Dubrovnik: Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar and Pocitelj Day Trip

Exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina from Dubrovnik: Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar, and Poitelj – An Honest Review

If you’re considering a day trip that takes you beyond Dubrovnik’s beautiful coast to explore some of the Balkans’ most captivating sights, this tour offers a tempting package. From shimmering waterfalls to historic bridges and hillside villages, it promises a rich taste of Bosnia and Herzegovina—all for about $35. That’s a serious bargain for a full day of sightseeing, especially when you factor in the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the chance to experience places that feel like stepping into a storybook.

What we love about this trip is how it balances natural beauty with cultural charm. The Kravica Waterfalls are a standout, offering a peaceful retreat where you can swim and relax amid stunning scenery. Then there’s Mostar—a city that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a postcard, with its famous Old Bridge and lively old town. Finally, the tiny village of Poitelj provides a peek into Ottoman architecture and hillside views. But one aspect to keep in mind is that the itinerary is fairly packed, meaning timing at each stop is tight, especially if you want to spend more than an hour at the waterfalls or hike up to the fort at Poitelj.

This trip suits travelers who want an affordable, well-organized way to see some of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s highlights without the hassle of planning crossings or transportation. If you’re comfortable with a full, sometimes rushed schedule and enjoy learning about the region from a friendly guide, this tour will fit the bill nicely.

This experience made our article of 12 Top Tours & Experiences In Mostar (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

Affordable value: At just $35, this trip offers a rundown of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s natural and cultural highlights.
Expert guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share engaging stories, making the experience more meaningful.
Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views at Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar’s Old Bridge, and Poitelj’s hillside vistas.
Time management: The stops are well-paced but short; plan for quick visits—especially at the waterfalls and Poitelj.
Border crossings: Expect some waiting time at borders, but the guides handle it efficiently.
Cash required: Many shops and restaurants in Mostar prefer cash, especially Euros, so come prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina

This tour kicks off with a less than two-hour drive from Dubrovnik, taking you through scenic Croatian countryside and crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ride in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and with an English-speaking driver, you’ll get interesting tidbits about the regions you pass through. Many reviews mention how smoothly border crossings are handled, although wait times can vary. Expect about 30 minutes each way, but the guides plan routes to minimize delays.

Kravica Waterfalls: Nature’s Hidden Gem

Your first stop is Kravica Waterfalls, often called a lesser-known jewel of Bosnia and Herzegovina. These cascading falls, formed by the Trebizat River, create a peaceful, lush setting ideal for a quick dip or a picnic. Expect about an hour here—enough time to walk down to the falls, enjoy the scenery, and maybe take a swim if you bring water shoes or towels.

Many travelers comment that an hour feels a bit rushed, especially because of the walk to and from the bus (about 10 minutes each way), and some wish for more time to truly enjoy the water. As one reviewer notes, “It’s absolutely stunning, and an hour didn’t do it justice.” Still, the natural beauty is undeniable, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters in such a setting is a highlight.

Exploring Mostar’s Old Town and Old Bridge

Next, the bus heads toward Mostar, a city that oozes history and charm. You’ll have about three hours to wander the cobblestone streets, browse artisan shops, and soak in the atmosphere. The Old Bridge (Stari Most) is the star attraction, symbolizing reconciliation and resilience after its destruction in the 1990s. Watching brave divers plunge from the bridge into the Neretva River is a must-see, and many visitors get to witness a diving competition or lively street performances.

The reviews consistently highlight how knowledgeable guides enrich this part of the trip. One describes their guide as “well-informed and very pleasant,” sharing stories about the bridge’s reconstruction and the city’s Ottoman roots. During your time here, you’ll find affordable eateries and souvenir stalls, often cheaper than Dubrovnik, with many accepting Euros.

However, the limited time means you’ll have to prioritize. We’ve seen comments indicating that some wish for longer here. One traveler mentions that more than three hours would let them explore the hilltop fort at Poitelj or linger over local food and crafts. Still, most agree it’s enough to get a good feel for Mostar’s vibrant atmosphere.

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Poitelj: A Hilltop Village

Your final stop is the medieval town of Poitelj, a hillside village with Ottoman-style architecture and panoramic views. The typical time here is around 30 minutes, which many feel is a bit short. Enthusiasts suggest that hiking up to the fort at the top is a worthwhile experience, offering stunning vistas of the Neretva River valley.

In reviews, travelers mention that Poitelj is “tiny but cute,” with organic fruit vendors and a peaceful ambiance. It’s a good place to snap photos, buy local crafts, or just relax on a hillside with a view. But again, time constraints mean you won’t get to explore extensively or hike up the hill unless you’re quick.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Comfort

The trip uses an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride even on hot days. The groups are usually small to medium, making it easier to ask questions or have a more personal experience. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long hours in the bus feel shorter.

Cost and Included Items

For just $35 per person, this tour covers transportation, a driver, and a knowledgeable guide. It also includes a tour escort to keep things running smoothly. You’ll need to pay for entry to Kravica Waterfalls (€10), and there’s a Bosnia and Herzegovina tourist tax (€3)—a small price for access to such a beautiful spot.

What to Bring

Bring cash—preferably Euros—since many vendors in Mostar do not accept credit cards. It’s wise to carry some water, especially during hot summer days, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven cobblestone streets and hillside walks.

Timing and Expectations

Because the tour is tightly scheduled, don’t expect to spend hours at each stop. Many reviews point out that more time at the waterfalls would be ideal for swimming and relaxing, but the logistics of a day trip limit your options. Likewise, the brief visit to Poitelj means you might miss out on hiking or exploring every nook.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Voices

Several reviewers commend the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One highlights that their guide “explained a lot about Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kravica, Mostar, and Poitelj,” adding a personal touch. Many mention how stunning the waterfalls are, with comments like “the waterfalls were brilliant” and “waterfalls are absolutely breathtaking.”

Most agree that Mostar’s Old Bridge is a “must-see,” with some noting they watched diving competitions or enjoyed local foods. The trip’s value for money is a recurring theme—many feel that seeing three different places for $35 makes it a steal, especially with the added bonus of excellent guides and comfortable transportation.

Some critics note that border crossings can cause delays—sometimes lasting 30-50 minutes—but everyone agreed guides manage these smoothly. A few also suggest that more time in certain spots would improve the experience, like extra hours at Kravica or a longer stay in Mostar.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip from Dubrovnik offers a fantastic way to see Bosnia and Herzegovina’s natural and historical highlights without the hassle of planning cross-border travel. It’s best suited for travelers who want an affordable, guided experience that covers key sights comfortably, even if it means a packed schedule. The natural beauty of Kravica Waterfalls, combined with the cultural charm of Mostar, makes for a memorable day—especially if you appreciate lively markets, ancient bridges, and hillside villages.

While the itinerary is efficient, it’s not designed for those wanting a leisurely pace or in-depth exploration of each site. If you’re content with brief visits and want a solid overview of the region’s highlights, this trip delivers great value. Plus, the praise for guides who are informative, friendly, and passionate about their region adds to the overall appeal.

In short, this tour is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to expand their Balkan experience, enjoy stunning scenery, and learn about Bosnia and Herzegovina’s vibrant culture—all in one day.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Bosnia?
The trip takes less than two hours each way with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, including time for border crossings.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your fee covers pickup and drop-off, transportation, an English-speaking driver, and a tour escort. Entrance to Kravica Waterfalls (€10) and the Bosnia tourist tax (€3) are paid separately.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Most travelers find the schedule well-organized, but some wish for more time at Kravica Waterfalls and Poitelj. The typical visit is about an hour at Kravica and 30 minutes at Poitelj, with three hours in Mostar.

What should I bring?
Cash (preferably Euros) is essential, as many shops and restaurants don’t accept cards. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and sun protection for hot days.

Are border crossings complicated?
Border delays can happen, but guides manage the process efficiently. Expect about 30 minutes each way, depending on border traffic.

Can I do this tour if I have limited mobility?
There are steep walks and uneven paths—especially at Kravica Waterfalls and Poitelj—so mobility issues might make parts of the trip challenging.

In summary, this day trip hits the highlights—natural beauty, historic sites, and local charm—all at an accessible price point. It’s an ideal outing for those who want a taste of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s culture and scenery without spending a fortune or dedicating multiple days. Just remember, with a busy schedule, don’t expect to linger long at each spot—think of it as a whirlwind introduction to a fascinating corner of the Balkans.

You can check availability for your dates here: