From Tirana: Ksamil, Blue Eye & Saranda Tour with Boat Tour

Experience the Best of Southern Albania in a Single Day

The From Tirana: Ksamil, Blue Eye & Saranda Tour with Boat Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of some of Albania’s most beautiful spots in just one day. Priced reasonably, the tour is perfect for travelers seeking to see nature, history, and stunning scenery without spending multiple days on the road. Starting from Tirana, this day-long trip covers Blue Eye spring, Ksamil’s sandy beaches, Saranda’s charming streets, and the Lekursi Castle with panoramic views.

The tour is well-reviewed, boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 63 reviews. Highlights include the crystal-clear water of Blue Eye, relaxing moments on Ksamil’s beaches, and spectacular views from Lekursi Castle overlooking Corfu. One key advantage is the hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana, making the process smooth and hassle-free. However, travelers should be aware that the longer-than-expected day and limited free time at stops are factors to consider.

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Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Tirana covering Blue Eye, Ksamil, Saranda, and Lekursi Castle
• Price includes hotel pickup, transportation, entry tickets, and a boat tour
• Duration is approximately 12 hours, with some reviews mentioning the day can be longer
• The tour features stunning natural sights and panoramic views of Corfu from Lekursi Castle
• Guided by experienced tour leaders, with many reviewers praising the knowledge and friendliness
• Limited free time at stops means planning for snacks or meals during the trip

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Tirana, with options for three pickup locations: Golem, Tirana, and Durrës. Once everyone is collected, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle transports the group towards southern Albania. The drive typically lasts around three hours to reach the first major stop — the Blue Eye spring.

This organized pickup system makes it easy to join the trip without the hassle of arranging transport yourself. The driver and tour leader work together to ensure smooth transitions between stops, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Visiting the Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

The first major stop is Blue Eye, a natural wonder famous for its crystal-clear waters and mysterious depth. Surrounded by lush greenery and evergreen trees, the spring appears as a bright blue pool that seems almost surreal. Visitors learn about its cold water temperature and the legend behind its mysterious depths.

The visit includes a guided tour lasting about two hours. Visitors can snap photos of the striking blue water, walk along the viewing platforms, and enjoy the peaceful natural setting. A small fee is required for optional activities like the train ride in Blue Eye, but entry is included in the tour. The scenery here is a favorite for those who appreciate striking landscapes and tranquil environments.

Relaxing on Ksamil’s Idyllic Beaches

Next, the tour heads to Ksamil, often called the pearl of the Albanian Riviera. Visitors find white sandy beaches and turquoise waters perfect for a relaxing swim or just soaking up the sun. The group has about three hours of free time here, allowing plenty of opportunity for beach lounging, swimming, or exploring the four islands visible from the shore.

While sunbeds and umbrellas are not included in the tour price, they are available for rent locally. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and clear waters, making Ksamil a highlight for beach lovers. The area is also popular for snorkeling and water activities.

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Visiting Lekursi Castle for Panoramic Views

The tour then takes visitors to Lekursi Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking Saranda and Corfu. The castle’s history adds a cultural dimension to the visit, and the views from the ramparts are genuinely breathtaking. Expect to spend around an hour exploring the castle ruins and taking in the panoramic scenery.

Most reviews highlight how spectacular the views are, especially on clear days when Corfu is visible across the water. The elevated vantage point provides perfect photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the castle’s historical significance from the guide.

Exploring Saranda: The Albanian Riviera’s Gem

While the primary focus is on scenic locations, the tour includes a brief stop in Saranda. Known as the pearl of the Albanian Riviera, this charming seaside town offers a glimpse into local life and architecture. Visitors have some free time here to walk along the promenade, enjoy a quick meal, or browse local shops.

The guided commentary helps visitors appreciate Saranda’s cultural and historical importance, though the stop is primarily for short sightseeing and photos. The overall experience leaves an impression of a lively yet relaxed coastal town.

Boat Tour to the Islands: Exploring From the Water

A highlight of this tour is the boat trip to the nearby islands, included as part of the package. This boat tour offers a different perspective of the Albanian coast and islands, adding a water-based adventure to the day. The boat ride provides photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the crystal waters from a different angle.

Details about the duration of the boat tour are not specified, but it complements the overall experience by connecting land-based sightseeing with marine scenery.

Returning to Tirana: Long but Rewarding Day

The tour concludes with a drive back to Tirana, typically taking around three hours. The return trip may extend beyond the scheduled 11 hours**, with some reviews noting longer days and early pickups. Travelers should be prepared for a full day, with limited opportunities to purchase food during stops, so packing snacks or meals is advisable.

The drop-off locations include Tirana, Durrës, and Golem, completing the comfortable and organized experience.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a tour leader/driver. Entry tickets are provided for the Blue Eye, and the boat tour is included.

Extra costs such as umbrellas or sunbeds in Ksamil are not included, and optional activities like the train ride in Blue Eye are also paid separately. The tour operates in English, with flexible booking options allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guide Quality and Guest Experience

Many reviews praise the guides, especially Mirsad, for their friendliness, knowledge, and engaging storytelling. Guests appreciate the personalized attention, helping to deepen their understanding of Albania’s culture and history. Some mention longer-than-expected days but agree that the scenery and guidance make it worthwhile.

The overall rating of 4.4/5 reflects positive feedback, with guests highlighting breathtaking views, helpful guides, and well-organized logistics.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day trip suits travelers looking for a comprehensive experience of southern Albania’s nature and coastal charm. It is ideal for those interested in scenic landscapes, historical sites, and water activities. The guided nature and included boat tour add value for visitors eager to see both land and sea.

However, those who prefer more free time or non-stop activity might find the schedule a bit tight. Packing snacks and flexible expectations about timing will help make the most of this long but rewarding day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from Tirana?
The entire trip lasts around 12 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks, with some reviews noting it can extend longer.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an AC vehicle, entry tickets to Blue Eye, and the boat tour to the islands.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, meals or snacks are not included. It’s recommended to bring packed food or snacks due to limited opportunities to buy food during the stops.

What should I wear for the Blue Eye and Ksamil beaches?
Comfortable casual clothing, swimwear if you plan to swim, and sun protection like hats and sunscreen are advised.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The walking involved in Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle might pose challenges for some. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some standing and walking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially since availability varies. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I modify the itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can contact the provider for specific requests or additional activities, such as optional train rides.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, the climate in Albania is most enjoyable in spring and summer, ideal for beaches and outdoor sightseeing.

Is there any free time during the stops?
Yes, the stops at Ksamil and Lekursi Castle include free time to explore, relax, or take photos.

Is there any good reason to choose this tour over others?
The comprehensive coverage of Blue Eye, Ksamil beaches, Saranda, and Lekursi Castle in a single day, combined with guided insights and a boat tour, makes this a value-packed option for exploring Albania’s scenic south.

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