Sarajevo: Mostar, Konjic, Dervish House, Pocitelj & Kravica Falls

If you’re traveling through Bosnia and Herzegovina and looking to get a taste of the country’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and cultural gems without the hassle of organizing your own transport, this full-day tour from Sarajevo might be just what you need. Based on hundreds of reviews and detailed itineraries, this trip packs in a lot of what makes Herzegovina special—think waterfalls, ancient villages, and iconic bridges—all in about 12 hours.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible it makes exploring the region’s highlights—no need for a car or planning multiple tickets. The second thing that stands out is the chance to enjoy a traditional Bosnian breakfast, which sets a welcoming tone for the day. But, as with any guided tour, there are a few considerations—mainly the pace and the length, which might feel rushed for some travelers.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see several key sites in a single day without the stress of self-driving. It appeals especially to travelers with a curiosity for culture, history, and breathtaking scenery, and who are comfortable with a full, sometimes fast-paced itinerary. If you’re okay with spending most of your day on the move and enjoy guided insights, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan or car, making long distances more bearable.
• Hassle-Free Planning: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you avoid logistical headaches.
• Diverse Highlights: From waterfalls to ancient villages, the tour covers a range of scenic and cultural spots.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a traditional Bosnian sandwich, with vegetarian options available.
• Flexible Options: Summer swimming at Kravice Falls is available if you notify ahead.
• Informative Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendly approach.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on the Day

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

Your day begins early, with the tour kicking off around 8:00 am from Sarajevo. The meeting point is centrally located, at the Info Bosnia Tourist Information Center, with free shuttle options offered. This setup is quite convenient, especially if you’re staying in the city, and it sets the tone for a well-organized day.

First Stop: Konjic and Its Iconic Bridge

The first highlight is a short visit to Konjic, a town that’s been inhabited since prehistoric times. Here, you’ll see the 17th-century Old Bridge, which arches over the emerald-green Neretva River. The setting is postcard perfect, and the town feels like a quiet step back in time, with traditional Bosnian architecture and a peaceful vibe.

Reviews rave about this brief stop, with one traveler mentioning it as “a perfect introduction to Herzegovina.” Just enough time to snap photos and appreciate the historic structure without feeling rushed.

Kravice Falls: The Waterfall Wonder

Next, the journey continues to Kravice Falls, the biggest and most spectacular waterfall in Bosnia. Its 28-meter (92 feet) drop and 120-meter (344 feet) width create a dramatic cascade that’s impossible to ignore. The surrounding area is a popular picnic spot, and during summer, many travelers jump into the cold waters, embraced by the local vibe of relaxed fun.

The tour allows for roughly 90 minutes here, which, according to reviews, is enough time to enjoy the scenery and possibly take a swim if you notify the organizers in advance. One reviewer notes, “In summer, our travelers are encouraged to experience the waterfall as locals,” highlighting the casual, local feel.

Pocitelj: Medieval Charm and Panoramic Views

After cooling off at Kravice, the group heads to Pocitelj, a medieval town with Ottoman-era stone houses, narrow streets, and a fortress that offers panoramic views of the valley. The “Game of Thrones-like” scenery makes it a favorite among travelers.

Expect a gentle hike to the Kula, a fortress atop the hill, which was historically used to guard against intruders from the Neretva valley. Photographers will love the chance to capture the charming old town, the minarets, and the ancient trees standing tall next to mosques.

Several travelers mention how well this stop is paced, with around an hour to soak in the atmosphere, explore, and snap photos. The guide’s storytelling helps add context to the architecture and history, making it more than just a quick photo stop.

Blagaj: Mystical Dervish House

From Pocitelj, the tour heads to Blagaj Tekke, a serene spot where the Buna River springs from underground. The Dervish house, built on the site of an earlier Bogumil sanctuary, offers an almost mystical experience, with intricate details and a peaceful ambiance.

Visitors often comment on the craftsmanship and the calming atmosphere. Though entrance fees are not included, the visit offers a chance to understand Sufi spirituality and local craftsmanship. Expect about 90 minutes here, enough for a brief walk and some reflective moments.

Final Destination: Mostar’s Old Bridge and Old Town

The climax of the day is Mostar, famous for its Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of reconciliation. The historic town surrounding the bridge is a mix of Turkish-influenced architecture, lively bazaars, and friendly locals.

You’ll have about 90 minutes to explore the Old Bazaar, walk across the iconic bridge, and learn about its significance. Many reviews describe Mostar as “a cosmopolitan hub of tolerance,” with the blend of Muslims, Christians, and Jews visible in the architecture and atmosphere. It’s a place where the past and present coexist beautifully.

Returning to Sarajevo

By late afternoon, around 2 hours after leaving Mostar, you’ll head back to Sarajevo. The return journey is an opportunity to process all the sights you’ve seen, and most travelers find themselves reflecting on a day packed with diverse experiences.

The tour ends with hotel drop-off, and if you prefer, you can opt to be dropped off directly in Mostar, allowing more time to explore that city independently afterward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Value for Money

At approximately $85 per person, the tour offers a full-day itinerary with hotel pickup, transportation, and a local guide—all in a comfortably-paced, organized manner. Multiple reviews emphasize its great value, with travelers noting that it covers significantly more ground than they could manage alone for that price.

The Guides and Group Size

Guides are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling abilities. The tour maintains a small group size—max 20 travelers—which creates a more personal experience. Several reviews mention guides like Adnan, Ibrahim, and Emir by name, highlighting how their personality and insight elevate the experience.

The Scenery and Cultural Highlights

From Kravice Falls’ cascading waters to Pocitelj’s Ottoman architecture, the landscape is stunning. The diversity of stops—whether natural, historical, or spiritual—caters to a broad range of interests. Travelers appreciate how each site is thoughtfully included, with enough time to explore without feeling hurried.

The Food and Local Experience

Starting the day with a traditional Bosnian sandwich sets a warm tone, and many travelers enjoy the casual, authentic vibe. During summer, the chance to swim at Kravice adds a fun, local touch, especially appreciated in the heat.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While many reviews are glowing, some mention the tour can feel rushed, especially when multiple stops are involved. July’s heat can also make the long drive tiring if you’re sensitive to heat or uncomfortable in warm temperatures. One reviewer pointed out issues with air conditioning and a lack of water bottles until midway, so packing your own water and dressing accordingly is wise.

The tour doesn’t focus heavily on history or detailed explanations—more of an overview—so if you’re after deep historical insights, you might find the narration somewhat superficial. However, guides are generally praised for their helpfulness and local knowledge.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is fantastic for travelers who want a snapshot of Herzegovina’s highlights without the hassle of planning or driving. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but eager to see natural wonders like Kravice Falls and historical towns like Pocitelj and Mostar. It suits those who enjoy guided tours with friendly guides and group camaraderie.

If you prefer a leisurely, in-depth exploration or have specific interests in history or hiking, you might find the pace a bit quick. Also, if you’re traveling with children, the tour’s total length and active stops might require some planning, but it generally appeals to adult travelers.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Sarajevo around late afternoon.

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transport is in an air-conditioned minivan or car, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water bottles (though some are provided midway), and swimwear if you plan to swim at Kravice Falls.

Are food and entrance fees included?
The tour includes a traditional Bosnian sandwich, but not other food or drinks. Entrance fees for the Dervish House and Kravice Falls are not included in the price.

Can I be dropped off in Mostar instead of Sarajevo?
Yes, a free drop-off service to Mostar is available if you want to stay longer in that city.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the pace and stops are generally manageable for those traveling with older children or teenagers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund will be offered.

How many people are in the group?
The tour accommodates up to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This Sarajevo to Herzegovina tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s natural beauty, historic towns, and cultural diversity. Its organized, small-group format, combined with knowledgeable guides and a good value price, makes it a smart choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day with plenty of highlights.

If you’re eager to see iconic sites like Kravice Falls, Mostar’s Old Bridge, and the Ottoman-era Pocitelj without the stress of self-driving, this trip hits the spot. Just keep in mind the full schedule and potential for a fast-paced day—it’s best suited for those who love to pack in a lot, but still want to feel cared for and guided along the way.

Whether you’re a first-timer in Bosnia, a history buff, or simply someone who loves scenic landscapes and picturesque towns, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Herzegovina’s essence in a single, satisfying day.