Jajce, Travnik, Pliva lake and Watermills Tour

The Jajce, Travnik, Pliva Lake, and Watermills Tour offers a well-rounded day trip from Sarajevo at a competitive price of $83.37 per person. With a 10-hour duration, this small-group experience is ideal for those wanting to explore Bosnia’s scenic and historic highlights without the hassle of planning. The tour features round-trip transport, guided sightseeing, and a traditional Bosnian breakfast, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking a rundown of this beautiful region.

This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides, scenic stops like Jajce Waterfalls and the Pliva Watermills, and its relaxed pace. Most reviews highlight the high quality of the guide-led explanations, the stunning natural sights, and the picturesque settings. The group size is capped at eight travelers, enhancing the personal experience and allowing for more attention from the guides. A key consideration is the long car ride, which accounts for about two-thirds of the tour, with the remaining time spent exploring charming towns and natural wonders.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: The tour costs $83.37 per person, including transportation, breakfast, and guided visits.
• Duration & Timing: It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am from Sarajevo.
• Highlights: Visiting Travnik’s old town, Jajce Fortress, the Jajce Waterfalls, and the Pliva Watermills.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip transport, air-conditioned vehicle, and pickup are included for ease.
• Guides & Information: Guides like Adnan, Adi, and Ibrahim are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and local insights.
• Tour Limitations: The long drive may not suit those seeking shorter excursions, and not all stops may be accessible year-round due to weather or closures.

From Sarajevo to Bosnia’s Historic Towns and Waterfalls

The tour departs from Velika avlija Laure Papo Bahore, Sarajevo, at 8:00 am, promising a full day of sightseeing. The vehicle used is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long drive between sites. The small group size of up to eight travelers guarantees a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guides.

The journey begins with a stop at Tvrdava Stari grad, the most beautiful and best-preserved fortress in Bosnia. Built in the 14th century, its current appearance reflects the Ottoman influence. The guide shares insights into its history, making the visit both visually impressive and educational. Visitors can expect to spend about an hour exploring the fortress but should note that admission tickets are not included.

Exploring Travnik’s Old Town and Bosnian Coffee Culture

Next, the tour includes a visit to the old center of Travnik, once Bosnia’s capital. A highlight here is Plava Voda, renowned for its blue water springs, which make for an ideal spot to enjoy a traditional Bosnian coffee. The stop lasts 30 minutes, with free admission, offering a chance to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

The old town of Travnik features Ottoman-era architecture, mosques, and a castle, all of which are part of the guided sightseeing. The guide provides background on the town’s importance in Bosnian history, enhancing the visit’s depth.

Discovering Jajce’s Medieval Fortress and Waterfalls

The city of Jajce is the most prominent highlight of the tour. The Jajce Fortress, part of the Old Town, showcases medieval Bosnian architecture and is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The waterfront location with a waterfall in the city center makes Jajce unique. The fortress visit lasts about an hour, and admission tickets are not included.

Just outside the fortress, the Catacomb of Jajce—a carved rock church in late Romanesque style—offers a glimpse into early Christian architecture. The underground church is a small but intriguing stop that lasts about 30 minutes. Its status as a cave church makes it a distinctive feature of the town.

The Jajce Waterfalls, towering 21 meters, are among Bosnia’s top natural sights. Recognized as one of the 12 most beautiful waterfalls in the world, they provide a stunning backdrop for photos and a calming experience. The stop lasts 30 minutes, with admission fees not included.

The Picturesque Pliva Watermills and Lake

The Pliva Watermills are located just 5 kilometers from Jajce’s center, along the river Pliva. Built during the medieval period, these 20 rustic watermills are set between Small and Large Pliva lakes. Many of the watermills are still operational, creating a fairy-tale scene that is perfect for photos.

After walking among the watermills, the group relaxes by the banks of Pliva Lake for about an hour. This peaceful spot offers a chance to enjoy the scenery and have a lunch break, with free time to explore or rest before heading back to Sarajevo.

Practical Aspects and Included Services

The tour includes a traditional Bosnian sandwich for breakfast, with vegetarian options available upon request. Gratuities are also included, reflecting the positive feedback about guides like Adnan, Adi, and Ibrahim.

Not included are lunch and dinner, giving travelers the flexibility to choose local spots during the free time at Pliva Lake. Personal expenses are also not covered. The meeting point is easy to access, near public transportation in Sarajevo, and the tour ends back at the starting location.

Highly Praised Guides and Scenic Highlights

Throughout the reviews, guides such as Adnan, Adi, Ibrahim, Emir, Ken, and Dzan receive high praise for their friendly demeanor, local knowledge, and ability to make the experience enjoyable. Many mention their stories, jokes, and recommendations for cafes and restaurants, adding local flavor to the trip.

The natural beauty of the waterfalls, watermills, and fortresses, combined with the charm of towns like Travnik and Jajce, make this tour stand out. The scenic stops and historical sites are accessible even during rainy weather, thanks to the flexible and accommodating guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is well-suited for history buffs, nature lovers, and those interested in Bosnian culture. The relaxed pace and small group size provide a comfortable environment. However, travelers should be prepared for long car rides and pay attention to weather conditions, as some stops may be less accessible during winter or poor weather.

The value for the price, including transport, guide, breakfast, and multiple notable stops, makes this tour an excellent choice for a comprehensive day trip from Sarajevo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $83.37 per person, covering transport, breakfast, and guided sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to Sarajevo around 6:00 pm.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Stops include Tvrdava Stari grad in Travnik, Plava Voda for Bosnian coffee, Jajce Fortress, Catacomb of Jajce, Jajce Waterfalls, and the Pliva Watermills.

Are meals included?
A traditional Bosnian sandwich is included for breakfast. Lunch is not included, allowing for personal choice during free time by Pliva Lake.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transport is included in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Adnan, Adi, Ibrahim, and others are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are attentive to different needs. Special care is taken for elderly guests, especially at sites like Jajce.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for the picturesque scenery are recommended.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces, and not all stops may be fully accessible year-round due to weather or closures.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of natural scenery, historic sites, and friendly guides makes this trip memorable. The scenic waterfalls and watermills are particularly praised.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely. The positive reviews and the comprehensive itinerary make it a top choice for those visiting Sarajevo wanting a scenic and cultural day trip.