Hiking tour with Shepherds in the Albanian Alps
Active
7h - 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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Albanian Alps with our Hiking Tour with Shepherds. From your starting point Qafe Perdolec (Lëpushë) trek along ancient, local shepherd trails, taking in stunning views and experiencing genuine Albanian hospitality as you visit the homes of local shepherds along the way. This off-the-beaten-track adventure offers a unique blend of natural splendour and cultural immersion, making it a journey will likely never forget!
Available options
Hiking Tour on Horseback!
Option to Ride on Horseback: If you wish, you can opt to ride on horseback for the duration of your Hiking tour with us for an additional fee.
Hiking Tour on foot!
What's included
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Our local guides will meet you at your starting point in Qafe Perdolec at 9am, and travel with you up to Maja e Vajushës, sharing insights about the landscape and local tales/insights from the "Accursed" mountains along the way.
2
Partway up the mountain towards Maja e Vajushës, you will have the chance to meet & greet some of the local shepherds staying in their summer encampments, known as "Stans". You will be invited into their homes, have a coffee and taste their excellent dairy products. With your guide(s) as translators, you will be able to get an exclusive glimpse into their authentic way of life.
3
After meeting with the shepherds, you will continue your hike towards Maja e Vajushës and have some time to take in the incredible views from the peaks.
4
Once you have had enough time to take in the surroundings at our destination, your guide(s) will escort you back to your starting point at Qafe Perdolec.
5
Depending on the activities of the local shepherds on the day, there may be time to meet another shepherd family and drink a coffee with them on the return journey to Qafe Perdolec.
What's not included
Snacks/Packed lunch for the hike
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
If there are any issues, you can use the wifi to call us on our backup numbers: +49 157 882 49122, or +355 68 824 6789
Meeting point
When you arrive at Qafe Perdolec, enter the large cafe on the road next to the marked location (it has green "Tirana" umbrellas outside). Your guides will meet you there
About Albania
Albania is a hidden gem in the Balkans, offering a unique blend of stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, rugged mountain ranges, and a rich cultural heritage. Known for its warm hospitality, Albania provides an authentic and affordable travel experience, far from the typical tourist crowds.
Top Attractions
Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site with ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater and baptistery.
Historical/Archaeological
2-3 hours
€7
Berat Castle
A medieval fortress with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside, known as the 'Town of a Thousand Windows'.
Historical/Architectural
1-2 hours
€5
Theth National Park
A stunning mountainous region with hiking trails, traditional villages, and the famous Theth National Park.
Nature/Adventure
Full day or overnight
Free (entry to the park)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tavë Kosi
Baked lamb and rice casserole with a yogurt and egg topping.
Main Dish
Contains dairy and meat
Byrek
Flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Fërgesë
A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.
Main Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Albanian Alps
Paragliding in Llogara
Canyoning in Osumi Canyon
Beach lounging in Durrës
Spa treatments in Tirana
Boat tours along the coast
Exploring Berat's historic sites
Visiting Gjirokastër's Ottoman-era houses
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak season offers warm weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. This is the busiest time, with vibrant festivals and lively coastal towns.
24°C to 35°C
75°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Albanian
- Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural regions
Currency
Albanian Lek (ALL)
Time Zone
CET (UTC+1), CEST (UTC+2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, exercise caution in certain areas
Albania is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of aggressive vendors and pickpockets.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Tirana International Airport • 11 km from Tirana
- Mother Teresa Airport • 11 km from Tirana
By bus
Tirana Bus Station, Durrës Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded. Routes are well-established but may lack strict schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiFAL, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Blloku
Kavajë
Day trips
Krujë
30 km from Tirana • Half day
A historic town with a medieval fortress, bazaar, and the Ethnographic Museum.
Llogara Pass
100 km from Tirana • Full day
A stunning mountain pass with breathtaking views of the Adriatic coast and the Llogara National Park.
Festivals
Gjirokastër Folk Festival • Annual, usually in September
Durrës Summer Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Albanian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover Albania's hidden gems
- Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and a glimpse into daily life
- Be flexible with your plans, as public transport schedules can be unpredictable
- Try local dishes and ask for recommendations from locals to find the best spots
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
