I have spent many years wandering across the globe, but there is a special kind of magic in the Balkans that keeps me coming back for more. If you love travel and tours as much as I do, you know that the best memories often happen when you go off the beaten path. This time, I decided to take a road trip through the beautiful coastline of Croatia and venture into the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Border Crossings and Day Trips from Croatia to Bosnia with Pets can seem like a scary task at first. You might worry about the paperwork or the long queues at the checkpoints. However, I am here to tell you that with a bit of prep, it is one of the most rewarding adventures you can have. I traveled with my furry friend, and the experience was truly eye-opening.
First of all, you must understand the basics of moving between these two countries. Croatia is a long country that hugs the Adriatic Sea, but it is actually broken into two parts by another country. That country is Bosnia and Herzegovina. The town of Neum is the only coastal town in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it separates the area of Dubrovnik from the rest of Croatia. This means that if you drive from Split to Dubrovnik, you will likely cross the Neum Corridor. Therefore, you need to be ready for border checks even if you just want to reach another part of Croatia.
The Paperwork Maze: Veterinary Requirements
To begin your journey, you must get your pet documents in order. This is the most important part of the planning stage. First of all, your dog or cat must have a microchip. This microchip should follow the ISO 11784 or 11785 standard. If the chip is a different type, you must bring your own reader so the officers can scan it. I found that most vets in Europe use the standard ones, but it is always good to check.
The next big step is the rabies vaccination. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old to get this shot. You cannot travel right away after the first vaccination. You must wait at least 21 days before you cross the border. If your pet gets regular boosters every year, you do not have to wait for those 21 days. On top of that, the microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is given. If you do it the other way around, the vaccine is not valid for travel.
You will also need an EU Pet Passport if your pet is from the European Union. This document is like a golden ticket for travel. It lists all the shots and the microchip number. If you come from a country outside the EU, like Canada or the USA, you need an Animal Health Certificate. A state vet must sign this within 10 days of your arrival in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Additionally, you should know that Bosnia and Herzegovina was removed from the EU high-risk rabies list on November 30, 2024. This is great news. It means you no longer need a rabies titer test to return to the EU from Bosnia. However, if you plan to visit Montenegro or Albania, those countries are still on the high-risk list. You would need a titer test to return to the EU from those spots.
Renting a Car for Cross-Border Adventures
I highly recommend renting a car for this trip. Public transport in this region is not very pet-friendly. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop whenever your dog needs a break. At that time, I learned that you must tell the rental company if you plan to cross borders. Some companies charge a surcharge or a cross-border fee. For example, one traveler was charged $90 extra to drive to Italy from Croatia.
You must ask the rental desk for a “Green Card”. This paper proves the car has insurance for Bosnia and Herzegovina. Though some people say it is not always asked for, you still need it to follow the rules of the rental contract. If you get into an accident without it, you will be in big trouble. I rented a Renault Clio from a downtown office in Split, and it cost about €659.35 for two weeks. Prices can change a lot, so I suggest booking early and checking for lower rates later.
Driving in this region is a beautiful experience. The Dalmatian Coast is so stunning that pictures cannot do it justice. However, the roads can be tricky. You will find many narrow, winding mountain routes with sharp bends. Some highways might even turn into a single unlined lane without warning. Therefore, you should always stay alert and leave plenty of time for your drive. A trip that looks like two hours on a map might actually take three or four hours because of the terrain and border waits.
The Reality of Border Crossings
Border Crossings and Day Trips from Croatia to Bosnia with Pets can vary in speed. I have had crossings that took only 10 minutes. On the contrary, during the peak summer season, some borders can have queues of up to five hours. You must choose your entry point carefully. Not all borders allow pets. You should use designated land ports like Kamensko, Gradiska, or Oraŝje. If you try to cross at a small border without a chip reader, the officers might turn you away. One pair of travelers was told “No animals in this border” and had to drive two hours to find a different crossing.
When you reach the booth, have your passports and the pet passport ready. The officers might ask to see your car papers too. Sometimes they scan your pet’s chip, and sometimes they do not even look at the animal. Plus, you should never take photos or videos at the border. One tourist was almost arrested for spying because she filmed the crossing. It is best to keep your phone away and be respectful to the staff.
The Neum Corridor is a special case. If you are just passing through to get to another part of Croatia, the rules are simpler. You can pass with no restrictions if you do not leave your car and make the crossing in under an hour. The officers scan your passport at both ends to track your time. I found this crossing to be very easy, even with a pet in the back.
Destination: Mostar and the Old Bridge
Mostar is the heart of many day trips. It is a town full of history and culture. I suggest taking a guided walking tour of the Old Town. You can walk through the cobblestone streets and see the old stone buildings with your dog by your side. The highlight is definitely the Stari Most or the Old Bridge spanning the Neretva River.
If you stay overnight, there are several great pet-friendly options. Kriva Cuprija Hotel is right in the heart of the Old Town. It is just a short walk from the famous bridge. The staff there is very friendly and helpful. Another good choice is Hotel Old Town, which offers clean rooms and a warm atmosphere. For a more private stay, you could look at Villa Floris or Villa AYA. Both of these places are known for being very welcoming to guests with dogs. Villa AYA even has a private pool and a sauna.
The food in Mostar is delicious. You must try Cevapi, which is a ground beef sausage served in warm pita bread. Many restaurants have outdoor terraces where dogs are welcome. I spent a lovely afternoon sitting by the river, enjoying a local meal while my dog rested at my feet.
Nature’s Wonders: Waterfalls and Lakes
No trip to Bosnia is complete without seeing the water. Kravica Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder near Mostar. It has cascades that are over 25 meters high. The entrance fee is 20 KM, which is about 10 EUR. You can spend the whole day there swimming, sunbathing, or renting a boat. The trails are well-marked, but some parts can be steep and slippery. You should wear sturdy shoes and be careful. I brought my dog along, and he loved splashing in the shallow parts of the water.
Another great stop is the Una National Park. It is located near the border and has incredible waterfalls like the ones at Martin Brod. The nature here is so peaceful and quiet. Additionally, you might want to visit the Blue Lake and Red Lake near Imotski on your way into Bosnia. The Blue Lake has a fortress and a deep blue pool at the bottom. It is a hefty walk down, taking about 40 minutes, so be ready for a workout.
Gradually, you will notice that Bosnia and Herzegovina is full of hidden gems. Stolac is a charming town with an old mill and a beautiful waterfall. Jajce is another must-see, where a waterfall sits right in the middle of the town. You can see it for free from the city streets. These spots are perfect for travelers who want to avoid the big crowds of the coast.
Traveling Deeper: Sarajevo and Banja Luka
If you have more time, I suggest driving to Sarajevo. It is a city known for its mix of cultures, with churches, mosques, and synagogues all near each other. However, I found that Sarajevo is not the most dog-friendly city. There are many stray dogs, and the large Muslim population means some areas are less welcoming to pets. I chose to stay in a nice penthouse apartment with a view and let my dog rest while I explored the town.
Banja Luka was a different story. It felt much more quiet and relaxed. I found a great restaurant called Bona Fides that overlooks the river. They serve their food on a pizza base with fries and meat. It sounds strange, but it was very tasty. Most places I visited in Banja Luka were happy to have my dog along. Therefore, if you are looking for a pet-friendly city experience, this might be the place for you.
On the contrary, you must be careful about stray animals in many parts of the Balkans. Most stray dogs in cities are not aggressive, but they can still be a surprise. I always keep my dog on a leash to stay safe. It is also wise to carry a deterrent spray if you plan to hike on less-traveled trails.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey
Border Crossings and Day Trips from Croatia to Bosnia with Pets require a bit of extra gear. First of all, always bring plenty of water for your pet. The summers in the Balkans can get extremely hot, sometimes reaching 46 degrees in the car. You should avoid walking your dog on paved streets during the middle of the day to protect their paws. A cooling mat can also be a lifesaver for your furry friend.
Similarly, you should carry extra poop bags because they are not always easy to find in local shops. I also suggest using a GPS tag on your dog’s collar. If they happen to wander off in the woods, you will be able to find them much faster. Lastly, always carry some cash in the local currency, which is the Convertible Mark (KM). While some places take Euros, many small shops and restaurants only take cash.
Finally, do not try to see too much in one trip. Many people try to visit five countries in two weeks, but they spend all their time in the car. It is much better to pick a few spots and really enjoy them. Road tripping is more fun when you only drive for three or four hours a day. This gives you time to sit at a cafe, talk to the locals, and let your dog explore the new smells.
FAQ
Can you cross the border between Croatia and Bosnia?
Yes, you can cross the border at several land ports, including Gradiška, Klek, Zaton Doli, and Kamensko. Popular routes also include the Neum Corridor, which connects Dubrovnik to the rest of Croatia by passing through a small section of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Can I take my dog to Bosnia?
Yes, Bosnia and Herzegovina is considered a dog-friendly country, provided you have the necessary documentation. Requirements include an ISO-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel), and an EU Pet Passport or a veterinary health certificate.
Can you do a day trip from Croatia to Bosnia?
Yes, day trips are common, particularly from Dubrovnik to Mostar or the Kravica Waterfalls. Travel times can be longer than GPS estimates due to winding mountainous roads and potential border delays.
Is it worth going to Bosnia from Croatia?
Many travellers find it very rewarding, citing Bosnia’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural sites like Mostar’s Old Bridge and the Kravica Waterfalls.
Do you need a passport to go from Croatia to Bosnia?
Yes, you generally need a passport or a valid national ID card to cross the border.
Can I travel to Croatia with my dog?
Yes, pets can enter Croatia at designated road, airport, and port entry points. Your dog must be microchipped, have a valid rabies vaccination, and be accompanied by an authorised passport or certificate.
Is it safe to drive from Dubrovnik to Bosnia?
Driving is generally safe, but drivers are cautioned about narrow, winding, and sometimes single-lane roads. It is also advised to avoid driving at night due to wild animals like boar or deer crossing the roads.
Is there border control between Croatia and Bosnia?
Yes, there is active border control where officials check passports, vehicle documentation, and sometimes pet papers.
What is the unspoken rule in Croatia?
One notable rule mentioned is that travellers should never take videos or pictures while crossing the border from Croatia into Bosnia to avoid being accused of spying.
Concluding words
Crossing the border between Croatia and Bosnia with pets requires careful preparation, including ensuring your animal is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination and a recognised pet passport or health certificate.
While day trips to landmarks like Mostar and the Kravica Waterfalls are highly popular, travellers must use specific border entry points equipped for pet health inspections and should confirm that their rental car insurance permits international travel. Returning to the EU from Bosnia may no longer require a rabies titer test as of late 2024, but it remains a requirement for other neighbouring countries like Montenegro.
