Top 20 Lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Best lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina offer a diverse range of natural and artificial water bodies. This region features landscapes from high-altitude glacial lakes to expansive reservoirs. Visitors can find opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration amidst varied terrain. The area's geography includes mountains and river valleys, contributing to the distinct character of its lakes.
Best lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
- The most popular lakes is Wooden boardwalks at the Pliva Lakes, a trail that provides access to the large and small Pliva lakes. These lakes are known for their recreational opportunities and the historic water mills ("Mlinčići") located above the small lake.
- Another must-see spot is Kravica Waterfall, a waterfall where the River Trebižat falls over a wide slope. This natural monument offers opportunities for swimming below the waterfalls.
- Visitors also love Prokoško Lake, a glacial lake nestled in the Vranica mountain range. It is situated at 1,636 meters above sea level and is recognized for its endemic species and surrounding traditional shepherds' huts.
- Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is known for its glacial lakes, artificial reservoirs, and mountain lakes. These include high-altitude formations and large man-made bodies of water, offering a variety of environments to explore.
- The lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina are appreciated by the komoot community, with 48 upvotes and 97 photos contributed by users.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Kravica Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Wooden boardwalks at the Pliva Lakes
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Prokoško Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Veliko Jezero and Mountain Hut
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
View of Kravica Waterfalls
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Franciscan Monastery Rama-Šćit
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Pannonian Lakes
Highlight • Lake
Tuzla is the only city in Europe with salt lakes and the only city in the world with salt lakes, swimming and bathing areas, and beaches in its center. The Pannonian Lakes Complex consists of three lakes of varying depth and size, along with saltwater waterfalls. Within the Pannonian Lakes Complex are an archaeological park—a Neolithic pile-dwelling settlement—and the geological museum collection "Pannonica," a children's amusement park, sports fields, cafes and restaurants, and other cultural and recreational facilities.
For more information, see: tztz.ba/en/panonska-jezera
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Crvenjak Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Plivsko Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ramsko Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Traversing the Dinaric Alps — bikepacking from the mountains to the sea
The Ciro Trail — Along the railtrail from Mostar to Dubrovnik
Transcontinental Race No10: crossing Europe from France to Turkey
Balkan Escape – Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
A weekend by Lake Buško – cycling the border between Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina
Warm earth and wild mountains — hiking in the Bosnian Alps
TCR No. 8 — racing across Europe
As we wrote history – the Transcontinental Race #TCRN06
Hiking in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Cycling in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Other adventures in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tips from the Community
Here is an outdoor pool, of course only in summer, into which salt water is fed. Then there is everything a bath guest needs.
2
0
The Pannonian Lakes are NOT one of the many salt lakes in Europe, as mistakenly stated here. The artificial Pannonian Lakes represent a UNIQUE example of salt lakes in Europe.
5
1
The waterfalls are NOT fed by a natural spring, as claimed here. The water in the lakes is a combination of fresh water (delivered by pipeline from the artificial lake Modrac) and high-concentration brine (300-350 g/l) from the wells of the Tetima salt deposit near Tuzla. The share of salt water in the total amount of water is about 30%.
5
1
With the construction of the Pannonian Lakes Complex, the once ugliest part of Tuzla, known as ‘Pinga’, became its most beautiful part. ‘Pinga’ was the place where the consequences of years of uncontrolled salt exploitation in the very center of this city were best seen. Tuzla residents, and especially former residents of the Plavkuša district, remember how their former neighborhood gradually disappeared into the bowels of the earth. Due to the subsidence of the terrain, houses one after another cracked, collapsed, disappeared from the face of the earth… In the early 1970s, Plavkuša completely disappeared. In its place appeared a pool of salt water emerging from the ground, which the people called ‘Pinga’. See the black and white photos!
5
1
The first lake was created in 2003, the second in 2009, and the third in 2012. The Pannonian Lakes complex also includes the Sojenica Neolithic Settlement archaeological park, opened in the summer of 2006, sports fields, salt waterfalls, and many other facilities. The lakes are located in the very center of Tuzla, just a few hundred meters from the central city square. The lakes are one of the many salt lakes in Europe.
4
5
The Pannonian Lakes are the only salt lakes and a unique tourist attraction in Europe. The city of Tuzla is the winner of the United Nations World Tourism Organization's highest recognition, the "Ulysses" (2012 UNWTO ULYSSES AWARD), which is awarded for innovations in tourism. Tuzla is the only city in Europe with salt lakes and the only city in the world with salt lakes, swimming and bathing areas, and beaches in its center. The Pannonian Lakes Complex consists of three lakes of varying depth and size, along with saltwater waterfalls. Within the Pannonian Lakes Complex are an archaeological park—a Neolithic pile-dwelling settlement—and the geological museum collection "Pannonica," a children's amusement park, sports fields, cafes and restaurants, and other cultural and recreational facilities. For more information, see: https://tztz.ba/en/panonska-jezera/
5
1
Pliva lakes are a pleasant recreational area - nice place for hiking, cycling, swimming... This "lover's bridge" is one of the highlights and a "must see", once one has visited the famous Mlinčići. Probably overcrowded in summer, but I visited in late September and we were practically alone.
0
0
The waterfalls are fed by an artificial spring. Since the area is located in a salt mining region, the water is saline. This water supplies the adjacent bathing lakes.
1
4
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for visitors in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Visitors frequently enjoy Prokoško Lake, a glacial lake known for its stunning mountain setting and traditional shepherds' huts. The Pliva Lakes near Jajce are also very popular, especially for their historic water mills. Boračko Lake is another favorite, celebrated for its clear, turquoise waters and recreational activities.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Pliva Lakes offer pleasant recreational areas for hiking, cycling, and swimming. Boračko Lake is also family-friendly, with natural beaches and opportunities for swimming and canoeing. Ramsko Lake provides a tranquil atmosphere suitable for family outings.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina offer diverse natural beauty. You can find glacial formations like Prokoško Lake nestled in mountains, and crystal-clear waters at Boračko Lake. Artificial reservoirs like Rama Lake feature unique shapes with numerous bays and islands. The region also boasts impressive waterfalls, such as Kravica Waterfall, where you can swim below the cascades.
Are there historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the Pliva Lakes near Jajce are famous for their historic water mills, known as 'Mlinčići,' some of which are still operational. Near Ramsko Lake, you can visit the Franciscan monastery in the village of Šćit, located on a small island, adding a unique cultural and spiritual element to the landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, swimming, and various water sports like rowing and canoeing at the Pliva Lakes and Boračko Lake. Fishing is popular at Prokoško, Rama, Buško, and Jablaničko Lakes. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Plivsko Lake – Mlinčići Water Mills loop from Jajce' which you can explore via the Cycling in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina guide.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, hiking is a popular activity around many lakes. Prokoško Lake is a paradise for hikers, offering trails through the Vranica mountain range. Boračko Lake has walking paths along its shores. For more challenging hikes, the Blidinje Nature Park, home to Blidinje Lake, offers trails between the Čvrsnica and Vran mountains. You can find running trails in the region through the Running Trails in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina guide.
Which lake is considered the highest in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Crvenjak Lake is the highest lake in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located at an altitude of 2000 meters. Prokoško Lake is also notable for its high-altitude setting at 1,636 meters above sea level.
What is unique about Buško Lake?
Buško Lake, also known as Buško Blato, is notable as the largest artificial reservoir in Europe. Despite its significant size, it remains relatively untouristy. Its wide shores and frequent winds make it ideal for various water sports, especially sailing, and it's also appealing to anglers due to its endemic fish species.
Can I find accommodation or amenities near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes have amenities. Prokoško Lake is surrounded by traditional shepherds' huts, offering a unique stay. Boračko Lake is a popular spot for camping. The area around Blidinje Lake also features residential buildings and a well-equipped ski resort, blending nature with recreational opportunities and lodging.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The best time to visit generally depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports at lakes like Boračko and Pliva. For hiking and photography, especially at high-altitude lakes like Prokoško Lake, late spring to early autumn offers pleasant weather. Winter can be charming for lakes like Blidinje when its surface freezes, offering a different scenic experience.
Which lake is the largest artificial reservoir in the Balkans?
Bileća Lake, located in eastern Herzegovina, holds the distinction of being the largest artificial reservoir in the Balkans. It was created by the construction of the Grančarevo dam on the Trebišnjica river and is known for its impressive dimensions and depth.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming?
Absolutely. Boračko Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, making it a prime spot for swimming. The Pliva Lakes also offer pleasant swimming opportunities. Additionally, Veliko Jezero is suitable for swimming, and you can even swim below the cascades at Kravica Waterfall.
Most popular routes in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Most popular attractions in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
