Shala River and Komani lake: Boat Tour

Thinking about a day out that combines breathtaking natural scenery with a touch of adventure? This boat tour to Shala River from Koman offers a chance to soak in the rugged beauty of Albania’s Albanian Alps, with fun activities and a relaxing trip on crystal-clear waters. While it’s not the most polished experience, it’s a solid choice if you’re craving untouched landscapes and a taste of the local wilderness.

What really draws us in are the stunning views—the wild alpine scenery is genuinely spectacular—and the chance to try activities like swimming or kayaking in such pristine environment. Plus, ending the day with a hearty lunch at Blini Park, surrounded by nature, makes the trip feel well-rounded. That said, one thing worth considering is the journey getting there—it’s a long haul with some rough roads, which might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or short on time.

This experience tends to suit travelers who appreciate natural beauty and outdoor activities over luxury or slick organization. If you’re comfortable with a bit of adventure and don’t mind a longer day to enjoy remarkable scenery, this trip could be a highlight of your Albania itinerary.

Key Points

• Stunning Alpine Views: The scenery along the river and lake is genuinely breathtaking, perfect for photography lovers.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, canoeing, hiking, and ziplining keep the day lively and varied.
• Flexible Schedule: You get about two hours at Blini Park for activities, so it’s enough to enjoy but not overly rushed.
• Rough Roads, Long Travel: The journey involves a bus ride over poor roads, which may be less comfortable.
• Good for Nature Lovers: Ideal for those who want to experience Albania’s more untouched landscapes.
• Limited Food & Drink Included: Lunch at Blini Park isn’t part of the package, so plan to buy your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Point and Departure

Your adventure begins early at Terminali i Komanit, with a meeting around 9:30 AM for a prompt departure. The tour officially kicks off with a one-hour boat ride from Koman, where you’ll cruise across the sparkling waters, surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery. The boat itself is a relaxed way to soak up the scenery—perfect for picture-taking or just soaking in the quiet beauty of the region.

The Scenic Boat Ride

The boat ride is undoubtedly the highlight for many. We loved the way this part of the trip offers uninterrupted views of the wild alpine scenery. The water is crystal clear, and the landscape is rugged with steep hillsides and scattered patches of forest. It’s a scene that sticks with you long after the trip ends.

A couple of reviewers mention the quality of the boat trip as being “very nice” and “fijn” (nice in Dutch), emphasizing how peaceful and beautiful the ride is. If you’re into landscape photography or simply enjoy being on the water surrounded by untouched nature, this section will appeal greatly.

Arrival at Shala River and Blini Park

Once you arrive at the Shala River, your group will head to Blini Park. Here, you’ll have the option to enjoy a lunch (not included), which is typically served in a scenic setting amidst nature. While not part of the package, many travelers find the food satisfying, often with local touches.

After your meal, the real fun begins. The park is well set up for outdoor activities. You can swim in the cold waters—some say they’re quite chilly, especially early in the season—canoe across the river, or go for a hike along the trails. For the adventurous, there’s a zipline that adds a little thrill. The available activities amount to around two hours of free time, so you can pick what suits you or simply relax and enjoy the scenery.

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The Activities & Scenery

The reviews paint a vivid picture of the natural environment—the mountains, crystal water, and lush greenery—making this whole area a kind of outdoor playground. People mention the area being “touched by waste,” but overall, the natural beauty remains prominent. If you’re visiting in September, be prepared for cold water temperatures (around 10°C), which might limit how long you want to stay in the water, especially if you’re not used to such cold conditions.

The Return Journey and Overall Duration

Your trip lasts about six hours total, including two hours at Blini Park and the boat rides. The bus ride back can be a bit rough—some reviews note the poor condition of the roads—but the scenic views along the way help make up for it. It’s definitely a full-day experience, so pack accordingly.

Practical Tips & Considerations

What to Bring

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and your camera. The activities and weather can change quickly, so being prepared will make your day smoother.

Important Details

• Arrive at the dock on time—ideally by 9:30 AM—to ensure you don’t miss the boat.
• The tour is in English, with a live guide, making it easy to ask questions and get insights during your trip.
• Not suitable for people with back problems or non-swimmers, as some activities involve water and physical movement.
• Littering and smoking are not allowed, respecting the pristine environment.

The Road to the River

One downside many mention is the poor condition of the roads leading to Koman, especially in the last stretch. The bus ride can be bumpy and stressful, particularly if you’re prone to motion sickness or traveling with children.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews agree that the scenery is breathtaking—one traveler from Belgium describes it as “very beautiful,” while others emphasize how peaceful and untouched the environment feels. Several reviewers mention that the boat trip is relaxing and picturesque and that the activities at Blini Park are enjoyable.

However, some reviews highlight logistical issues. For instance, a traveler from France points out the long journey and the rough roads, and notes that the water can be very cold, which might discourage swimming. Another review from Germany mentions feeling that the value might be questionable given the cost and the long, sometimes uncomfortable, travel to get there.

That said, one traveler from Italy simply said, “Benissimo,” indicating they found the experience worth it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This boat tour is ideal if you’re after scenic beauty and outdoor activities in a less commercialized setting. It’s suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a longer travel day and some rough roads. It’s also perfect if you’re keen on photography, nature, and active recreation.

It’s less suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, luxury, or have physical limitations—especially given the cold water, long drive, and some rugged terrain. If you’re traveling with children, keep in mind that non-swimmers or people with back problems might find the trip challenging.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this boat tour offers a rare glimpse into Albania’s wild, untouched landscape. If you’re prepared for a longer day and a bit of a bumpy ride, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, fun activities, and a genuine connection to nature. The combination of the boat ride, the outdoor fun at Blini Park, and the scenery makes for a memorable experience—especially if you’re someone who appreciates the natural world over polished tourist attractions.

It’s an adventure that rewards patience and a love for the outdoors, perfect for those who want a day away from crowds and into the mountains. Just come ready for some rough roads, cold water, and the chance to create some beautiful memories in Albania’s stunning landscape.

FAQ

How long is the boat tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including boat rides from and back to Koman, and around two hours of free time at Blini Park for activities.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with check-in at 9:30 AM, with a departure around that time. The boat ride itself is about an hour.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch at Blini Park is not included. You will have time to buy and enjoy your own meal after arriving at the park.

What activities are available at Blini Park?
You can swim, canoe, hike, or try the zipline. The water might be quite cold, especially early in September, so be prepared.

Is the water safe for swimming?
Yes, but note that it can be very cold—around 10°C in September—so you might not stay in long.

How challenging is the bus ride?
The bus ride can be bumpy due to poor road conditions, especially in the last stretch. It’s a longer journey, so pack some snacks and patience.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
It’s best for travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and cold water. Non-swimmers and those with back problems should consider whether this trip suits their needs.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a scenic, active day in Albania that’s perfect if your idea of travel involves enjoying nature’s raw beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: