Sarajevo isn’t just a city of history and culture; it’s also a fantastic base for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains, ancient villages, and national parks offer a variety of outdoor experiences, no matter your fitness level or interests. Whether you’re after a half-day escape or a full-day adventure, Sarajevo’s trails promise breathtaking views and authentic encounters. For example, the Lukomir Highland Village Hike provides a rare chance to explore one of Bosnia’s highest and most remote villages, with stunning canyon views and a chance to enjoy traditional Bosnian lunch. Or, if you’re short on time but still want a taste of mountain beauty, the Skakavac Waterfall Hike offers an easy, scenic outing with a view of Bosnia’s highest waterfall.
What makes Sarajevo special for outdoor lovers is its blend of mountain scenery, historical sites, and local culture. You can walk along old Olympic bobsleigh tracks from the 1984 Winter Olympics or trek through national parks like Sutjeska, home to the country’s highest peaks. The list below covers a range of tours—some with cultural stops, others with pure nature focus—so you can pick what suits your pace and interest. Each offers unique ways to experience Bosnia’s rugged charm.
Types of Tours Included
We’ve gathered a diverse selection of hiking and trekking tours, each offering a different experience. Want to walk through ancient villages like Lukomir and learn about nomadic traditions? Check out the Lukomir Village Hiking tours. Interested in exploring Bosnia’s national parks? The Sutjeska National Park Hike is perfect for mountain scenery and lakes. Looking for a quick outdoor escape? The Skakavac Waterfall options are great for a half-day adventure. And for those curious about Sarajevo’s Olympic past, the Bobsleigh Track Hike combines outdoor activity with a peek into the city’s recent history. Now, let’s explore each tour in detail.
1. Lukomir Highland Village Hike
At number 1, the Lukomir Highland Village Hike is a top choice for those who want a full day of stunning scenery and culture. This private tour offers the convenience of door-to-door transportation, hiking poles, snacks, and a Bosnian lunch—so all you need to do is enjoy. The hike itself follows a carefully chosen route alongside the Rakitnica Canyon, including stops at the UNESCO-listed Nekropola stecaka Umoljani and the highest village in Bosnia.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized touch—your guide will tailor the pace and share stories about Bosnian history and local traditions. Guests consistently praise the incredible views and the chance to wander through Lukomir, a village famous for its traditional stone houses and geographic isolation. The itinerary includes stops at the Winter Olympics site and the best viewpoint into the canyon, making it as much about culture as nature. Guests give this tour a perfect 5.0 rating; reviewers love the knowledgeable guide, the delicious Bosnian lunch, and the memorable scenery.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent all-in-one day trip for outdoor lovers wanting a mix of nature, history, and cultural insight, with the added bonus of a flexible, private experience.
2. From Sarajevo: Full-Day Hike to Lukomir Village
Number 2 on our list offers a comprehensive full-day exploration of Lukomir with a strong focus on scenic hiking and local culture. Starting with a scenic drive, you’ll stop at Bjelasnica ski resort to hear about the 1984 Winter Olympics, then hike through beautiful valleys to reach Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest village. The tour includes tasting Bosnian coffee in the village and viewing the deep Rakitnica Canyon.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who value guided storytelling and want to combine a mountain trek with cultural stops. The guide’s humor and local legends make the day engaging, and the hike is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. Reviewers note the slippery trails in wet weather, but the stellar views and the locally grown food for lunch make it worthwhile. The 12-hour experience offers excellent value, including transportation, guided hikes, and meals.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting a full, immersive day with a mix of history, scenery, and local hospitality.
3. Lukomir Nomad Village Hiking from Sarajevo – Local Lunch Included
Number 3 offers a day-long walk through mountain terrain on Bjelasnica, with visits to the remote villages of Umoljani and Lukomir. Starting with a drive from Sarajevo, the tour includes around 3-4 hours of hiking, passing traditional villages, waterfalls, and ancient tombstones (Stecci). The highlight is experiencing Bosnia’s highest nomad village, along with scenic views of the Rakitnica Canyon.
The tour’s distinctiveness is its focus on local traditions and rural life, with stops at the Umoljani mosque and a traditional Bosnian lunch. Guests love the mix of cultural insight and outdoor activity, with some describing it as a memorable trek that’s not overly strenuous. The guide shares stories about village life and the significance of the ancient tombstones, enriching the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in rural Bosnian culture combined with a scenic mountain hike.
4. Umoljani Village to Lukomir Village via Obalj Hike from Sarajevo
Number 4 is a moderate 7 to 9-hour adventure that takes you through some of Bosnia’s most picturesque locations. Starting from Sarajevo, you’ll be driven to Umoljani, then hike around 8 km to Lukomir, following paths past medieval tombstones and the stunning Studeni Potok stream. The highlight is the panoramic views from Obalj Peak, standing at 1,896 meters.
Guests love the flexibility of this private tour and the included picnic lunch, which makes it easy to enjoy the day without extra planning. The trail offers a good mix of natural beauty and cultural sites, suitable for travelers with decent fitness. The reviews highlight the friendly guide, beautiful scenery, and the chance to experience Bosnia’s highest villages.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a tailored, private experience with excellent scenery and cultural stops.
5. LUKOMIR VILLAGE HIKE & TREK TOUR
At number 5, this full-day trek combines transportation, guided hiking, and local culture, focusing on the highest village in Bosnia, Lukomir. Traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll visit the villages of Umoljani and Lukomir, enjoying panoramic views of the Rakitnica Canyon.
The hike lasts about 3-4 hours, with the guide sharing stories about Bosnian nomadic traditions and village life. Guests appreciate the opportunity to learn about Bosnian highlanders while walking through scenic mountain trails. A local lunch completes the day, making this a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a mix of cultural storytelling, scenic hiking, and comfortable transport, all in one package.
6. Sutjeska National Park Hike from Sarajevo
Number 6 takes you into Bosnia’s largest national park, home to the country’s highest peaks and the iconic Trepava Glacier and heart-shaped Trnovačko Lake. This private tour combines about 3 hours of hiking from the Prijevor plateau, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, with options for more advanced hikers to ascend Mount Maglić.
The trip includes return transport from Sarajevo and a picnic lunch lakeside. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and the fresh mountain air as highlights. The trail is easy to moderate, making it accessible for most outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a full-day, scenic mountain hike in a national park setting, with options for more challenging climbs.
7. Skakavac Waterfall Light Hiking Adventure – Day Tour
Number 7 offers a gentle half-day hike to Bosnia’s highest waterfall, Skakavac. Suitable for families or travelers with limited time, this tour leads you along easy trails with informative commentary on the surrounding flora and fauna.
The walk culminates at the impressive waterfall, where you can take photos and relax. The tour includes comfortable transport and a short walk of about 1.5 hours. Reviews highlight the friendly guide and the scenic, accessible route.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a quick outdoor escape or traveling with children, with the bonus of visiting one of Bosnia’s natural highlights.
8. Skakavac Waterfall Hike – From Sarajevo
Number 8 is a full-day private experience that combines hiking past cliffs and streams with a picnic lunch in the forest. Starting from Sarajevo, the route offers views of the highest waterfall in Bosnia, Skakavac, along with scenic spots along the way.
Guests rave about the friendly guide and the personalized experience. The trail is moderate and suitable for hikers with some experience. The itinerary emphasizes tranquility and natural beauty, perfect for a solo or couple escape.
Bottom Line: Best for outdoor enthusiasts desiring a private, scenic day with a mix of light hiking and relaxing nature.
9. Hiking around Sarajevo: Lukomir Village Full Day Hiking Tour
This full-day hike offers an intimate look at Lukomir village, a living ethnological museum perched high in the mountains. Starting with a private pickup, you’ll walk through scenic peaks and meet the locals. The guide shares insights into nomadic and highlander traditions, and you’ll enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch in the village.
The hike lasts about 9.5 hours, with options for scenic photo stops and cultural exploration. Reviewers mention the guide’s friendliness and the unforgettable views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in culture combined with outdoor activity, and who want a slow-paced, insightful experience.
10. PRIVATE Umoljani Village – Lukomir Village Hike
Number 10 offers a private, flexible hike between two of Bosnia’s most picturesque villages. Starting from Sarajevo, the tour includes a walk around Lukomir, with stops at the medieval tombstones and panoramic views from Obalj Peak.
The private nature allows you to go at your own pace, and the included picnic lunch makes the day comfortable. Guests appreciate the personalized experience and the chance to explore both villages intimately.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a tailored, private journey with cultural and scenic highlights.
11. From Sarajevo: Half Day Hiking Tour to Skakavac Waterfalls
This half-day outing focuses on reaching Skakavac Waterfall, Bosnia’s tallest waterfall. The walk involves about 1.5 hours of guided hiking, with brief stops for photos and scenic views. It’s an excellent choice for a morning or afternoon escape from the city.
The tour promises easy trails, stunning waterfall views, and a friendly guide. Perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience Bosnia’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Suitable for a quick, scenic outdoor experience close to Sarajevo.
12. The spirit of the Winter Olympics | Hike along the bobsleigh track
Number 12 combines outdoor activity with a slice of Sarajevo’s recent history. Walking along the old 1984 Winter Olympics bobsleigh track provides a unique perspective on Sarajevo’s Olympic legacy. The hike also passes through old neighborhoods and up to the Trebević mountain for city views.
Guests find this tour a fun mix of history, culture, and nature. It’s not strenuous but offers a bit of everything, with a relaxed pace suitable for most travelers.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs and those who want a casual, scenic hike with a historic twist.
13. Sarajevo: Trebević Mountain Summit Hiking Tour
The final entry is a mountain summit trek up Trebević, famous for its Olympic ski jumps. Starting with a cable car ride, you’ll hike toward the mountain’s ridge, enjoying views of Sarajevo and the surrounding peaks. The trail is about 2 hours of walking, with stops at the Jure Franko alpine skier site and the Tri Budalasa spring.
Guests mention the beautiful scenery and the fun of walking on the old Olympic bobsleigh track. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a manageable but scenic day in the mountains.
Bottom Line: Suitable for outdoor enthusiasts wanting a balanced mix of scenic views and accessible hiking.
How to Choose the Best Hiking or Trekking Tour in Sarajevo
When picking your adventure, consider your fitness level, available time, and whether you prefer a cultural experience or pure nature. For a comprehensive day combining culture and mountain views, the Lukomir Highland Village Hike is hard to beat. If your priority is a quick escape into nature, the Skakavac Waterfall Hike offers a scenic half-day. For those interested in history with a hike, the Bobsleigh Track Walk combines outdoor activity with Sarajevo’s Olympic legacy.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall), when trails tend to fill with fellow hikers.
In summary, Sarajevo offers a wide range of hiking experiences—from cultural village walks to challenging mountain ascents. If you’re after a full-day trek with cultural insights, the first two tours stand out. For shorter, scenic escapes, options like Skakavac Waterfall or the Olympic bobsleigh track are perfect. And for those who want a private or customizable adventure, tours like the private Lukomir hike provide flexibility and personal attention.
No matter your choice, each tour promises a chance to connect with Bosnia’s landscapes and traditions. So, consider your fitness, interests, and schedule—then book early to secure your spot on one of Sarajevo’s memorable outdoor adventures.