Peaks of the Balkans Trail (Guided)

10 days
T2 trails
Distance: 10 - 15 km per day
500 - 1000 m ascent per day

> Visit the famous bazaar in Gjakova
> Conquer the most famous peaks of the Balkans
> Discover the 'Blue Eye of Theth'
> Visit Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo in one trek!

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail takes you through a remote and unspoiled mountain region in the Western Balkans. It is a collection of beautiful mountains shared by Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro and is connected by a circular route. In 10 days you wind through the high Alpine mountains, crossing several mountain landscapes with a diversity of breathtaking views. In this adventure you explore some of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the world!

During this trek you'll pass Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro as you trek for 125km in total. You will cover a large part of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, which has a length of 192km. Cross Border Permits will be fixed for you and you will have the chance to get to know the local culture while you are staying in Guesthouses and Shephard's huts. You will be picked up from Tirana (Albania) and driven to the starting point in Tamarë. In the upcoming days you can enjoy great views from the Valbona Pass (1795m) or Talijanka Peak (2057m). Climbing the roof of Kosovo; Gjeravica (2656m) is the highest in the country. Encounter many picturesque mountain villages where time seems to have stood still. Until 20 years ago, the region was virtually inaccessible to visitors, which makes it an authentic cultural experience today. Above all, be surprised, as this trek has much more to offer!

Do you prefer to do this trek on your own? Then you should go here!

Itinerary

Day
1

Tirana (Albania) / Podgorica (Montenegro) – Shkoder – Tamarë – Lëpushë

Duration: 03:00 h
Distance: 3.5 km
Ascent: 868 m
Our tour guide will come and pick you up at your hotel in Tirana or Podgorica at 6:00 am. We will drive towards Tamarë in North Albania and pass by the city of Shkoder. From Tamarë, we will begin our hiking adventure of the Peaks of the Balkans. The Peaks of the Balkans are part of the Dinaric Alps that start all the way in Slovenia and end in the southeast of Albania. The Albanian Alps are even the highest section of the Dinaric Alps. We will get to explore them in the days to come. We will drive a bit further from Tamarë until we reach the beginning of the Ujvara e Sllapit trail, which will be a 3-hour hike. On the way, you might be the lucky one to see a beautiful 70 meters high waterfall, because it should have rained that season in order for this waterfall to appear! The crystal-clear water comes from the top of the mountain and is drinkable. Later that day, we will arrive in the small village of Lëpushë, known for its stunning nature and for us a great resting point after an exciting first day. The name Lëpushë refers to the yellow flower that you can find there in the spring season. Before ending this day, we will have some time left to walk and explore the area, in the far-reaching meadow landscapes. In the North of Albania, they are known for many delicious bio-dishes with products from the region. Their cuisine is unique, tasty and can only be found in these areas. You will have the chance to try these during the tour.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
2

Lëpushë – Maja e Berizhdolit – Lëpushë

Duration: 04:54 h
Distance: 11.4 km
Ascent: 680 m
Descent: 680 m
Today we will hike to Maja e Berizhdolit (1977m) in the Albanian Alps, also called the Accursed Mountains. This is a beautiful trek that passes water springs and has a rewarding view from the top. The spectacular rocky formation of mountains is covered in snow on one side while the other side has almost no vegetation. The hike is about 6 hours including breaks, which are fascinating when you are surrounded by these mountains. After soaking in the spectacular sight, we will head back to Lëpushë.

Lëpushë

Info
Lëpushë
Day
3

Lëpushë – Talijanka peak – Vuthaj (Montenegro)

Duration: 08:51 h
Distance: 17.2 km
Ascent: 1340 m
Descent: 1610 m
Highest Point: 2057 m
Our destination for today is Vuthaj, but first we will hike to the Talijanka peak. Here we will cross the border from Albania to Montenegro. Mount Talijanka (2057m) is located in Grbaje Valley in Montenegro. This valley is U-shaped and surrounded by the grey sharp mountain peaks. The Talijanka peak (2057m) is considered to be one of the most beautiful of the Balkan Peaks. The view of dramatic grey extraordinary-shaped mountains is a sight that even the professional hiker will be amazed by. From this peak, you can also see Lake Plav in Montenegro. We will take a minivan for the last 40 minutes to Vuthaj in Montenegro. In Vuthaj you will have the opportunity to visit the Ali Pasha springs, which is about a 40 – minute walk from the guest house, or you can reminisce on the spectacular views you have seen today.

Vuthaj

Info
Vuthaj
See entire itinerary

Included

  • Transfers

    All necessary transfers (bus, taxi, private transport, etc.) as described in the itinerary are included.

  • Professional guide

    During your trek, you will at all times be accompanied by an English speaking guide.

  • Cross Border Permits

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

  • Accommodation on the Peaks of the Balkan Trail

    You will be staying 6 nights in Guesthouses, 2 nights in a Shepherd's Hut (less comfortable, but great hospatility), and 1 night in a hotel. * Prices are calculated on triple or quadruples room occupancy. The Triple/Quadruple room occupancy means you might share the room with other travelers.

  • Luggage transport (optional)

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

  • Breakfast

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

  • Activities

    All activities as mentioned in the itinerary are included in the price.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

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

  • Lunch and dinner

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

  • Tipping

    Gratuities for the guide are not covered by the trek's price. The amount to tip is at your discretion, yet if you've received excellent service from your guide, considering a generous tip is appreciated.

  • 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.

  • Personal expenses

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

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

Book Now
Free cancellation up to two weeks in advance!
Starting at
per person
persons
Book Now
Contact our Trekking Expert
Jan Bakker
This trek is operated by our partner

Just for You