Hiker’s Guide to the Albanian Alps: Trails, Planning, Itineraries, +
At the end of my 1.5 backpacking trip to Albania, the Albanian Alps stood out as the #1 place to visit in the country. The Albanian Alps is where you’ll find the most beautiful and popular hikes in Albania, rugged peaks over 2,000m, locally run guesthouses in mountain villages, wildflowers, and waterfalls. From Valbona to Theth and everywhere in between, this post tells you exactly how to visit the Albanian Alps plus it outlines the perfect Albanian Alps itinerary.
In this post I’ll first go over important planning details for the Albanian Alps: when to visit, what to pack, how to get there, etc. Then I’ll discuss different hikes you can do in both Theth and Valbona followed up by a series of tips and frequently asked questions.
If you’re looking for more hikes in Albania, check out this post which outlines all my favourite Albanian trails.
Skip ahead:
- All About the Albanian Alps
- Things to know before you go
- Best time to visit the Albanian Alps
- How to get to the Albanian Alps
- Where to stay in the Albanian Alps
- Packing list for the Albanian Alps
- Things to do in the Albanian Alps
- Albanian Alps itinerary for hikers
- Albanian Alps: FAQ
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Albania Google Map – 200+ pins
Don’t feel like scrolling through blog posts trying to find things to do in Albania?
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- Outdoors: hiking trails, waterfalls, secret beaches & national parks
- Places: ancient cities, beach towns & historical sites
- Things to do: viewpoints, unique activities & tours
- Planning: lodging, restaurants, bus stops & tedious details
Quick Albania Travel Guide:
**Find my recommended Albania itineraries linked in the section below**
Travel Insurance: ALWAYS purchase reliable travel insurance before your trip. This insurance is trusted by backpackers and adventure sport enthusiasts around the world. You can also use my link to receive 5% off SafetyWing policies. Here’s a blog post with more trustworthy travel insurance options you can compare.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
Best Activities: Looking for the best tours and activities around Albania? See my Viator shop for my top recommendations.
Currency: Albanian LEK (aka ALL). This is a closed currency so you’ll need to wait until you’re in Albania to withdraw/exchange money. Make sure you exchange any leftover money before you leave the country too. Credins ATMs don’t have a service charge.
Transportation: to enter the country you’ll find 1 international airport in Tirana, 1 port in Saranda (daily ferry arrivals/departures to Corfu, Greece), and a bus line from Montenegro. Buses are very cheap here, but unreliable and taxis are pricey in comparison. Driving is chaotic and there are no trains within the country.
Phone: purchase a local SIM card from Vodafone – the plans are cheap and they include lots of data, however international minutes are typically not available. Vodafone storefronts can be found in bigger cities (Tirana, Saranda, Shkoder, etc).
Language: Albanian, however you can get by with English. Google translate is recommended for smaller cities/villages.
Safety: I found Albania to be very safe. I and my fellow travellers had no trouble with theft and I felt comfortable walking around as a solo female at night. People are generally very welcoming here, but always keep your wits about you – no matter where you travel.
Helpful Info: don’t drink the tap water or bring a purifying bottle like this one. Most hostels/guesthouses/hotels have laundry facilities.
Purchase my Albania map which is downloadable to google maps on your phone. It has 200+ pinned locations around the country – all available at your fingertips.
Packing Guide: here’s my ultimate packing guide/travel essentials.
Albania is one of the last “undiscovered” countries in Europe. Plan your trip while prices & tourism levels are low!
Helpful Albania Blog Posts
Albania Itineraries: 1 week south | 1 week north | 2 weeks whole country | 1 month for backpackers
- My Ultimate Albania Backpacker Guide
- 15+ Helpful Tips You Should Know BEFORE Travelling Albania
- 30+ Best Things to do in Albania: Excursions, Tours, and Destinations
- 17 Best Places in Albania
- Hiker’s Guide to the Albanian Alps
- Valbona to Theth Hiking Guide
- 10+ Albania hikes Worth Doing
- Lodging: best hostels for backpackers | luxury hotels
Everything you need to know about visiting the Albanian Alps.
About the Albanian Alps
The Northern Albanian Alps (aka the Accursed Mountains) are the highest section of the Dinaric Alps which stretch all the way from Albania to Kosovo and even eastern Montenegro. The Peak elevation is 2,694m (8,839ft) which belongs to Maja Jezercë in Valbona Valley National Park.
It comes as a surprise to many backpackers and travellers alike that Albania has such tall mountains. What comes as an even bigger surprise is that 75% of Albania’s surface is mountainous. Albania is quite literally a hikers paradise as much of the nature here is unspoilt and quiet – unlike popular hiking areas elsewhere in Europe.
All trips to the Albanian Alps start in Shkoder. From Shkoder you’ll catch ferries and minibuses, plus hike in a circuit fashion to visit both Theth and Valbona National Parks where you’ll find all kinds of waterfalls, hiking trails, and beautiful mountain views.
Once you arrive in the Albanian Alps you’ll stay in locally run, generational guesthouses where you’ll eat traditional meals and learn about the area. I found the guesthouse owners in the alps to be some of the friendliest and most generous people in Albania.
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Albania hikes and the Albanian Alps.
Things to Know Before You Go
Here’s a quick segment of some things you must know before visiting the Albanian Alps: Theth and Valbona.
Once you arrive in the alps, it’s cash only. Budget enough for €10-15/meal (breakfast is normally included). Lodging and transportation are almost always paid for online in advance, but if for some reason you’re paying in person have enough for that. I brought extra cash because it’s better to have more money than none.
There are no grocery stores in Theth or Valbona aside from a small stand here or there. Plan to purchase meals from the guesthouse you lodge at. Most guesthouses offer a packed lunch you can take with you while you hike. Inquire in advance for this.
There are some facilities on the Valbona-Theth hike that sell water and (overpriced) food. Do not rely on these facilities as they’re not always stocked or open. Bring your own snacks and bring plenty of water (I bring minimum a 3L bag like this) as there are very limited natural sources in the mountains here.
Many hotels and hostels in Shkoder offer luggage storage for your extras so you don’t need to take everything hiking. I stayed at Wanderer’s Hostel and left my extra backpack in their storage room while hiking in Theth and Valbona.
It’s also important to book lodging and transportation in advance. During summer the Albanian Alps are busy and transportation/lodging options may fill up entirely.
If you’re hoping to find more hiking trails in Valbona and Theth, ask the locals. There are plenty of hikes in Albania that only the locals know about and they’re happy to share what they know.
Best Time of Year to Visit the Albanian Alps
In the winter months the Albanian Alps receive heavy snowfall. Snow begins to fall in Theth and Valbona from late October to early November. The snow begins to melt around late April to early May.
By late June the peaks and higher altitude zones should lose their snow and become accessible – aka a great time of year to go hiking in Albania’s mountains. June in the alps has slightly smaller crowds and cooler temperatures than the peak summer months. An average of 17-22 degrees during the day and 11 degrees at night; cooler at higher elevations if you’re hiking.
July and August are nice months to visit the Albanian Alps as this is when other backpackers will be around, fields of alpine wildflowers will bloom, and there’s next to no rain. I visited during July and temperatures at elevation reached 35 degrees+ which made hiking difficult though. I ran out of water on one hike and started hiking at 4:00am to beat the heat.
September and October is when autumn strikes the alps. September is similar to June for temperatures and this is when the fall colours change. October’s weather varies year-to-year and is a bit unpredictable.
Recap: June and September are the best months to go hiking in Albania.
How to get to the Albanian Alps
Every trip to Theth and Valbona begins in Shkoder.
I recommend staying at Wanderer’s Hostel in Shkoder prior to your trip to the alps. The hostel staff will help you plan your trip and book transportation plus they can store your extra luggage while you’re away hiking.
Visiting the Albanian Alps is done in a loop fashion. Starting from Shkoder you can first go to Valbona, then hike to Theth and bus back – or vice versa. It’s best to go to Valbona first, then Theth. Transportation to Valbona is more time consuming so it’s better to get it out of the way first, plus the hike between Valbona-Theth is best completed from the direction of Valbona. Reasoning behind that can be found in this post.
More: Guide to Shkoder
Is there luggage storage available in Shkoder?
Shkoder – Valbona – Theth
It’s HIGHLY recommended you book lodging and transportation for the Albanian Alps in advance, especially during peak summer. Bookings for ferries and mini buses can be made here. My lodging recommendations can be found here.
The below information is correct as of 2024, but things change over time. Please pay close attention to the booking site linked above/your booking confirmation to ensure you have correct information.
To get to Valbona from Shkoder you’ll need to take a 2-2.5hr minibus labelled “Ferry Berisha” (6:30am pickup from here) which will bring you to the Komani Lake ferry port – DON’T BE LATE FOR THE BUS. You can also take a minibus directly from Tirana to the ferry port, but you’ll have an earlier pickup time. The bus from Shkoder is €8. From Tirana it’s €12.
*Before taking the ferry I’d recommend detouring to spend a night on the Shala River or at the minimum taking a day trip.
The Komani Lake ferry departure is at 9:00am and costs €10. After a 2.5-3hr ferry ride across Komani Lake – aka the “Thailand of Albania” – you’ll arrive in Fierza where you’ll board another 2hr mini bus which will drop you off directly at your guesthouse of choice in Valbona. The mini buses in Fierza are located directly at the exit of the ferry.
If you want to go to Theth after Valbona, you’ll have to hike there on this trail which takes about half a day.
To get back to Shkoder from Theth you’ll take one final mini bus which lasts around 2hr. The drive is windy and goes up and over a mountain pass. It’s quite beautiful, but those who experience motion sickness may struggle.
Can I drive to Valbona?
Driving to Theth and Valbona
If you have your own car, I recommend leaving it behind in Shkoder to make use of the public transit options and hiking routes.
The Komani Lake ferry does have limited space for personal vehicles, but the spots must be booked ahead of time. Taking your car to Valbona would be helpful as Valbona is spread out and distances between guesthouses and hiking trails can be quite far.
The same goes for Theth – having your own car is helpful because it greatly reduces travel distance between trailheads which are located at opposite ends of the park.
Having a car in the Albanian Alps proves to be difficult when it comes to travel between Valbona and Theth. If you want to visit both parks but have driven your own car, you’ll have to budget an entire extra day of travel to take the Komani Lake ferry, drive back to Shkoder, then continue on to Theth. This is 10hrs+ of travel opposed to utilizing the half day hiking trail between the parks.
Keep in mind the Komani Lake ferry port is very small and driving is certifiably chaotic. You need to be a confident driver to manage parking and maneuvering around the Komani Lake ferry port and onboard parking.
It’s easy to get to Theth and valbona with public transportation.
Where to stay in the Albanian Alps
Choosing where to stay in the Albanian Alps can be a bit overwhelming because there are so many options. After staying in a handful of places and visiting myself, the below are the guesthouses I’d recommend.
Accommodations in Theth and Valbona are typically locally owned, generational guesthouses. There are also a few luxury options popping up, but staying in the guesthouses is the more traditional experience. While you’re in the Albanian Alps you’ll eat food cooked at the guesthouses – there are no supermarkets. Make sure you bring cash
ps – free camping is permitted in Albania. If you have backcountry camping gear and are prepared, you can camp near the Valbona-Theth trail. Just make sure you’re away from water sources, privately owned property, and are not directly on the trail, of course. Be discreet and considerate of others.
Make sure you book your stay in advance – during summer many guesthouses fill up entirely.
Where to Stay in Shkoder
- Budget/hostel: Wanderer’s Hostel is the best hostel as the staff are knowledgeable about visiting the alps and they have a storage room for extra luggage while you’re away hiking. Shkodra Backpackers would be my alternative choice.
- Mid-range: Hotel Carmen or Shkodra Apartment.
- Luxury: Hotel Colosseo & Spa and Grand Hotel Europa are both 5 star hotels and offer spas.
Where to Stay at Komani Lake/Shala River
- Riverside Komani Lake is located around the corner from the Shala River and provides a quieter experience. I stayed here a couple nights and would highly recommend it.
- Bee Eco Guesthouse and Blini Park are located directly on the Shala River where you’ll find fairy lights, beach bars, horses, and an unimpeded view of the stars at night.
- Rather than stay a night, you can also book a day trip to the Shala River.
Here’s my Shala River Guide with more information.
Where to Stay in Valbona
- Upscale Option: Drino’s Guesthouse is absolutely lovely. I stayed here one night and thoroughly enjoyed my experience. Drino’s family owns a delicious restaurant nextdoor too.
- Luxury Stay: Valbona Resort & Spa
- Budget Stay: Bujtina Albjoni
- Popular Choice: Villas Jezerca
Where to Stay in Theth
- Ultimate Budget Stay: Bujtina Terthorja.
- Best all around: Shpella Guesthouse – book in advance, this one fills up quickly.
- Where I stayed: Guesthouse Rrashkadoli – although a bit further from Theth’s centre, I cannot recommend this place enough. The owners are SO generous and kind.
- Located in the centre of the village: Guesthouse Villa Gurra.
- “Luxury” stay: Bujtina Berishta Theth
Albania Google Map – 200+ pins
Don’t feel like scrolling through blog posts trying to find things to do in Albania?
Then my Albania map is for you!
Get my 200+ recommendations all in one place for:
- Outdoors: hiking trails, waterfalls, secret beaches & national parks
- Places: ancient cities, beach towns & historical sites
- Things to do: viewpoints, unique activities & tours
- Planning: lodging, restaurants, bus stops & tedious details
What to Pack & Luggage Storage
What you pack for the Albanian Alps varies slightly depending on the season you visit. Need a reminder of Valbona and Theth month-by-month? Scroll back.
Here’s my go-to packing guide/travel essentials
I think 30-35L is the perfect size backpack for visiting Valbona and Theth. I only had a 24L backpack which was a bit too small so I carried a 10L dry bag with me to hold the extras. Generally you’ll need to pack your clothing, toiletries, travel towel, proper footwear (running shoes at the minimum – trail runners or hiking boots are best), snacks, and “camp shoes” – I like Crocs or sandals for this. You can find my recommended travel shoes here.
Keep in mind you can store your additional luggage at Wanderer’s Hostel in Shkoder if you opt to stay there before you leave for Valbona.
What to Pack for Valbona/Theth in Spring/Autumn (May, June, September, October)
This time of year can be chilly. You’ll want to pack pants, a long sleeve, a light jacket, and warmer sleeping clothes. I always like to have thin gloves and a toque on hand at this time of year too. Rain is unlikely, but possible so a waterproof layer may prove to be handy.
Gore-tex shoes and an extra pair of socks are ideal in spring as the snow melt can create muddy terrain.
What to Pack for Valbona/Theth in Summer (July-August)
This time of year is HOT. Shorts, T shirts, and light sleeping clothes are best. I brought a sweater but didn’t use it when I was there late July. You’ll want to bring sun protection, a hat, and sunglasses. A bathing suit is great if you want to take a dip in the river or jump in the Blue Eye once you get to Theth.
I recommend carrying minimum 3L of water in a bag like this when you hike as water sources are very limited.
What to pack for Valbona/Theth in Winter (November-April)
Visiting Valbona in winter is uncommon. If you do visit, plan for cold temperatures and lots of snow. Winter boots, plenty of layers, and warm accessories/base layers are required.
Things to do in the Albanian Alps
The following things to do in the Albanian Alps are popular, convenient choices suitable to every hiker and traveller. There are more hikes in the Albanian Alps not mentioned in this post. To gain insight on local trails talk with your guesthouse owners. Many hikes in Valbona and Theth are difficult and require scrambling/route-finding.
Everything mentioned in this post is marked on my Albania map for planning convenience.
Best hikes in Albania.
Popular Albania Tours
From Berat: 4×4 tour: Mount Tomorr & Sotira Waterfall | Bogove Waterfall & Osumi Canyon | Osumi Canyon Rafting
From Permet: Benja Hot Springs & Lengarica Canyon | Horseback Riding | River Rafting
From Tirana: Gamti Mountain & Bovilla Lake Hiking Tour | Bike Tour | Traditional Cooking Class | Zipline
From Tirana or Shkoder: Day trip to the Blue Eye of Theth & Grunas Waterfall | Shala River Day Trip
From Vlora: Boat tour to Haxhi Ali Cave & Sazan Island – Karaburun | Snorkelling
From Saranda/Ksamil: Paddle boarding the Islands | Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye, Lekuresi Castle – 1 Day | Day Trip to Gjirokaster | Catamaran to Korez & Kokomo Beach
UNIQUE: Multi-day hiking tour: Peaks of the Balkans
You can find more Albania tours I recommend here
Visit Theth National Park
Theth is Albania’s most well known national park. In Theth you’ll find high mountain peaks, crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and an authentic mountain village culture.
If you don’t have time to do the entire Albanian Alps circuit – Shkoder-Valbona-Theth – you can opt to visit Theth for 1 night or even just a day. You can book a day trip that includes the Blue Eye of Theth here.
Although most travellers and backpackers visit Theth to hike, there’s plenty of sightseeing that can be done in the village too. The mountain scenery is enough to make travellers visit.
More information about Theth can be found in my
Visit Valbona Valley National Park
Valbona Valley is similar to Theth in the sense that people go to hike, but the mountain scenery is enough in itself to visit. I personally found Valbona prettier than Theth – although both are stunning.
If I had to choose either Valbona or Theth to visit for either an extended period of time hiking or relaxing, I would personally opt for Valbona. I preferred the views and the main street in Valbona over Theth. Plus there seemed to be more hiking trails in the immediate area of Valbona for day-hikes.
More information about Valbona can be found in my
Swim in the Blue Eye of Theth
The Blue Eye of Theth (Google Maps location) is the infamous waterfall pool full of ice-cold water. There are actually two Blue Eyes in Albania – one in Theth and one near Saranda. Both are worth a visit, but I liked the Blue Eye in Theth better as it’s less touristy and more natural.
The Blue Eye of Theth requires hiking to access. If you’re hiking from Theth Village the day could clock in around 20kms+. If you have a car to drive to the trailhead, this will significantly shorten the hike.
I loved my visit to the Blue Eye of Theth. The hike was long but being able to go for a polar dip in the peak of Albania’s summer heat was dreamy.
More information about the Blue Eye of Theth hike can be found in this post.
Walk to Xhema Lake
Xhema Lake (Liqeni I Xhemës on Google Maps) is a small pond located a few kilometres away from the centre of Valbona Valley. It’s a nice sightseeing option you can do on the day you arrive as you won’t have time to do any of the bigger hikes in the area.
To get to Xhema Lake walk down the main road in Valbona. Once you hit the trailhead leading into the forest, walk a bit then take a left at the fork.
Complete the Biggest Bucket List Hike in Albania
The most famous hike in the entire Balkan region is the trail connecting Valbona and Theth. This hike is fairly long, but can easily be completed by anyone regardless of their previous hiking experience. If you plan to visit both Theth and Valbona in the same trip, you’ll have to do this hike.
The highlight of the Valbona-Theth hike is Valbona Pass where you’ll find epic views down Valbona Valley and over toward the peaks surrounding Theth.
More information about the Valbona-Theth hike can be found in my
Hike to Montenegro
Maja Rosit is arguably one of the most beautiful hikes in Albania. The trail starts from Valbona, then ventures up into the alpine where you can cross the border into Montenegro’s Prokletije National Park.
In July there are fields of wildflowers and the trail is not busy (as of 2022) meaning you have almost the entire mountain to yourself. This is a great hike to find wildflowers in July too.
More information about the Maja Rosit hike can be found in my
Find the Old Mill in Valbona
Like Xhema lake, the Old Mill in Valbona is a great sightseeing spot that can be done on the day you arrive. It’s located right off the main road only a short distance away from Xhema Lake.
Visit the Shala River
The Shala River is known as the “Thailand of Albania.” It’s located just off Komani Lake where the ferry to Valbona passes. It’s easy to spend a night on the Shala River or take a day trip here from either Shkoder or Tirana.
Guesthouses here are located right next to the river which is actually crystal clear, blue water coming down from the mountains. At the Shala River there are beach bars, horses, fairly lights, a hiking trail, and more. The Shala River is a great place to escape into nature.
I personally spent 2 nights at the Komani Lake Guesthouse and had a wonderful experience.
More information about the Shala River can be found in my
Albania Google Map – 200+ pins
Don’t feel like scrolling through blog posts trying to find things to do in Albania?
Then my Albania map is for you!
Get my 200+ recommendations all in one place for:
- Outdoors: hiking trails, waterfalls, secret beaches & national parks
- Places: ancient cities, beach towns & historical sites
- Things to do: viewpoints, unique activities & tours
- Planning: lodging, restaurants, bus stops & tedious details
Go Chasing Waterfalls
A trip to the Albanian Alps wouldn’t be complete without seeing a waterfall (or two). In addition to the Blue Eye of Theth, you can also hike to Grunas Waterfall (located here). The walk from Theth village to Grunas Waterfall isn’t too far, making it very accessible to travellers.
Near Grunas waterfall you’ll find a bridge crossing the Grunas Canyon (located here) which gives you a nice vantage point of the river running underneath you and the large canyon walls.
More information about the Grunas Canyon and Grunas Waterfall hike can be found in this post.
Albanian Alps Itinerary
The Albanian Alps (including Shkoder, Theth, Valbona, and the Shala River) can all be seen in 1 week. It’s a jam-packed week with minimal downtime, but it’s very doable. Below I’ve written a brief Albanian Alps hiking itinerary, however I have a detailed itinerary in this post:
1 Week Northern Albania Itinerary for Hikers
Albanian Alps Itinerary
Day 1: Shkoder to Shala River
- On day 1 in the Albanian Alps you’ll want to catch the early mini bus from Shkoder to the Komani Lake ferry port. From here your guesthouse owners will pick you up and bring you to the Shala River. I recommend staying at Riverside Komani Lake for a quieter experience away from the day crowds. Alternatively the Bee Eco Guesthouse and Blini Park are located right on the river next to the beach bars and activities.
- Alternatively you can book a day trip to the Shala River from either Shkoder or Tirana.
Day 2: Shala River to Valbona Valley
- On day 2 your Shala River hosts will take you back to the Lake Komani ferry port in time to catch the ferry to Fierza. You’ll then catch a mini bus the rest of the way to Valbona. You’ll arrive in Valbona in the early evening hours with enough time to see Xhema Lake and the Old Mill.
- I recommend staying at Drino’s Guesthouse (mid-range hotel), Valbona Resort & Spa (luxury), Bujtina Albjoni (budget), or Villas Jezerca (most popular choice).
Day 3: Hiking in Valbona Valley
- On day 3 I recommend hiking to Maja Rosit.
Day 4: Hike from Valbona to Theth.
- On day 4 you’ll hike from Valbona to Theth which takes anywhere from 3-9 hours (depending on previous experience, hiking abilities, and fitness level).
- I recommend staying at Shpella Guesthouse (best all-around), Bujtina Terthorja (budget), Guesthouse Rrashkadoli (lovely owners), Guesthouse Villa Gurra (central location), or Bujtina Berishta Theth (“luxury” stay).
Day 5: Hiking in Theth.
- Day 5 you’re hiking to the Blue Eye of Theth.
- On the way be sure to see the Old Church in Theth, Grunas Waterfall, and Grunas Canyon.
Day 6: Theth back to Shkoder
- Day 6 will conclude your time in the Albanian Alps. The mini bus should drop you off in Shkoder around 1-2pm which gives you enough time to explore Shkoder – here’s my Shkoder guide for activity recommendations.
Albanian Alps Hiking
Albanian Alps: FAQ
I’ll quickly recap everything mentioned in this post in a FAQ style to make sure you have all the information you need to go hiking in Albania’s northern alps.
How do I plan a trip to the Albanian Alps?
You can book transportation, including mini buses and ferries, to and from Valbona and Theth on this website. You can book guesthouses online – I mention my favourite guesthouses above. It’s recommended you book everything in advance to ensure there’s space in the guesthouses, ferries, and mini buses.
If you don’t want to plan your trip to Valbona and Theth, get in touch with the staff at Wanderer’s Hostel before your stay. They can assist you in the planning process.
Where can I store my extra luggage when I hike in Valbona and Theth?
The Wanderer’s Hostel in Shkoder is well known for storing luggage while travellers are out exploring the Albanian Alps. Many hotels and hostel operators in Shkoder offer luggage storage though. I’d recommend calling in advance before you arrive to ensure where you’re lodging offers this. Otherwise you’ll have to bring everything with you.
When is the best time of year to visit the Albanian Alps?
I personally think June and September are the best months to go hiking in Valbona and Theth. July and August are popular times to visit the Albanian Alps, but I personally found it too hot when I was there in July.
How hard are the hikes in the Albanian Alps?
The popular hike from Valbona-Theth is long, but easy. Same for the hike to the Blue Eye of Theth. There are plenty of other hikes in the Albanian Alps, like summit routes and scrambles, that are too difficult for those with no previous hiking experience.
If you stick to the main trails in Valbona and Theth you’ll have no issues.
How long should I spend in the Albanian Alps?
I think minimum of 1 week is a suitable timeframe for hiking in the Albanian Alps. 1 week gives you enough time to see Valbona, Theth, and the Shala River with enough time to hit the popular hikes along the way. That being said, if you are a serious hiker you could spend extended time in Valbona and Theth as there are plenty of hikes to explore in the area.
Where can I buy food in the Albanian Alps?
There are no supermarkets in Valbona or Theth. Your meals are cooked by your guesthouse hosts for an additional fee (usually 10-15 euros/meal). You can also typically request packed lunches to go for the days you’re hiking. If you want snacks while you hike I recommend bringing your own from Shkoder.
When I was in Valbona there was a popup market located approx here selling water and overpriced snacks like trail mix. Apparently there’s also a little market in Theth here.
Can I pay with card in Valbona and Theth?
No, everything in the alps is cash only and there are no ATMs in Valbona or Theth. Make sure you withdraw enough cash before you leave Shkoder.
Is it expensive to travel to the Albanian Alps?
Considering the guesthouses, unique transportation, scenery, food, and hiking trails available I don’t think visiting the Albanian Alps is expensive. On average for transportation, food, and lodging in Valbona and Theth, hikers typically spend around 150-200 euros for a 5-6 day trip.
How easy is it to access the Albanian Alps via public transportation?
Very easy. The Albanian Alps is set up for tourism plus the Shkoder-Valbona-Theth loop is very popular. The local tour guides and transportation operators have everything down to a science.
Do you need a guide to hike in the Albanian Alps?
You do not need a guide to hike in Albania, although you can hire one if it makes you more comfortable. I hiked in Valbona and Theth alone and had no issues. In saying this I am a very experienced hiker and I’m accustomed to hiking solo. I saw many solo hikers aside from me on the Valbona-Theth hike.
Is there cell service/wifi in the Albanian Alps?
I had cell service almost everywhere when I was in the Albanian Alps – although it was spotty in some areas. On the Maja Rosit hike I did not have service though.
Some guesthouse (not all) in Valbona and Theth will have wifi.
Is it cold in the mountains in Valbona and Theth? Do I need a sweater?
The answer to this question remains solely on the time of year you visit and if you run hot or cold. I hiked in Valbona and Theth in July where temperatures reached 35 degrees+ at altitude. I run cold and didn’t break out a sweater in the evenings or early morning hours.
If you visit the Albanian Alps in the shoulder seasons temperatures will be colder, rendering sweaters, jackets, and pants necessary. The best piece of advance I can give you is to check the weather before you go and bring an extra layer just in case.
Can I hike in Valbona and Theth in winter?
It is not advised to hike in Albania’s mountain regions during winter, but it’s not impossible. Hikers who attempt to hike in Albania in winter should be prepared with proper winter hiking gear and have avalanche training. Winter hikes in Valbona and Theth can be very dangerous as there’s heavy snowfall making it hazardous and challenging to hike.
Do I need to be aware of wildlife while hiking in Albania?
There are bears and other forms of wildlife in Albania however you likely won’t come across any if you’re sticking to popular hikes like the Valbona-Theth trail during the busy summer months. If anything you’re more likely to come across farm animals like sheep and cows.
Albania hikes for backpackers.
Albania Google Map – 200+ pins
Don’t feel like scrolling through blog posts trying to find things to do in Albania?
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and that’s a wrap on the best hikes in Albania.
Happy adventuring!
Taylor ♡
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About the Author
HI, I’m Taylor – the voice behind The Holistic Backpacker.
After moving to Banff National Park in 2020 I became an outdoor adventure enthusiast and vowed to never stop exploring.
I now spend my days travelling the world, climbing mountains, and spending nights under the stars in the Canadian Rockies backcountry.
I created The Holistic Backpacker so I could share my adventures and help connect people like you with the same amazing experiences.
