From Dubrovnik: Mostar and Kravica Waterfall Day Trip

Travelers looking for a day beyond the Croatian coast often find themselves drawn to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s less-visited treasures. This Mostar and Kravica Waterfalls day trip from Dubrovnik offers a compelling way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning your own border crossings or transport. In this review, we’ll explore what makes this tour a worthwhile adventure — and where you might want to consider its limitations.

We love the astonishing natural beauty of Kravica Waterfalls and the chance to walk across Mostar’s famous Old Bridge—two highlights that promise memorable moments. The tour’s expert guides also receive high praise for their local knowledge and friendly approach, making even long travel hours feel engaging rather than tiresome. The value for money at just $35 per person is another big plus, especially considering the included transportation and guided exploration.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that timing can be tight, especially around the waterfalls where reviews mention a desire for more time to swim or explore. The tour’s duration — about 7 to 8 hours — may feel long, but it’s packed with highlights, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road. If you’re eager to really savor each stop or explore at a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

This trip is perfect for those who want a cost-effective, well-organized taste of Bosnia, especially if you’re based in Dubrovnik or looking for a day trip that combines scenery, history, and a taste of local life. It suits curious travelers eager to see a different side of the Balkans, with some patience for the long drive.

Key Points

• Great value for the price, with guided tours, transportation, and border crossings included.
• Rich mix of scenery, from waterfalls to historic cityscapes.
• Highly praised guides who are knowledgeable and engaging.
• Limited time at each stop, especially Kravica Waterfalls, which can leave some wishing for more.
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning and small group options.
• Border crossing is smooth but requires your passport and patience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Departure from Dubrovnik and Border Crossing

The journey begins early in the morning with hotel pickup — a convenience highlighted by many reviews. You’ll be transferred in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that can be more intimate than large coach trips, allowing for better interaction with your guide. Traveling with a small group is often preferred, as it feels more personal and easier to navigate the border crossing, which is included in the fee — but keep in mind it can sometimes take a few extra minutes.

Scenic Drive Through Neum and Along the Coast

As you leave Dubrovnik behind, the route takes you through the tiny coastal town of Neum, the only Bosnian town on the Adriatic. The drive along the coast offers beautiful views of the sea and countryside, giving you a glimpse of Bosnia’s diverse landscape. Many travelers appreciate the comfortable ride and the chance to relax while listening to the guide’s anecdotes about the area.

Mostar: A Historic Jewel

Your first major stop is Mostar, a city famous for its Old Bridge (Stari Most) spanning the Neretva River. The 30-minute walking tour with a local guide is a highlight—many reviews praise the guide’s depth of knowledge and enthusiasm. You’ll learn about the history of the bridge, the city’s Ottoman influences, and its cultural melting pot.

Mostar’s winding streets, Ottoman-era houses, and lively bazaar atmosphere make it a photographer’s dream. The free time of approximately 2.5 hours is enough for a leisurely lunch, some shopping, and a chance to explore the nooks and crannies of the old town. Reviewers mention that eating in Mostar—especially sampling traditional Bosnian cuisine—is highly recommended during this break, as it offers a genuine taste of local life.

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Kravica Waterfalls: Nature’s Cascades

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Kravica Waterfalls, a natural wonder. The tufa cascades drop about 25 meters into shallow pools, creating a stunning setting amidst the forest. In spring, the falls are most dramatic, but summer visitors often enjoy the opportunity to swim in the cool waters, as many reviews highlight.

However, some travelers note that time here can feel tight—most only get about an hour to enjoy the falls, which might leave those eager to swim wishing for more. The entry fee of about $10 is not included in the tour price, but many consider it a fair addition to the experience’s overall value.

Return Journey

After spending quality time at the waterfalls, you’ll head back to Dubrovnik. The return trip is usually smooth, with a few short breaks along the way. Many travelers value the comfortable transport, which helps make the long day more manageable.

The Experience from the Guides and Fellow Travelers

One of the consistent themes in reviews is the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides. Many mention TJ, Carmella, and other guides as being informative, friendly, and proactive—they’re praised for handling unexpected situations like border delays smoothly. A few reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling, which adds personality and context to what might otherwise be just a sightseeing itinerary.

Travelers also appreciate the small group format, feeling it fosters a more intimate experience. The transportation’s air conditioning and the relaxed pace at stops contribute significantly to a positive experience, especially on warmer days.

The Challenges: Time and Crowds

The main critique revolves around limited time at Kravica Waterfalls, especially if you wish to swim or explore more thoroughly. Several reviews express a desire for an extra 30 minutes or more at the waterfalls, but the long travel distance constrains the schedule.

Crowds can also be an issue in peak seasons, with some noting that the waterfalls can get quite busy, making it harder to find a peaceful spot. The busy day also means you may not get to savor every detail as much as you might like.

Is This Tour Worth the Money?

For just $35, this tour offers remarkable value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a professional guide, and the chance to see two very different sights—urban Mostar with its bridge and historic architecture, and the natural beauty of Kravica Waterfalls. The reviews consistently praise the quality of guides and the scenic drive, making it clear that for many, the experience exceeds expectations.

Of course, this is a long day — around 7-8 hours — so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day excursions and don’t mind a bit of travel. If you’re after a more relaxed pace or more time at each stop, you might want to consider other options or extending your stay.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Bosnia without the hassle of organizing border crossings or transport. It’s perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the regional culture. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it especially appealing to those who like engaging, personalized tours.

However, if you’re a luxury traveler or someone seeking leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Likewise, travelers with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved in Mostar’s old town and the water at Kravica.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for this trip?
Yes, you must bring your passport (or ID card if you’re an EU citizen) to cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll have free time in Mostar to enjoy lunch, and many recommend trying local Bosnian dishes during your stay.

How much time is spent in Mostar?
You can expect about 2.5 hours in Mostar, which is enough for a walking tour, shopping, and a leisurely lunch.

What about the water at Kravica Waterfalls?
The waterfalls are most dramatic in spring. In summer and fall, they’re still beautiful, and many enjoy swimming in the shallow pools; however, the time there is limited—around one hour.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
The tour is offered in English, and reviews highlight guides’ excellent language skills.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, and many travelers appreciate its comfort, especially on hot days.

What happens if there are not enough participants?
The tour can be canceled if the minimum number of clients isn’t met, but this is rare, and providers tend to notify guests promptly.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, allowing flexibility if plans change.

Are children welcome?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s age restrictions imply it’s best for those who can handle a full day of travel and walking.

Wrapping It Up

This full-day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravica Waterfalls offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, historical insight, and culture at a very accessible price. The guides’ dedication, combined with stunning scenery and the chance to walk across one of the Balkans’ most iconic bridges, makes it a compelling choice.

While the day is packed and time at some stops is limited, the overall experience is often described as worthwhile and memorable. It suits travelers who are eager to explore beyond the coast, appreciate local stories and landscapes, and don’t mind a long day on the road.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, friendly, and value-packed adventure to Bosnia from Dubrovnik, this tour is certainly worth considering. Just remember to bring your patience and your camera — you’ll want to capture every moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: