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Horseback riding vacations in
Bosnia
Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in the Balkan and displays an interesting blend between West and East. Although many people associate the country with the civil war that took place in the 1990s, Bosnia and Herzegovina is now at peace and ready to welcome visitors!
Bosnians are known for their warmth and they will make you feel at ease right away. This is the perfect destination for nature and culture buffs in search of lesser-known countries with authentic people and pristine landscapes.
Must see destinations include the capital city, Sarajevo and the famous Old Bridge of Mostar as well as many natural highlights such as the Kravice waterfall and Jahorina Mountain.
Hidden Trails offers you the opportunity to discover the beautiful region of Herzegovina in the best way possible: from the back of a horse! Ride through endless fields, discover an ancient Necropolis, meet the locals and learn about their culture.
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Holidays on horseback in Bosnia
See Mini Country Guide
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Below is a list of our trips in this area with video clips.
 Click on the 'watch video' icon
to view a video clip,
Bosnia
Travel restrictions
As of May 26th 2022, local authorities have removed entry restrictions related to COVID-19.
Measures taken by the government
Local restrictions are subject to change and vary based on jurisdiction.
Testing
Private and public clinics throughout Bosnia & Herzegovina (BiH) perform PCR and serological COVID-19 tests. Payment is due in full at the time of the test and current prices are roughly 100 convertible marks (km) for PCR and 40km for serological.
Turnaround of results and availability of testing appointments vary based on the city, yet clinics in most large cities have testing options daily and return results within 24 hours.
A list of clinics known to provide COVID-19 testing in BiH can be found on our website here: https://ba.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/list-of-doctors/
Public Health Centers (Dom Zdravlja) test symptomatic individuals regardless of nationality, free of charge.
Emergency number (related to COVID-19) while visiting the country
Information not available.
Source:
US Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina https://ba.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/
Published on February 21st 2023 (checked on April 5th 2023)
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Bosnia
At A glance
Capital City: Sarajevo
Land size: 51,187 sq km
Population: 3,807,764 (2023 est.)
Official languages: Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian
Currency: Convertible Mark (KM / BAM)
UNESCO properties and sites:
- Mehmed Paša Sokolovic Bridge in Višegrad
- Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar
- Stecci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards
- Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bosnia-and-herzegovina/
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Bosnian people, experiencing their traditions, sampling delicious local cuisine, and listening to stories that reflect the rich cultural heritage of this captivating land. Bosnia and Herzegovina's historical treasures, natural wonders, and cultural diversity offer a truly unique travel experience.
The country’s rich history and cultural heritage are evident in its ancient towns, such as Mostar and Jajce, where you can roam through cobblestone streets and marvel at the well-preserved architecture.
Discover the cultural treasures of Sarajevo, the capital city, where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences blend harmoniously.
Bosnia is a true hidden gem for equestrian enthusiasts, with its diverse terrains and unspoiled natural beauty. Ride through the stunning landscapes of the Dinaric Alps, traversing rugged mountains, verdant valleys, and picturesque meadows. Canter along the banks of the emerald-green rivers, such as the Matica, feeling the connection to nature and the soothing sound of flowing water.
Brief History
Bosnia and Herzegovina declared sovereignty in October 1991 and independence from the former Yugoslavia on 3 March 1992 after a referendum boycotted by ethnic Serbs. The Bosnian Serbs - supported by neighboring Serbia and Montenegro - responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning the republic along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas to form a "Greater Serbia." In March 1994, Bosniaks and Croats reduced the number of warring factions from three to two by signing an agreement creating a joint Bosniak-Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. On 21 November 1995, in Dayton, Ohio, the warring parties initialed a peace agreement that ended three years of interethnic civil strife (the final agreement was signed in Paris on 14 December 1995).
The Dayton Peace Accords retained Bosnia and Herzegovina's international boundaries and created a multiethnic and democratic government charged with conducting foreign, diplomatic, and fiscal policy. Also recognized was a second tier of government composed of two entities roughly equal in size: the predominantly Bosniak-Bosnian Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the predominantly Bosnian Serb-led Republika Srpska (RS). The Federation and RS governments are responsible for overseeing most government functions. Additionally, the Dayton Accords established the Office of the High Representative to oversee the implementation of the civilian aspects of the agreement. The Peace Implementation Council at its conference in Bonn in 1997 also gave the High Representative the authority to impose legislation and remove officials, the so-called "Bonn Powers."
Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bosnia-and-herzegovina/
Cultural Insights
Bosnians are renowned for being cheerful, outgoing and engaging people. They are quick to offer their support to both strangers and friends.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has quite a relaxed and slow pace of life. People tend not to schedule their day extensively.
Bosnians people especially like to socialize over coffee.
Source: https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/bosnian-culture/bosnian-culture-core-concepts
Transportation
By Air
Sarajevo International Airport is located only 12 kilometers from the center of Sarajevo and offers direct flights to many European and International cities including Munich, Istanbul, Vienna and Paris.
Since 2020, Tuzla International Airport is the second largest airport in the country. It offers flight connections with mainly Central European and Scandinavian airports.
Mostar Airport was opened to civil air traffic in 1965. With seasonal charter flights, Mostar Airport has connections with several international destinations such as Dusseldorf, Stuttgart and Milan.
By Rail
Two railway companies operate in different entities of Bosnia and Herzegovina:
- ZFBH (Railways of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina) operates in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- ZRS (Republika Srpska Railways) operates in the Republic of Srpska.
Reservations for regional trains are required. The reservation fee is 3 KM (local currency).
The price of the reservation itself depends on the distance traveled.
International and night trains may require prior reservation.
Source: https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/how-to-travel-to-bih-by-plane/
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/how-to-travel-to-bih-by-train/
Money
You can exchange convertible marks (KM) only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and perhaps at some exchange offices in Serbia and Montenegro.
It usually easier to exchange euros for KM, although you will not have any problems when exchanging any world currencies.
ATMs are common in big cities, and almost every bank has an ATM as well. You will also find ATMs in larger shops, malls, post offices, or bus stations.
You will probably have to pay a currency exchange fee if you use an ATM to withdraw money - we recommend that you check your bank details before leaving the country.
Debit and credit cards, as well as contactless payments, are widely used throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The most commonly accepted cards are Visa, Visa Electron, Master and Maestro.
Cards are rarely used in bakeries, fast food stores and tobacco shops, and never at the farmers market, so it is a good idea to have some cash if you plan to shop at these stores.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bosnia-and-herzegovina
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/atms/
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/credit-and-debit-cards/
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/money-exchange/
Health
If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 124 and ask for an ambulance.
You should contact your insurance/medical assistance company promptly if you are referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Adequate medical facilities may not be available outside of Sarajevo and may not be up to U.S. standards.
Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. Your insurance should also include cover for evacuation by air ambulance.
Pharmacists in Bosnia and Herzegovina represent higher education professionals who will help you within their professional boundaries. You can find pharmacies in all cities of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where pharmacists will prescribe and suggest medicines and offer advice on less serious health problems.
You will be able to take a large number of medications without a prescription, but some medicines you can buy only with a doctor's prescription.
In any case, if you need to use prescription medicine, the best practice is to take it with you.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bosnia-and-herzegovina
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/BosniaandHerzegovina.html
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/pharmaceutical-services/
Electricity
Bosnia and Herzegovina operates on a 230V supply voltage and uses type C and F plugs.
The Type C electrical plug (or Europlug) is a two-wire plug that has two round pins. It fits into any socket that accepts 4.0 – 4.8 mm round contacts on 19 mm centres. They are being replaced by E, F, J, K or N sockets which work perfectly with Type C plugs.
The Type F electrical plug (also known as a Schuko plug) has two 4.8 mm round pins spaced 19 mm apart. It is similar to the Type E plug but has two earth clips on the side rather than a female earth contact. The CEE 7/7 plug was developed to work with sockets E and F and has grounding clips on both sides (to work with Type F sockets) and a female contact (to accept the grounding pin of the type E socket).
Source: https://www.iec.ch/world-plugs
Communication
Time zone in Bosnia: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)
International country code – 387
Many cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina offer some kind of open internet access. If located in a hotel, free WiFi is usually a part of the hotel services, and free internet access is often available in libraries as well as museums. Many pubs, cafes, and restaurants also offer free Wi-Fi, so you can use your laptop, tablet, or your phone.
Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bosnia-and-herzegovina/
https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/how-to-access-the-internet/
Phrasebook
| English |
Bosnian |
| Hello! |
Dobar dan! |
| Goodbye |
Dovidenja |
| Good morning |
Dobro jutro |
| Good evening |
Dobro vece |
| Good night |
Laku noc |
| Please |
Molim |
| Thank you |
Hvala |
| Yes |
Da |
| No |
Ne |
Source: https://ling-app.com/bs/basic-bosnian-phrases/
Entry Requirements
All EU state citizens as well as citizens of Serbia, Montenegro, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Albania, Monaco and San Marino can enter Bosnia without a visa for up to 90 days within 6 months, upon presentation of a passport or a national ID card.
As for holders of multiple-entry visas and residents of the European Union, the Schengen area, or Monaco, they can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) without a visa, for a maximum stay of 15 days. However, they must arrive directly from an EU Member State, the Schengen Agreement, Monaco or a third country that has a bilateral readmission agreement with BiH.
Citizens of non-European countries can enter Bosnia with a visa for up to 90 days within 6 months with a valid passport.
Any person who needs to apply for a visa should contact the closest Embassy or Consulate of Bosnia and Herzegovina in advance.
Source: https://www.tourismbih.com/planyourtrip/border-formalities/
Embassies and Consulates
U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo
1 Robert C. Frasure Street
71000 SARAJEVO
Phone: +387 33 704-000
There is no resident Canadian government office in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Embassy of Canada to Hungary, in Budapest, is responsible for providing consular services in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Source: for USA https://www.usembassy.gov/
For Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/embassies-consulates
UNESCO Sites
Mehmed Paša Sokolovic Bridge in Višegrad
The Mehmed Paša Sokolovic Bridge of Višegrad across the Drina River in the east of Bosnia and Herzegovina was built at the end of the 16th century by the court architect Mimar Koca Sinan on the orders of Grand Vizier Mehmed Paša Sokolovic. Characteristic of the apogee of Ottoman monumental architecture and civil engineering, the bridge has 11 masonry arches with spans of 11 m to 15 m, and an access ramp at right angles with four arches on the left bank of the river. The 179.5 m long bridge is a representative masterpiece of Sinan, one of the greatest architects and engineers of the classical Ottoman period and a contemporary of the Italian Renaissance, with which his work may be compared. The unique elegance of proportion and monumental nobility of the whole site bear witness to the greatness of this style of architecture.
Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar
The historic town of Mostar, spanning a deep valley of the Neretva River, developed in the 15th and 16th centuries as an Ottoman frontier town and during the Austro-Hungarian period in the 19th and 20th centuries. Mostar has long been known for its old Turkish houses and Old Bridge, Stari Most, after which it is named. In the 1990s conflict, however, most of the historic town and the Old Bridge, designed by the renowned architect Sinan, was destroyed. The Old Bridge was recently rebuilt and many of the edifices in the Old Town have been restored or rebuilt with the contribution of an international scientific committee established by UNESCO. The Old Bridge area, with its pre-Ottoman, eastern Ottoman, Mediterranean and western European architectural features, is an outstanding example of a multicultural urban settlement. The reconstructed Old Bridge and Old City of Mostar is a symbol of reconciliation, international co-operation and of the coexistence of diverse cultural, ethnic and religious communities.
Stecci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards
This serial property combines 28 sites, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, western Serbia, western Montenegro and central and southern Croatia, representing these cemeteries and regionally distinctive medieval tombstones, or stecci. The cemeteries, which date from the 12th to 16th centuries CE, are laid out in rows, as was the common custom in Europe from the Middle Ages. The stecci are mostly carved from limestone. They feature a wide range of decorative motifs and inscriptions that represent iconographic continuities within medieval Europe as well as locally distinctive traditions.
Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
This transnational property includes 94 component parts in 18 countries. Since the end of the last Ice Age, European Beech spread from a few isolated refuge areas in the Alps, Carpathians, Dinarides, Mediterranean and Pyrenees over a short period of a few thousand years in a process that is still ongoing. The successful expansion across a whole continent is related to the tree’s adaptability and tolerance of different climatic, geographical and physical conditions.
Source: https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/ba
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