albanian alps explorer – scenic hikes and cultural gems

Price From

POA

Duration

5 Days

Category

Hiking, Cultural Discovery

Difficulty

T2

Support Level

Self-Guided

Destinations

Albanian Alps

Start/Finish

Tirana

Why join this tour?

  • Embark on a discovery tour of the majestic Albanian Alps
  • Hike through the pristine landscapes of Valbona National Park
  • Enjoy the scenery of spectacular mountains, deep gorges, cliffs and rivers hiking in Theth National Park
  • Relax at authentic and cosy stays
  • A must for those desiring an all-inclusive, stress-free hiking experience.

The right tour for you?

  • This is a moderate hiking tour, so a certain level of fitness is required.
  • This is a self-guided tour. We will provide you with all the necessary information to safely hike on these trails.
  • This tour includes one alpine crossing, which you have to perform in order to continue with the program.
Day 1: Journey to the North – From Tirana to the Heart of the Alps

Hiking: T2, 3h, ↑400m, ↓400m, 7km

Your tour begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Tirana at 8 am. The drive takes you through stunning northern landscapes, passing through the city of Gjakova in Kosovo before re-entering Albania near Bajram Curri. Following the Valbona River, the road winds through a picturesque valley surrounded by rugged peaks and untouched natural beauty, leading to the charming village of Valbona.
In the afternoon, a short hike is planned to explore the hills above the valley. Starting from the hotel, the well-maintained trail offers gentle terrain and breathtaking views without a significant altitude gain. After reaching the highest point, you’ll descend through “Kukaj” and back to the hotel. Dinner and accommodation are provided at a comfortable hotel in Valbona.

The price includes:
  • Private transfer from Tirana to Valbona
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a hotel in Valbona
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 2: Into the Heart of Kukaj – A Scenic Day Hike

Hiking: T2, 4h, ↑750m, ↓750m, 12km

Fuel up with breakfast before setting out for a hike to the hanging glacial valley of Kukaj. The path takes you through rocky terrain, lush meadows, and dense beech forests. You’ll pass the scattered houses of Kukaj as the trail climbs to a grassy plateau with a mountain hut. Here, you can enjoy a well-earned lunch break while surrounded by panoramic mountain views.
After your break, descend the trail back to the hotel, where you’ll have free time to relax or explore the village. End the day with a hearty dinner at the hotel.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a hotel in Valbonë
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 3: Exploring Albania’s Alpine Trails – Valbonë to Theth

Hiking: T2, 6h, ↑800m, ↓1100m, 11km

After breakfast, set out from Valbonë for a memorable hike to Theth. The journey begins with a gentle walk along the Valbonë River before ascending steeply toward the Pass of Valbonë. At 1812 meters, take a moment to savour sweeping views of the dramatic alpine landscapes.
From the pass, the trail descends into Theth, with rocky paths giving way to serene woodlands and vibrant valleys. The final stretch is a tranquil walk surrounded by streams and towering peaks. End the day with a hearty dinner and a restful night in a cozy Theth guesthouse.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Theth
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 4: The Best of Theth – Canyon Trails and Crystal Pools

Hiking: T2, 6h, 600m, 600m, 15km

Begin your day with a visit to the Isolation Tower, a symbol of Albania’s deep-rooted traditions. Here, you’ll learn about the “Kanun,” a historic set of customary laws that shaped North Albanian society for centuries.
The hike continues to Grunas Waterfall and its narrow canyon, where the roar of cascading water meets the tranquillity of lush surroundings. As you move toward Ndërlysaj, marvel at the glacier mills, where ancient waters have sculpted rocks into fascinating shapes. Your journey culminates at the Blue Eye of Kaprre, a shimmering pool of aquamarine beauty. Its crystal-clear waters, fed by melting snow, offer a cool respite for the bold.
You can enjoy a homemade lunch at a rustic restaurant in Ndërlysaj before returning to your guesthouse for a peaceful evening in Theth.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Accommodation in a guesthouse in Theth
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 5: Journey to Dënellë Meadow: A Mountain Escape

Hiking: T2, 5h, ↑900m, ↓900m, 13km

The day starts with a hike northeast to the quaint neighbourhood of Ulaj. From there, the path takes you through a serene beech forest and up a rocky trail that becomes steeper as you ascend. Your destination is Dënellë Meadow, perched at 1,600 meters, surrounded by towering peaks and offering a breathtaking view of the Theth Valley. After a moment to take in the scenery, you’ll retrace your steps back to Theth, where the vehicle will wait to transfer you to Tirana.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Packed Lunch
  • Private transfer from Theth to Tirana
*Please see “Inclusions” section!
The price includes:
  • Private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle (Days 1 and 5)
  • 2 nights accommodation in a hotel on a twin-share basis (Days 1 and 2)
  • 2 nights accommodation in a guesthouse on a multi-share basis (Days 3 and 4)
  • 4 x Breakfast
  • 1 x Lunch
  • 3 x Packed Lunch
  • 4 x Dinner
  • Detailed information and route descriptions
  • 24/7 emergency telephone support

 

The price does not include:

  • Transfers not listed under “The price includes”
  • Luggage transportation between the accommodations
  • Entry tickets to museums, galleries, etc.
  • Meals not listed under “The price includes”
  • Any beverages
  • Any type of insurance
  • Other services not listed under “The price includes”

Season:

01 April 2025 – 31 May 2025

01 October 2025 – 30 November 2025

Traveling with a group larger than four or seeking customized accommodations? Contact us here.

Performance level:
This tour includes an alpine crossing (Day 3), which you have to perform in order to continue with the program.

 

Orientation:

Most of the hiking trails are signed, but not always visible. Some of the trails might not be well marked and eventual bad weather can make navigation difficult. We will provide you with a detailed information package to help your navigation. Good navigation skills are necessary.

 

Luggage transportation:

During this tour you will have to carry your own luggage during the hike on day 3. Please pack carefully and lightly.
Please bring a day pack/bag to carry clothing, water, packed meals, a camera etc. for the day trips, so that you don’t have to carry your main luggage on these days.

 

Transfers:

The transfers from Tirana to Valbona and from Theth to Tirana, required to perform this tour, are included in the price.

 

You can find more detailed information by clicking here.

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