Safety First: costs for rescue services are covered.

Peaks of the Balkans Trail (Self Guided)

Duration: 10 days
Trails: T3 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m ascent per day

+ Breakfast
+ All transfers as per itinerary
+ Cross Border Pass
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Lunch & dinner

Hike for 10 days on the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, a remote and unspoilt route that straddles the borders of Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. Designed for those seeking independence and adventure, this trek will take you through 125km of some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in the world. Along the way you'll cross high passes such as Valbona (1,795m) and summits such as Talijanka (2,057m) or Gjeravica (2,656m), the highest peak in Kosovo.

Starting from Lepushe, with all border permits in hand, each day offers a new surprise, from panoramic mountain views to isolated mountain villages where time seems to have stood still. Nights are spent in rustic guesthouses and shepherd's huts, where you'll meet the friendly locals and experience the rich mountain culture of this fantastic region.

This self-guided trek brings you face to face with the wild beauty of the Balkans, an area virtually untouched by visitors until just two decades ago. With breathtaking scenery, authentic cultural encounters and total immersion in the wilderness, this is an unforgettable adventure for those ready to take on the peaks of the Balkans on their own.

Itinerary

Day
1

Tirana (Albania) – Shkoder – Tamarë – Lëpushë

This tour starts very early in the morning from Tirana or Shkodra. You will depart towards Tamarë and Lepushe in Northern Albania with shared transport provided by our partners. Please make sure you arrive at the meeting point in time to catch the local transport. (More details after booking). The Peaks of the Balkans are part of the Dinaric Alps, which start in Slovenia and end in southeastern Albania. The Albanian Alps are actually the highest part of the Dinaric Alps, and you will get to explore them over the next few days.

Later in the day, you will arrive in the small village of Lëpushë, known for its stunning nature and as a great place to rest after an exciting first day. The name Lëpushë refers to the yellow flower that blooms here in spring. Before the end of the day, you’ll have some time to walk and explore the area’s wide-open grasslands. Northern Albania is famous for its many delicious organic dishes made with local produce. The cuisine is unique, tasty, and can only be found in this region. You’ll have the opportunity to taste it during the tour. Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Lëpushë.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
2

Lëpushë – Maja e Berizhdolit – Lëpushë

Duration: 05:30 h
Distance: 10 km

Today you will hike to Maja e Berizhdolit (1977m) in the Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains. This is a beautiful hike that passes water springs and offers rewarding views from the top. The spectacular rock formation is covered with snow on one side and is almost devoid of vegetation on the other. The walk takes a maximum of 6 hours, including breaks in the heart of these mountains. After enjoying the spectacular views, you will return to Lëpushë. Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Lëpushë.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
3

Lëpushë – Talijanka peak – Vuthaj (Montenegro)

Duration: 06:00 h
Distance: 12 km

Your destination today is Vuthaj, but first, you'll hike to the top of Talijanka, where you cross the border from Albania into Montenegro. Mount Talijanka is located in the Grbaje Valley in Montenegro, a U-shaped valley surrounded by sharp, grey mountain peaks. Talijanka is considered one of the most beautiful peaks in the Balkans, and the dramatic view of grey mountains with unusual shapes is a sight that will impress even the most experienced hiker. From this peak, you can also see Lake Plav in Montenegro. For the last 40 minutes, you’ll travel by minivan to Vuthaj in Montenegro. In Vuthaj, you’ll have the chance to visit the Ali Pasha Springs, about a 40-minute walk from the guesthouse, or just relax and take in the spectacular views you’ve seen today. Overnight in a guesthouse in Vuthaj.

Vuthaj

Info
Vuthaj
See entire itinerary

Included

  • Transfers

    Day 1: Local transport provided by our partners from Tirana/Shkoder to Lepushe.
    Day 3: Local transport from Gerbaj to Vuthaj.
    Day 9: Local transport from Gropat e Erenikut to Gjakova.
    Day 10: Local transport from Gjakove to Prizren and from Prizren to Tirana Bus Terminal.

  • Full travel guide

    We will send you on your way with a digital travel guide that includes a route description for this trek, interactive hiking maps, and the most important information applicable to your trek

  • Breakfast

    Breakfasts are included in the price of the trek. They will be provided at the accommodation where you spent the night before.

  • Luggage transport (optional)

    Luggage transport can be booked upon request. Ask our Trekking Experts about the possibilities.

  • Traditional accommodation

    Shared accommodation for 9 nights in traditional and simple homestay/guesthouse/lodge style or shepherd's hut with basic facilities. A typical room accommodates 2 to 5 travellers and it may be necessary for male and female groups to share a room (unless you book a private room).

  • Cross Border Permits

    Permits to cross the various borders are included and prepared by our local partner.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    This trip does not include costs for transportation (flights, bus travel, etc.) to your destination.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks at the bar and other similar expenses are your own responsibility.

  • Lunch and dinner

    The meals during the trek are not included in the final price, except for breakfast.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. It is important that your travel insurance also covers adventures at a high altitude. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Accommodation before and after the trek

    Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.

FAQ

  • Where is the Peaks of the Balkans Trail?

  • What Is the Best Season for the Peaks of the Balkans Trail?

  • Cross Border Permits on the Peaks of the Balkans

How to Book

  • Booking

  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy

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Contact our Trekking Expert
Jan Bakker
Jan Bakker
This trek is operated by
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