Albania Encompassed
12 Days
Visiting: Albania
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ALE
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Interests:
From:
$3106 (USD)Tour Overview
Blessed with some of the Adriatic’s wildest landscapes as well as arguably some of the continent’s least developed tourism infrastructure, Albania remains one of the most fascinating and least well-known countries in Europe with a rich heritage which can trace its influences back to the Illyrians, Macedonians, Greeks, Romans and Ottoman Turks.
During our journey we will soak up the dramatic landscapes of the northern Valbonë Valley and the coastal charms of the ‘Albanian Riviera’, explore the famed Ottoman-influenced UNESCO towns of Gjirokastër and Berat as visit the fascinating ancient ruins of Butrint, located in the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint National Park, and standing as one of the most atmospheric archaeological sites anywhere in Europe.
Combining cultural visits with some stunning day-walks as well as opportunities for wine-tasting and learning about local trades and traditions, this is an incredibly varied trip offering a rare insight into this often overlooked corner of the continent.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tour Starts In Tirana
Accommodation: Sar'Otel Boutique Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
The tour starts this afternoon at the hotel. Those on the suggested group flights (see the GETTING THERE section below for details) will receive a complimentary arrival transfer from Tirana airport. This afternoon we have some time to explore the colourful town of Tirana with a walking tour, taking in the renovated Skanderbeg Square and the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque, as well as seeing some of the buildings which date back to the 1930s Italian-influenced era. For our first evening we will enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 2: Tirana
Accommodation: Sar'Otel Boutique Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we will visit the House of Leaves, once the headquarters of the Albanian secret surveillance apparatus during the cold war and now a museum. From here we then drive into the foothills of Mount Dajti and visit the Bunk'Art underground galleries to learn about the country’s unique communist past. We’ll then take the scenic cable car up the mountain and enjoy a walk around the park taking in the stunning views (weather permitting) of the city below. After lunch the rest of the day is free to allow you time to explore some more of Albania’s capital at your leisure. You could choose to visit the National Museum, discover the Blloku district with its trendy cafes and shops or venture further south to wander around the impressive Lake Park, popular with locals and foreign visitors alike.
Day 3: Tirana – Visoki Decani – Valbonë Valley
Accommodation: Hotel Margjeka or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travelling north today we journey along the scenic highway that carves its way through the Mirdita Mountains and up into Kosovo. Here we spend a brief time visiting the Serbian Orthodox Monastery of Visoki Decani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sits at the foot of the Dukagjin Mountains. Re-entering Albania, we then head into the stunning Valbonë Valley, home to dramatic vertical limestone scenery. On arrival we can enjoy some free time to explore the beautiful landscape before settling in for a cosy evening of local food and hospitality.
Day 4: Valbonë Valley
Accommodation: Hotel Margjeka or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will explore these stunning jagged landscapes. Following a simple shepherd’s path up through beech and pine forests and lush green meadows we can enjoy dramatic views of the rocky domes of Maja Jezercë (2695m) and Mount Rosi (2560m) as we explore the depths of this remote region and head for the quaint little hamlet of Kukaj. With an option to extend the walk further, for those who wish, we'll slowly then make our way back down into the valley, surrounded by nature’s finest in the valley.
Approx. 2hrs walking (200m ascent, 200m descent. Total distance 5km, highest point 1117m).
Day 5: Valbonë Valley - Lake Koman - Shkodër
Accommodation: Hotel Tradita or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We travel once more through the valley this morning, this time to the Fierza Dock, where we board a privately charted boat and embark on a spectacular journey through the deep gorge of Lake Koman. As part of a major hydroelectric project dating back to the 1980s, Lake Koman was created by a dam, and the result is quite breathtaking. This idyllic ride will take us along the Drin River, which over the centuries has carved its way through the mountains to create some magnificent canyons and narrow passageways that are reminiscent of the celebrated Norwegian fjords. Unlike the fjords however, in comparison this area is comparatively unpopulated by tourists and offers some spectacular unspoiled views as we slowly cruise south for about 2½ hours. En route we’ll stop for lunch at Shala Canyon, known for its turquoise waters and white beaches. Once we reach the dam, we then continue by mountain road until we reach Shkodër. Historically an important trading post for centuries, the city is home to the ancient Rozafa Fortress, strategically located on the hill overlooking the city and surrounding vistas.
Day 6: Shkodër - Durres - Vlorë
Accommodation: Hotel Partner or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we set off south through the plains of western Albania as we make our way down to the beautiful coastal town and port of Durres. Here we visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century and the largest of its time in the Balkans. Continuing south we’ll finally reach Vlorë, the birthplace of Albanian independence, where there will be time to take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront before sunset.
Day 7: Vlorë – Llogora National Park - Himarë
Accommodation: Rapo Resort Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continuing south we head towards the magnificent mountains of the Llogara National Park where we will enjoy a pleasant walk this morning. Following a beautiful forest trail we will take in breath-taking panoramic views of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas on one side, and the dramatic 2000-metre-high mountains on the other. After lunch we'll then continue on by road along the stunning Albanian Riviera to the waterfront town of Himarë, where we visit the castle and stay this evening.
Day 8: Himarë – Butrint - Gjirokastër
Accommodation: Hotel Kastro or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast we leave the lovely town of Himarё, and drive along the Albanian Riviera to the lagoon of Butrint. Here we embark on a boat trip and learn about how the mussels are farmed, followed by a delicious lunch to sample this local specialty. We then visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Butrint National Park, an ancient archaeological site that lies on the shores of the Mediterranean. Located on the Straits of Corfu and surrounded by the picturesque lagoon, the site has, at various stages of its development, been a Greek colony, a Roman city and a bishopric. Today it is a site of major historical significance and remains one of the most important archaeological finds in the country, with artefacts and monuments being unearthed that date back as far as the Bronze Age. Its setting, against the natural backdrop of native woodland and the fresh waters of Lake Butrint and the Vivari Channel, makes it a particularly attractive site to explore. After our visit we will drive inland to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastër.
Day 9: Gjirokastër
Accommodation: Hotel Kastro or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
A beautifully preserved example of a traditional Albanian town, dramatically situated between the Gjerë Mountains and the Drino River, Gjirokastër is still dominated by its Ottoman-influenced citadel, one of the second largest in the Balkans. Originally built in the 12th century, the citadel has undergone a number of makeovers since its original construction, and now operates as an historical site with a selection of interesting post-War era weapons and memorabilia, including a US Air Force plane which was captured in Tirana during the 1950s. Filled with a lovely collection of charming 17th and 18th century buildings and palatial residences, the old part of the city still reflects something of Gjirokastër’s once favoured status amongst the Ottoman elite of the 19th century, and stands as the perfect base for us this evening. Today we have the full day to enjoy its charms, including a visit to the Ethnographic Museum housed in the birthplace of the ex-dictator, Enver Hoxha and enjoying some local treats in one of Gjirokastër’s old houses.
Day 10: Gjirokastër - Berat
Accommodation: Hotel Mangalemi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we leave Gjirokastër and follow the valleys of the rivers Drino and Vjosë towards Berat - the best preserved historic town of Albania, with a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site listing. En route we will stop for a wine-tasting at the Cobo Winery, known for making some of the best wines in Albania. Next we’ll visit the fortified citadel and the outstanding Onufri Icons Museum, enjoying also the sweeping vistas over Mount Tomor and the Osumi Valley. We’ll spend the afternoon exploring Berat’s historic districts of Mangalemi and Gorica, where we will stay for the night.
Day 11: Berat – Krujë
Accommodation: Hotel Panorama or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our final leg of the journey takes us along an alternative road inland, passing the rural area of the Belshi lakes as we journey to the charming town of Krujë, located just north of Tirana. Here we visit the imposing castle, home to its acclaimed Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania's national hero, before settling in for our final dinner and evening.
Day 12: Tour Ends In Krujë
Meals Included: Breakfast
The tour ends at the hotel after breakfast. Those on the suggested group flight (see GETTING THERE below) will be transferred to Tirana airport, located not far from the town.
What's Included
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TRANSPORT
Minibuses and boats will be used on this tour.
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MEALS
11 x Breakfasts10 x Lunches8 x Dinners
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GROUP SIZE
Maximum: 12
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CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
Contributions to climate and community projects for all bookings
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EXPERT TEAM
The full services of a Wild Frontiers Tour Leader with local guides where appropriate
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ACCOMMODATION
6 nights x Premium
5 nights x Superior -
ENTRANCE FEES
All entrance fees for sights mentioned in the itinerary
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FITNESS RATING
Low / Moderate
What's Not Included
We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour.
Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour
ationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory
Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents
International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK
Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights
Beverages & any costs of a personal nature: This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs
Responsible Travel
With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit.
When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.
Visas
VISAS
Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here - https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa
For this tour UK passport holders currently do not require a visa for Albania or Kosovo.
Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.
Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements.
VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for travellers to Albania or Kosovo.
For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.
For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk
Covid Testing: No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers.
If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.
Key Aspects to Consider
Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional.
All the walks mentioned are optional but in order to get the most out of the tour you should be in a reasonable state of health and be sufficiently fit to partake in and enjoy walking up and downhill in the great outdoors. None of the walks are difficult but in many places the paths are rocky and uneven.
On Day 3 we will briefly drive into Kosovo to visit the Visoki Decani Monastery as we make our way into the Valbonë Valley, a route typically used in the region.
This tour has a couple of medium/long driving days. These should be no longer than approx. 5/6 hours driving time (around 300km) and regular breaks will be provided.
Travelling Solo and single supplements
As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!
Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip. On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour.
Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.
Insurance
Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.
Check out our Q&As
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have a complete Covid-19 hub here: https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/en_GB/covid-hub
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 70% of passengers on our group tours are solo adventurers. Unlike many tour operators, we don’t believe in charging solo travellers a premium, so if you are happy to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same sex, you will pay exactly the same as a couple..Occasionally you may even end up with your own room. You can travel as a single traveller on any of our holidays, from our escorte
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2002
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Do I need to be double-vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel with you?
In most cases, yes. Not only are many destinations making double-vaccination a requirement of entry to the country and/or access to restaurants, museums etc., but additionally on all our group tours for the foreseeable future, for everyone’s peace of mind, we are asking that all clients be double vaccinated.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
Dates & Availability
Tuesday - Saturday
Oct 07, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Wild Frontiers allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 90 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Wild Frontiers requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wild frontiers charges.
Up to 71 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 51 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Wild Frontiers' COVID Promise
You will have the right to transfer without any transfer fee, from any of our trips at ANY time if your trip is not Covid Viable (see below).*
We will not ask you to pay your final balance if your trip is not yet Covid Viable.
If your trip is not Covid Viable, by 30 days prior to departure at the latest, we will cancel your holiday and you can either transfer your funds to another departure or have a refund.**
We will only consider a trip Covid Viable*** if pre-departure it meets all of the following criteria:
There is no national lockdown or ban on foreign travel for the period when your trip is due to depart.
Destinations on the tour must not be on the UK’s Red List. ****
No destinations visited on the tour have in place any significant COVID-19 restrictions for travellers.
Tourist visas (if required) are available.
There is reliable airline access to/from the start/end of the trip.
Following an assessment by both Wild Frontiers and our local partners we are confident that your trip is able to run in both a safe and enjoyable manner.*****
** If you were originally booked to travel before 30 April 2020 and transferred to a later date, or if you have a tailor-made booking, there may be some irrecoverable costs which we cannot refund. Please speak to us and we will be able to advise you if this is the case for your booking.
***Since our HQ is in London, Covid Viable status for our Group Tours will be assessed on UK-based travellers. However we are fully aware that many of our clients live in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and beyond. As such, when we deem a trip to now be Covid Viable, everyone booked will have a chance to review their own personal situation before deciding whether or not to remain booked on the trip. Anyone wishing to, will have the option to transfer without fees to another trip at this time. For tailor made bookings, we may also able to consider additional countries’ travel advice when deciding if a trip is Viable. Please discuss this with us at the time of booking.
**** This relates to bookings from UK clients only. We may operate trips to destinations which the British FCDO advise against travel for Covid reasons. If this is the case, anyone wishing to will have the option to cancel with a refund or transfer to another trip. In some cases we may choose to offer a tour to a Red destination but these will be at both clients’ and Wild Frontiers’ discretion and will be subject to alternative conditions to be discussed on an ad hoc basis.
*****If a destination, that we have deemed to be Covid Viable, subsequently fails any aspect of the criteria for two consecutive weeks, you will have the right under our Covid Promise to transfer without any fees.