Everything you need to know before hitting the trails, rivers, and skies.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most underrated outdoor destinations in Europe – and that’s not just marketing talk. This country doesn’t serve you filtered perfection or big-brand convenience. What it gives instead is something rarer: real landscapes, real adventure, and the feeling that you’ve stumbled into a place not yet swallowed by mass tourism.

But if it’s your first time here – or your first time doing this kind of travel – it’s natural to feel unsure. What’s it like? Is it safe? Do I need to bring special gear? Where do I even start?

This guide is here to answer all that and more – simply, honestly, and without the fluff.

Why Bosnia and Herzegovina for Outdoor Travel?

Because you can go from city to summit in an hour. Because the rivers are emerald. Because the mountains still feel wild. And because locals aren’t here to “host tourists” – they’re just living their lives, and often happy to share a bit of it with you.

If you’ve done outdoor travel in places like Switzerland, Slovenia, or Austria – think less signage and infrastructure, but more soul and solitude.

If you’ve never done any of it? You’re in for something real – and accessible.

What Kind of Adventures Can Beginners Do?

You don’t need to be an athlete. In fact, most of our travellers aren’t. Here’s what’s realistically doable even if it’s your first time adventuring:

Hiking and Walking

From gentle trails in pine forests to day hikes along the Via Dinarica, there’s something for every fitness level. Many start just outside Sarajevo or Mostar.

Try: A day hike from Umoljani to Lukomir village.

Rafting

Don’t let the word scare you. Rafting the Neretva or Una can be thrilling, but it’s guided, well-equipped, and includes calm stretches for floating and swimming.

Try: Beginner-friendly rafting near Konjic or Bihać.

Kayaking and Canoeing

If you can paddle, you can kayak here. Peaceful lakes, slow-moving rivers, and no prior experience required.

Try: Lake Jablaničko or the Drina River.

Snowshoeing

It’s just hiking – on snow. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. And the Olympic mountains around Sarajevo offer the perfect terrain.

Try: Half-day snowshoeing on Igman Plateau.

Horseback Riding

Ideal for nervous first-timers. You’ll ride slow, steady mountain horses led by people who’ve ridden these trails their whole lives.

Try: Village-to-village rides in Central Bosnia or Herzegovina.

“But I’ve Never Done Anything Like This…”

Good. That’s actually a strength.

You don’t have to unlearn bad habits. You don’t need to chase records. You just need to be curious, respectful of the terrain, and okay with being a little bit outside your usual comfort zone.

Most of our beginner travellers say the same thing when they finish their tour:
“I can’t believe I almost didn’t book this.”

What to Pack (and What Not To)

What you actually need:

  • Comfortable shoes (trail shoes or basic hikers)
  • Layers (it can be hot in the sun, cold in the shade)
  • Water bottle
  • Sun protection
  • Swimsuit (even if you didn’t plan to need one – you’ll probably end up in a river)
  • Light rain jacket

What you don’t need:

  • Technical gear
  • Trekking poles (unless you use them regularly)
  • Heavy boots
  • Printed bookings or paperwork
  • Fear of “not being fit enough”

Is It Safe?

In short: yes.

We only work with vetted local guides who know the terrain, the weather, and how to adjust the plan if needed. All rafting, canyoning, and climbing guides are licensed. Helmets, harnesses, life jackets – all provided and properly maintained.

You’re not going out alone unless you want to – and even then, we’ll make sure you know exactly what to expect.

Where Should I Base Myself?

First-time outdoor travellers usually love:

  • Sarajevo – easy airport access, trails and mountains within an hour, cosy cafés after
  • Mostar or Konjic – river adventures, warmer weather, lots of beginner-level outdoor activities
  • Jajce or Bihać – great if you want lakes, rivers, and a slower pace of travel

Why Go With Adventure.ba?

Because we get it.

We know what it feels like to be unsure. We’ve hosted people who’d never worn hiking shoes, never been on a mountain, never even left their city. And they loved it – because we meet people where they are. We don’t overpromise. We don’t herd people through packages. And we’re here to guide, not sell.

What’s the Best First Step?

Just message us.
Tell us your dates, comfort level, and general interests – and we’ll suggest a few options that make sense for you.

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