Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Things to Do in Kravica Waterfalls

Things to Do in Kravica Waterfalls

Kravica Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina - Complete Travel Guide

Kravica Waterfalls cascade down a 25-meter-high amphitheater of travertine rock in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, creating one of the country's most photogenic natural attractions. The falls, actually a series of waterfalls spread across a 120-meter-wide arc, flow into emerald pools that are surprisingly swimmable during warmer months. What makes this place special isn't just the Instagram-worthy scenery - it's the fact that you can actually get in the water and swim right up to the falls themselves, something that's surprisingly rare at waterfall destinations. The surrounding area feels genuinely wild, with dense forest and the kind of untouched landscape that makes you forget you're just an hour's drive from Mostar.

Top Things to Do in Kravica Waterfalls

Swimming in the Natural Pools

The main draw here is actually getting in the water - the pools beneath the falls are deep enough for proper swimming and surprisingly refreshing even in summer heat. The water stays relatively cool year-round, and you can swim right up to the base of the falls for that full sensory experience of thundering water.

Booking Tip: No booking required - just bring swimwear and water shoes for the rocky bottom. Entry fee is around 3-5 BAM per person. Best swimming conditions are May through September when water levels are manageable.

Photography from Multiple Viewpoints

The falls look completely different depending on where you position yourself - from the main viewing platform you get the classic wide shot, but hiking around to the side reveals intimate cascades and hidden pools. The morning light hits the falls particularly well, creating that misty, ethereal effect that photographers love.

Booking Tip: Arrive early morning (8-9 AM) for the best light and fewer crowds. No special permits needed, but consider bringing a waterproof camera case if you plan to shoot from the pools.

Hiking the Surrounding Trails

Beyond the main waterfall area, several informal trails wind through the surrounding forest and along the Trebižat River. These paths aren't well-marked but offer a chance to see the area's diverse birdlife and escape the crowds that tend to cluster around the main falls.

Booking Tip: Trails are free and self-guided. Wear sturdy shoes as paths can be muddy and uneven. Download offline maps beforehand as cell service can be spotty in the forest areas.

Picnicking in the Designated Areas

Several shaded areas with tables are set up around the falls, making this an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch. The sound of cascading water provides natural ambiance, and you can easily combine eating with swimming and exploring throughout the day.

Booking Tip: Bring your own food as on-site dining options are limited to basic snacks and drinks. Tables fill up quickly on weekends, so arrive early or be flexible about where you set up.

Exploring Nearby Caves

Small caves and grottos hide behind and beside the main waterfalls, accessible when water levels are lower. These aren't major cave systems, but they add an element of exploration and provide cool relief on hot days.

Booking Tip: Cave access depends entirely on water levels - spring snowmelt can make them inaccessible. Bring a flashlight and expect to get wet. No guided tours available, so explore at your own risk and comfort level.

Getting There

Kravica Waterfalls are about 40 kilometers south of Mostar, accessible via a decent but winding road that takes roughly 45 minutes to drive. Most visitors rent a car in Mostar or join organized tours, though you can also arrange private transport through local drivers. The final approach involves a short walk from the parking area down a somewhat steep path to the falls themselves. Public transportation is limited - while buses run between Mostar and nearby Ljubuški, you'd still need to arrange the final 10-kilometer stretch to the falls.

Getting Around

Once you arrive, everything is walkable within the waterfall area itself. The main viewing and swimming areas are connected by well-maintained paths, though some can be slippery when wet. If you want to explore the hiking trails or visit multiple viewpoints, expect to do some scrambling over rocks and through forest paths. The terrain isn't particularly challenging, but it's not fully accessible either - you'll need reasonable mobility to make the most of the site.

Where to Stay

Ljubuški town center
Čapljina
Medjugorje

Food & Dining

Food options at the falls themselves are quite basic - think grilled meat, simple sandwiches, and cold drinks from small stands near the entrance. For proper meals, you're better off eating in Mostar before or after your visit, or packing a picnic lunch. The nearby town of Ljubuški has several decent restaurants serving traditional Bosnian cuisine, and if you're making this part of a day trip from Mostar, you'll have access to that city's excellent restaurant scene. Some tour operators actually include lunch stops at family-run restaurants in the surrounding villages, which can be a nice way to experience local hospitality.

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When to Visit

Late spring through early fall offers the best experience, with May through September being ideal for swimming. Summer can get quite crowded, especially on weekends when families from across the region come for day trips. Early morning visits tend to be more peaceful regardless of season. Winter visits are possible but swimming is obviously off the table, and reduced water flow can make the falls less impressive. That said, winter photography can be stunning if you don't mind the cold, and you'll likely have the place largely to yourself.

Insider Tips

Water shoes or sturdy sandals are essential - the rocks in the swimming areas can be sharp and slippery
Weekday visits are significantly less crowded than weekends, especially during summer months
The small entrance fee is cash-only, and there are no ATMs at the site itself

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