Albania Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
Albania Adventure
9 Days
From AUD $2655
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


 (7 reviews)

Albania Adventure

Albania Adventure

Intrepid Travel · 9 days
4.7
7 Reviews
View Map
Duration

9 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

It may be an under-the-radar-travel destination, but when it comes to dazzling landscapes and fascinating culture, Albania is every bit as magnificent as its more popular neighbours.

Highlights

  • Venture into the wild and beautiful landscapes of northern Albania, explore spectacular lakes and rivers and experience a slice of rural life.
  • Spend the night on a sustainable farm, where you’ll enjoy dinner made from fresh ingredients grown on site and learn about local farming practices.
  • With the support of non-profit ecotourism organisation MEET, learn about conservation efforts at the Karavasta Lagoon in Divjake- Karavasta National Park, spend the night at a locally owned beach accommodation and rise for a sunrise breakfast atop a birdwatching tower.
  • Visit the village of Babunje, where you’ll take part in a hands-on craft experience with local artists and be introduced to polyphonic singing, homemade raki and Turkish coffee reading plus enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a family.
  • Get to know Albania’s capital as you explore Tirana with your local leader, and share a coffee in the garden of our local friends to learn about their culture and family history.

Trip Details

Duration

9 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Ferry,Motorboat

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tirana, Albania

Finishes

Tirana, Albania

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Tirana
Mire se vini – welcome to Tirana, Albania! Your expedition begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your local leader and the other travellers joining you on your journey. If you arrive with time to spare, you may like to head out for a walk and take in the mosque, citadels, Ottoman architecture and museums of Albania’s capital. This city is a lively, colourful place with plenty of public squares and inviting cafes to discover. After your welcome meeting, you may like to get to know your group over an optional dinner and sample some Albanian food.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Lake Koman - River Shala
Leave the city behind after breakfast this morning and drive north to the stunning mountain and lakes region, where you'll have the chance to experience the true beauty and wildness of Albania. This region is a rare part of the Balkans that managed to maintain its independence and ancient traditions despite being surrounded by Ottoman armies. After a scenic drive along a winding road, you'll board a small boat for a one-hour journey across the brilliantly blue Lake Koman to Nanplep and the Shala River. Check in at a cosy family-owned guesthouse, where you'll have the opportunity to relax, refresh in the water and learn about local culture and history over a delicious meal filled with stories.

Included Activities:

  • Lake Koman - boat ride

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Shala River
Today you’ll get to get your toes wet in the aquamarine waters of the Shala River on an challenging hike. Depending on the time of year, you’ll need to trek through the brisk waters to cross from one side of the river to the other, so comfortable water shoes or sandals are a must. You’ll quickly discover its vibrant green mountainsides that drop steeply into the river’s bright and clear waters below. You’ll also have the option of hiring a local guide to hike to the abandoned village of Molle. This approximately 5-kilometre round-trip hike involves about 600 metres of elevation gain into the mountains. Hiring a local guide for this hike will come at an additional cost, but can be shared among group members participating.

Included Activities:

  • Shala River - Hiking

Optional Activities:

  • Shala River - Hiking to Molle Village ruins (28 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Shala River - Farm Stay
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast, then perhaps soak in the wilderness and slow pace of life in the valley. After taking some time for yourself in the morning, you'll return to the Komani hydropower dam by boat. You’ll then travel to the western part of the region to visit the sustainable and unique agri-tourism destination at Mrizi I Zanave farm, also known as the "Shade of the Fairies". Sit down to a farm-to-table dinner made with fresh ingredients grown on site. Spend the evening at Mrizi I Zanave, where you can relax among the peaceful surroundings.

Included Activities:

  • Mrizi I Zanave - Farm to table dinner

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Divjaka-Karavasta National Park
Hit the road this morning and drive south, stopping first in Durres to admire the sandy beaches of the Albanian Adriatic. Your next destination is the beautiful Karavasta Lagoon, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the local conservation efforts for species like the Dalmatian pelican and sea turtles. Then, check into a beach guesthouse. In the evening, you’re free to enjoy the dazzling sunset and sample some delicious locally-produced cuisine. To make the most of tomorrow's activities, it is recommended to get a good night's rest, so be sure to turn in early tonight.

Included Activities:

  • Divjaka-Karavasta National Park visit
  • Durres - Beach stop

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Divjaka-Karavasta National Park - Babunje - Bay of Vlora
Start your day early with a sunrise breakfast in one of the birdwatching towers on the western side of the Karavasta Lagoon, travelling either by bicycle or electric vehicle. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, you'll enjoy breakfast served on a large locally made carpet and prepared with a focus on reducing waste. You’ll have the opportunity to see various birds and possibly other wildlife while sipping on coffee and tea to start the day. After breakfast, visit the nearby village of Babunje, where you’ll have a chance to participate in a hands-on bamboo craft experience and enjoy a meal with a group of farmers and artists. Your hosts will introduce you to local polyphonic singing, homemade raki and Turkish coffee reading. After your visit, drive to the nearby Bay of Vlora, where you’ll check into your apartment for the night. The rest of the evening is free for you to enjoy the beach or explore your surroundings.

Included Activities:

  • Divjaka-Karavasta National Park - Sunrise birdwatching breakfast
  • Babunje - Local handicrafts experience
  • Babunje - Turkish coffee reading
  • Babunje - Family visit & home-cooked lunch

Optional Activities:

  • Divjaka-Karavasta National Park - Bike ride (10 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Tragjas - Bay of Vlora
Start your day with a chilled morning at the beach. In the afternoon, take a hike to the old village of Tragjas, where time has stood still since the area was bombed during World War II. From the ruins of the old village, a family has created a farm that utilizes traditional and sustainable farming practices. Learn how they coexist alongside animals such as grey wolves, jackals, birds of prey and bee-eaters. After the hike, return to the coast for a slow and peaceful evening. You'll can take a stroll along the beach, enjoy a sunset and included dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Bay of Vlora - Hike to Tragjas Village & farm visit

Optional Activities:

  • Bay of Vlora - Boat ride (seasonal) from (25 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Berat - Tirana
Begin your day with a morning drive to the small city of Berat, known as the 'town of a thousand windows'. Take a walk through the Old City and visit the castle, where you will be given a guided tour around the ancient walls of the 2400-year-old fortress. After the castle visit, drive to Tirana, back where your adventure began. Get to know the city's tumultuous past, including its Ottoman occupation, monarchy under King Zog I, fascist and Nazi occupation during World War II, and Communist rule. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the symbol of Albania's modernisation efforts, and the New Bazaar for a taste of local delicacies. End the day with a coffee and chat with our local friends, in a beautiful old garden and browse through their collection of historical family objects.

Included Activities:

  • Berat - Old Town & Berat Castle guided tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Tirana
With no activities planned for today, your Albania Expedition comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to spend more time exploring Tirana, just get in touch ahead of time and we’d be happy to arrange additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $2,655
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 9 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

It may be an under-the-radar-travel destination, but when it comes to dazzling landscapes and fascinating culture, Albania is every bit as magnificent as its more popular neighbours.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 23 May 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Bindu
Traveled, September 2023

10/17/2023

Intrepid does it again! My visit to Albania was magical. The sourcing and selection of experiences have left me with indelible memories. The stay in Marjana's farm, visits to Mrizi i Zanave, Karavasta NP, Tragjas and Berat left me speechless. Kudos Interpid - my go to for adventure travel.

5.0
Louise
Traveled, October 2023

11/02/2023

This is a great trip and a fabulously interesting country with, I hope, an increasingly bright future. I liked that we got to enjoy out of the way places as well as the more touristy parts. I stayed extra days in Tirana and highly recommend that. I’d love to go back and see more of the wilderness.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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