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Cincar Planina
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Cincar is a prominent limestone massif in western Bosnia and Herzegovina, rising above the town of Livno and the expansive Livno field (Livanjsko polje). Its eponymous highest peak reaches an elevation of 2,006 meters and serves as a major landmark in the central Dinaric Alps. The mountain is characterized by its barren, windswept high plateaus and extensive karst formations, including sinkholes and limestone pavements. One of the most extraordinary features of Cincar is the herds of wild horses that have lived on the Kruge plateau for decades, becoming a symbol of the region's untamed nature. Geologically, the range is composed almost entirely of Mesozoic limestone and dolomite, which leads to the rapid infiltration of surface water into subterranean channels. Historically, the area was vital for pastoralism, with shepherds bringing livestock to the high pastures during the summer months. Today, Cincar is a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers seeking vast, nearly treeless landscapes and encounters with the wild horses. The climate is often harsh, with the powerful Bura wind shaping the resilient alpine vegetation.
- Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Top sights: Cincar · Osječenica · Kameni pauk
- Nearby: Livno (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 2 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 18 | 19 | 13 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 94 | 89 | 78 | 75 | 72 | 64 | 38 | 54 | 92 | 94 | 128 | 115 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Navigating toward the highland plateaus involves transitioning from the primary paved highways connecting local towns onto rougher, unpaved logging or farming tracks. Possessing a resilient four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended for reaching the interior.
Best season
Late spring and summer present the most hospitable windows for exploration, offering lively green pastures and dependably milder temperatures. Winter brings ferocious freezing winds and extensive deep snow accumulation, turning the area practically impassable.
Terrain & paths
Expect visually endless rolling meadows frequently interrupted by exposed sharp limestone formations and characteristic karst sinkholes. The hiking trails are often indistinct or entirely absent, forcing visitors to rely heavily on cross-country navigation skills.
What to bring
Sturdy waterproof boots are absolutely critical for coping with the hidden rocks and unexpected boggy patches scattered across the plateau. Always bring comprehensive topographic maps, independent GPS devices, and adequate emergency wilderness supplies.
Parking
Formal designated parking lots simply do not exist in this remote environment; visitors typically pull their vehicles onto solid grass verges off the dirt tracks. Great care must be taken to ensure cars do not become permanently bogged down in soft ground.
Safety
Weather on the plateau is notoriously fickle, capable of rapidly shifting from bright sunshine to dense zero-visibility fog in mere minutes. There is no reliable mobile phone signal in many depressions, and roaming herds of feral horses demand respectful distance.
Time needed
Even a superficial exploration of the vast open plateaus generally consumes a minimum of half a day of solid driving and walking. Serious nature enthusiasts or photographers seeking out the wild horses often dedicate multiple days camping in the highlands.
Geography
Facts
- Cincar peak is the highest mountain in western Bosnia at 2,006 meters.
- The high plateaus are home to an estimated population of over 700 wild horses.
- The mountain towers over Livanjsko polje, the largest karst field in the world.
- The average temperature on the peaks is significantly lower than the national average.
- The Kruge plateau is famous for its moon-like landscape formed by thousands of sinkholes.
- During winter, Cincar is a renowned area for challenging backcountry skiing.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cincar Planina (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Cincar known for?
It is famous for the wild horses of Livno that live and graze on its high plateaus.
How high is Mount Cincar?
The highest point is at 2006 meters above sea level.
Is it guaranteed to see the wild horses?
There is no guarantee, but they are usually found in the area of Krug-Planina.
What is the terrain like for hikers?
Predominantly open mountain meadows and rocky karst terrain without natural shade.
Is 4x4 drive necessary for access?
To reach higher starting points on gravel roads, an off-road vehicle is recommended.
Cincar Planina: where is it located?
Cincar Planina is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Cincar Planina: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cincar, Osječenica, Kameni pauk.
Cincar Planina: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cincar Planina: why is it worth visiting?
Cincar is a prominent limestone massif in western Bosnia and Herzegovina, rising above the town of Livno and the expansive Livno field (Livanjsko polje).
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