From Shkoder: Wild Albania – Guided Tour

Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Northern Albania

The From Shkoder: Wild Albania – Guided Tour offers an immersive journey into the most pristine parts of the Albanian Alps. Over 4 days, travelers get to experience the rugged landscapes, rich local traditions, and untouched nature that define this remote region. The tour, priced with all essentials included, features transportation, accommodation, and meals, making it a convenient way to explore without any hidden costs.

This adventure is designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with a natural setting that offers limited modern comforts. The guides are professional and certified, ensuring a safe and informative experience. While the tour emphasizes respecting the environment, travelers should be prepared for simple accommodations and a pace that involves trekking and outdoor exposure.

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Key Points

• 4-day guided tour exploring the wild Albanian Alps starting from Shkoder
• All-inclusive package covers transportation, accommodation, and meals
• Boat ride on Lake Koman and trekking through scenic mountain trails
• Staying in biofarms and guesthouses, with opportunities to enjoy traditional food
• Guided visits to Nicaj Merturi Natural Park and the valley of Curraj i Eperm
• Suitable for active travelers interested in authentic nature experiences

Journey Begins with Lake Koman and the Nicaj Merturi Natural Park

The tour kicks off early from Shkoder at 06:45, with a minibus transporting guests to Koman. From there, a traditional Dragobia boat takes travelers across Lake Koman—a highlight itself—offering stunning views of the lake’s rugged cliffs. Arriving at Markaj, the group continues by jeep to Lekbibaj, where the first night is spent.

In Lekbibaj, a guided visit to the Nicaj Merturi Natural Park introduces visitors to the area’s lush landscapes. The evening concludes with a delicious traditional dinner shared with a local family, providing a taste of authentic Albanian hospitality. The combination of boat rides, scenic drives, and cultural exchanges makes this start both diverse and engaging.

Trekking in the Albanian Alps: The Natyra Refreshment Point

The second day centers on a trek regarded as one of the most beautiful in Northern Albania. After a hearty breakfast, a food package prepared for the hike sets the pace for a roughly six-hour journey through mountain trails, forests, and valleys. The group encounters the Natyra refreshment point, a small stop that offers a moment to relax amid nature.

The trek culminates in Curraj i Eperm, a valley renowned for its vibrant scenery. Here, travelers settle in at a guesthouse, where the evening’s highlight is a dinner under the stars. The trek’s length and terrain mean that physical fitness and comfortable shoes are important, but the scenery justifies the effort.

Exploring Curraj i Eperm and Its Traditional Night Sky Dinner

Curraj i Eperm presents a landscape bursting with colors—green valleys, rocky cliffs, and clear skies. The morning begins with a delicious breakfast, after which the group prepares for the journey back to Lekbibaj. The return features a relaxing lunch on the banks of the Lekbibaj River, perfect for unwinding after days of trekking.

In the evening, the traditional dinner is accompanied by local ciftelia music, giving a lively cultural touch to the night. The warm hospitality and authentic environment make this stay memorable, offering a glimpse into the rural life of Albania’s mountain communities.

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Return Journey via Fierze and Lake Ferry Ride

On the final day, after breakfast, the group departs from Lekbibaj by jeep toward Fierze. The highlight is the ferry ride across Fierze’s Lake, which offers striking views of the mountainous landscape from the water. This ferry is a key part of the route, connecting the mountain region back to the more accessible areas.

By 3:30 pm, the group arrives in Koman, where a minibus awaits to return to Shkoder. The tour concludes around 5:45 pm, wrapping up this wilderness adventure with memories of rugged trails, scenic boat rides, and warm Albanian hospitality.

Practical Logistics and Included Amenities

The tour’s included services are comprehensive, covering all modes of transportation: minibus, traditional boat Dragobia, jeep, and ferry. Accommodation takes place at a biofarm in Lekbibaj and a guesthouse in Curraj i Eperm, both providing basic but comfortable settings aligned with eco-tourism principles.

All meals and picnic supplies are included, ensuring that energy is maintained for the day’s outdoor activities. The guides are professional, leading travelers through the terrain and sharing insights about the natural environment and local culture.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

This tour demands a good level of physical fitness due to the trekking involved and exposure to outdoor conditions. It is not suitable for children under 16 or individuals with certain health issues, such as back or heart problems, respiratory issues, or mobility limitations. The itinerary involves walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable trekking shoes and outdoor clothing are essential.

Travelers should be prepared for changeable weather, bringing rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and waterproof bags. The tour emphasizes respect for nature, so eco-friendly items like reusable water bottles are encouraged.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Authentic Nature and Cultural Experience

Unlike more commercialized trips, this guided tour focuses on respecting the environment and providing an authentic Albanian mountain experience. The combination of boat rides, trekking, and local interactions makes for a well-rounded adventure.

The professional guides ensure safe navigation and share stories about the landscape and culture, enriching the journey. The all-inclusive approach simplifies planning, allowing travelers to focus solely on exploring and enjoying the scenery.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is immersive, the basic accommodations and physical demands mean this tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with outdoor activities. It is not recommended for pregnant women, people with altitude sickness, or those with medical or mobility issues. The remote nature of the tour means limited access to modern amenities, and travelers should be prepared for rustic conditions.

The Sum Up: A Genuine Journey into the Albanian Wilderness

The From Shkoder: Wild Albania guided tour offers a compelling look at Albania’s untouched natural landscapes. With its scenic boat rides, challenging treks, and traditional meals, it delivers an authentic experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The all-inclusive format makes logistics straightforward, while the professional guides guarantee safety and insight.

This tour works best for travelers eager to explore remote mountain valleys, experience local culture, and embrace outdoor activity. Its focus on respecting nature and supporting local communities makes it a rewarding choice for those looking for a meaningful adventure in the Albanian Alps.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 4 days, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Albanian Alps.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation (minibus, boat, jeep, ferry), accommodation in biofarms and guesthouses, all meals and picnic supplies, and a professional guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 16 due to physical activity levels and outdoor conditions.

What should I bring?
Travelers should pack comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing, rain gear, sun protection, snacks, camera, water, and trekking gear.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Accommodations are simple but comfortable, emphasizing eco-tourism and authentic rural stays.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start date for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour guides speak English.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, the trekking and outdoor activities require a good level of fitness.

Are there any restrictions for certain health conditions?
Yes, the tour not suitable for people with heart, respiratory, or mobility issues, or pregnant women.

When does the tour start and end?
Start times vary depending on availability, with pickups from front of the North Albania Alps office. The tour typically concludes back in Shkoder around 5:45 pm on the final day.

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