of the Perućica primeval forest. Did you know it is one of the last preserved primeval forests in Europe?

At Prijevor, our journey continues on foot with a medium-intensity hike lasting approximately 2.30 hours. Along the way, you’ll traverse some of the most picturesque areas of the national park, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

Our hike will culminate with a well-deserved picnic lunch, set against the backdrop of the Trnovačko Lake. This is your chance to relax and rejuvenate, and for those feeling adventurous, you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake—a perfect way to cool off on a warm day.

Trnovačko Lake, nestled beneath the towering peak of Mount Maglić, which happens to be the highest point in Bosnia, straddles the border between Bosnia and Montenegro. While the lake itself is located in Montenegro, our adventure allows us to access it via a scenic hiking trail from the Bosnian side, traversing the pristine Sutjeska National Park.

Lunch:Our picnic lunch will be a delightful spread featuring farm products sourced locally from Bosnia, ensuring a delicious and authentic culinary experience. After indulging in a sumptuous meal, you’ll have ample free time to explore the lake’s beauty and enjoy a relaxing swim during the hot summer months.

Afterward, we’ll commence our hike back. After roughly three hours, we’ll return to Prijevor, where we’ll board our transportation for the journey back to Tjentište.

Afternoon: Before concluding our adventure and heading back to Sarajevo, we’ll make a significant stop at the “Battle of Sutjeska” WW2 memorial in Tjentište. This poignant monument commemorates the valiant fighters and fallen soldiers of the Battle of the Sutjeska, a pivotal conflict that raged from May 15th to June 16th, 1943.

Prepare to be immersed in the heroic stories of World War II and gain admiration for Tito’s partisans, who fought tirelessly to keep these Yugoslavian and Bosnian regions free from the occupation forces of the Nazis, Ustase, and Chetniks.

Evening: Return to Sarajevo is planned around 8.30 PM, after which you will have a free time to rest and get ready for new adventure.

Destination:Herzegovina Region
Accommodation (Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B

Morning:Morning drive takes us southwest towards Konjic, a charming town blessed with the beauty of the turquoise Neretva River and a historic Ottoman-era bridge. Nearby, we uncover one of Yugoslavia’s hidden treasures, Tito’s Bunker, a Cold War relic preserving Yugoslavia’s past. This unique site also houses globally significant modern art displays. While we won’t explore the bunker’s depths, we’ll share its intriguing stories with you.

Continuing our journey, we follow a picturesque route along Jablanica Lake through the Neretva River canyon, arriving in Jablanica town. Here, we delve into the WWII history of the Neretva battle, appreciating the stunning natural surroundings. Tito’s strategic brilliance during this battle, portrayed in an Oscar-nominated film, earned him the title of Marshal and the battle’s reputation as the ‘World’s most humane battle.

Our adventure continues through the mesmerising Neretva River canyon, leading us to our next stop, Počitelj. Perched above the Neretva River, this charming town invites you to explore its rich history. Wander its narrow streets and enjoy Funky Tours special treat, a refreshing homemade pomegranate juice that will invigorate your senses. It’s these authentic encounters that make our journey truly special.

Just 20 km from Počitelj, the Trebižat River creates the mesmerizing Kravice Waterfall, a 28 m-high arc, and a 120-meter-wide water amphitheater. These captivating waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery, offer a perfect escape into nature.

For those who enjoy swimming or simply savoring the enchanting setting, Kravica Waterfall is a must-visit.

Lunch:We’ll reach Blagaj by lunchtime, where the pristine Buna river offers a taste of local trout. Try locally prepared trout on “Blagaj Way” while admiring the stunning Buna River spring and Dervish House. Vegetarian options are available.

Afternoon:Blagaj is home to Europe’s most beautiful and powerful karst river spring, nestled beneath a towering rock. The spring gushes an incredible 43 cubic meters of water per second. Nearby, the Blagaj Tekke – Dervish house, dating back to the early Ottoman era, provides insight into Dervish life in Herzegovina, a must-visit.

A short drive takes us to Mostar, the crown jewel of our ‘Herzegovina Necklace’ day trip. Our Mostar experience begins with a captivating walking tour that explores the city’s key attractions.

We’ll focus on Mostar’s Old Bridge, Old Bazaar, and Old Town, all while sharing stories that unveil the city’s rich historical and cultural tapestry. Our narrative explores the Old Bridge’s rise, fall, and triumphant resurrection, along with the Siege of Mostar. Together, we’ll bring Mostar’s history to life, creating an engaging journey through time.

Arriving in Mostar during the late afternoon allows us to enjoy the city’s intimate atmosphere, away from the crowds of other day tours. The perfect time to unwind, savor a refreshing drink, and witness the mesmerizing sunset is right after we conclude our day.

Evening:As we make our way back, we have one more treat in store for those with an appetite for adventure. We’ll make a stop for you to savor the famous roasted lamb in Jablanica. It’s a culinary delight that shouldn’t be missed.

Anticipate our return to Sarajevo around 7 pm. Keep in mind that our days can be quite eventful, so it’s wise not to plan too many activities for the evening. Instead, take the time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

Destination:Konjic, Herzegovina
Accommodation (Optional):Hotel Colors inn 4* or similar
Meals Included:B

Morning:This morning we will continue with exploring Herzegovina and visit one of the most expensive Yugoslavian military projects ($4.7bln), Tito’s Nuclear Bunker followed with the amazingly relaxing Neretva white water rafting.

It took 26 years to build this 6500 m2 miracle of construction with the purpose of withstanding a possible nuclear war and providing shelter to over 350 Yugoslav leaders and army generals.

We will wander around this amazing structure and venue for a biennial of contemporary art while discovering the labyrinth of Yugoslavia mysteries, cold war fanaticism, and communist paranoia while discussing the possible reasons for the fall of Yugoslavia and its rigid consequences.

As a third most expensive JNA military project with spendings of cca. 4.6 billion USD, facility D-0, Tito’s atomic war command (ARK), was built to accept, accommodate and protect 350 people and enable successful management and command over the armed forces in case of nuclear warfare.

After we learn about Yugoslavia, we’ll gear up for an exciting rafting adventure as we make our way to the starting point, which is about a 45-minute uphill drive. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Boračko Lake, the upper Neretva river, and its awe-inspiring canyon.

Once we’re on the water, get ready for pure exhilaration. The Neretva river will lead us through stunning slopes, pristine canyons, and crystal-clear, drinkable water. The untouched natural beauty of the surroundings will leave you in awe. You can look forward to relaxing on great beaches, spotting fish and birds, and much more.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there will be opportunities to dive from low, medium, and high rocks, as well as solo jumps into thrilling rapids—guaranteed to be the highlights of your rafting experience.

Lunch:Around midday, we’ll take a break for a special treat. We’ll head to an isolated beach where we’ll savor a mouthwatering barbecue feast. Picture this: you, your fellow adventurers, and a delicious barbecue meal served in the midst of untouched nature. You can choose from a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes if you let us know in advance. During this break, you can also enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, diving, or simply basking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the stunning Raktinica, a tributary of the Neretva river with its incredible delta. Our journey continues, filled with thrilling slopes, rock diving for the brave souls, canyons, pristine water, and fascinating twists and turns.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll wrap up our adventure with showers and a change of clothes. Then, we’ll hit the road back to Sarajevo, with an expected arrival time of around 7:00 pm. It’s been an action-packed day of fun and nature exploration that you won’t want to miss.

Dinner & Evening:On your own, you will have time to enjoy Sarajevo and try some of traditional Bosnian food that you haven’t tried yet.

Destination:Sarajevo (alternatively Dubrovnik – Split – Zagreb)
Accommodation:Not included in package price
Meals Included:B

Activity Note: Free time in Sarajevo until airport transfer for your departure.

In case your transfer is in the later afternoon, we can combine it with some half day tours in Sarajevo and explore a little bit more.