Sarajevo isn’t just a city—it’s a gateway to some of the most compelling outdoor adventures in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its rugged mountains, historic sites, and untouched natural beauty make it a prime destination for hikers and trekkers alike. Whether you’re looking for a challenging full-day trek, a scenic waterfall hike, or a walk through Olympic history, Sarajevo offers options that blend cultural insight with stunning landscapes. For example, a full-day hike to Lukomir lets you meet local residents while taking in views of the deepest canyon in Europe. Meanwhile, exploring old Olympic bobsleigh tracks offers a chance to connect with Sarajevo’s recent sporting past.
If you’re here to explore, you’ll find tours suited for every fitness level and interest—whether that’s a relaxed walk through forests or a rigorous mountain trek. We’ve rounded up the best hiking and trekking tours in Sarajevo, including options that combine cultural visits, natural wonders, and exhilarating mountain views. Read on to find the one that matches your travel style.
Quick Overview
Our list features full-day hikes to Lukomir, the highest village in Bosnia, with immersive cultural stops and breathtaking scenery (see From Sarajevo: Full-Day Hike to Lukomir Village). We also include trekking adventures with comfortable transportation and perspectives on local traditions (LUKOMIR VILLAGE HIKE & TREK TOUR). For those seeking shorter escapes, half-day waterfalls hikes and Olympic site explorations offer quick yet memorable outdoor experiences. Finally, dedicated mountain hikes around Trebević showcase the natural and Olympic history of Sarajevo (Sarajevo: Trebević Mountain Summit Hiking Tour).
1. From Sarajevo: Full-Day Hike to Lukomir Village
At number one, this full-day adventure combines physical activity with culture. The tour kicks off with a pickup in Sarajevo and visits the Bjelasnica ski resort, famous for hosting the 1984 Winter Olympics. From there, it’s a scenic hike that takes you to Lukomir, the highest-settled village in Bosnia, perched at 1,460 meters. Along the way, you’ll cross the deep Rakitnica Canyon, which provides some of the most dramatic views in the region.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of natural beauty and local life. You’ll meet villagers, taste traditional Bosnian coffee, and enjoy a homemade lunch featuring locally grown ingredients. Guides like Ahmed and Mirza are praised for their storytelling and flexibility, making the experience personal and engaging. The hike is considered moderate, with some slippery patches in wet weather, so good hiking boots are recommended. The reviews highlight how well-organized and memorable this trip is, with visitors noting views that are “unlike anything I had seen before” and guides who share local legends with warmth.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of stunning scenery, cultural insight, and a manageable challenge. Expect a full day of adventure, great food, and authentic Bosnian hospitality.
2. LUKOMIR VILLAGE HIKE & TREK TOUR (nature, hike, food & panorama)
For around $93, this trekking-focused tour offers an in-depth experience of Bosnia’s highest village. Starting with a comfortable drive in an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll visit Bjelasnica and Umoljani, learning about Sarajevo’s Olympic past before heading into the mountains. From Umoljani, a three-hour trek takes you through Bosnia’s rugged landscape to Lukomir, where you’ll explore traditional stone houses and meet locals.
What makes this tour special is the focus on nature and scenery. The hikers are provided with trekking sticks, making the trail accessible without sacrificing the challenge. Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about the area’s history and culture. The visit to Lukomir includes panoramic views of the Rakitnica Canyon, giving you a true sense of the wild landscape. The reviews praise the guide Mak for his flexibility and storytelling, ensuring an engaging day.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for hikers wanting a comprehensive trek with comfortable transport and an authentic rural experience, perfect for those comfortable with moderate trails.
3. Hiking around Sarajevo: Lukomir Village Full Day Hiking Tour
At number three, this full-day hiking experience offers a blend of outdoor activity and cultural discovery. Starting from Sarajevo, you’ll visit Umoljani before embarking on a scenic three-hour hike to Lukomir, passing breathtaking viewpoints. The tour emphasizes learning about local customs, the nomadic tribes, and Dinaric Highland traditions, making it ideal for travelers interested in the cultural context of their hike.
The highlight is the visit to Lukomir, which is regarded as a living ethnological museum. You can enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch and coffee in the village. The guide, Armin, is praised for sharing local legends and history, enriching the experience beyond just walking. With a focus on scenic views of the canyon and mountains, this tour offers a rewarding mix of nature and culture.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a manageable but meaningful full-day hike with cultural insights, and stunning high-altitude scenery.
4. From Sarajevo: Half Day Hiking Tour to Skakavac Waterfalls
For visitors short on time, this half-day hike provides a quick escape into Bosnia’s natural beauty. Starting at Meet Bosnia Tours, the hike takes you to the Skakavac Waterfall, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The walk is approximately 1.5 hours each way, with a stop at the waterfall for photos and a chance to enjoy the cool mist.
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of easy hiking and striking scenery. The trail offers scenic views and the chance to stand directly above the waterfall, capturing perfect photographs. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, but the short duration makes it a good choice for travelers with limited time. The reviews note the guide’s attentiveness and the breathtaking views during the hike.
Bottom Line: An ideal quick trip for nature lovers wanting to see Bosnia’s waterfalls without committing a full day. Great for families or those on a tight schedule.
5. Skakavac Waterfall Hike: Explore Nature Near Sarajevo
This full-day hike focuses entirely on the Skakavac Waterfall, the largest unceasingly flowing waterfall in Bosnia. The trail runs through lush forests, with scenic viewpoints along the way, culminating at the waterfall’s base. You can enjoy a picnic in the area, listening to the cascading water and soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
The tour involves hiking through scenic trails, with a stunning view of the waterfall and surrounding landscapes. It’s suited for travelers who want an immersive natural experience, with a balance of light hiking and relaxation. The guide’s attention to the environment and local flora makes it educational as well as scenic. Reviewers mention the refreshing sound of water and the pleasure of a picnic next to the falls.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful, full-day escape that combines hiking with leisure and scenic beauty.
6. The spirit of the Winter Olympics | Hike along the bobsleigh track
This 4-hour hike takes you through Sarajevo’s Olympic history by exploring the old bobsleigh track from 1984. Starting at Vijećnica, you take a cable car to Trebević, where you’ll hike along the historic track, feeling the echoes of Olympic glory. The tour includes a visit to a local restaurant, where you can sample Bosnian mezze.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on Olympic history and Olympic sports infrastructure. It’s a fascinating walk through sport history, combined with panoramic views of the city. The hike is moderate, and reviews describe it as a “beautiful morning” with breathtaking vistas. It’s suited for history buffs and those interested in Sarajevo’s recent past.
Bottom Line: An engaging option for travelers interested in Olympic history, with a mix of light hiking, history, and local cuisine.
7. Sarajevo: Trebević Mountain Summit Hiking Tour
Completing our list, this 6-hour hike takes you from Sarajevo to the ridge of Trebević Mountain. Starting with a scenic cable car ride, the tour continues with a walk through forested trails and a visit to the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track. The highlight is reaching the mountain’s summit, offering sweeping views of Sarajevo and the surrounding mountains.
What sets this hike apart is the combination of spectacular panoramic views, history, and a manageable length. The guide leads you through lush forests and past the spring of Tri Budalasa, making it both a scenic and culturally enriching experience. Critics mention the route’s beauty and the sense of achievement in reaching the summit.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a mix of nature, history, and panoramic vistas, with moderate effort.
How to Choose Your Sarajevo Hiking Adventure
When selecting the right tour, consider your fitness level, your interests, and the amount of time you want to dedicate. For a full cultural and scenic immersion, the full-day Lukomir hikes (see the full-day experience) are perfect. If your schedule is tight, the half-day waterfalls trip offers a quick nature escape. For history lovers, the Olympic track hike combines sport history with scenic views (more info). Budget-wise, expect these tours to range from around $93 to premium full-day experiences—consider value for food, transportation, and guiding expertise.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall, when hikes fill up quickly. Think about whether you prefer a relaxed walk in nature, a challenging mountain trek, or a cultural exploration—each offers a uniquely memorable experience in Sarajevo’s outdoor landscape.
In summary, Sarajevo offers diverse hiking and trekking experiences that cater to a range of interests and fitness levels. For a deep dive into local culture and stunning mountain scenery, the full-day Lukomir hikes stand out. Shorter options like the Skakavac Waterfall hike are perfect for a quick nature fix, while history buffs will enjoy tracing the Olympic bobsleigh track. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a genuine taste of Bosnia’s natural and cultural riches. Don’t forget to book early—these adventures fill up fast, especially in peak season.
Happy hiking!