Kravica Waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina Are Called the ‘Bali of Europe’

Among the forest of lush green trees, cascades of water spout out from dramatic rock formations, prancing and dancing over a span nearly 500 feet wide. The gin-clear waters below huddle together into emerald pools while the soothing soundtrack of every drop on its journey invigorates the senses and calms the soul. 

It’s the kind of tropical waterfall scene Mother Earth so often treats us to in Bali, Hawaii, and even Croatia’s Plitvice National Park. Yet this idyllic setting is in the most surprising of places: Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

The south European nation that sits on the Balkan Peninsula may still be considered a developing nation, with the Bosnian War having ended less than three decades ago. But what the country has never lacked throughout its challenging history is its natural beauty, one of the finest examples being here at Kravica Waterfalls, or Kravica vodopadi.

Located about an hour southwest of Mostar, arguably the city’s most picturesque medieval town, noted for its storybook-like arched bridge Stari Most, the waterfalls are so dramatic they’ve been likened to everything from a mini Niagara Falls to the Bali of Europe.

After all, they somehow seamlessly combine all the idyllic elements, from a setting so lush it feels like a tropical jungle oasis to falling waters that mesmerize as they tumble from the Trebižat River over a ledge of about 100 feet. The length of the falls is rounded, creating an amphitheater of cascades, inviting visitors into its magic.

Every person witnessing Kravica Waterfalls finds their own way to experience the natural wonder. Some take a swim and splash around in the waters, while others relax and take in its splendor. Still others explore its many nooks and crannies, whether it’s casual walks into a hidden grotto with calcium carbonate stalactite, or sauntering over to its nearby mill. Others crank up the adventure, canoeing along the river or following the pathways for some hiking.

While the landmark can be a challenge to get to without a car, GetYourGuide offers tours of the area that include a visit to the falls from the region’s biggest cities. From Mostar, the eight-hour tour includes a visit to the old towns of Blagaj and Pocitelj before two hours of free time at the falls, whereas from Dubrovnik, Croatia, a 12-hour experience stops in Mostar before an hour-long visit at the falls. Tours also depart from Sarjevo, Split, and Trogir.

One of the tours says of the experience at the falls: “It’s an oasis of life, it’s an oasis of fun, and it’s everyone’s favorite destination.”