From Shkoder: Wild Albania – Guided Tour

Exploring Albania’s rugged north on a 4-day guided adventure offers an authentic taste of untouched landscapes, local traditions, and stunning mountain vistas. This tour promises to take you through the heart of the Albanian Alps, combining natural beauty with cultural encounters in a way that feels both immersive and well-organized.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the respect for nature is evident, with eco-friendly practices woven into each part of the journey. Second, the all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, accommodations, and meals—means you can focus on enjoying the scenery without constant planning. Third, the professional, certified guides ensure safety, local insights, and a friendly touch that makes the trip memorable.

A key consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of trekking and outdoor activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical exertion and uneven terrain. Travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free way to explore remote areas will find this tour especially appealing. If you’re craving authentic Albanian mountain landscapes with a touch of adventure, this tour might be your perfect escape.

Good To Know

• Authentic exploration: Experience the wild, unspoiled landscapes of northern Albania.
• All-inclusive package: Transportation, accommodations, and meals are covered, simplifying planning.
• Professional guides: Certified, friendly guides enhance safety and local insights.
• Active itinerary: Expect trekking, boat rides, and outdoor adventures along the way.
• Cultural immersion: Stay with local families and enjoy traditional Albanian dinners.
• Limited comfort: Designed for outdoor lovers; expect basic but genuine accommodations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Wild Albania Tour

Starting the Journey: From Shkoder to Lake Koman

The adventure begins early at 6:45 am, departing from Shkoder by minibus. We loved how this timing allows you to beat the crowds and hit the road while the city is still waking up. The roughly 1.5-hour drive takes you through scenic countryside before arriving at Koman, the starting point for a boat ride that’s often described as the highlight of the trip.

The Dragobia boat on Lake Koman is a classic Albanian travel experience—no fancy cruise ship here, just a traditional vessel carving across shimmering waters. Multiple reviews mention how the boat ride offers jaw-dropping views, with some travelers noting it as “simply breathtaking,” especially in the early morning light. The boat’s gentle sway, combined with towering cliffs and green hills, makes it a photo-worthy moment.

Exploring Markaj and Lekbibaj

After docking at Markaj, the tour continues via Jeep to Lekbibaj, where the first night is spent. The biofarm accommodations in Lekbibaj are simple but cozy, offering a chance to connect with the local environment. Staying overnight here is a chance to wake up surrounded by nature, with clean air and open skies.

In the afternoon, the guide takes you to Nicaj Merturi Natural Park. Reviewers praise this site for its peaceful atmosphere and lush greenery. One guest mentioned, “It’s like stepping into a different world—so quiet, yet full of life.” After relaxing, you’ll enjoy a traditional dinner with a friendly local family, providing a genuine taste of Albanian hospitality and home-cooked cuisine.

Trekking Through the Albanian Alps

Day two is the big highlight—a six-hour trek through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. The breakfast starts the day on a hearty note, and a packed food bag keeps you energized. The trail to Curraj i Eperm is often described as “the most beautiful trek in Northern Albania,” with travelers marveling at the diverse landscapes—rivers, wildflowers, mountain peaks, and expansive skies.

A stop at Natyra, a quaint refreshment point, offers a well-earned break. Reviewers note that the trek is challenging but rewarding, with many describing it as “a true adventure in untouched nature.” Arriving in Curraj i Eperm, you’ll find a peaceful valley where the scenery is so stunning that the nighttime dinner under a starry sky feels like a scene from a dream.

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Embracing Cultura and Relaxation

On day three, after breakfast, the return to Lekbibaj involves more scenic views. You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch by the Lekbibaj River, which reviewers say is perfect for unwinding after days of trekking. In the evening, a dinner accompanied by the sounds of traditional ciftelia music adds an authentic cultural touch.

This part of the tour emphasizes local lifestyle and offers a chance to connect with residents or simply soak in the tranquil environment. The mix of natural beauty and cultural richness makes this leg a favorite among travelers seeking genuine experiences.

Returning via Fierze and Lake Koman

The final day involves a scenic drive to Fierze, where a ferry ride takes you back across Lake Koman. The ferry from Fierze to Koman is another picture-perfect moment, with travelers describing the ride as peaceful, with incredible views of the mountains reflected in calm waters. The tour wraps up with a minibus back to Shkoder, arriving around 5:45 pm.

Practical Details and What You Get

This tour is priced to offer excellent value considering the comprehensive package. It includes all transportation, from Shkoder to Koman, boat rides, jeeps, and ferries, as well as accommodation in biofarms and guesthouses. All meals, including picnic lunches for trekking days, are covered, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the scenery and cultural encounters.

The guides are certified professionals, ensuring safety and enriching the experience with local knowledge. The tour is designed for those comfortable with outdoor activities—it’s not suitable for children under 16 or travelers with certain health or mobility concerns. The focus on natural landscapes means expect rustic accommodations and basic amenities, ideal for adventure lovers rather than luxury seekers.

Transportation and Timing

Expect early starts—around 6:45 am—and full days filled with activity. The boat ride on Lake Koman and ferry crossing are highlights, offering slow-paced moments to appreciate the views. The trek, though demanding, is well-paced with scheduled breaks, and the guides are attentive to the group’s needs. The 4-day schedule allows for a deep immersion without feeling rushed, with the flexibility to enjoy each stop fully.

Accommodation and Meals

Staying with local families and in biofarms offers an authentic experience, with home-cooked Albanian food making the meals memorable. Reviewer comments mention the delicious dinners and tapas-style traditional meals that provide a taste of local flavors, often described as “simple but flavorful.” The accommodations are basic but comfortable, emphasizing the natural environment.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast who loves physical activity, scenic landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who seek adventure over luxury and want to see Albania’s untouched wilderness without the hassle of planning every detail. Nature lovers will appreciate the variety of landscapes—from lakes and rivers to mountain peaks.

This is also a good choice for those who want a guided experience, ensuring safety and local insights, especially in remote areas. However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with significant mobility or health issues, given the physical demands and rustic accommodations.

Final Thoughts

This Wild Albania tour offers a unique opportunity to discover one of Europe’s least traveled yet most stunning regions. The combination of boat rides, trekking, local homestays, and scenic drives creates a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exchange. It’s a chance to see the raw beauty of Albanian mountains, enjoy delicious local food, and connect with the land in a way few other experiences provide.

For travelers eager for an authentic, active, and immersive journey into the Albanian Alps, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering how all-inclusive it is. The guides’ professionalism and the thoughtfully crafted itinerary help make this a memorable escape into nature’s untouched corners.

FAQ

What should I bring on the tour?
You’ll need comfortable shoes, hiking gear, a camera, sun protection, waterproof clothing, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. A change of clothes and a power bank are also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 16 years old due to the physical activity and outdoor nature of the experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals and picnic lunches are included, featuring local, traditional Albanian dishes that are simple but flavorful.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
Accommodations are in biofarms and guesthouses, providing basic but authentic stays surrounded by nature.

How long are the trekking days?
The trek on day two lasts about 6 hours, with breaks along the way. It’s physically demanding but rewarding.

What transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation includes a minibus from Shkoder, a traditional boat on Lake Koman, jeeps from Markaj to Lekbibaj, and ferries from Fierze to Koman.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Yes, the tour organizers focus on eco-tourism principles, respecting the natural environment throughout the journey.

This guided tour through Albania’s wild north promises adventure, authentic culture, and stunning scenery—an ideal escape for those ready to embrace nature and uncover hidden Albanian treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: