Blue Eye, Gjirokaster & Lekures | Private & Small Group Tours
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Planning your holidays by your own selves makes it harder for you to visit the whole highlights of a country.
The reason I choose to offer different types of CUSTOMIZED experiences is to show you the best of my beautiful country from a local's perspective.
Available options
Tirana - Tirana | Private Tour
Duration: 12 hours: Due to the large distance we will have to drive 2.5hours until the first stop and 2.5hours from the last stop to Tirana.<br/>Round Trip: 1-Tirana 2-Gjirokaster 3-Sarande 4-Tirana<br/>SUV 4X4 | AC & Music on Board<br/>Pickup included
Saranda-Saranda | Private Tour
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes<br/>Round trip: 1-Saranda 2-Gjirokaster 3-Sarande<br/>SUV 4X4 | AC & Music on Board<br/>Pickup included
Tirana -Sarande | Private Tour
Duration: 9 hours 10 minutes<br/>Transfer and Tour: Beside the tour this is also a transfer. The tour starts from Tirana and it ends in Sarande or Gjirokaster.<br/>SUV 4X4 | AC & Music on board<br/>Pickup included
Small Group Tour
Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes<br/>Round Trip: Pick up Ksamil or Sarande
Blue Eye
Gjitokaster
Lekursi Castle
Drop off Ksamil / Sarande<br/>SUV 4x4 | AC & Music on Board<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Pickup and drop off
Local guide
Bottled water
All entrance fees
Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
The ancient Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will be our next stop. We will go to the castle, which looks over the whole town and the rest of the Gjere mountains. visit the museum and listen to the history of this marvelous city.
After some photography of the landscape, we will proceed to the 17th century Ottoman bazaar, which offers the perfect opportunity to buy some locally-inspired souvenirs. Another 18th/19th Ottoman structure, Skenduli house, has been preserved ever since it was taken from the wealthy Skenduli family at the start of communism in Albania. A 10th generation family member will show us around and explain all of its quirks.
2
Stop 2
The final stop is back in Saranda where I will take you to my favourite place to enjoy the breathtaking landscape as the sunsets. If you like, this can include swimming or eating locally grown fruits with some drinks, making for an unforgettable day.
3
Join me for a journey that goes beyond the ordinary sights and experiences that most tourists can find in Albania. My guided tour offers the perfect opportunity to become acquainted with the culture and traditions of my country, and to see for yourself the wild nature of the lonian land. Just as importantly, I can be your photographer so that every special moment of your adventure is captured.
The journey starts from your accommodation, taking you along the scenic route amongst the mountains to the Blue Eye spring, a famous natural monument here, you have the pleasure of exploring the forest and finding the crystal clear source of the Bistrica river. Rebellious tourists may jump into the icy water but that is only for the brave! Maybe I can tell you about the most interesting legends about Blue Eye's origins instead.
What's not included
Personal expenses.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
12 reviews
5★
11
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
32 reviews
5★
32
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Traveler must have their own facemasks and gloves due to the risks of Covid-19
About Saranda
Saranda is a charming coastal town in southern Albania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater, baptistery, and various temples.
Historical
2-3 hours
€7
Lekursi Castle
A historic castle offering panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. It's a great spot for sunset views.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Ksamil Beach
A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small islands nearby. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free to €10 for sunbeds and umbrellas
Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
A natural spring with incredibly clear, blue water. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.
Nature
Half day
€2 for parking
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tavë Kosi
A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt.
Main Dish
Contains dairy and meat
Byrek
A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or with meat
Peshk në Zgarë
Grilled fish, often sea bass or sea bream, served with lemon and olive oil.
Main Dish
Contains fish
Fërgesë
A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Butrint National Park
Scuba diving in Ksamil
Boat tours to Ksamil Islands
Sunbathing at Ksamil Beach
Yoga on the beach
Spa treatments
Exploring Butrint National Park
Visiting Lekursi Castle
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the town. The sea is at its warmest, and the town is lively with various events and festivals.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Albanian
- Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Albanian Lek (ALL)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Saranda is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Getting there
By air
- Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 200 km from Saranda
By bus
Saranda Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Saranda. They are frequent and connect major points in the town.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxi Albania
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Ksamil
Butrint
Day trips
Corfu, Greece
15 km from Saranda • Half day to full day
A beautiful Greek island with ancient ruins, historic sites, and stunning beaches.
Llogara Pass
80 km from Saranda • Full day
A stunning mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.
Gjipe Canyon
60 km from Saranda • Full day
A beautiful canyon with a hidden beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Festivals
Saranda Summer Festival • July to August
Butrint Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit Butrint National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Take a boat tour to the Ksamil Islands for a unique and unforgettable experience.
- Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.
- Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
- Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
