Bosnia and Herzegovina Safety Guide

Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for travelers, with low rates of violent crime. The main things to be aware of are petty theft in tourist areas and the serious risk of unexploded landmines if you venture off marked paths in rural areas—always stick to paved roads and marked trails. Cities like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka are as safe as most European cities, though it's wise to take normal precautions with your belongings.

American tourists visit Bosnia and Herzegovina regularly without issues, and locals are generally welcoming to U.S. visitors. You'll face the same minor risks as other tourists—pickpocketing in crowded areas and potential taxi overcharging—but violent crime against tourists is rare. We recommend registering with the U.S. Embassy's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and keeping their Sarajevo contact information handy, just as you would in any foreign country.

Mostar is safe for tourists and is one of Bosnia's most visited cities, with thousands of visitors walking the Old Bridge area daily. The main concerns are pickpockets around the Old Bridge (Stari Most) during peak season and occasional aggressive restaurant touts in the tourist zone. Stay on marked paths if hiking in the surrounding hills, as some areas still have landmine risk, though the city center and popular viewpoints are completely clear.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is safe to travel through, with well-maintained roads connecting major cities and a growing tourism infrastructure. The key safety rule is to never walk in unmarked areas outside cities and towns due to remaining landmines from the 1990s conflict—this mainly affects rural hiking and countryside exploration. Driving is generally safe, though watch for aggressive drivers and poorly lit roads at night, and winter travel requires winter tires in mountainous regions.

Female travelers generally feel safe in Bosnia and Herzegovina, though solo women may experience occasional unwanted attention or catcalling in cities, similar to other Balkan countries. The culture is relatively conservative, especially outside Sarajevo, but harassment beyond verbal comments is uncommon. Women traveling alone should take standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being cautious with drinks in bars, but most female travelers report positive experiences and helpful locals.