From Tirana: Bovilla Lake and Dajti Day Trip with Cable Car

Planning a day trip from Tirana that combines adventure with incredible scenery? This Bovilla Lake and Dajti Mountain tour offers just that — a well-rounded experience that takes you from lush mountain hikes to panoramic city views via cable car. We’ve analyzed detailed reviews, itinerary insights, and practical details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to hike around Bovilla Lake and enjoy stunning vistas that far surpass the usual photos.
• The cable car ride up Dajti Mountain, offering spectacular views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains.
• The knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating commentary and help you make the most of your day.

One consideration: the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are a must.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, enjoy mild physical activity, and want a taste of authentic Albania outside the city. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, stunning photo ops, and friendly local guides.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery from Bovilla Lake and Dajti Mountain that makes the trip worthwhile.
• Well-organized and flexible, with options to enjoy food, take photos, and explore at your own pace.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with local insights and photo help, making it memorable.
• Value for money: includes transportation, a guided hike, and the cable car, with optional extras paid separately.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personal, relaxed atmosphere.
• Good for outdoor lovers but requires a reasonable level of fitness and proper footwear.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early around 9:00 am, with a welcoming hotel pickup. From there, the journey immediately starts with a combination of asphalt and off-road driving. The drive itself is part of the adventure — a scenic ride that begins in Tirana and winds through the mountainous landscape, offering glimpses of rural Albania along the way. Expect some swirly, mountain roads that give the feeling of truly escaping the city for a day.

Bovilla Lake and Hiking

The first major stop is Bovilla Lake, famous for its stunning dam and emerald waters. The hike begins here, with a roughly 35-minute walk to a viewpoint overlooking Bovilla Canyon. The trail isn’t strenuous but is paved with uneven sections, so good shoes are recommended. Reviewers mention that the hike is not too demanding and offers continuously improving views, perfect for a relaxed yet rewarding walk.

During the hike, you’ll get to pause at Bovilla Restaurant for a coffee or cold drink — an ideal chance to soak in the scenery and recharge. Many reviews emphasize how the views from this spot are truly impressive, with one reviewer saying, “the lake’s beauty far exceeds the pictures”.

Bovilla Balcony and Optional Lunch

After reaching the initial viewpoint, there’s a short, more challenging hike to Bovilla Balcony, a narrow viewing platform perched above the lake. Here, you’ll find some of the best photo opportunities and a chance to take in the vast landscape. Reviewers share how the sense of accomplishment from reaching the balcony makes the panoramic views even sweeter, with one noting, “the last stretch was a bit steep, but totally worth it for the view.”

You’re free to relax, take photos, and enjoy a picnic or visit the restaurant for traditional Albanian cuisine. This flexibility is a highlight, allowing each traveler to tailor the experience.

Dajti Mountain and the Cable Car

The second half of the tour involves a scenic drive to Dajti Ekspres, the cable car station. The 15-minute ride to the summit offers a breathtaking aerial perspective of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Reviewers rave about how the view of the city below from the cable car is a photo-worthy moment, with one saying, “the views from Dajti are a reinvigoration after a day of outdoor activity.”

Once at the top, there’s time to explore the area, take more photos, and enjoy the natural palette of greens and browns. Some tour options include optional activities, but even just soaking in the scenery and snapping pictures makes for a memorable experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Returning to Tirana

After spending some leisure time at Dajti, you’ll hop back into the cable car and head down. The journey concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel, wrapping up an approximately 8-hour day filled with natural beauty and adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a solid value package:

Included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana
• Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
• An engaging guide who shares insights on Albanian culture and scenery
• A welcome coffee or soft drink to start your day
• The Bovilla Lake hike and access to the staircase
• Entry fee to Bovilla Lake area

Not included:

• The cable car ticket (around 14 EUR or 1400 ALL)
• Food and additional drinks (though you can bring your own or opt for the restaurant)
• Optional activities beyond the main itinerary

Reviewers have highlighted the importance of bringing cash for the cable car and extra snacks or water, especially since the hike and outdoor exposure can be physically demanding.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is designed for small groups (max 8), which means a more personalized experience and plenty of space for questions. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those comfortable with light physical activity. Since some reviews mention that the guides are attentive and safety-conscious, you can feel confident tackling the hike, even if you’re a beginner.

Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, sunscreen, and a camera. The best time to go is in good weather, as the views are best on clear days. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or altitude sickness, so plan accordingly.

The flexible payment options allow you to reserve without immediate payment, giving peace of mind if your plans change. Remember, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Insights

Many travelers mention how guides like Collin and Defrim go beyond just navigation — they share stories, give tips, and even act as photographers, making the journey more memorable. One reviewer notes, “Collin was a wealth of information and a huge bonus acting as our tour photographer.” This personal touch is what elevates the trip from a simple hike to a truly engaging day.

The reviews also reveal that even on days when the cable car is closed for maintenance, the guides are flexible and offer alternative experiences, like visiting Krujë or other cultural spots. That adaptability is a big plus and shows the tour’s commitment to client satisfaction.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Bovilla Lake and Dajti Mountain day trip stands out as a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience Albania’s natural beauty without strenuous trekking. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers, small groups seeking personalized attention, and anyone eager to capture stunning photos from mountain viewpoints. The combination of scenic hikes, friendly guides, and a chance to ride the cable car makes it a well-rounded, memorable day.

If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, cultural insight, and spectacular vistas, this tour offers excellent value. Just remember to wear good shoes, bring some cash, and prepare for a day of beautiful surprises in the Albanian mountains.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off with comfortable, air-conditioned transport.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it easy to plan around other activities.

Do I need to bring my own food?
While food isn’t included, you can bring snacks or a picnic, and there’s the option to eat at Bovilla Restaurant.

Is the cable car ticket included?
No, the cable car ticket is paid separately (around 14 EUR). It’s advisable to carry cash for this.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are recommended, especially since there are some walking and uneven terrain involved.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves some light hiking and uneven paths, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility and outdoor experience.

What if the cable car is closed?
Guides are flexible. If the cable car isn’t available, they might take you to other local sights such as Krujë or recommend alternative activities.

In summary, this day trip from Tirana offers a thoughtful mix of hiking, sightseeing, and panoramic views, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just a relaxing day immersed in nature, this tour provides a memorable Albanian experience that balances value, authenticity, and fun.

You can check if your dates are available here: