Shala river & Komani lake -Day trip departure from Tirana/Shkodra
Active
13h - 15h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Named "the Thailand of Albania", Shala River is definitely one of the most beautiful destinations of Albania. Reachable only by boat and surrounded by mountains, this river is a perfect getaway for those who want to get rid of the mobile connection. The source of this river is in the Albanian Alps.
Available options
Departure from Lezha
Duration: 10 hours: Trip duration may vary due to traffic. We recommend not planning anything in Lezha before 19:00 to avoid any risk of delays<br/>Starting from Lezha: We offer pick-up from the meeting point at the roundabout at the entrance of Lezha city, after which the tour will begin.<br/>Van/Bus: Depending on the group size, we use different types of vehicles for the trip. All vehicles are air-conditioned<br/>Pickup included
Shala river from Tirana - Private tour
Lunch at shala river <br/>Pickup included
Departure from Shkodra
Duration: 10 hours<br/>Departure from Shkodra<br/>Van/Bus<br/>Pickup included
Departure from Tirana
Duration: 14 hours: Trip duration may vary due to traffic. We recommend not planning anything in Tirana before 20:30 to avoid any risk of delay<br/>Start the tour from Tirana: We offer pick-up from your hotel or accommodation if it’s located within Tirana city, and then we’ll begin the tour.<br/>Van / Bus : Depending on the group size, we use different types of vehicles for the trip. All vehicles are air-conditioned.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick up from Shkodra city center at Shkodër bus station (in front of Neptun shop))
English speaking tour guide
Pick up and drop off from the hotel located in Tirana
Transportation to the destination locations
Pick up from Lezha city (At the roundabout on the main street)
Boat ticket
Detailed itinerary
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Komani Lake and Shala River Day Trip is ideal for people seeking a fresh peaceful day with scenic views of Komani Lake and Shala River. You will get a chance to do the Boat Trip in Komani Lake and then swim and relax in the fresh crystal clear waters of the Shala River with views of dreamlike nature.
The tour starts in Tirana, Lezha and Shkodra city and involves a 3-hour and 20-minute car ride(from Tirana) with a short stop on the way to the Komani Lake, which was formed in the 1970s by damming the Drini valley.
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Visitors will then board a boat and embark on a ride through a series of deep gorges and interconnected lakes, passing between high mountains and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the natural surroundings. The ride will continue for approximately 1 hour until reaching the Shala River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery.
FREE TIME/LUNCH: You’ll have around 3 hours of free time at Shala River to enjoy the stunning nature, relax, have lunch, or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. An optional hike is available, led by the tour guide upon arrival. It takes about 45 minutes (both ways) and is well worth it—the view from the top balcony is truly breathtaking.
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Afterward, visitors will return to the boat and head back to the Komani Dam, followed by a drive back to Tirana. Overall, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of Albania's Komani Lake and Shala River, making it an excellent option for nature lovers and those looking for adventure.
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KNOW BEFORE YOU RESERVE:
PICK UP: If you select the hotel pick-up option, please note that in some cases, you may be kindly asked to walk a short distance (1–5 minutes) to a nearby main street. This is usually due to certain hotels being located on narrow streets where our buses cannot easily access
IMPORTANT: You’ll receive the final tour details via email and WhatsApp the night before the tour, between 22:30 and midnight. Pick-up times may slightly change depending on the schedule, so it’s very important to check our message. If you’re asleep when we send the info, just check it in the morning to confirm your pick-up time.
MOBILE DATA ROAMING: On the tour day, all communication will be via WhatsApp, so please make sure your phone number is linked to WhatsApp and you have mobile data/roaming enabled
FITNESS LEVEL: No fitness level required. Participants must be in good health conditions to participate in this tour.
What's not included
Foods and drinks
Tips for the tour guide & driver
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
70 reviews
5★
59
4★
8
3★
2
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
238 reviews
5★
214
4★
23
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Kindly note that this tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old
About Tirana
Tirana, Albania's vibrant capital, is a city where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences blend to create a unique urban tapestry. Known for its colorful buildings, lively cafes, and rich history, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of old and new that captivates visitors.
Top Attractions
Bunk'Art 2
A Cold War-era bunker turned museum, Bunk'Art 2 offers a fascinating look into Albania's communist past. The museum features exhibits on the history of communism, the secret police, and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
€5
Blloku
Blloku is Tirana's most vibrant district, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. Once the exclusive residential area of communist leaders, it has transformed into the city's entertainment hub.
Entertainment
Evening or full day
Free to explore, varies by venue
Dajti National Park
Dajti National Park offers stunning views of Tirana and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike, enjoy nature, or take the cable car for panoramic views.
Nature
Half day or full day
€5 for cable car, free for hiking
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tavë Kosi
A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and rice, topped with a yogurt and egg sauce.
Main Dish
Contains dairy and meat
Byrek
A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, baked until golden and flaky.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Fërgesë
A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, onions, and cheese, often served with bread.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Dajti National Park
Mountain biking in the surrounding hills
Paragliding near Tirana
Visiting Blloku for cafes and people-watching
Enjoying a spa day at a local wellness center
Relaxing at a traditional hammam (Turkish bath)
Exploring Bunk'Art 2 and other museums
Attending a performance at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring Tirana, with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. The city is in full bloom during spring, while autumn provides a warm, pleasant climate.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Albanian
- Widely spoken: English, Italian
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Albanian Lek (ALL)
Time Zone
CET (GMT+1), CST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tirana is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps to avoid overcharging.
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and stick to well-lit and populated areas.
Getting there
By air
- Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza • 20 km from city center
By bus
Tirana Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Tirana. The system is affordable and covers most major areas, though it can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaksiTirana, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Blloku
Pazari i Ri
Kamza
Day trips
Berat
120 km from Tirana • Full day
Berat, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows,' is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visitors can explore Ottoman-era houses, churches, and the Berat Castle.
Durrës
35 km from Tirana • Half day or full day
Durrës is Albania's largest beach resort, offering a mix of relaxation and history. Visitors can enjoy the beach, explore the Roman amphitheater, and visit the Archaeological Museum.
Krujë
30 km from Tirana • Half day or full day
Krujë is a historic town known for its medieval castle, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum. It's a popular day trip from Tirana, offering a glimpse into Albania's medieval past.
Festivals
Tirana International Film Festival • November
Tirana Jazz Festival • November
Tirana Summer Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Bunk'Art 2 for a fascinating look into Albania's communist past.
- Explore the vibrant Blloku district for nightlife, dining, and shopping.
- Take a day trip to Berat or Durrës for a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation.
- Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek at traditional restaurants and cafes.
- Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and reduce your carbon footprint.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
