Bijambare Caves

Bijambare is a protected area of limestone in pine and beech forest north of Sarajevo containing six caves at different levels, of which the Main or Middle cave is the one developed for visitors: around four hundred and twenty metres of walkable passage in several chambers with stalactites, stalagmites and columns, lit and visited with a guide on tours running through the day. Bats roost in the system. Above ground the area has walking trails, meadows, picnic areas and a small lake, and it is used heavily as a day trip from Sarajevo. The temperature inside stays around seven degrees year round, so warm clothing is needed even in summer.

What you actually see

• The main cave - the developed chambers and their formations.
• The forest park - the pine and beech woodland above the caves.
• Walking trails - the marked routes through the protected area.
• The picnic meadows - the open ground used by day visitors.

When to go

May to October for the surface area and the easiest access; the cave itself is a constant temperature year round. Tours run at set times through the day. Weekends bring Sarajevo families and queues for the cave.

Honest expectations

Cave entry is only on guided tours at set times, with waits at weekends. The cave is cold and warm clothing is needed. The surface area is busy and littered at weekends. Only one of the six caves is open.

Nearby

Sarajevo lies south; Olovo is north.