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About the tour

South Albania Adventure & Culture Tour (9 Days)

Discover the wild beauty and rich culture of Southern Albania. From the high peaks of Llogara National Park to the hidden valleys of Zagoria and the UNESCO cities of Gjirokastër and Berat, this journey combines mountain hiking, traditional villages, and authentic local experiences. Each day offers a balance between scenic walks, cultural visits, and warm hospitality in family-run accommodations.

Duration [Days]

8

Duration [Nights]

9

Difficulty

Season

Accommodation

Guesthouse, Small Hotel

Accommodation Styles

Private Rooms

Activity Types

Hiking

Luggage Transportation

Vehicle

Meals Included

Breakfast, Dinner

Transportation

Local Transfers, Private minivan

South Albania Adventure & Culture Tour (9 Days)

Tour Itinerary

Arrival - Vlora

Arrival in Tirana and transfer to Vlorë, a coastal city known as the gateway to the
Albanian Riviera. Depending on arrival time, we visit the town and enjoy dinner
by the sea.

Hike to Maja e Qorres (2018 m)

Many travellers cross the Llogara Pass focusing on the winding road, but few
know that just above lies Maja e Qorres, one of Albania’s most rewarding day
hikes. The trail climbs through Llogara National Park, where strong coastal winds
have shaped ancient pine trees into surreal forms. From the 2018 m summit, the
views over the Ionian coastline and Ceraunian Mountains are breathtaking.

Distance: 9.3 km Duration: 4-5 h Ascent: 1002m Descent: 1002m

Himarë - Gjipe - Gjirokastër

Morning transfer along the Riviera. A short coastal hike leads to Gjipe Canyon, one of Albania’s natural gems, surrounded by cliffs and the turquoise Ionian Sea. After lunch by the beach, we continue inland toward the UNESCO city of Gjirokastër, known for its Ottoman architecture and stone houses.

Distance: 5 km Duration: 1 h Ascent: 300 m Descent: 300 m

Gjirokastër - Mali i Buretos - Peshtan

The day starts with a scenic drive from Gjirokastër toward the trailhead of Mali i
Buretos (1750 m). The hike follows an old military path leading to wide
panoramic views over the Drino Valley and surrounding peaks such as Nemerçka
and Cajupi. Descend to the village of Peshtan for overnight stay in a family
guesthouse.

Distance: 16 km Duration: 6-7 h Ascent: 1200 m Descent: 1200 m

Peshtan - Leskaj (Zagoria Valley)

We begin our hike into the scenic Zagoria Valley, a remote area known for its stone bridges and untouched nature. Along the way, we stop at the small village of Kala for coffee and local honey tasting. The trail follows an old caravan route that once linked Tepelena with Ioannina in Greece. Arrive in Leskaj for overnight.

Distance: 13.9 km Duration: 4-5 h Ascent: 451 m Descent: 300 m

Leskaj - Sheper

Leaving Leskaj, the trail leads through the picturesque village of Doshnica, where we stop to visit a small waterfall. Optional coffee break with locals before continuing to Hoshtevo, where our transport awaits for a short transfer to Sheper.

Distance: 13.9 km Duration: 4-5 h Ascent: 618 m Descent: 487 m

Sheper - Përmet

We follow the historic path connecting Zagoria with Përmet. The route climbs gradually to Dhembel Pass, crossing alpine meadows dotted with shepherd huts. During the descent, we visit the 18th-century Church of Leusë, a true cultural treasure. Arrive in Përmet in the afternoon, famous for its hospitality and thermal springs.

Distance: 12.5 km Duration: 5-6 h Ascent: 598 m Descent: 1251 m

Përmet - Berat

After breakfast, we drive toward the village of Strëmbec and hike to the beautiful Sopot Waterfall, located at the foot of the Nemerçka Mountains. On the way to Berat, we stop in the Këlcyrë Valley for a short break to admire the views of the Vjosa River — Europe’s last wild river. Arrival in Berat in the afternoon, where the tour ends.

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport or continue your journey independently. Farewell and end of services.

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