Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Small-Group with Turkish House Included

This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Bosnia-Herzegovina’s scenic landscapes and historic towns with the convenience of a day trip from Dubrovnik. While it’s not an intimate escape, it’s a solid option for travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the combination of natural beauty and cultural sights provides a well-rounded taste of Bosnia. We particularly appreciate how the tour balances stunning scenery — like the Kravice Waterfalls — with the authentic charm of Mostar’s Old Town. Second, the inclusion of a free entry to the Turkish House, the most visited museum in Mostar, adds extra value, giving you insight into the Ottoman influence in the region.

However, a consideration worth noting is the long travel time — roughly 12 hours — which means a good chunk of your day will be spent in transit, especially during border crossings. If you’re looking for a quick overview rather than an immersive stay, this trip likely suits you best.

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of Bosnia without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. Let’s get into the details to help you decide if it’s the right fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Luxury air-conditioned vehicles with options for small or larger groups.
• Combination of sights: Visit both natural waterfalls and historic landmarks in one day.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding and context.
• Good value: The overall experience offers a reasonable price for what’s included, especially the free museum entry.
• Time management: You’ll have a mix of guided tours and free time, but expect a long day of travel.
• Border crossing: Prepare your passport and be aware of potential delays at the Bosnia-Croatia border.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Setting Off from Dubrovnik

Your day begins with a hotel or designated meeting point pickup in Dubrovnik, where you’ll hop aboard a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle. Depending on your choice during booking, you’ll be part of either a small group (18 people) or a larger coach (up to 38). This flexibility ensures a more intimate or lively atmosphere, depending on your preference.

The journey itself offers a chance to relax as your guides chatter about what’s ahead, sharing insights into the history and culture of this cross-border region. From the start, reviews highlight the comfort of the transportation and the professionalism of guides, with many travelers commenting on the smooth organization.

Crossing Borders and Reaching Kravice

Once crossing into Bosnia-Herzegovina, you’ll quickly understand why this region is so admired. The drive toward the Kravice Waterfalls reveals lush, verdant landscapes and rugged terrain. Expect to arrive at Mala Kravica after about an hour, where the sight of 80-foot cascading waterfalls is truly breathtaking.

The waterfalls resemble a mini-Niagara, with water thundering down into shallow pools. During the summer months, if levels are lower, some travelers even take a quick swim — a refreshing way to break up the sightseeing. You’ll have around 45 minutes here, which, according to reviews, is enough time to walk down to the falls and snap photos, but not quite enough for a long swim if you’re eager for one. One traveler noted, “We only had a little time to swim before the climb back up,” so plan accordingly.

Exploring Mostar’s Old Town

After leaving Kravice, the trip continues to Mostar, arriving around 12:30 pm. This is where the tour truly shines for history buffs. Your guided walking tour of the Old Town offers a close-up view of cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture, and vibrant markets.

The highlight, of course, is the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), which has become a symbol of reconciliation after its destruction in the 1990s. Many reviews commend the local guide’s knowledge and their ability to make the history come alive. “Our guide was very knowledgeable and well-organized from start to finish,” one reviewer noted.

You’ll also visit the Mosque of Mostar and the Turkish House, the latter being the most visited museum in Mostar and included for free. This extra touch adds depth to your understanding of Bosnia’s Ottoman past. The inclusion of this free museum entry is a valued perk, especially when many similar tours charge extra.

Free Time and Lunch

Post-tour, you have some free time to explore, shop, or find a local cafe for lunch. Since food isn’t included, you’ll want to budget for a meal — many travelers recommend trying local chevapi (grilled meat) and sampling Bosnian coffee.

A common theme in reviews is how much travelers appreciate the balance of guided insights and free exploration. One person commented, “There was enough time in Mostar for self wandering,” enabling you to soak in the city’s charm at your own pace.

Return Journey with a Stop

On your way back, the group makes a rest stop where you can enjoy Turkish coffee (own expense), a chance to reflect and relax before heading back to Dubrovnik. The return trip usually wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel, but be prepared for a long day — some travelers mention up to 12.5 hours overall, mainly due to border crossing delays.

Addressing Practicalities and Value

Transportation and Group Size

The choice between a small minibus or a larger coach impacts your experience. Smaller groups tend to feel more personal, while larger groups can be lively but slightly less intimate. The buses are described as modern and comfortable, which matters when you’re spending many hours on the road.

Cost and Value

At $55.15 per person, this trip offers good value when considering the entrance fees, guided tours, and transportation included. The additional costs—like the $10 entrance fee to Kravice and the €3-5 tourist tax in Bosnia—are transparent and manageable. Several reviewers mention that the waterfalls are stunning, and the free Turkish House is a bonus.

Timing and Duration

This is a full-day adventure, roughly 11 hours. While many praise the well-organized schedule and amount of time at each site, some mention it’s a long coach ride, with 8 hours spent mostly in transit. It’s ideal for those who enjoy day trips and don’t mind the journey, but less so for travelers seeking a relaxed pace.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Several reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, with comments like “Our local guide was very informative” or “The guide explained everything clearly,” adding richness to the experience.

Others note the long border crossings can be a bit tedious, but many appreciate that the guides manage to keep the group engaged and moving efficiently.

The waterfalls receive consistent praise as a highlight, with one traveler noting, “Kravice Waterfalls were beautiful, and I enjoyed a quick dip,” though some wished for more time there. The Mostar Old Town garners positive mentions for its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits history and culture enthusiasts eager to explore Bosnia’s notable sites, nature lovers wanting spectacular waterfalls, and those on a budget looking for an affordable full-day trip. It’s also ideal if you prefer guided tours with a mix of structured sightseeing and free time.

However, if you’re not a fan of long bus rides or prefer more time at each site, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s better suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day on the road.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between scenic beauty, cultural insights, and practical value. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary help make it a worthwhile day out for those who want a taste of Bosnia without worrying about logistics. The stunning waterfalls and iconic bridge are the primary attractions, with the included Turkish House adding extra depth.

While the long hours and border crossings may not appeal to everyone, many travelers find the experience rewarding enough to justify the effort. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors to the region who want a rundown without the expense or hassle of independent travel.

FAQs

Do I need a visa for this tour?
Yes, a current valid passport is required for crossing into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Make sure to verify your visa requirements before the trip.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, reviewers consistently mention the luxury, modern, and comfortable vehicles, whether in a small minibus or a larger coach.

How much time do I get at each site?
You’ll spend about 45 minutes at Kravice Waterfalls and around 3 hours in Mostar, including guided walking and free time.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll need to budget for lunch and drinks, which can be enjoyed at local cafes.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
Most reviews refer to summer visits when the waterfalls are lower but still impressive. Keep in mind that water levels and weather can affect swimming opportunities.

How long is the border crossing?
Border checks can take up to 1.5 hours each way, so patience is required. Guides try to expedite this process.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers indicate that families and all ages can enjoy the trip, provided they’re comfortable with a full day of travel.

What is included in the tour?
Your package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guides, local guides in Mostar, and entrance to the Turkish House.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, expect to pay for entrance to Kravice ($10) and tourist taxes (€3-€5) in Bosnia.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if needed.

This full-day trip is a solid choice for travelers eager to see Bosnia’s iconic sights, enjoy stunning waterfalls, and experience the warm hospitality of Mostar, all while traveling comfortably from Dubrovnik.