Rakitnica is one of the most dramatic tributaries of the Neretva River, flowing through a deep and inaccessible canyon in the Dinaric Alps of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It joins the Upper Neretva south of Sarajevo, forming one of the most remote and rugged river systems in the region.
The river is famous for its extremely steep canyon, in places reaching depths of over 800 meters. Its course cuts between the Bjelašnica and Visočica mountains, creating a wild landscape of limestone cliffs, narrow gorges, and fast-flowing turquoise water shaped by karst geology.
Rakitnica remains one of the least disturbed river environments in the Balkans. There are no major roads along most of its course, and access is limited to hiking routes, making it a destination for experienced trekkers and nature explorers. The famous high-altitude village of Lukomir, one of the highest permanent settlements in Bosnia and Herzegovina, overlooks part of the canyon.
Ecologically, the river is important as a tributary feeding the Upper Neretva system, contributing cold, clean karst water and supporting biodiversity in a largely untouched mountain environment.