Internationale groepsreis Walking in Bosnia & Herzegovina

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

I don't often write reviews but this time I felt the need to!! This was the best Exodus holiday I've been on in a while, I loved every minute of it and I could have stayed longer.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were so many great moments including the hike up Maglic which was made extra special by the fantastic weather which made the views spectacular, and our visits to both Sarajevo and Mostar which were made particulary special  by the insights and experiences of our guides. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Both of our guides were very professional and showed awareness of the needs of our group members.  They helped to make the trip special, especially as they were prepared to answer all of our questions and share there personal experiences of Bosnia's recent history.  They were knowledgeable and informative about all of our walks and the culture of the area.   I rate them among the best guides I have come across in the 14 years that I have been going on Exodus holidays.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared to enjoy yourself whatever the weather!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Of course your fellow travellers can make the difference between an OK experience and great holiday, for me this was a fantastic trip!

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Varied walks through unspoiled countryside contrasted superbly with the visits to Sarajevo, Mostar and Dubrovnik - a magical mix. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

A balmy evening spent in a restaurant terrace overlooking Mostar bridge eating exquisite seafood. A swim in a beautiful lake after a tough nine hour hike. A walk around Dubrovnik's city walls in the early morning before the crowds arrive.   

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer is an inspirational and informative guide with an encyclopaedic knowledge of Bosnia having lived through the recent troubles as a young boy. His optimism for the future and his love of the country is infectious. He is the perfect guide, offering encouragment when the climb seems a bit steep and ensuring all clients stay within their comfor zones.  

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

August can be (and was for us) very hot - take a good sunhat and plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water. Enjoy the beers at the end of the day. Be prepared for some quite long minibus transfers between locations. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I visited beautiful Montenegro in February and intend to explore this whole region much more in the next couple of years.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

 A fantastic trip in an amazing country! I really liked the combination of several days walking alongside the opportunity to take in some culture too (Sarajevo is an amazing city). Bosnia and Herzegovina is a really beautiful country and my advice would be to go now before it is spoiled by mass tourism. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I had lots of inspirational moments on this trip ranging from reaching the top of Maglic Mountain (Bosnia's highest peak), rafting down the Neretva river, spending time in Sarajevo or just relaxing with the group and a few beers! It was interesting and moving to learn about and see evidence from the recent Balkan war and hear our guides talk about their experiences during this time. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leaders, Alan and Emir, were great. Really well organised, happy to answer questions and make suggestions and their health and safety considerations were impeccable. They made a real effort to help the group bond together.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

You cannot obtain Bosnian Convertible Marks outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. I took Euros and changed them at a bank when I arrived. I think it would have been easier just to take Marks from the cash point(s) on arrival. Useful to take some Croatian Kuna for use in Dubrovnik. I would like to have spent a few more days in Dubrovnik. It is worth considering adding a couple of days before or after the trip to see a bit more of this beautiful city.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would really reccomend this trip to anyone who is considering it - book it now!

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Bosnia has it all for hill walkers except the crowds.  Walking, nature and history come together in a country of many textures and complexities.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Oberving how the Bosnian people have made peace with one another and and sucessfully rebuilt their country.

What did you think of your group leader?

First class.  Samer had all the qualities one looks for in guide with some to spare.  The guides overall gave much informaton about Bosnia politics and history as well as the mountains.  The overall feel was very relaxed even on long days.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It is quite hot in August and not all hotels have air conditioning.  Also lifts are scarce so traveling light is advisable.  The heights mentioned in the trip notes may be overstated.  On the long day, one section was supposed to be challenging concerning drops, but I didn't notice it and I assumed that we went a different route.  Apparently, not!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Bosnia is a inexpensive country and mostly unspoilt by tourism.  The hills are impressinve yet very few walkers go there.  Because tourist is underdeveloped, Bosnia has a relaxed feel, where hawkers and high prices are a rarity. 

WALKING IN BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA

A fantastic walking trip in spectacular scenery where you'll most likely meet nobody else, plus the chance for sightseeing in Dubrovnik, Sarajavo & Mostar. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walking is reasonably challenging but the views are exceptional - there are some very long days, some very steep scrambles and one very long steep descent all of which can test you when the temperatures are in the mid to high 30's! (August 2012).  You do need a head for heights at times with a few steep drops.  The ascent of Maglic Mountain (2386m) is a very long day but was fantastic with spectacular views all around, plus the chance of a dip  in Trnovacko Lake (in Montenegro) to cool off about three-quarters of the way round.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Samer Hajri? from Green Visions, a local Bosnian company - he and his assistant Damir were everything that you need from a group leader - always there with information and assistance.  Helpful, polite and enthusiastic - obviously proud Bosnians who love to show people what their country has to offer.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As you might expect from this part of the world, the inclusive meals in this trip will be quite baisc and some of the accommodation, whilst clean and tidy, is rather small and basic. There is more travelling on buses throughout the trip than I was expecting - most days involved a bus trip both to and from each day walk of an hour or two, plus the transfer days of course.  The bus trips to walks and back were also on very rough roads, especially in the nataional park.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would recommend that you add on a couple of days (either before or after the trip) so that you can explore Dubrovnik properly as you really don't get much time there at all in the schedule (arrive about 4pm on Friday and depart about 11am on Saturday for the airport) plus the hotel Exodus use is about 15 minutes on the bus/in a taxi from the old city.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Excellent trip- varied walks and lovely scenery-very caring guides.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being in a beautiful area, a fascinating mix of cultures and such warmth from the people.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both leaders first class-Samer was assisted by Dan and nothing was too much trouble for either of them.They projected a kind caring nature and are a credit to their country and Exodus.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The waking is not easy in the heat but the walks are excellent and well worth the effort.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Bosnia is cheaper than most of Europe so the money lasts well. The Sarajevo War Tunnels close at 16.00 so no time to visit unless you miss a walk.Lovely views of the city from the fort-only 10 mins walk from the hotel. Could have done with a little more time in Mostar but the trip went as intineray. Bosnia is like stepping back 30 years -go and enjoy.   Suggest adding a few extra days in Dubrovnik to take in the old city and beaches prior to starting the trip.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

This was one of my best ever Exodus holidays, combining moderately-demanding trekking in beautiful alpine scenery with the culture and emotion of a war-torn nation.  The reviews provided by fellow walkers, Maria and Paula, say it all.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sarajevo broke my heart.

What did you think of your group leader?

Simply the best.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go and enjoy!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The hotel breakfasts are in a league of their own - but you'll have to go there to find out why!

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

An excellent trip.  Very good mixture of hiking and sightseeing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Swimming in the Neretva river - cold but exhilarating. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Sameer and Eldar were excellent.  Sameer was always willing to answer my many questions.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

It would be a good idea to read about the history of the country - as there is much to learn.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

You are likely to meet pleasant group members (like we did) because the itinery will probably attract like minded people.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

An absolutely beautiful country.  The walking was fantastic, very beautiful, sometimes challenging and sometimes the group would be the only people I would see all day.  The trip was well planned with interesting city tours, a variation of walks and the additional rafting day was brilliant. I will definitely be going back to see more.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The Maglic walk has to be one of the best walks I've ever done.  It was an excellent mix of beautiful scenery, a few challenging moments, a swim in a lake (optional!) and finished with a view of the sun setting over the mountains. One of the most beautiful things I've ever seen! Sarajevo was  also a wonderful place to spend 3 days.  It was nothing like I expected it to be, but it was a lovely city with great food, beautiful buildings and friendly people. 

What did you think of your group leader?

He was excellent. Very knowledgeable about the mountains and the history of the country which made the walks and city tours very interesting. He worked well with the group and managed the different range of abilities very well. He was also funny and sociable! I would highly recommend him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Read up on some of the history before you go. It gives you an additional perspective if you've got some understanding of the past.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I could not recommend this trip highly enough. If you like walking in beautiful mountains, seeing interesting cities, meeting lovely people and drinking amazing coffee then you should go. I will definitely be going back to see more.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

An excellent trip. One of my favourite. It was a great mix of trekking and city exploration.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were two points : Getting to the summit of Maglic mountain after a long walk up. The view from the top was truely awesome. Also an evening meal in Mostar overlooking the Iconic bridge.

What did you think of your group leader?

Alen was excellent, as was Emir his assistance. Both were very engaging, helpful and knowledgeable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I was concerned about the trip notes description of needing a head for heights. For me, the anticipation was worse than the reality ! You really don't get very long at all in Dubrovnik, consider extending the trip by a few days. The Maglic day was a long one. Be prepared for this, especially the last 2 hours of the day which is up!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Maglic day, was long, and we didnt start walking until 10am. The trip would be improved by an early start and a picnic breakfast at the start of the hike.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

The perfect combination: i) moderately demanding trekking amid great scenery and ii) the incredible emotion and depth of Bosnia Hezegovina's historical and cultural heritage - not to mention that both Dubrovnik and Mostar are stunningly pretty.   

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sarajevo. I'm already thinking of a good reason to go back and I don't even like city breaks.  

What did you think of your group leader?

The team Samer+Alen had the perfect combination of knowledge, skills and temperaments. I enjoyed every second of the time I spent with them and they made the whole trip not only easy, fascinating and (very) safe, but really great fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just go. This trip has everything (except point to point walks, but the bus rides are never over 1 hour and I ended up enjoying even those - I guess it's all about the company).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A big thank you to Paula, for being the Perfect Roomate Mate, an inspired singer and really really good company. 

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

I have done a few Exodus holidays in Europe and would actually say that in terms of the scenery and the history of the country it was among the best.  Bosnia is not normally thought of as a holiday destination, but has lots to offer! Also not that many tourists either

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking in the wildflower meadows was absolutely beautiful and there were lots of butterflies as well if you like nature. There is also lots to see in Sarajevo.  As this was a walking holiday then obviously we had walks organised everyday but it would be nice to go back to visit some of the museums there as unfortunately there was so much to see we did not have enough time. It is amazing to see the resilience of the people of Sarajevo following their recent troubles.  It is difficult to imagine what it must have been like, but the reminders are still there in terms of the damaged ski station etc and the library which is still under repair. Amazing to think as well of the work which has been done rebuilding Mostar including the bridge there which was completely destroyed.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both Samer and Alen were excellent - considerate, informative about their country and enthusiastic

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

In Sutjeska National park there are not always well marked paths as it is not like the Lake District by way of example.  However, it is not a problem if you are used to walking. The scenery is well worth it anyway!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Book it now!!!!

Superb and varied trip in beautiful mountains and historic cities

This was our first trip to the Balkans and we were amazed how much we were able to see in just over a week. The country has recovered exceptionally well from a very tumultuous recent history, and we felt inspired by the warmth and enthusiasm of all the BiH people we met. The countryside is pristine, with absolutely no pollution, and the walking very varied and interesting. We all loved Sarejevo and Mostar, both fascinating and sophisticated cities.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The entire group of 15 reached the summit of Maglic. The ascent included a challenging stretch just below the summit, including some scrambling and a short stretch of via ferrata, but with guidance and support from the guides we all managed this without difficulty. Watching Euro football matches in the open air Fanzone in central Sarejevo was a great experience.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eldar was brilliant at everything. It would be difficult to find anyone who knows the mountains better, he's a great team leader, all the arrangements worked like clockwork, his communication was clear and unambiguous, and he was very patient with our constant questions (as none of us spoke any of the local languages). There appeared to be no problem he couldn't solve, including repairing my sunglasses, very professionally, when the lens fell out!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Get as fit as possible before you go so that you can really enjoy the superb walking on this trip. Maglic is a bit of a challenge but more than worth the effort ... Take insect repellent as the pristine, unspoilt countryside is not at all polluted by insecticides. Don't be put off by this - it's beautiful with wonderful wild flowers everywhere. BiH gets very warm - take light clothes and plenty of sunscreen.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was a superb trip and I'd advise anyone to do it

Walking in Bosnia

Fine walking in a very interesting part of Europe. Lots of turbulent history! But now peaceful and accommodating.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The day on Maglic. "Entertaining" climb to the top. A very steep descent down scree to a tranquil green lake. Once at the water it really seemed like paradise. Sarajevo is a great city. Standing at the waters edge in Mostar at night. Looking up at the iconic re-built bridge.

What did you think of your group leader?

Eldar and Kenan were exceptionally good Very knowledgable. Friendly. The best!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The weather in June was blisteringly hot. Take suitable protection.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Great country. Ignore the past troubles. You will enjoy it.

Variety and challenge

Apart from hiking there is a big emphasis on getting to know the history of the area, which I really appreciated. Bosnia is a beautiful and friendly country and you will enjoy getting to know it better. We found local people really keen to talk, even if we didn't share many words. We enjoyed really perfect weather.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

For me, by far, was the rafting. A glorious day, peaceful and a little bit different. Working as a team was fun. I enjoyed the walks and the city tours too. We enjoyed eating out in the evening with the group. The town at the top of the hill was very interesting and I enjoyed talking to the people who lived there.

What did you think of your group leader?

He was good, but he failed to keep the group together sufficiently during the hikes which was unfortunate. Other Exodus leaders worked harder to be inclusive. Other than that he was very nice, enthusiastic, well organised and informative.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Practice walking up hills. I used a much smaller pack than suggested which was just fine. The two star hotels are adequate - however we didn't always have hot water. Coffee is really important and generally delicious.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The food always includes both cheese and meat, and not much in the way of vegetables/salad. It can be heavy and creamy. It is generally good. We felt the restaurant in Dubrovnik was a rip off.

Everything you want in a hiking trip and much much more!

This was my first trip to this part of the world and went with an open mind regarding the turbulent recent history of the country but what I found was a wonderfully warm, hospitable and friendly country with no hangover from the past. The walking was truly wonderful with spectacular views wherever you looked, from the magnificent Sutjeska national park where Bosnia's highest mountain (Maglic) resides along with some wonderful ancient forests to the mountains around Sarajevo and the visit to Bosnia's highest inhabited village (1469m). Walking in the Bosnian mountains really is a hidden gem and something anyone that enjoys walking should do before the world finds out about this. The city trips of both Sarajevo and Mostar were equally a great part of the trip and both city guides were not only informative and knowledgeable but also warm, friendly and answered every question that was put to them.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Meeting the inhabitants of the country's highest inhabited village and having lunch that they kindly prepared for us, the walk to the village was truly spectacular with stunning views wherever you looked, the friendliness and unassuming nature of the villagers was indeed inspirational as it is a tough life living off the land and I can imagine that the winters can be harsh and long!

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer was a wonderful leader, his knowledge of the mountains was second to none and he looked after the group with patience and encouragement throughout, even on some of the more arduous climbs. He was more than just a leader though, he was a historian always happy to answer any question the group might have, he was an interpreter when we had problems getting out requests across to the locals and at times he was a comedian with his own brand of humour!....... if you get Samer as your guide you can be reassured that you will be in safe hands!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The walking is rather strenuous and a fair bit tougher than we have in the UK but it is easily done with anyone that is a regular walker and the views more than make up for the effort!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Bosnia is a wonderful and diverse country and really is somewhere to visit before the "secret" get out!.... Sarajevo is a wonderful city and somewhere I would go back again to spend more time in, Mostar has its own natural beauty beside the famous bridge, with its rich history and narrow cobbled streets. One great upside of Bosnia is the cost of living, dinner with wine or beer would not be much more than about 20marka (£10) and I bought the whole group (15 of us) an ice cream in Sarajevo and still had change from £10... If there was a downside in Bosnia it is that they still allow smoking in restaurants, cafes and bars but this should not distract you from visiting this wonderful country and the air in the mountains is unpolluted and smoke free!!... I cannot recommend this trip highly enough.

Walking in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Great trip with outstanding hiking and informative city visits. Leader was exceptional with excellent support staff. An authentic and exhilarating hiking and cultural experience.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the peak of Mt. Magic.

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer was a knowledgeable, professional and caring leader. His knowledge of the mountains was vast and love of Bosnia was inspirational. It was a pleasure and an honor to participate with him.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for changing weather conditions that are likely to occur in the mountains.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We also appreciated the wonderful and interesting traveling companions.

WALKING IN BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

An excellent trip to a beautiful country with outstanding local guides.  The itinerary provides a good mix of walking in great scenery with time spent exploring the cities of Bosnia.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The rafting trip down the Neretva River.  This was my first experience of white water rafting and I found it exhilarating.  The Neretva canyon itself is magnificent - with plenty of rapids punctuated by really peaceful sections between vertical rock walls.  The walking in the Sudjeska National Park was a wonderful experience - rocky peaks and grassy hills.  It was so quiet you almost felt that our party had the mountains to ourselves.

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer was simply outstanding - the best guide I have had on any of my trips.  He is extremely knowledgeable about his country and provides a very balanced view of its recent history.  He has a great love for the mountains of Bosnia and is sure to inspire you.  He ensured that all the trip arrangements went smoothly and is an extremely patient guy - despite us probably asking the same questions several times over.  During our visit to Bosnia Samer was ably assisted by Srdjan - a tower of strength, whose "Tardis" like rucksack produced flasks of hot water (tea/coffee), biscuits, fruit and all manner of nibbles to keep us going on the walking days.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with an open mind and do not expect gourmet cuisine (especially at the start of the holiday in the first two hotels).  The restaurants in Sarajevo and Mostar are very good, however, and the prices cheap. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Book today!

Walking in Bosnia-Herzegovina

A seven day walking trip starting/finishing in Dubrovnik, visiting Sutjeska National Park, Sarajevo, Neretva river canyon and Mostar. The trip encompassed a mix of strenuous and easy day walks, visiting a remote mountain village, and exploring and understanding the volatile history of the country. An overall highlight was discovering the beauty of the landscape - so many mountains, forests, lakes and rivers. Accommodation ranged from the basic, Socialist-era style hotel in Sutjeska National Park (though perfectly comfortable and adequate), to the small, comfortable and more modern hotels in Trebinje, Sarajevo and Mostar. Travel was in a 12 seater van, driven by the personable Gvard, from Sarajevo.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Climbing Mt Maglic, Bosnia's highest peak. Walking to and being hosted for lunch in the remote mountain village of Lukomir, near Sarajevo. Sharing the knowledge and experiences of our guides, Samer and Eldar, both in the mountains and their times as teenagers living in the Siege of Sarajevo. Learning about the complicated and volatile history.

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer is one of the most inspirational trip leaders I have had the pleasure to travel with. Passionate about his country and its mountains, knowledgeable and open minded about the history, organised and professional, patient, caring, gentle and a tricky sense of humour. Co-guide Eldar also shared his love of the mountains - he is also a keen rock climber, mountain biker and part of the mountain rescue team, so we felt more than confident! Also helpful, going out of his way to show some of us find Sarajevo's specialist biking and sporting shops.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't expect any pillow menus - however this is five star tour for what it offers in discovering a beautiful country, still recovering from a tragic recent history.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Fascinating and rewarding holiday.

A thoroughly rewarding and fascinating insight into the rich history and geography of BH. As a trekker of limited experience but average fitness I found the walks challenging but well within my limits to complete thanks to the expert guidance given. The routes planned by our excellent guide Samer showed us the vast range of climates, ecology and history of the region-within one day we went from a Mediterranean climate to a alpine and back again! Every day was packed full and every aspect well organised. A fantastic mix of rural walking, a couple of interesting city tours and even a day of rafting. I highly recommend this trip!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Everyday was so different and so packed full it is hard to pick out one moment but probably reaching the summit of Maglić having beaten the looming storm!

What did you think of your group leader?

Samer along with his colleague Dino was faultless as a guide. Their, humour, knowledge and enthusiasm for BH made the trip. Every aspect was planned in-depth from the treks to booking lunches/dinners for the group; we were made to feel very looked-after throughout the trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for all weather. During August we arrived at the end of a lengthy heatwave but still experienced frequent showers-some heavy. If you get travel sick just be aware that some of the minibus travel is through bumpy and windy roads; most journeys about an hour via minibus to the start of the walk.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I highly recommend the optional rafting trip- it gave a great perspective of the gorge with a dramatic landscape and crystal clear waters as a backdrop. The route is mostly very gentle with a few small rapids just big enough to make it exciting but not too big to distract from the scenery; plus with a good 4/5 hour trip including cooked lunch of fresh fish at the end it is amazing value.