From Shkoder: Komani Lake and Shala River Boat Tour

This boat tour promises a full day of natural beauty, combining the dramatic scenery of Komani Lake with the tranquil waters of the Shala River. While it’s not a perfect experience, it offers plenty for those eager to explore Albania’s less-traveled landscapes.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to sail across Komani Lake, often called one of Europe’s most stunning reservoirs; the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Shala River; and the long, relaxed itinerary that includes kayaking and free time. That said, some travelers may find the experience marred by the quality of the boat and communication issues, which are worth considering before booking.

This tour suits travelers who are adventure seekers and nature lovers, especially those interested in authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in Albania. It’s best for those who don’t mind a long day of travel, some unpredictability, and are prepared to bring their own snacks or drinks if desired.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: The views across Komani Lake are often described as breathtaking.
• Flexible Day: The 11.5-hour itinerary includes plenty of relaxation and activity options.
• Limited Guide Support: No guide is provided during the activity, which might affect those seeking detailed local insights.
• Variable Experience: Reviews indicate some issues, like uncomfortable boats and incomplete excursions, so expectations should be realistic.
• Value for Money: The included transportation and boat tickets make this a reasonably priced way to see Albania’s natural highlights.
• Preparation Needed: Bring swimwear, snacks, and perhaps a towel for the swimming and kayaking sections.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Shkoder, a convenient way to start your day without the hassle of organizing transport yourself. Once you’re in the van, be prepared for about 110 minutes of scenic drive through Albania’s countryside, which offers a glimpse of local life and rugged landscapes.

Komani Lake: A Dramatice Waterway

Arriving at the starting point, you’ll hop onto a boat that will navigate the spectacular Komani Lake. This reservoir is often called the ” fjord of Albania” because of its dramatic mountain backdrop. The boat ride, approximately 70 minutes, is a highlight for many, offering panoramic views of towering cliffs and serene waters.

Travelers love the views but note that some reviews mention the boat’s condition can vary. One traveler complained about getting the “worst boat” of the excursion, which was uncomfortable and dirty, lacking life jackets. If you’re sensitive to boat comfort, bringing your own small cushion or being prepared for a less polished vessel might help.

Shala River: Crystal Waters and Relaxation

After crossing Komani Lake, you’ll proceed to the Shala River, renowned for its vivid turquoise waters and untouched landscape. The river section lasts about 70 minutes and is the core of the experience. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in pristine pools that many describe as refreshing and beautiful.

Some reviews mention that, due to recent rains, the river had been emptied by the time of their visit, which was disappointing. In fact, one reviewer noted, “they had emptied the river due to the rains,” implying that seasonal or weather conditions could affect the experience. It’s worth bearing in mind that the river’s flow might not always be as expected, and some parts of the original itinerary could be restricted or canceled.

Swimming and Kayaking: Relaxing and Fun

The tour allocates about 4.5 hours for swimming and kayaking in the Shala River. Bring your own swimwear and towel for comfort. If you enjoy light adventure, kayaking adds a fun dimension, allowing you to explore the river at your own pace. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make for a memorable, tranquil experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Return Journey and Additional Stops

After the river activities, you’ll travel back over the same route, with a 70-minute boat ride and a 110-minute van transfer back to Shkoder. There’s a brief 15-minute break in Shkoder County before the final drive back to the city.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation from Shkoder to Komani Lake and back, plus boat tickets for the lake and river crossing. This all-inclusive aspect simplifies logistics, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport.

However, lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is advisable, especially given the long duration. There’s no guide during the activity itself, which means some travelers might miss out on detailed commentary or local insights unless they hire a guide separately.

Pricing & Value

While the specific cost isn’t provided here, considering the transportation, boat tickets, and the unique experience, this tour tends to be reasonably priced for a full-day adventure. The value hinges on your interest in scenery and water activities—if you’re expecting a high-end, polished experience, you might be disappointed. For those seeking a genuine, active day immersed in nature, it offers a solid deal.

What We Don’t Love—and What to Watch Out For

The main drawbacks stem from the quality of the vessels used and communication issues. One reviewer described their boat as “uncomfortable, dirty, and without life jackets,” which could be a safety concern for some travelers. Plus, lack of English-speaking guides during the activity might leave non-Albanian speakers feeling a bit lost, especially when weather or environmental conditions alter the expected route.

Another important point is that the river can sometimes be emptied due to weather conditions, which may lead to incomplete experiences. The tour operators could improve transparency here, but travelers should be prepared for potential cancellations or changes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous, water-loving travelers with a flexible attitude. If you’re keen on seeing Albania’s wild side, love driving scenic routes, and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, this is a good pick. It’s also ideal for those wanting a long, relaxed day out with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photo-taking.

On the other hand, if you prefer more polished, guided experiences with detailed commentary or worry about boat comfort, you might want to look for alternatives or be prepared for some rough edges.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a great way to explore some of Albania’s most stunning natural spots with minimal hassle. The vistas across Komani Lake and the shimmering waters of the Shala River are genuinely memorable. You’ll enjoy a combination of adventure and relaxation, and it provides good value when considering transportation, boat access, and activities.

However, the experience can vary significantly, depending on weather conditions and boat quality. The lack of guidance during the activity means you’ll need to be self-sufficient or bring a sense of adventure.

If your priority is authentic nature, beautiful scenery, and manageable logistics, this tour can be a rewarding choice. But if you’re looking for comfort, detailed local insights, or a perfectly smooth experience, you might want to weigh those factors before booking.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation from Shkoder to Komani Lake and back, and boat tickets for the lake crossing and river trip.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 11.5 hours, starting at a time you can check during booking.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and perhaps snacks or drinks, as there are no meals included. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended for outdoor comfort.

Is there a guide during the activity?
No, there is no guide during the boat and river activities, which might impact your experience if you prefer detailed commentary.

Can I swim in the river?
Yes, there are swimming opportunities in the river’s pools, which many travelers find refreshing and scenic.

What if the river has dried up or been emptied?
According to some reviews, weather conditions can lead to the river being drained, limiting the experience. It’s advisable to check recent updates or be prepared for possible changes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the long duration and water activities suggest it’s best for older children who are comfortable with boat rides and swimming.

This boat tour from Shkoder offers a genuine taste of Albania’s natural beauty, perfect for those willing to embrace some rough-around-the-edges adventure and stunning scenery. Just keep expectations in check and pack accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here: