Include in travel plans for 2024! Japod islands: a tropical idyll in the heart of the Una river

With the start of the new year, travel plans must be made! So, if you are considering visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina this year, besides paying a visit to Sarajevo, Mostar, Jajce, and other popular and crowded places such as Blagaj tekke, or even waterfall Kravica, make sure to head more northwest towards National Park Una and one special idyllic place called Japod islands!

Only a few kilometers and a 20-minute ride from Bihać, a beautiful set of five small river islets connected with wooden bridges which from the air look like they were made out with lots of love for nature are located.

Japod islands, Photo: Dragoncello, Dreamstime

It received its name after Japods ( Iapydes / Iapodes), an ancient Illyrian/Pannonii tribe that lived in the territory of modern Croatia and Una River Valley in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is believed that they were mostly present in the area of ​​the city of Bihać, Ripač, and Račić settlement, where the Japod Islands are situated, and lived in this area somewhere between the 9th century BC and the 4th century BC.

Japod islands, Photo: Dragoncello, Dreamstime

The islets themselves are a tropical paradise itself. They are surrounded by the river from every side and each offer something new to experience. From the very entrance point, you will be greeted by The Dome, a sweet spot where you can sleep under the stars.

Following the path and crossing bridges, you will arrive at the Japodian Alley on the second islet. The third one is an oasis with a tree house on one side and a Fairy spot, and the fourth is dedicated to investigating the life of Japods, a bar (so-called adult playground) followed by the kid’s playground, and a restaurant for trying out delicious foods. The fifth and the last islet is a dedicated camp and only accessed by the campers!

Besides the relaxation, the area offers an adventurous experience as well. You can explore the area on the bike, with a kayak, quad, and well-known Una wooden boat. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, rafting on Una will sound like a great plan in the summer months.

The Japod Islands are closed during winter, so you can expect the 2024 season to start in April and last until October. The entrance is free, and there are a lot of accommodations available to you on the island, in the Račić and Ripač settlements and along the bank of the river Una.

Japod islands, Photo: Dragoncello, Dreamstime

For the best photo and memory of your visit to the Japod Islands, there is also a swing on the sandy beach.

In the vicinity of the Japod Islands, you can additionally pay a visit to Štrbački buk, Martin Brod, and Ostrožac Castle.