Dubrovnik: Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Small-Group Tour

Imagine a day where you leave behind the crowds of Dubrovnik to explore two of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most captivating sights. This small-group tour offers a personal touch, taking you from the scenic coast of the Adriatic to the historic streets of Mostar and the stunning cascades of Kravice Waterfalls. It’s an experience that balances comfort, cultural insight, and natural beauty in a way that big bus tours often can’t match.

What we love about this tour: First, the small-group size—with a maximum of 8 guests, it feels more like traveling with friends than being herded on a bus. This creates a warmer, more relaxed atmosphere, plus speedy border crossings that cut through the hassle. Second, the expert guides—several reviews mention how knowledgeable and personable guides make the day richer and more engaging.

One potential consideration: the itinerary involves border crossings and some walking through cobblestone streets, which might be less suited for travelers with mobility issues. However, for those comfortable with a full day of walking and exploration, it offers a fantastic mix of history, scenery, and local flavor. This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want an intimate, authentic taste of Bosnia while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized day trip from Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Small-group format ensures personalized attention and quicker border crossing
• Culturally rich experience in Mostar with its famous Ottoman-style bridge and multi-faith community
• Natural beauty at Kravice Waterfalls, with swimming opportunities in summer
• Scenic drive along the Adriatic coast, with panoramic views and picturesque villages
• Authentic local cuisine and recommendations for enjoying Bosnia’s flavors
• Well-organized itinerary with enough time for exploring, shopping, and relaxing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour, operated by Laus Travel d.o.o., is designed to give you a genuine taste of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s highlights in one day. Starting from Dubrovnik, the journey begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned van—a real bonus for those who dislike large coach buses. You’ll appreciate the small group (no more than 8 guests), which not only makes the crossing through borders faster but also fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

The Journey and Scenic Drive

The drive from Dubrovnik along the Croatian coast is a highlight in itself. You’ll pass through charming seaside villages, vineyards, and blue waters shimmering in the sunlight. This is the kind of drive that makes you forget about traffic and focus on the stunning views, with many reviews praising how enjoyable and scenic the route is.

A notable perk of traveling in a small van is the border crossing process. With fewer people, the crossing takes just about 10 minutes—significantly faster than large bus groups that often face long waits. This efficiency means more time at your destinations rather than in line.

Kravice Waterfalls: Nature’s Cascade

Your first stop is Kravice Waterfalls, located just across the border in Bosnia. These cascading tufa cascades are a feast for the eyes, and in summer, they transform into a swimming paradise. Several reviews mention the advantage of arriving early—you’re almost guaranteed a quiet, uncrowded experience. One traveler noted arriving before “the crowds descend later in the day,” which meant they could swim peacefully and enjoy the natural setting with minimal fuss.

The waterfalls are accessible via a walk that’s described as only mildly strenuous, making it manageable for most travelers. If you plan to swim, remember to bring a towel and change of clothes—many reviewers appreciated having time to cool off and relax amid the soothing sounds of rushing water.

Mostar: A Cultural Jewel

After the waterfalls, you head to Mostar, a city famous for its Ottoman-influenced architecture, historic bazaar, and the world-famous Old Bridge (Stari Most). This reconstructed bridge is a UNESCO site and a symbol of reconciliation after Bosnia’s recent conflicts. Travelers consistently praise the informative guides, who share stories about the city’s multi-layered history, its diverse communities, and the significance of the bridge.

Mostar’s cobblestone streets and wooden balconies provide plenty of photo opportunities. Several reviews highlight the excellent local restaurants recommended by guides, offering authentic Bosnian cuisine. Some travelers enjoyed lunch overlooking the river, with some even visiting museums about the recent war, adding a meaningful layer to the visit.

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Authentic Experiences and Local Flavor

Throughout the day, guides often share personal stories and tips, enriching your understanding of the region. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide showed us the best place for local food and was very helpful.” This focus on authentic experiences is what makes the trip feel more than just a sightseeing checklist.

The Return Journey

In the late afternoon, you head back to Dubrovnik, passing scenic vineyards and coastal landscapes. The small-group setup means you’re among the first to arrive at the waterfalls and most of the attractions, avoiding the large tour bus rush. Many reviews mention how relaxed and enjoyable the return trip is, with stories, laughs, and a sense of connection among fellow travelers.

Transportation & Comfort

The mini-van is frequently praised for its cleanliness, comfort, and air conditioning—crucial for a full day of touring. The van’s size also means that your border crossing is quick, and your group remains small enough to foster some camaraderie.

Duration and Timing

The tour starts with a hotel pickup and typically lasts from early morning until late afternoon, giving ample time at each site without feeling hurried. The schedule might shift slightly due to border traffic or other conditions, but guides generally keep everyone informed.

Cost and Value

At $110 per person, this tour offers solid value. It includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and the convenience of a small group. Entrance fees to the waterfalls are paid separately (~$10 cash), which many find reasonable considering the overall experience. The tour’s reviews consistently underscore how well-organized and worthwhile they found the price.

Authentic, Small-Group Travel: Why It Matters

Traveling in a group of no more than 8 means you get more personalized attention, more flexibility, and less time waiting at borders or attractions. Several reviews mention how this led to more time at the waterfalls and in Mostar, making the day less rushed and more relaxing.

The small group dynamic also allows for better social interaction—many travelers mention making new friends, sharing stories, and enjoying the atmosphere. The guides’ extensive knowledge and friendly manner add to this warmth, making the entire experience memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Bosnia’s highlights without the hassle of large tour groups or complicated logistics, this trip is perfect. It suits travelers who value comfort, authentic experiences, and a personalized approach. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, given the walking involved, but most other adventurous or culturally curious travelers will find plenty to love.

FAQs

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
You are responsible for confirming your visa requirements. The tour crosses the Bosnia-Croatia border, so travelers must ensure they meet all visa criteria before travel.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the guide and tour escort, and the tourist tax. Entrance fees to the waterfalls (~$10) are paid in cash, and food and drinks are not included.

How long does border crossing take?
With a small van, border crossing is typically quick—about 10 minutes each way—making the day more efficient and less stressful.

Can I swim at Kravice Waterfalls?
Yes, during summer months, swimming is popular. Remember to bring a towel and change of clothes if you plan to dive in.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but guides often recommend authentic local restaurants where you can enjoy Bosnian dishes.

How much time do I get in Mostar?
Most travelers have several hours to explore, shop, and enjoy lunch. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s recommendations enhance the experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children who can handle walking and the full-day schedule, but not recommended for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, some cash for entrance fees, swimwear if swimming, and a camera to capture the memorable views.

Final Thoughts

This small-group tour from Dubrovnik strikes a thoughtful balance between comfort, culture, and natural beauty. You’ll appreciate the intimate size that speeds up border crossings and fosters genuine connections. The stops at Kravice Waterfalls and Mostar offer stunning scenery and meaningful history, making it a worthwhile addition to your Balkan adventures.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning, this trip provides a manageable, authentic way to experience Bosnia and Herzegovina’s highlights without the chaos of large tour buses. It’s especially suited for travelers who value a relaxed pace, insightful guides, and the chance to see a different side of the region in a day.

In brief, if you’re after a well-organized, personable, and scenic day trip that maximizes your time and minimizes hassle, this tour from Dubrovnik delivers just that. It’s a chance to step into a city with Ottoman charm, cool off at a stunning waterfall, and enjoy the journey with a small, friendly group.

You can check availability for your dates here: