Self-Guided Valbona-Theth Hiking & Round Trip Transport & MAP

Shkoder , Albania

Self-Guided Valbona-Theth Hiking & Round Trip Transport & MAP

Active

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Self-Guided Hiking Tour with Full Support

Embark on Albania’s most iconic hike—from Valbona to Theth—at your own pace. This self-guided tour gives you the freedom to experience the wild beauty of the Albanian Alps, with all the planning done for you.

What’s included:
Transport options to get you to and from the trail
• Shkodra → Valbona
• Theth → Shkodra: 11:00 & 17:00 departures
A PDF guide with detailed hiking instructions, safety info, and what to see along the way
️ An interactive online map with GPS directions and trail highlights

Enjoy the full experience—alpine villages, breathtaking views, and peaceful nature—without a guide. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a small group, you’ll have everything you need for a safe and unforgettable journey.

Available options

Self-Guided Valbona-Theth Hiking & Round Trip Transport & MAP

What's included

Interactive Online Map

Transport from Shkoder-Koman-Fierze-Valbone

Transport from Theth-Shkoder

PDF guide

Detailed itinerary

Every Monday and Thursday, we depart from Shkodra at 6:45 am, where our friendly team will meet you in front of the Rozafa Hotel. After boarding our comfortable van, we’ll set off on a scenic 1.5-hour drive through stunning landscapes toward Komani. (Alternatively, you can join us from Tirana with a 5:30 am departure for an additional 12€/person). Upon arrival in Komani, we'll take a short break for coffee and introductions with our guide and fellow travelers before boarding a charming boat for a 75-minute cruise across the serene waters of Komani Lake.

Around 3:00 pm, we’ll board the boat again for a journey to Fierza

Where a private car will be waiting to transport us through the picturesque town of Bajram Curri, with stunning views of the Valbona River. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit Xhema’s tranquil lake and the historic Water Millstone. As evening approaches, we’ll arrive at our welcoming guesthouse, where a hearty dinner of local, homemade specialties will conclude this memorable day.

Awaken to breath taking views and a traditional breakfast as we prepare for an amazing day of hiking. A private car awaits to convey us to the starting point of our scenic trek (car cost included). During the hike, two rest stops offer opportunities to savor drinks (not included) and capture the awe-inspiring vistas of the Dinaric Alps. We can not describe the hike with many words, we will let it amaze you while experiencing it.

Arriving in Theth, a waiting private car transports us to Nderlysaj, where we immerse ourselves in the beauty of natural cave bathtubs and the Blu Eye, a strikingly hued natural fountain. Returning to Nderlysaj, our car awaits to take us back to the guesthouse. Here, we unwind in private rooms before relishing a communal dinner featuring fresh, traditional delights (all included).

The tour culminates as our van awaits to transport us back to Shkoder, arriving around 14:00 pm, with lunch in Shkoder included.

What's not included

Accommodation

Food

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

Meeting point

At Tourist Information Center office.

About Shkoder

Shkoder, often referred to as the cultural and historical heart of northern Albania, is a vibrant city with a rich Ottoman and Venetian heritage. Its picturesque setting at the confluence of the Drin and Buna rivers, and its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, make it a unique blend of natural beauty and historical charm.

Top Attractions

Rozafa Castle

A historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Shkoder.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Buna River

A scenic river running through the city, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography.

Nature Varies Free

Shkoder Lake

A beautiful lake near the city, offering boating, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities.

Nature Half day Free to enter, boat rentals available

Ebu Bekr Mosque

One of the largest mosques in Albania, known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Marubishte Archaeological Park

An ancient site with ruins dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb and a yogurt-based sauce.

Main Course Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, popular as a street food.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Fërgesë

A hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese, often served with bread.

Main Course Vegetarian

Peshk në Zgarë

Grilled fish, often served with lemon and olive oil, a staple in coastal areas.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Hiking in Theth National Park Boating on Komani Lake Canyoning in Valbona Picnicking by the Buna River Café hopping in the city center Beach relaxation in Ulqin Exploring Rozafa Castle Visiting the Ebu Bekr Mosque

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for exploring the city and enjoying the nearby beaches. It's also the busiest tourist season.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shkoder is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

Tiranë International Airport Nënë Tereza • 90 km

By bus

Shkoder Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most parts of the city. Buses are often crowded, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Buna River Area Rozafa Castle Area

Day trips

Theth National Park

50 km • Full day

A stunning national park with rugged mountains, dense forests, and traditional Albanian villages.

Komani Lake

70 km • Full day

A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.

Ulqin, Montenegro

30 km • Half day to full day

A coastal town in Montenegro with beautiful beaches and a mix of Albanian and Montenegrin culture.

Festivals

Shkoder Summer Festival • July to August Gjirokastër National Folklore Festival • Every two years in May

Pro tips

Visit Rozafa Castle at sunset for the best views of the city and surrounding landscapes
Explore the Shkoder Bazaar for a taste of local culture and to try traditional Albanian snacks
Take a boat ride on the Buna River for a unique perspective of the city
Learn a few basic phrases in Albanian to enhance your interactions with locals
Try Tavë Kosi, a traditional Albanian dish, at a local restaurant for an authentic culinary experience