Bjelašnica, near Sarajevo · Mountains · Nature · Hidden gems · Road trips
Lukomir
A traditional stone village at about 1,500 m on Bjelašnica, at the edge of the Rakitnica canyon. How to get there, when to go and what to see.
- Time needed
- A full day trip from Sarajevo
- Best time
- About May to October. Snow usually closes the road from late autumn until spring
- Region
- Bjelašnica, near Sarajevo
Why visit Lukomir?
Lukomir is the highest and most remote inhabited village in Bosnia and Herzegovina, at about 1,500 meters on Bjelašnica mountain. Its old stone houses with steep wooden roofs sit at the edge of the Rakitnica canyon, which drops about 800 meters below. Shepherd families have lived here for centuries, and the village still follows a seasonal life: busy in summer, almost empty under snow in winter.
Things to do
- The village: Traditional houses, a small mosque and stone walls, with the canyon right behind them.
- The Rakitnica canyon: One of the deepest canyons in the country. Viewpoints are a short walk from the village.
- Stećci: Medieval tombstones in the old cemetery near the village.
- Local crafts: Women in the village sell hand-knitted wool socks and other handmade goods.
- Hiking: A popular route runs along the canyon edge from Umoljani, another highland village.
Getting there
About 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Sarajevo, via the Bjelašnica ski resort. The last part of the road is rough gravel, so a higher car or 4x4 is best. Many people visit on a guided tour.
Where to stay
There are no hotels, but some families rent rooms to overnight guests.
Practical info
- Entry
- Free
- Safety
- Stay on marked paths and roads. Some remote mountain areas in Bosnia still have landmine risk
FAQ
Can you visit Lukomir in winter?
Usually not by car. Snow closes the road from late autumn until around May.
How do I get to Lukomir from Sarajevo?
By car via Bjelašnica (about 1.5 to 2 hours) or on a guided day tour.
Do people still live in Lukomir?
Yes, a few families, mostly in the warmer months.
