Camping Rules in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Camping in Bosnia and Herzegovina is welcoming and relaxed, but a few rules and customs matter. Knowing them keeps you safe, avoids fines, and shows respect to hosts and the environment.
Official rules
- Wild camping is not officially allowed. Some travellers do it discreetly, but it is safer and more respectful to use registered camps.
- Tourist tax is required in many municipalities and is usually collected by the camp on arrival.
- Fires are restricted in summer, especially in forests and national parks. Always ask the host before lighting a fire.
- Waste water and chemical toilets must be emptied in marked facilities, never in rivers or fields.
National park rules
- Entry fees apply in Una National Park, Sutjeska, and other protected areas.
- Camping is allowed only in designated sites. For example, in Una National Park wild camping is fined on the spot.
- Pets are allowed in some parks but must be on a leash.
- Hikers must follow marked trails and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
Road and driving rules
- Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day.
- Winter tyres are required from 15 November to 15 April, and chains may be needed in snow.
- Maximum speed on highways is 130 km/h, on main roads 80 km/h, and in towns 50 km/h.
- The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%, which is stricter than in many countries.
Camp etiquette
- Respect quiet hours, usually from 23:00 to 07:00.
- Keep pets on a leash in shared areas.
- Clean up after yourself and leave pitches tidy.
- Be polite. Bosnian hosts value hospitality and good manners.
Safety advice
- Some remote areas still contain landmines from the war. Always stay on marked roads and trails. Camps and tourist areas are safe.
- Rivers can be strong in spring. Only swim in marked areas. On the Drina near Foča, for example, currents are fast in May and June.
- Carry cash since many small camps and roadside shops prefer it.
Local customs
- Greet hosts with a smile and handshake. It sets the right tone.
- Accepting a coffee or rakija from a host is a common gesture of hospitality.
- Shops in villages may close early, so buy food and essentials in town before heading out.