+ Breakfast
+ All transfers as per itinerary
+ Cross Border Pass
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Lunch & dinner
Experience a week-long self-guided trip through the rugged and remote peaks of the Balkans. Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro meet on a breathtaking journey through some of the most famous peaks in the Balkans. A real challenge to conquer iconic peaks such as Talijanka (2,057m), Arapi (2,217m) and Kosovo's highest point, Gjeravica (2,656m) with nothing but your map, equipment and a passion for adventure.
Along the way you'll cross borders, explore the tranquil Valbona Valley National Park and be greeted by spectacular views from high passes such as the Valbona Pass (1,795m). Get a taste of history with stops at Theth's ancient church, the iconic 'lock-in' tower and the charming old bazaar of Gjakova. Local guesthouses and shepherds' huts will welcome you with a warm, authentic spirit - and a taste of the unique and renowned Balkan mountain cuisine.
With all border permits arranged for you, this trek is as smooth as it is challenging. Let the peaks of the Balkans surprise you with their raw beauty and cultural treasures. Are you ready to tackle the best of the Balkans?
This tour starts very early in the morning from Tirana or Shkodra. You will depart towards Tamarë and Lepushe in Northern Albania with local shared transport arranged by us. Please make sure you arrive at the meeting point in time to catch the transfer. (More details after booking).
The peaks of the Balkans are part of the Dinaric Alps, which start in Slovenia and end in south-eastern Albania. And the Albanian Alps are actually the highest of the Dinaric mountains, which you will explore over the next few days.
You will arrive in the small village of Lëpushë, known for its stunning natural beauty and a great place to rest after an exciting first day. The name Lëpushë refers to the yellow flowers that bloom there in spring. In the north of Albania they are famous for their delicious dishes made from local organic ingredients. Their unique and delicious cuisine can only be found here and you will have the opportunity to taste it during the tour.
Your destination today is Vuthaj, but first you will hike to the top of Talijanka, where you will cross the border between Albania and Montenegro. Mount Talijanka itself is located in the Grbaje Valley in Montenegro. This U-shaped valley is surrounded by sharp grey summits, making Talijanka one of the most beautiful peaks in the Balkans. The extraordinary shape of this dramatic grey landscape will amaze any hiker. From the top you can also see Lake Plav in Montenegro. Once you reach Gerbaj, we have arranged a 40 minute local transfer for an overnight stay in Vuthaj, Montenegro.
From Vuthaj, head towards Theth and cross the border back into Albania. During this trek, we will visit a hidden water place that is difficult to find on your own if you don't know the exact location.
You will also pass one of the highest peaks in the Balkans, the Arapi Peak (2,217m above sea level), and Jezerca Peak (2,694m above sea level). In the Albanian Alps, you will encounter several huts that show a way of life far from civilization. In Theth, visit the old church and the "lock-in" tower (a symbol of Theth). The stories behind these buildings span centuries of history. Overnight in a guesthouse in Theth.
Get ready for the highlight of this trip. The trek from Theth to Valbona will be an intense day, taking about 6 to 8 hours (about 1050m of ascent) in remote terrain, but undoubtedly rewarding! The Valbona Pass offers spectacular views of the Balkan peaks and the "Accursed Mountains". Reaching the top of the Valbona Pass is a real adrenaline rush. From here, you can see both sides of the valleys. This top viewpoint is perfect for a short break and the opportunity to take amazing pictures of the Albanian Alps.
From the Valbona Pass, we descend to our next destination, the Valbona Valley, another picturesque village surrounded by high mountains. Once we reach the village, we walk to the traditional guesthouse. Overnight in Valbona.
The next stop on your Peaks of the Balkans tour is Cerem. Your walk will take you through forests and meadows. You’ll come to an area that looks like a canyon and is the only place where there is snow even in summer. You’ll have the chance to hike to the highest peak in Montenegro, Zla Kolate, which will add another 3 hours to the walk (making it a total of 10 hours). Another magnificent sight on the way is a stone surface on the side of a mountain that resembles the face of a miserable old man. You’ll also pass a cave with an extremely cold wind, with an exit that remains unknown. All in all, there are many unusual things to see along the way, aside from the mountains themselves.
You’ll arrive at the guesthouse in Cerem, high up in the mountains at 1300m above sea level. There is no connection to civilization here, as there is no Wi-Fi or electricity. However, the delicious food and the warm hospitality of the people make up for the lack of facilities. Overnight in Cerem.
From Cerem, you’ll walk along a mule track towards Doberdol. On the way, you will cross the border into Montenegro for about two hours. The path takes you through pine forests where you can find all kinds of berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries (depending on the season). You will also pass through Albania's only national reserve, home to brown bears and the last remaining population of around 40 lynxes in the Balkans. It’s a beautiful route, with the highest point at 2100 meters above sea level. Along the way, you can stop in shepherd villages to enjoy a coffee or other drink. These villages are only inhabited by shepherds in the summer.
Doberdol, your destination for today, is situated at around 1800m, where you will spend another night in a shepherd’s hut. The village is picturesque, and you can choose from a variety of meals made with local ingredients. The beds here are not hotel beds but rather mattresses, and conditions are basic. The locals are very welcoming, the food is delicious, and it’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Overnight in a shepherd's hut in Doberdol.
Today, you head back to civilization, but not before hiking to Kosovo's highest peak, Gjeravica, which is also the second highest peak of the Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps). From the summit, you’ll enjoy views of the Accursed Mountains on one side and the Sharr Mountains on the other. During the hike, you’ll have the chance to swim in three different lakes formed by alpine and glacier water, one of which is especially striking due to its heart shape. After about 6 hours of walking, you’ll reach Gropat e Erenikut in Kosovo. From Gropat e Erenikut onward, we have organized a local transfer to drive to Gjakova. Overnight in a hotel in Gjakova.
Once you’ve had a chance to recharge from the Peaks of the Balkans hikes, you’ll have some free time to explore Gjakova on your own. The town is home to the oldest and largest bazaar in Kosovo. Although it was destroyed during the First Balkan Wars, World War II, and the Kosovo War, the bazaar has been restored to its original state. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a meal or browse shops selling traditional clothing and items. You can also visit the Clock Tower and the Hadum Mosque. The latter was built in the 16th century and somehow managed to survive the wars. Today it shows the beginnings of Islamic architecture in the Balkans, covered in stunning arabesque decoration.
After exploring the city, you will take local transport to Prizren. From here you'll take a larger bus to Tirana (Albania) and be dropped off at the bus station. From here you can make your own way to your hotel by bus or taxi (not included). You’ll return home with memories of the Balkan Peaks, ready to share your adventures with those around you.
Day 1: Local transport provided by our partners from Tirana to Lepushe. Local transport from Gerbaj to Vuthaj.
Day 6: Local transport from Gropat e Erenikut to Gjakova.
Day 7: Local transport from Gjakova to Prizren and from Prizren to Tirana Bus Terminal.
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
Breakfasts are included in the price of the trek. They will be provided at the accommodation where you spent the night before.
Luggage transport can be booked upon request. Ask our Trekking Experts about the possibilities.
Accommodation for 6 nights in traditional and simple homestay/guesthouse/lodge style or shepherd's hut with basic bathroom amenities. A typical room accommodates two to five travellers and it may be necessary for male and female groups to share a room (unless you book a private room).
Permits to cross the various borders are included and prepared by our local partner.
This trip does not include costs for transportation (flights, bus travel, etc.) to your destination.
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks at the bar and other similar expenses are your own responsibility.
The meals during the trek are not included in the final price, except for breakfast.
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.
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.
Before and after the trek you have to take care of your own accommodation.