Albania Adventure

Mirë se vini—welcome to Tirana, Albania! Your journey kicks off with a 6 pm meet-and-greet, where you’ll connect with your local guide and fellow travelers. If you arrive early, take time to wander the city’s vibrant streets, exploring historic mosques, Ottoman-era architecture, museums, and lively squares filled with cozy cafés. After the meeting, you can join an optional group dinner to break the ice and get your first taste of authentic Albanian cuisine.

Please make sure to attend the welcome meeting, as we’ll collect your insurance and emergency contact details during this time. If you’re running late, notify your travel agent or the hotel reception in advance. You can check with reception or look for a notice in the lobby for details on the meeting location.

Leave the city behind after breakfast this morning and drive north to the stunning mountain and lakes region, where you'll have the chance to experience the true beauty and wildness of Albania. This region is a rare part of the Balkans that managed to maintain its independence and ancient traditions despite being surrounded by Ottoman armies. After a scenic drive along a winding road, you'll board a small boat for a one-hour journey across the brilliantly blue Lake Koman to Nanplep and the Shala River. Check in at a cosy family-owned guesthouse, where you'll have the opportunity to relax, refresh in the water and learn about local culture and history over a delicious meal filled with stories.

You’ll stay in cozy guesthouses with shared rooms for up to four guests, along with shared bathrooms and showers. Depending on group size, accommodations may be spread across several nearby homes in the village.
Today includes around 3 hours and 20 minutes of driving, plus approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes by motorboat (weather permitting). As conditions can change, be sure to bring sun protection along with a windproof and waterproof jacket.

Today, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Shala River on an adventurous hike through one of Albania’s most stunning природных landscapes. Depending on the season, you may wade through refreshing river crossings—so sturdy water shoes or sandals are essential. Towering emerald slopes rise dramatically above the bright turquoise water, creating unforgettable scenery at every step.
For those looking to go further, there’s an optional guided hike to the abandoned village of Molle. This roughly 5 km round-trip trek climbs about 600 meters into the mountains and can be arranged locally for an additional shared cost.

Since today’s hike in the Shala River area involves multiple river crossings, bring sturdy trekking sandals or reef shoes suitable for water. Past travelers have found this hike challenging, so be prepared for wet conditions and steep, uneven, sometimes slippery terrain.
During the shoulder season, higher river levels may make the Shala River trek impossible. If that happens, we’ll opt for a guided hike to the Molle Village ruins instead.

Start your morning with a relaxed breakfast, then take time to enjoy the serene pace and natural beauty of the valley. Later, return by boat to the Komani hydropower dam and continue west to the unique, sustainable agri-tourism destination, Mrizi I Zanave, or the “Shade of the Fairies.” Here, enjoy a farm-to-table dinner made with fresh, locally grown ingredients, and spend the evening unwinding amid the tranquil farm surroundings.

Today includes about 2 hours and 15 minutes of driving, not counting stops, plus roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes of travel by motorboat.

This morning, set off south with a stop in Durres to take in the sandy shores of the Albanian Adriatic. Next, visit the stunning Karavasta Lagoon and learn about local conservation efforts protecting Dalmatian pelicans and sea turtles. Afterwards, settle into a beachside guesthouse and enjoy the evening watching the sunset and sampling fresh, local cuisine. For tomorrow’s adventures, a good night’s rest is highly recommended.

Today involves about 2 hours and 20 minutes of driving, not including stops along the way. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent, as Divjaka-Karavasta National Park is a protected wetland where aerial spraying is prohibited.
Our activities today are in partnership with MEET, a non-profit supporting local tourism in Mediterranean national parks. This collaboration lets you explore these protected areas in an authentic, sustainable, and responsible way.

Start your day with a sunrise breakfast atop a birdwatching tower at Karavasta Lagoon, traveling by bike or electric vehicle. Surrounded by stunning scenery, enjoy a locally prepared, low-waste breakfast while spotting birds and other wildlife.
Next, visit the village of Babunje for a hands-on bamboo craft experience and a shared meal with local farmers and artists. Learn about polyphonic singing, homemade raki, and Turkish coffee reading. Later, drive to the Bay of Vlora and check into your apartment, leaving the evening free to relax on the beach or explore at your leisure.

Today includes around 1 hour and 20 minutes of driving, not counting stops along the route.
Our activities are made possible through a partnership with MEET, a non-profit supporting local tourism in Mediterranean national parks. This collaboration lets you explore protected areas authentically and sustainably, while supporting community-based ecotourism projects.

Begin your morning relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and the sea breeze. In the afternoon, hike to the historic village of Tragjas, frozen in time since World War II. Explore a family-run farm that practices traditional, sustainable farming while coexisting with local wildlife like grey wolves, jackals, birds of prey, and bee-eaters. After your hike, return to the coast for a tranquil, unhurried evening.

Today’s driving is about 30 minutes, not including any stops along the way. For the hike, wear long sleeves, trousers, and closed-toe shoes to protect against thorny bushes and undergrowth, and be ready for steep climbs and descents. For the evening activity, don’t forget to bring a flashlight or torch.

Start your day with a drive to Berat, the “town of a thousand windows.” Stroll through the Old City and explore the 2,400-year-old castle with a guided tour along its ancient walls.
Afterwards, return to Tirana and dive into the city’s rich history—from Ottoman rule and King Zog I’s monarchy to fascist, Nazi, and Communist eras. Visit Skanderbeg Square, explore the New Bazaar, and finish the day with coffee and conversation in a charming garden while browsing a local family’s historical treasures.

Today’s driving time totals approximately 2 hours driving excluding stops on the way.

With no scheduled activities today, your Albania Expedition concludes after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay in Tirana, contact us in advance, and we can help arrange extra accommodation (subject to availability).