Small Group Tour of Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye from Tirana

The Small Group Tour of Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye from Tirana offers an engaging way to discover some of Albania’s most beautiful coastal spots and natural wonders. Priced at $173 per person, this full-day experience lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana. With a rating of 5.0 from 45 reviews, it’s highly recommended by 93% of travelers. The tour features visits to Saranda, known as the pearl of the Albanian Riviera, the white sandy beaches of Ksamil, and the Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural spring.

While the tour involves a long drive, it compensates with scenic views, expert guides, and convenient logistics. It’s especially suited for those eager to see the highlights of southern Albania without renting a car. Keep in mind that timing at the beaches may be brief, and the drive time could be a consideration for some travelers. Still, the experience provides a comprehensive look at the region’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites.

Key Points

• Price of $173 per person for a full-day tour from Tirana
• Duration of 10 to 12 hours, including transportation and site visits
• Visits to Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye, with admission tickets included
• Small group size, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Professional tour leader and private transportation
• Highlights include scenic views, crystal-clear waters, and natural wonders
• Some reviews mention long hours of driving; pacing may feel rushed for beach time
• Ideal for those wanting an overview of southern Albania’s major sights in one day

From Tirana to the Albanian Riviera’s Gemstone Towns

This tour departs from Tirana at 7:00 am, with hotel pick-up included. The journey begins with a short stop in Durres, a city with a busy port and less than 5 minutes of sightseeing, before heading south towards Saranda. The drive offers glimpses of Albanian landscapes and prepares you for the coastal beauty ahead.

Once in Saranda, the tour highlights why it’s called the pearl of the Albanian Riviera. The city sits in a natural bay with more than 300 days of sunshine per year and offers views of Corfu Island. The stop includes a one-hour walk along the port promenade, where you can enjoy the sea breeze, grab a coffee, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.

Exploring Saranda’s Coastal Charm and Local Flavors

The port of Saranda plays an important role as a hub connecting Albania to the Mediterranean. This stop allows a leisurely 30-minute walk along the seaside promenade, perfect for picture-taking and people-watching. Travelers can enjoy the view, relax at a café, or browse for souvenirs. The area offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant maritime life.

Ksamil’s White Sandy Beaches and Turquoise Waters

Next, the tour moves to Ksamil, renowned as the pearl of the Albanian Riviera. Here, travelers spend around two hours exploring white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The sight of four small islands just off the coast creates a postcard scene reminiscent of Bora Bora. Visitors have time to swim, relax, and enjoy the tropical scenery.

Ksamil’s beaches stand out as some of Europe’s best, with fine sands and waters so clear they invite you in for a swim. Despite the limited time—about two hours—it’s enough to get a taste of this beach paradise, though some reviews suggest longer stays could enhance the experience.

Visiting the Blue Eye’s Fairy-Tale Water Spring

In the afternoon, the tour guides you to Blue Eye, a natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery. The Blue Eye is a spring fed from Mali i Gjere, with waters so transparent and blue that they look like something straight out of a fairy tale. The water’s temperature stays below 10°C, making it a refreshing sight.

Visitors can observe the depth that divers have reached—up to 50 meters—and admire the mesmerizing crystal-clear waters. The Blue Eye visit lasts about an hour, allowing plenty of time to take photos and marvel at this unique natural feature. The site is free to explore, although it’s a popular stop for scenic beauty and tranquility.

Returning to Tirana with Scenic Views

After an afternoon at Blue Eye, the tour heads back towards Tirana. The return journey takes around one hour, giving travelers an opportunity to rest and reflect on the day’s sights. The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, with hotel drop-off included.

The Practicalities: Logistics and Inclusions

The tour includes private transportation, a professional tour leader, and admission tickets to all sites. Petrol, road taxes, tourist taxes, and international car insurance are covered in the price, offering a seamless experience. Optional extras like lunch or souvenirs are not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and personalized interactions. Pickup is available in Tirana and Durres, with additional charges for pickups from other cities.

Pacing and Punctuality: What to Expect

While the tour offers a broad overview of southern Albania’s highlights, some reviews note the long hours spent in the car—up to 4 hours of driving round-trip. Travelers should prepare for a full day of sightseeing with brief stops at beaches and more time spent on the road. Guides like Erik and Sam are praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making the long drives more bearable.

How Reviews Reflect the Experience

Most reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Edoardo, Bailey, Toni, and Sam for their engaging explanations and hospitality. The scenic views and natural beauty are also highly appreciated, with many noting spectacular landscapes and crystal waters.

However, some mention that beach time can be limited, and the long drive might be tiring. One review suggests that more time at Ksamil and Saranda beaches would improve the experience. Still, the overall impression is of a well-organized, enjoyable trip that offers a good balance between driving and sightseeing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Albania’s southern coast in one day. It suits travelers comfortable with long drives and eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of self-driving. The small group setting makes it ideal for personalized attention and intimate experiences.

It’s especially recommended for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye, combined with scenic coastal views and a touch of natural wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tirana are included in the tour price.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 12 hours, from early morning to late evening.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, all entry tickets for sites visited are included in the price.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stopovers include Saranda, Port of Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

How large is the group?
Groups are limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear if you want to enjoy the beaches.

Does the tour include meals?
No, lunch, dinner, drinks, and snacks are not included. Guests should plan their meals separately.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking and scenic stops; it is suitable for most travelers in good health.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Additional costs may apply for pickups from other cities; however, the itinerary is fixed.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the tour works well for families, especially those with older children who can handle a full day of travel and sightseeing.

This small group tour offers a reliable way to see Albania’s coastal beauty and natural wonders with the convenience of transportation and expert guides. While it involves long drives, the scenic rewards and personalized attention make it a worthwhile choice for most travelers eager to explore southern Albania.