Rural, Eco, and Sustainable Tourism

Exploring Rural, Eco, and Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a treasure trove for travelers seeking authentic experiences, pristine nature, and eco-conscious adventures. With its untouched landscapes, traditional villages, and commitment to sustainability, the country offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of culture, nature, and eco-tourism. Rural and sustainable tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina not only provides visitors with unforgettable experiences. It also supports local communities, preserving traditions and protecting the environment.

Read about USAID’s Developing Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina project.

Eco-Tourism: Exploring Pristine Nature

Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas. It is intended as a low-impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial mass tourism. It means responsible travel to natural areas conserving the environment and improving the well-being of the local people.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a haven for eco-tourism, with its breathtaking national parks, clear rivers, and lush forests. Destinations like Sutjeska National Park, home to Perućica Forest, one of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests, provide visitors with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Adventure-seekers can explore the stunning Rakitnica Canyon, go rafting on the emerald waters of the Una River, or kayak along the peaceful Trebižat River.

Eco-friendly accommodations, such as wooden lodges and solar-powered guesthouses, enhance the eco-tourism experience, minimizing the environmental footprint of visitors. Guided tours led by local experts emphasize conservation and sustainable practices, ensuring that the beauty of these landscapes is preserved for future generations.

Rural Tourism: Connecting with Tradition

Rural tourism focuses on actively participating in a rural lifestyle and is a variant of ecotourism.

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s rural areas are a window into the country’s rich cultural heritage and timeless traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of villages like Lukomir, Bosnia’s highest inhabited village, perched on the slopes of Bjelašnica Mountain. Here, stone houses with shingled roofs reflect a way of life preserved for centuries. Travelers can experience traditional hospitality, taste locally produced food, and witness customs that have been passed down through generations.

In the fertile plains of Herzegovina, small farms welcome visitors to participate in agricultural activities, such as harvesting grapes, making wine, or producing honey and cheese. The authenticity of rural tourism in Bosnia creates a meaningful connection between visitors and the local way of life, offering both cultural exchange and a slower pace of travel.

Sustainable Tourism: Supporting Communities and the Environment

Sustainable tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina focuses on balancing tourism growth with the preservation of cultural and natural resources. Many small-scale tourism businesses emphasize eco-friendly practices, such as recycling, water conservation, and the use of local materials. These businesses not only promote sustainability but also provide economic opportunities for rural communities.

Programs like agro-tourism allow visitors to support local farmers directly by purchasing organic produce, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs, or participating in workshops to learn about traditional crafts and cooking. By engaging with these initiatives, travelers contribute to the economic empowerment of rural areas while gaining a deeper appreciation for Bosnia’s cultural identity.

Preservation of traditions and customs in the certain areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina is slowly becoming ingredient part of the local population involvement, regardless their occupation. Passionate to share their traditions and present their customs to other people, and to enable larger audience to discover intact beauties of their local environments, there are more and more enthusiasts who contribute with their activities to development of rural tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Although without quick and desired development results, rural tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina is becoming recognizable tourist profession which gains better income for individuals, regions and the country as a whole.

Localities of unique ambiance, amenities and offerings distinguish themselves in the rural tourism of Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as the many ethno villages, that offer wonderful, well-preserved and restored rural benefits and the authentic past, in addition to the rural idyllic atmosphere, mountainous quietness and natural tranquility.

Aside from these commercial enterprises offering the feeling of the life past, there are many authentic rural settings where one can spend a few days living the simple life of the locales, eat authentic and organic foods grown on the local farms, and relax and unwind disconnected from and unburdened with the problems of everyday hectic life.

Top Destinations for Rural, Eco, and Sustainable Tourism

• Lukomir Village: A must-visit for those seeking authentic rural life and stunning mountain views.
• Blidinje Nature Park: Home to Čvrsnica Mountain and Blidinje Lake, ideal for eco-friendly hiking and camping.
• Hutovo Blato Nature Park: A vital wetland reserve perfect for birdwatching and eco-tourism.
• Bijambare Caves: A family-friendly destination with well-preserved underground wonders and scenic walking trails.
• Una National Park: Famous for its pristine rivers and waterfalls, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.
• Vjetrenica Cave: An important natural and cultural site, this cave showcases unique underground biodiversity and ancient art.
• Prokoško Lake: A glacial lake surrounded by traditional wooden shepherd huts on Vranica Mountain, offering tranquility and rural charm.
• Pliva Lakes (near Jajce): Known for eco-friendly fishing, kayaking, and traditional watermills.
• Rakitnica Canyon: Perfect for eco-tourists seeking adventure in unspoiled natural settings.
• Višegrad and the Drina River: Focused on sustainable tourism with boat tours and riverside accommodations.
• Podveležje Plateau: A rural area near Mostar with stunning panoramic views and opportunities for hiking and connecting with local villagers.
• Trebižat River Villages: Small villages along the Trebižat River, where visitors can enjoy traditional agriculture, fishing, and eco-friendly stays.
• Etno Selo Herceg: A reconstructed traditional village in Medjugorje, offering cultural experiences, local cuisine, and insights into rural life.
• Eco Village Grabovica: A sustainable resort offering eco-friendly accommodations, organic farming, and activities like fishing and cycling near Lake Buško.
• Ecofutura Sarajevo: An eco-resort near Sarajevo promoting sustainable living with organic gardens, workshops, and nature-based wellness activities.
• Green Visions Bjelašnica: A sustainable tourism initiative providing eco-tours and activities like hiking, camping, and cultural experiences in the Bjelašnica region.
• Staza Ravni Kamen: A sustainable hiking trail and rural tourism project promoting eco-tourism and community engagement near Jajce.
• Eko Selo Boračko Jezero: A sustainable retreat near Boračko Lake, offering outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, along with organic meals.
• Una Aqua Rafting Camps: Eco-friendly lodges promoting rafting and river conservation in Una National Park.

A Journey of Meaningful Experiences

Traveling through Bosnia and Herzegovina as a rural, eco, or sustainable tourist is more than just a trip—it’s an opportunity to engage deeply with the land, its people, and its traditions. Whether you’re staying in a rustic mountain village, kayaking through crystal-clear rivers, or learning about sustainable farming practices, every moment is filled with authenticity and purpose.

As more travelers seek meaningful and environmentally responsible experiences, Bosnia and Herzegovina is emerging as a leading destination for rural, eco, and sustainable tourism. Its natural beauty, commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, and warm hospitality ensure that visitors leave with cherished memories and a profound connection to this remarkable country.

Green Destinations, a non-profit foundation for sustainable destination development and recognition, awarded the first place for 2022 to the city of Trebinje. You can read more about that here.

Please check out our Nature section with the most important natural attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Contact Bosnia4u for more information about eco-rural tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina and specific opportunities.