10 DAYS | 6-15 September 2025
ONLY 16 SPOTS AVAILABLE
(Trip level: 1 – easy, 2 – moderate, 3 – challenging)
THE TOUR
WHAT’S INCLUDED
ITINERARY
Meals Included: Dinner
Mire se vini – welcome to Tirana, Albania. If you arrive early, perhaps get your bearings of the city with a walk around town. Tirana is filled with activity, from its traffic to its nightlife, but on its doorstep are mosques, citadels, Ottoman architecture and museums. This is a truly progressive city that’s working hard to alleviate the Soviet bloc feeling that pervaded it for so long. After today’s welcome meeting, head out to your welcome dinner to prepare for the adventures that await you!
Included Activities
- Arrival Transfer, included on a group basis
- Welcome Meeting with your hosts
- Welcome Dinner with the group
Accommodation: Sky Hotel or similar
Day 2: Valbona
Meals Included: Breakfast
On day 2, you’ll leave Tirana and travel to the stunning Valbona Valley, located in the heart of the Albanian Alps. Upon arriving in Valbona, you’ll set out on a guided hike along the River Loop trail, a scenic route that takes you through the valley’s lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and dramatic mountain landscapes. As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of towering peaks and unspoiled nature, with the serene sound of the river accompanying your journey. The hike offers a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of Valbona, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful environment before returning to relax in the valley.
Included Activities
- Travel to the stunning Valbona Valley
- Head on a guided River Loop Hike (2h 21 min; 7.2 km; ↑ 260 m)
Special information: Today’s travel time is approximately 4 hours (excluding stops)
Accommodation: Hotel Rezidenca or similar
Day 3: Valbona
Meals Included: Breakfast
On day 3, you’ll continue to explore the breathtaking beauty of Valbona with a guided panoramic hike. This trail takes you deeper into the heart of the Valbona Valley, offering stunning views of the rugged Albanian Alps. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and distant villages nestled in the landscape. Your guide will share insights about the local flora, fauna, and the region’s rich cultural history as you trek through this dramatic and unspoiled terrain. The panoramic hike provides a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Valbona, with plenty of stops along the way to take in the scenery.
Included Activities
- Head on a guided Panorama Loop Hike (5h 15 min; 12.7 km; ↑ 710 m)
Accommodation: Hotel Rezidenca or similar
Day 4: Theth
Meals Included: Breakfast
On day 4, you’ll travel by private transfer from Valbona to Theth, allowing you to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. Once you arrive in Theth, known for its traditional stone houses and unspoiled beauty, you’ll take a guided hike to the picturesque Theth Waterfall. This peaceful walk offers a chance to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty, with the waterfall providing a refreshing and scenic highlight. Afterward, you’ll have time to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this charming alpine village.
Included Activities
- Enjoy a guided Theth Waterfall Hike (1.5h; 5.5 km; ↑ 334 m)
Special information: Today’s travel time is approximately 7 hours. (excluding stops)
Accommodation: Bujtina Polina or similar
Day 5: Kruja to Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast
On day 5, you’ll begin your journey back to Tirana, with a stop in the historic town of Kruja along the way. Kruja, often called the “city of heroes,” is famous for its medieval fortress and its connection to Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. You’ll visit the Kruja Fortress, where your guide will share insights into its strategic importance and Albania’s fight for independence during the Ottoman period. From the fortress, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. After exploring the fortress, you’ll continue your journey to Tirana.
Included Activities
- Explore the famous Kruja Fortress
Special information: Today’s travel time is approximately 4 hours. (excluding stops)
Accommodation: Sky Hotel or similar
Day 6: Himare
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you’ll head towards the Albanian Riviera, making your way to the charming town of Himare. Nestled between the Ionian Sea and the Ceraunian Mountains, Himare is a hidden gem, offering a more tranquil and authentic experience away from the usual tourist crowds. Upon arrival, you’ll have the day to explore at your own pace. You might choose to wander through the Old Town, perched on a rocky hill, where you can enjoy stunning sea views and visit the ancient ruins of Himare Castle, which dates back over 3,500 years. Afterward, relax at a local café with coffee and cake, or head to one of the area’s secluded beach coves to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or lose yourself in a good book.
Special information: Today’s travel time is approximately 4 hours. (excluding stops)
Accommodation: Nia Boutique Hotel or similar
Day 7: Himare
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, embark on an exciting speedboat tour to experience the stunning coastline from a fresh perspective. As you cruise along the water, you’ll visit Pigeon’s Cave, Crystal Bay, Gjipe Beach, and the breathtaking Pirate’s Cave – one of Albania’s most remarkable caves, accessible only by boat. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to stop and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the caves and beaches near Gjipe Canyon, offering the perfect chance to cool off and bask in the sun. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to relax, and perhaps find a local restaurant with sea views to watch the sunset – your leader will have excellent recommendations!
Included Activities
- Experience a Speed Boat Tour along the coastline in Himare
- Stop and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the beaches near Gjipe Canyon
Accommodation: Nia Boutique Hotel or similar
Day 8: Blue Eye Spring to Gjirokaster
Meals Included: Breakfast
On day 8, you’ll journey to the historic town of Gjirokaster, with a refreshing stop at the beautiful Blue Eye Spring along the way. This natural wonder, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, is perfect for a short break and a photo opportunity. Once you arrive in Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, you’ll embark on a guided tour through its cobbled streets. You’ll explore key landmarks, while learning about the town’s rich history and cultural significance. Afterward, unwind with traditional Turkish coffee served on the stone terraces, soaking in panoramic views of this ancient hillside town.
Included Activities
- Take a guided hike to the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Blue Eye Spring
- Explore UNESCO World Heritage Gjirokaster with a guided tour
- Enjoy a traditional Turkish Coffee served on stone terraces
Special information: Today’s travel time is approximately 4.5 hours. (excluding stops)
Accommodation: Hotel Gjirokaster or similar
Day 9: Gjirokaster to Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
On day 9, you’ll begin with a visit to the impressive Gjirokaster Fortress, one of the largest in the Balkans, offering stunning views over the valley below. You’ll explore its fascinating history and learn about its role in the region’s defense. Next, you’ll head to the Zekate Tower House, a beautifully preserved example of Ottoman-era architecture, where you’ll get a glimpse into life in Gjirokaster during the 19th century. After your visit, you’ll travel back to Tirana. In the evening, you’ll come together for a traditional farewell dinner, savoring authentic Albanian cuisine and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your journey.
Included Activities
- Visit the Gjirokaster Fortress, one of the largest in the Balkans
- Take a trip to the Zekate Tower House
- Journey back to Tirana and enjoy a group Farewell Dinner
Accommodation: Sky Hotel or similar
Day 10: Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast
There are no activities planned for the day and you are free to leave the accommodation at check out time.
Departure Transfer
- Included on a group basis
ACCOMMODATION
Our accommodation for the trip will be an array of 3-4* hotels. We have carefully chosen the accommodation to maximise your experience on this bucket list trip.
*You will be sharing a room with another guest, in a room with twin beds, with an ensuite. Rooms will be allocated randomly, unless specified otherwise.
PRICE
£1,999 per person including all as stated above and must be booked via Intrepid Travel.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
✕ Flights to and from the trip (please speak to Intrepid about flights)
✕ Travel insurance for the trip
✕ Any additional meals or drinks not stated above
✕ Any additional activities not stated above
✕ Airport transfers if you arrive or depart outside of the recommended times
*There will be one transfer per trip for arrival and one for departure. Attendees will be recommended a flight, but if you book alternative flights, transfers will not be provided and will be at the cost of the guest.
INSURANCE
It is the attendee’s responsibility to have the appropriate travel insurance for this trip. It is compulsory for all guests to have travel insurance. Please let us know you have appropriate travel insurance before the trip.
FLIGHTS
Flights are not included as we wanted to give you the option of where to fly when and where you want. However, if you want help booking flights, Intrepid Travel is on hand to help you throughout the booking process and can book flights for you if required.
BOOKING
To book your spot, get in touch with Intrepid Travel and use the reference ‘OAG Albania’.
To secure your place on this tour, you must pay a non-refundable deposit of £200 per person. To book please email [email protected]m or contact the Intrepid Team on 0808 274 5111.
Do you want to pay in installments? Once you’ve reserved your space you can arrange this with Intrepid – no extra fees.
You can read the terms and conditions via the trip itinerary PDF.
ABOUT INTREPID TRAVEL
I have teamed up with Intrepid Travel to help host our OAG Overseas trips. They are experts in group travel with over 30 years of experience, and most importantly they are a B Corp, meaning responsible travel has always been at the core of what they do. Travelling with Intrepid means not just better trips for you, it’s better for local communities, better for wildlife, and better for the planet. Read more about their Foundation here.
