Walk into the past and experience a day in the life of a Bosnian villager. This one-day trip offers unique insights on the rhythms of daily pastoral life in one of the country's most historic and isolated regions.

Highlights

  • Encounter the traditions of Bosnia's highest and most-remote village
  • Understand the local herding and crafting culture through interacting with locals
  • Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling pastures, rugged mountains, and deep canyons
  • Hike to the Peruce Waterfall and explore the natural scenery of the Dinaric Alps
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Overview

Lukomir is a unique village situated about 33 miles to the south of Sarajevo, nestled high among the mountains of the Dinaric Alps. With its friendly locals, cherrywood-roof houses, and flocks of sheep, Lukomir continues to embrace the tranquility of traditional village life while increasingly opening up to the outside world. This tour is a great way to genuinely experience the traditions of Bosnia and truly get a feel for an off-the-beaten-path destination in the Balkans.

Running from May to October, this itinerary lasts for a full day (from early morning to late afternoon, including travel) and although it includes some hiking, is suitable for almost any culturally-inclined traveler. Sturdy shoes, water, appropriate gear, a camera, and a backpack are recommended, especially if you want to explore the surroundings through additional hikes. If you are feeling adventurous and are comfortable with more difficult treks, you can even go for a seven-hour circular hike to Lukomir!

Detailed Itinerary

Lukomir
Lukomir

In the morning, head to your pickup spot opposing Pigeon Square in the Bascarsija neighborhood of Sarajevo behind the tram station. After driving out to the countryside for an hour and a half, you will arrive at Lukomir, the highest-altitude village in all of Bosnia. Remotely situated from urban areas, the residents of Lukomir still practice centuries-old traditions of the Dinaric highlands. Many locals still live a pastoral lifestyle and wear hand-knitted clothing even though electricity and running water are now available, making for a truly unique opportunity to peek into southern Europe’s rural past.

After meeting the villagers and learning more about both the pleasures and travails of living in such an isolated region, take some time to tour the homes and pastures in-depth. Once you reach the edge of the village, you will stumble upon a stunning view of the Obalj and Visocica Mountains as well as the 800-meter deep Rakitnica Canyon (2,625 feet). Next, go for a short excursion and hike to the beautiful Peruce Waterfall (130 feet) before returning to Gornji, or Upper Lukomir, for a specially-prepared homemade lunch with your hosts. Finally, get a chance to see some intricate local handicrafts and buy some as souvenirs before saying goodbye and heading back to the capital.