5 Days Private Hiking Tour to Valbona and Thethi

Early Morning: Departure to Valbona:

Breakfast on the Go: Your day begins early with a packed breakfast served in take-out boxes. This allows you to enjoy a hearty meal while you travel, ensuring you're fueled for the adventure ahead.

Departure for Valbona National Park:

You'll set off for Valbona National Park, one of Albania’s most breathtaking natural treasures. Prepare for a scenic drive through Albania’s mountainous regions, with the promise of more awe-inspiring views to come.

Morning: Ferry Ride Across Koman Lake

Ferry to Koman Lake:

The first part of the journey is a three-hour ferry ride across the serene Koman Lake, one of Albania’s most famous and stunning landscapes.

The ferry connects the towns of Koman and Fierzë and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountainous scenery, with emerald green waters and towering cliffs lining the shore.

As you cruise through the lake, you’ll see remote mountain villages, where life has remained largely unchanged for centuries. This experience is a highlight for nature lovers, as it offers a unique chance to witness Albania’s untouched beauty.

Late Morning: Arrival in Valbona Village

Arrival at Valbona Village:

After your ferry ride, you'll arrive at Valbona Village, a peaceful village tucked away in the heart of the Valbona Valley. The valley is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, dense forests, and the towering peaks of the Albanian Alps surrounding it. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

First Hiking Tour to Kukaj Village:

From Valbona, you’ll embark on your first hiking tour towards Kukaj Village. This village is a small hamlet situated about 200 meters from the valley bottom, which can either be reached by a 20-minute hike or a 4x4 drive for a more adventurous option.

Kukaj is quiet and remote, home to only a couple of houses. It holds one of the oldest houses in the valley, making it a fascinating stop for history and culture buffs. This village is perfect for a real homestay experience for those wishing to immerse themselves in local life.

The hiking offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful landscape, with views of the valley, river, and mountains. For those looking for a more challenging hike, there’s also the possibility of continuing further up the valley toward Montenegro.

After exploring Kukaj, you’ll return to Valbona Village, where you’ll have the afternoon to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Free Time: Take some time to relax, explore Valbona at your own pace, or just soak in the natural beauty of the valley.

After a full day of exploration and hiking, you'll enjoy a delicious traditional Albanian dinner in a local guesthouse. The food here is typically organic, farm-fresh, and locally sourced, showcasing the best of the region’s flavors.

The meal will feature hearty local dishes, such as grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and perhaps wild herbs picked from the surrounding mountains. You’ll dine in a cozy atmosphere, often with the owners of the guesthouse sharing stories of the area’s history and culture.

Overnight in Valbona:

Rest & Relaxation: After dinner, take the evening to rest and enjoy the tranquility of the Albanian Alps. You’ll stay overnight in your guesthouse, surrounded by nature, preparing for another day of discovery tomorrow.

Morning: Departure from Valbona

Breakfast in the Guesthouse:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in your guesthouse, giving you the energy you’ll need for the long hike ahead. Enjoy traditional Albanian fare such as eggs, fresh bread, cheese, and local jams.

Preparation for the Hike:

After breakfast, you will pack your backpack with essentials, including a bottle of water and food packages for lunch. The rest of your main belongings will be left behind with the horses, which will help carry your larger gear.

Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail will be mostly uphill, with some challenging climbs along the way.

Morning to Afternoon: The Hike to Thethi Village

Starting the Hike:

­ The hike from Valbona to Thethi begins with a steady climb as you head toward the Valbona Neck, which sits 1,820 meters (5,974 feet) above sea level. This portion of the hike will take you through rugged terrain, with breaks for water or coffee along the way to ensure you stay refreshed.

Scenic Views Along the Trail:

As you climb, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the pristine Valbona River. The path is not only physically rewarding but also a visual feast, showcasing the raw beauty of the Albanian Alps.

Reaching Valbona Neck:

After approximately 3 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Valbona Neck. This is a famous viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take a moment to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch here, taking in the stunning scenery as you recharge for the second part of the hike.

Continue the Hike:

After lunch, continue your journey toward Thethi, with the trail descending gradually toward the village. The hike will take approximately 3 more hours, depending on the pace and the terrain, with occasional breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Afternoon: Arrival in Thethi Village

Arrival in Thethi:

By the afternoon, you will reach Thethi Village, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Albanian Alps. Known for its traditional alpine houses and untouched natural beauty, Thethi is the perfect place to unwind after the challenging hike.

The village is surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks, waterfalls, and lush greenery, making it a peaceful oasis that feels like stepping back in time.

Check-in & Free Time:

Upon arrival, you’ll check into your guesthouse in Thethi. Take some time to relax and explore the village at your own pace. Wander through the quaint streets, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this remote paradise.

Evening: Traditional Dinner in Thethi

Dinner in the Guesthouse:

After a long day of hiking, enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner at your guesthouse. The meal will be made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh mountain herbs, grilled meats, and homemade bread.

The evening will be a great opportunity to share stories with fellow travelers and enjoy the warmth of the local hospitality in a cozy alpine setting.

Overnight in Thethi Village

Rest & Relaxation:

After dinner, take some time to relax and unwind in your guesthouse. The peaceful surroundings of Thethi will allow you to rest after a day of physical activity and prepare for the next day of adventure.

Morning: Discovering Theth Village

Breakfast in Theth Village:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your guesthouse in Theth, where you’ll enjoy local specialties such as freshly baked bread, homemade cheeses, and mountain herbs to fuel up for a day of exploration.

Theth Village Overview:

Theth is one of Albania’s most spectacular villages, nestled amidst a natural amphitheater of slate-grey mountains. The village offers incredible views and is surrounded by pristine nature, making it a photographer’s dream. Whether arriving by foot from Valbona or via vehicle through the high passes from Shkodra, the journey here is unforgettable.

The village itself is a gateway to the Theth National Park, a region famous for its untouched landscapes, picturesque meadows, crystal-clear rivers, and mountain hiking routes.

Morning to Afternoon: Hike to Theth Waterfall

Hiking to Theth Waterfall:

After breakfast, you’ll begin the hike to Theth Waterfall, located about one hour from the center of the village. This hike is truly spectacular, offering stunning views of the surrounding rivers, pastures, and the imposing mountain slopes that tower over the valley.

The terrain is moderate to challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky paths, so it’s essential to wear your best hiking shoes to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Climb to the Waterfall:

As you approach the waterfall, the trail becomes more scenic, leading you through lush greenery and clear streams. The final leg of the hike is a 15-minute climb of intermediate difficulty, which rewards you with a breathtaking view of Theth Waterfall. The sound of the cascading water and the surrounding natural beauty will make this hike one of the highlights of the trip.

When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall surrounded by a serene landscape of mountains and valleys.

Lunch or Relaxation at the Waterfall:

Take a break at the waterfall to enjoy your packed lunch or simply relax and absorb the majestic beauty of the scene. The hike and the views make it a perfect spot for a picnic or a moment of quiet reflection in nature.

Afternoon: Exploring the Blue Eye

Hike to the Blue Eye:

After enjoying Theth Waterfall, you will continue your adventure with a hike to the Blue Eye, one of Albania's most unique natural wonders. The Blue Eye is formed by the Black River, which descends from the Black Top mountains. Over time, the river has eroded the rocks, creating a circular pool of crystal-clear blue water, with a depth of about 3-5 meters.

The Blue Eye is an awe-inspiring sight, and the hike to reach it is relatively easy, especially compared to the hike to the waterfall. The trail is located in a plain valley, making it more accessible to hikers of all ages and abilities.

The Blue Eye Experience:

As you arrive at the Blue Eye, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant, surreal blue-green pool, set in a serene, untouched environment. The surrounding cliffs and dense vegetation further enhance the sense of tranquility and beauty.

Be sure to follow the signs along the trail, which have been set up by the local community to ensure safe and guided access to the Blue Eye.

Optional Swimming or Relaxing:

For those feeling adventurous, the Blue Eye is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip in its cool waters (depending on the season). Otherwise, enjoy a peaceful moment in this pristine environment.

Evening: Return to Theth Village

Return to Theth Village:

After a day filled with hiking and exploration, head back to Theth Village, where you’ll have some free time to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The return journey is a great chance to appreciate the village’s picturesque scenery and unwind after the day’s adventures.

Dinner in the Guesthouse:

Enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner in your guesthouse. After a day of physical activity, savor hearty dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You might enjoy a meal of grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads, all typical of the Albanian highlands.

Overnight in Theth Village:

Spend the night in Theth Village, where you can relax and rest for the night, surrounded by the stunning Albanian Alps. The quiet, remote setting provides the perfect end to a day of exploration and adventure.

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Morning: Departure from Theth to Shkodra

Breakfast in Theth Village:

Begin your final day with a delicious breakfast at your guesthouse in Theth. Enjoy a fresh start with locally sourced ingredients to fuel up for the journey ahead.

Departure for Shkodra:

After breakfast, you’ll leave the serene village of Theth and embark on your drive to Shkodra, passing through picturesque landscapes along the way. The journey takes you through Albania’s northwestern region, where the Albanian Alps gradually give way to the peaceful surroundings of Shkodra Lake.

Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Shkodra Lake

Shkodra Lake Overview:

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the beauty of Shkodra Lake, the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula. The lake stretches over a vast 368 km², with 149 km² of it lying in Albania. The lake extends across the border into Montenegro, and its calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains and the historic city of Shkodra.

Take some time to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere around the lake, where the beauty of nature is complemented by the cultural significance of the area.

Optional Activities at Shkodra Lake:

If time permits, you can enjoy a short boat ride on the lake or take a leisurely walk along its shore. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the stunning landscapes before continuing your journey.

Afternoon: Arrival in Tirana

Arrival in Tirana:

After your visit to Shkodra, you’ll continue your journey to Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. The drive will take you through rolling hills and charming landscapes, and you’ll arrive in Tirana by the afternoon.

Free Time in Tirana:

Upon arrival in Tirana, you’ll have some free time to explore the capital. Whether you choose to relax or visit some of the iconic monuments of the city, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the essence of Albanian culture.

Some key attractions to consider include:

Skanderbeg Square, a central hub surrounded by historical landmarks.

The Pyramid of Tirana, a fascinating piece of communist-era architecture.

The National History Museum, where you can learn about Albania's past.

The Et'hem Bey Mosque, a beautiful Ottoman-era structure.

The Blloku Area, an area once restricted to communist officials, now a lively neighborhood filled with cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Evening: End of Tour

End of Service:

This will mark the end of your service. After your free time in Tirana, you’ll have the option to relax or head to the airport, train station, or bus station for your onward journey. Whether you’re heading home or continuing your travels, you will leave Albania with wonderful memories of its natural beauty, historical treasures, and warm hospitality.