Balkan Peaks Border Trek

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Fly to Tirana & transfer to Shkodra

   On arrival in Tirana, transfer to a hotel in Shkodra.

2. Day 2: Journey into Valbona National Park

   Today we travel to Komani Lake and take a ferry ride across. We then embark on our first hike, which takes us through forests and past idyllic streams of the Valbona Valley.      

   Walking distance: 7 km | Ascent: 250 m | Descent: 50 m

3. Day 3: Traverse the Persllopi Pass

   This morning we ascend to and through the Persllopi Pass which leads to Mount Kollata at an altitude of 2,534 metres. After leading through forests and the pass, our trail leads through a rocky section until reaching the settlement of Cerem. 

   Walking distance: 14 km | Ascent: 1,200 m | Descent: 950 m

4. Day 4: Trek the Eastern Alps & Doberdol

   Our hike begins through open fields before leading us to a river canyon, from here we ascend through a forest. As we reach the high pastures of the Dobërdol glacial valley, we may encounter shepherds. Tonight, we stay in simple shepherd's huts, and if the weather is favourable, we gather around a bonfire to learn about the lifestyle of the local shepherds.

   Walking distance: 16 km | Ascent: 1,250 m | Descent: 650 m

5. Day 5: Mount Trekufiti & Journey into Kosovo

   We leave our accommodation and begin ascending through the valley towards the Tromedja and Trekufiri Mountains. Upon reaching the mountains, we're greeted with stunning views across Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. From this viewpoint, we continue along an ancient caravan route, traversing the Roshkodoli Pass, where we're treated to vistas of the Marijash and Rops Mountains.

   Walking distance: 18 km | Ascent: 825 m | Descent: 1,100 m

6. Day 6: Summit Mount Lumbardhi & Trek Rugova Gorge

   In the morning, we trek across the Lumbardhi Ridge before reaching the Rugova Gorge. As we climb, we enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. After the ridge, we discover grazing grounds and a pond at the foot of Mount Red Rock. Our trail descends steeply through the gully and dense woods of the Rugova Gorge. There's a swimming opportunity before a transfer to our accommodation.

   Walking distance: 14 km | Ascent: 525 m | Descent: 1,200 m

7. Day 7: Alpine Trails & Summit Mount Hajla

   From our accommodation, we hike through a forest as we ascend to the base of Mount Hajla. The trail, which climbs to 2,405 metres, includes steep and pathless sections, until reaching the summit and its breathtaking views. After descending, we follow an old road to the quaint hamlet of Drelaj.

   For those who prefer to skip the scramble to the summit, it's possible to wait at the base of Mount Hajla. 

   Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 1,150 m | Descent: 1,300 m

8. Day 8: Follow Trails into Montenegro

   After a short transfer, we hike towards Lake Liqenat which sits at an altitude of 1,850 metres. After taking in the views, we continue to the Jelenka Pass, at 2,272 metres. Then onwards to the next pass Ravno Brdo which has picturesque viewpoints of the peak and valley. After the passes, we descend until reaching Babino Polje. 

   Walking distance: 15 km | Ascent: 1,150 m | Descent: 1,050 m

9. Day 9: Hike Peaks of Taljanka & Popadija

   A transfer takes us to a valley near Karanfili, and today's hike is across rugged and dramatic peaks. We begin by trekking through picturesque meadows and forests, eventually reaching a ridge that lies between the peaks. The trail offers panoramic views as it winds between Taljanka and Popadija. From the ridge, a steep descent guides us to the valley floor, where a transfer takes us to our accommodation.

   Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 950 m | Descent: 950 m

10. Day 10: Discover Ropojana Valley & Mount Arapi

    The day begins by following the Ropojana Valley, our route leads us past former military outposts and shepherds' huts. Once back in Albania, we reach the Peja Pass, here there's an optional climb to the summit of Mount Arapi at 2,217 metres, or wait at the pass for the others. After the group is reunited, we descend to Thethi.

    Walking distance: 11 km | Ascent: 650 m | Descent: 900 m

11. Day 11: History of Kanun & Grunas Waterfall

    We hike to Thethi’s church and the Kulla of Thethi, a traditional Albanian tower that once served as a place of refuge during the era of the Blood Feud. Here, we learn about the centuries-old tradition and the customary code of law. 

    Following this, we trek toward Nderlysaj, passing the Grunas Waterfall and the Grunas Canyon. Upon reaching Nderlysaj, there's an opportunity to swim before we transfer to Shkodra.

12. Day 12: Fly back to the UK

    Today our journey in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro comes to an end. There's a scheduled group transfer to Tirana airport and city. 

    If you would like to extend your time in Albania, please speak to your travel consultant regarding additional nights in Shkodra or in Albania's capital Tirana.