Chasing Skakavac: A Day Hike to Bosnia’s Tallest Waterfall
A brisk day-hike from Sarajevo to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s tallest cascade — nature that’s close, raw, and easily reached
The first time you hear Skakavac you’ll feel it before you see it — a low, constant roar that threads through the pines and gathers itself into a vertical punctuation mark. The path from the trailhead slips immediately into shade: beech and fir lean over the track like quiet companions, their needles sighing as you move. For five kilometers the trail drops gently, a steady, easy rhythm, and the forest opens in a sudden, clean break to reveal the waterfall: a raw sheet of water falling 98 meters, silver against the green. Mist ghosts across your face, and a picnic lunch arranged on the rocks tastes like something earned.
Trail Wisdom
Sturdy footwear
Traction matters—choose hiking shoes or boots with good grip for wet rocks and mud
Bring a rain shell
Mist from the falls and unexpected showers can chill you quickly; a waterproof breathable jacket keeps you comfortable
Use trekking poles
Poles stabilize descents and help on the 3 km uphill return trail
Pack out all trash
Picnic waste attracts wildlife and degrades views—carry a small bag to take your rubbish with you
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Top-side viewpoint trail for a different angle on the falls
- •A small meadow downstream where locals picnic and swim in warm months
Wildlife
Roe deer, Red fox
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to stick to marked trails, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing stream and shoreline habitats to protect the fragile mosses and invertebrates that live here.
The Skakavac area has long been used as seasonal grazing land and local pathways; more recently it has been protected as a nature area to preserve its riparian forests and biodiversity.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Peak water flow, Wildflowers, Cool hiking temperatures
Challenges: Mud on trails, Cold spray near the falls
Spring snowmelt brings Skakavac to full voice; trails can be muddy but the falls are most dramatic.
summer
Best for: Refreshing cool-off, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Crowds on weekends, Warmer valley temperatures
Summer offers pleasant hiking temps and a cooling mist at the falls, but expect more visitors.
fall
Best for: Autumn color, Crisp air, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Earlier darkness, Variable water levels
Fall color adds warmth to the cliffs; water flow drops but the landscape is quieter.
winter
Best for: Icy scenery, Dramatic frozen sections
Challenges: Snow/ice on trails, Access can be limited
Winter creates dramatic ice formations but increases difficulty—bring crampons and check access.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support make wet and rocky sections manageable
Light rain shellEssential
Protects against waterfall spray and sudden showers
Hydration system (1.5–2L)Essential
Sustains energy on the 4–7 hour outing
Trekking poles
Improves stability on uphill and slippery downhill sections
Common Questions
How long is the hike and what distance will I cover?
Expect roughly 10 km total: about 5 km to the main viewpoint, 3 km uphill on the return trail for a top view, and 2 km of flat gravel back to the start.
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
Yes, if you have basic fitness. Terrain is mostly well-defined but can be muddy and rocky; guided tours make it easier.
Is a guide required or included?
Guides are provided with the organized tour and handle logistics, safety, and local knowledge; private hiking without a guide is possible but less convenient.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, and bring a rain shell, 1.5–2L water, snacks, and a small trash bag for your picnic waste.
How do I get there from Sarajevo?
The trailhead is roughly a 20–30 minute drive from central Sarajevo; many tours provide transport or you can drive and park at the start.
Are there permits or entrance fees?
There are generally no permits for day visits; organized tours include any necessary access arrangements—check with your operator for specific details.
What to Pack
Hiking shoes (grip for wet rocks); rain shell (spray and showers); 1.5–2L water (keep hydrated); small trash bag (pack out picnic waste)
Did You Know
Skakavac is the tallest waterfall in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a vertical drop of approximately 98 meters.
Quick Travel Tips
Start early to avoid crowds; bring cash for small local purchases; wear layers because temperatures near the fall are cooler; confirm transport with your tour operator
Local Flavor
After the hike head back to Sarajevo’s Baščaršija for ćevapi and Bosnian coffee; the old town’s narrow alleys and market stalls make a satisfying contrast to the day’s forest quiet.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ); Trailhead driving distance: ~20–30 minutes from central Sarajevo; Cell service: patchy near the falls; Permits: none for day visits—organized tours handle access.
Sustainability Note
Skakavac lies within a protected natural area—pack out all trash, avoid stepping on moss and fragile vegetation, and follow marked trails to reduce erosion and habitat disturbance.