Safety First: costs for rescue services are covered.

Peaks of the Balkans Trail (Guided)

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

+ Breakfast
+ Cross Border Pass
+ Door-to-door transfer service
+ Professional tour leader
- Lunch & dinner
- Tips

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through 3 countries in the heart of the Balkans on this 10-day Guided Peaks of the Balkans tour. This isn't just any trek - it's an expedition through some of the most remote and unspoilt mountains in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. Led by an expert local guide, you'll traverse 125km of breathtaking trails, crossing borders, climbing peaks and discovering hidden valleys where time seems to have stood still.

Your adventure begins in Tirana with a lift to the remote village of Lepushe, where you will be immersed in nature, culture and pure adventure. Over the next 10 days, you'll climb legendary peaks such as Talijanka and the towering Gjeravica, Kosovo's highest peak at 2,656m. You'll hike through idyllic villages, take in the views from the iconic Valbona Pass and soak up history at stops like Theth's ancient church and the 'lock-in' tower, a legacy of Albania's ancient settlements. At night, relax in rustic guesthouses and shepherd's huts, where you'll meet the locals and enjoy home-cooked Balkan food.

This guided tour is perfect for those who want to experience the authentic Balkans with the expertise of a local at their side. All the logistics - border permits, transportation and accommodation - are taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the views, stories, and rugged beauty of Albania.

Itinerary

Day
1

Tirana (Albania) – Shkoder – Tamarë – Lëpushë

Our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Tirana at 6:00 a.m. We’ll drive to Tamarë in Northern Albania, passing through the town of Shkoder. From Tamarë, we’ll begin our hiking adventure through the Peaks of the Balkans. The Peaks of the Balkans are part of the Dinaric Alps, which begin in Slovenia and end in Southeastern Albania. The Albanian Alps are actually the highest part of the Dinaric Alps, and we’ll be exploring them over the next few days.

Later in the day, we arrive in the small village of Lëpushë, known for its stunning nature and a great place to relax after an exciting first day. The name Lëpushë refers to the yellow flower that can be found there in spring. Before the day ends, we’ll have some time to walk and explore the area in the vast grasslands. Northern Albania is known for its many delicious organic dishes made with local products. Their cuisine is unique, flavorful, and can only be found in these areas. You’ll have the chance to try them 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: Transport provided by the company 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: Transport provided by the company from Gjakova to Tirana.

  • Professional guide

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

  • Activities

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

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

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  • Cancellation policy

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Contact our Trekking Expert
Jan Bakker
Jan Bakker
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