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Hike the Albanian Alps

Hike the Albanian Alps

From $ 2,995 AUD

Description

Explore the remote Albanian Alps on this eight-day hiking adventure, where every bend in the trail rewards you with raw beauty and stops along the way immerse you in local culture. Hike the Volusnica ridge for views of the Karanfili peaks and follow mountain paths across borders to tackle the legendary Theth to Valbona trail, accessible only on foot. Then, take on the ascent to Rosni peak. Covering up to 15 km (9.3 mi) per day, every step leads to village stays, where you can tuck into farm-fresh lunches and traditional barbecue dinners and meet the locals who call this alpine paradise home.

Trip Name
Hike the Albanian Alps
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
8
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Explore the Albanian Alps and challenge yourself with some of the best guided hikes in the region.
  • Scale the famous Rosni Peak – one of Albania’s most iconic alpine landscapes – for a rewarding trek that offers sweeping panoramic views and crisp mountain air.
  • Hike from the local mountain villages of Theth to Valbona. Expect rugged beauty, dramatic peaks and a journey rich in local charm.
  • Take a boat ride across Komani Lake, where turquoise waters cut through towering cliffs.
  • Sit down to lunch at the scenic farm, Mrizi i Zanave in Fishte, and get to know Albania through its local flavours and people.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Tirana
Pershendetje! Welcome to the Albanian Alps. Your adventure starts in Tirana – the capital of Albania known for its bustling mosque, citadels and Ottoman architecture. You’ll kick off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll get to know your new travel companions and local leader. If you arrive early, maybe explore Skanderbeg Square, ride the Dajti Ekspres cable car or visit the Bunk’Art Museum – an underground Cold War bunker turned art and history exhibit. Later this evening, maybe walk through the colourful Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) for local food and find a place to eat dinner with your group.
Day 2 - Vusanje
Today, you’ll leave Tirana and begin your journey north through the Albanian countryside. Your first stop is the beautiful Mrizi i Zanave agrotourism farm, where you’ll sit down for a delicious Albanian-style brunch. Everything you’ll taste is organic and either produced right on the farm or sourced from the surrounding area. After lunch, continue your drive toward Montenegro, taking in scenic views as the landscape shifts from rolling hills to dramatic mountain ranges. You’ll arrive at your accommodation in Vusanje in the afternoon, where the rest of your evening is yours to enjoy. Maybe take time to explore the property or simply unwind in the fresh mountain air as you settle into the peaceful surroundings.
Day 3 - Vusanje
Start your morning with a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes of Prokletije National Park. You’ll follow the Volusnica trail – a scenic route along the ridge of the Talijanka and Popadija peaks, with views of the Karanfili peaks. Start by making a steep ascent through the forest to reach a plain with excellent views of the surrounding mountains. Then, continue along the ridge in a loop, ascending three peaks on the border of Montenegro and Albania. There’s also the option to stay at the plain or climb just the first peak before descending – this is up to your personal preference and ability, as well as weather conditions. After a day on the trails, head back to your accommodation in Vusanje, where a traditional evening barbecue awaits. It’s the perfect chance to relax, enjoy local flavours and reflect on the day’s adventure surrounded by nature.
Day 4 - Theth
This morning, set out on a scenic hike from Prokletije to Theth, crossing the border from Montenegro into Albania on foot. The trail takes you through alpine landscapes, with rugged peaks and open meadows. The hike starts off on mostly flat terrain, taking you through a valley framed by towering rocky peaks. Along the way, spot the ruins of old bunkers and military posts. Then, begin the climb to Peja pass – the widest pass in the Albanian Alps. From here, you’ll start the steep descent to the town of Theth, where you’ll settle in after a full day on the trail.
Day 5 - Valbone
Lace up for the most famous hike in the Albanian Alps today. This guided trek will take you from Theth to Valbona through the heart of the Accursed Mountains – there's no way between the two other than on foot. You’ll cross two national parks as you make your way through northern Albania’s remote and wild landscapes of limestone peaks and forested valleys. Tonight, you’ll stay in the mountain village of Valbona.
Day 6 - Valbone
Follow your trip leader today on the rewarding hike up Rosni Peak. The trail begins by passing scattered mountain houses and quiet campsites, eventually leading into the cool, shaded paths of a dense forest. As you gain elevation, sweeping views of woodlands and meadows open beneath your feet. If you’re lucky, you might meet one of the local shepherds along the way. The final push to the summit is steep but well worth the effort, offering spectacular panoramic vistas that stretch across the Albanian Alps. After a challenging day, rest well in Valbona.
Day 7 - Tirana
Start the day with a drive to Fierza, where you’ll board a boat and ride across Komani Lake towards Koman. Along the journey, stop for lunch by the lake. You might like to take a refreshing dip in the cold water while you’re here. After lunch, continue your journey with a private transfer from Koman back to Tirana, where you’ll spend the night. Why not head out with your group to toast to your adventure over dinner – your leader will know all the best spots!
Day 8 - Tirana
With no activities planned after breakfast, you’re free to leave at any time. If you’d like to extend your stay in Tirana, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
12-06-202719-06-2027AUD $ 3,085-
26-06-202703-07-2027AUD $ 3,085-
10-07-202717-07-2027AUD $ 2,995-
07-08-202714-08-2027AUD $ 2,995-
21-08-202728-08-2027AUD $ 2,995-
04-09-202711-09-2027AUD $ 2,995-
11-09-202718-09-2027AUD $ 3,085-
25-09-202702-10-2027AUD $ 3,085-
10-06-202817-06-2028AUD $ 3,240-
24-06-202801-07-2028AUD $ 3,240-
08-07-202815-07-2028AUD $ 3,145-
22-07-202829-07-2028AUD $ 3,145-
05-08-202812-08-2028AUD $ 3,145-
19-08-202826-08-2028AUD $ 3,145-
09-09-202816-09-2028AUD $ 3,240-
23-09-202830-09-2028AUD $ 3,240-

Accommodation

Hotel (4 nights), Guesthouse (1 night), Bungalows (2 nights)

Transport

Private vehicle, Ferry

Map