Borderless Trek through Albania and Montenegro

⟺ 7 km ▲ 250 m ▼ 50 m ⧗ 3:30 h

Start early with a scenic drive through the Drin Gorges to Komani Lake (58 km / 2 hrs). A spectacular 3-hour ferry ride winds through fjord-like canyons, stopping at remote villages before reaching Fierze (46 km). Continue by car to Valbona National Park, with a light lunch in Bajram Curri.

Arriving in the breathtaking Valbona Valley, begin a warm-up walk along a crystal-clear stream, under ancient beech forests, dotted with wild strawberries. Brave souls can enjoy a refreshing swim in the ice-cold river or a hidden pond. Towering jagged peaks hint at the adventures ahead.

Unwind with a hearty dinner and rest in a cozy guesthouse, recharging for tomorrow’s highland trek.

B / L / D
3 h drive + 3 h boat

⟺ 16 km ▲ 1,250 m ▼ 650 m ⧗ 7:00 h

After a 45-min drive to Cerem, begin your ascent through flower-filled meadows toward the first border triangle. Enjoy forest berries, alpine flora, and sweeping views of Mt. Kolata (2,534 m). The trail skirts a deep canyon and follows a high path through conifer forests, where the changing landscapes between the Western and Eastern Alps become striking.

Past alpine pastures, greet local herdsmen over coffee and raki. Reach Doberdol (1,750 m), a glacial valley where animals roam free and life flows in rhythm with nature. In this timeless setting, stay in simple shepherd huts, trading comfort for authentic hospitality.

Meals are prepared by your host family, and stories are shared around the campfire, offering a deep glimpse into the seasonal life of mountain shepherds.

B / LP / D
45 min transfer

⟺ 13 km ▲ 600 m ▼ 850 m ⧗ 6:00 h

After bidding farewell to our shepherd hosts, we ascend from the valley to the summit of Mt. Trekufiri (2,366 m) — where the borders of Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo converge amid spectacular views.

We follow the blueberry-lined trail into Montenegro, circling around Mt. Bogicevica (2,374 m) to reach the peaceful Lake Hrid, famed for its legends, clear waters, and sightings of salamanders and fireflies. Brave souls may take a refreshing swim at over 1,900 m altitude.

The trail winds through dense pine forest to a remote katund (seasonal hamlet), then descends to Babino Polje, a scattered mountain village at the edge of wilderness. Overnight in simple, welcoming huts, embraced by pure nature.

B / LP / D

⟺ 12 km ▲ 950 m ▼ 950 m ⧗ 6:30 h

After a 30-min transfer, arrive in the majestic Grbaja Valley, framed by the dramatic karst towers of Karanfili (2,461 m) — a climber’s dream. Hike through a shaded fairy-tale beech forest, with a steep final ascent to the twin peaks of Popadija and Taljanka (2,056 m).

From the narrow ridge trail, enjoy jaw-dropping views into Albania’s Kelmend region. Traverse a series of panoramic viewpoints, then descend back into the forest to complete this spectacular balloon loop hike.

Celebrate your achievement at a valley beer garden before returning to Vusanje Guesthouse. Nearby, a scenic waterfall offers a peaceful evening stroll.

B / LP / D
30 min transfer

⟺ 11 km ▲ 650 m ▼ 900 m ⧗ 6:45 h

Journey up the dramatic Ropojana Valley, carved by a 26 km-long glacier. Along the way, stop at a striking karst spring, where icy water bursts from snow-fed depths. At the trailhead, a faded border stone marks the old frontier of Communist Albania.

Hike through a remote mountain corridor, past a dry lake, shepherd huts, and a deserted military post, into the heart of the Albanian Alps. Towering above is the fang-like Mt. Arapi (2,217 m), forming the highest vertical wall in the Balkans.

At Peja Pass (1,711 m), your guide will assess if the summit climb is possible — a demanding option for experienced hikers. Others can relax at the pass or begin the descent with the horsemen.

Follow a steep caravan trail to a mountain watering hole, then take a short ride to a cozy guesthouse in the lively village of Theth.

B / LP / D
30 min transfer

⟺ 16 km ▲ 225 m ▼ 500 m ⧗ 5:30 h

A walk through Theth’s lush fields reveals its charm. Visit the iconic church and explore the lock-in tower, learning about the highland law of the Kanun and the role of the "kulla" in sheltering victims of blood feuds.

From here, the trail to Nderlysaj begins. Ascend past the Grunas Waterfall, then descend along cliffs above the river and the dramatic Grunas Canyon (50 m deep). A scenic bridle path leads downstream to Nderlysaj, where the Kaprea River and its natural stone pools offer the perfect midday swim.

In the afternoon, enjoy a 2-hour transfer over Thorja Pass (1,630 m), through Boge Valley, and along Lake Shkodra, returning to your hotel in Shkodra. Celebrate your unforgettable trek — but don’t forget to check your departure details for tomorrow!

B / L / D
3 h transfer

After breakfast, enjoy a final stroll through Shkodra’s pedestrian zone or grab some last-minute souvenirs. Join the group transfer to Tirana (city or airport), or continue your journey independently.

If you’re extending your trip, consider relaxing on the nearby beaches of Velipoja or Ulcinj (Montenegro), discovering modern Tirana, or heading south for a beach escape on the stunning Albanian Riviera (5–7 hrs by road).

Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable adventure through a land of warm hospitality, majestic mountains, and sun-kissed shores.

Want more? Ask us about discounts on combined tours, extra nights in Tirana, Shkodra, or beyond. There’s so much more to explore — each town deserves a full day!