Albanian Alps: 3-Days Komani Lake, Valbona and Thethi Tour

If you’re dreaming of rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and small villages surrounded by untouched nature, this 3-day tour through the Albanian Alps might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of an adventure packed with scenic beauty, warm local hospitality, and a good dose of physical activity.

What we love about this experience is how it combines a variety of highlights—sailing on Komani Lake, hiking through two iconic valleys, and exploring untouched waterfalls and cultural sites—all in just three days. Plus, the presence of knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics makes it seem like a smooth, enriching journey. One thing to keep in mind: the hiking requires decent physical fitness, especially the Valbona to Thethi pass, which might be a challenge for some. But if you’re fit and eager for mountain adventures, this trip is likely to leave you with unforgettable memories.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and want an authentic experience rather than just sightseeing from afar. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy hiking, boat rides, and discovering remote spots, but it may be less suitable for families with very young children or travelers with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Spectacular Scenery: Expect dramatic mountain views, pristine lakes, and waterfalls that are truly picture-perfect.
• Active and Relaxing Balance: The trip combines boat cruises, hikes, and leisure time in mountain villages.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable local guides provide insights and ensure safety throughout.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Transportation, accommodations, and entry fees are included, making the trip smooth.
• Physical Demands: The Valbona to Thethi hike is moderate but requires good fitness.
• Authentic Albanian Hospitality: You’ll experience local food and the warmth of mountain communities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Tirana to Komani Lake

The journey kicks off with a pickup from central locations like Skanderbeg Square or Tirana Airport, making it easy to join regardless of your starting point. From there, you’ll head towards Komani Lake, one of Albania’s most stunning natural sites. The highlight here is a boat cruise lasting around 2.5 hours that takes you through narrow fjord-like waters, cutting through towering mountain walls. We’ve seen travelers rave about the “outstanding dramatic mountain view” and how peaceful and awe-inspiring the lake feels.

This part of the trip is relatively gentle—just sit back, enjoy the scenery, and breathe in the fresh mountain air. The boat ride is a great way to start soaking in the natural beauty and get into the right mindset for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: From Valbona to Thethi

The second day is the heart of the trip. After breakfast, you’ll begin a moderate hike from Valbona to Thethi, a journey that takes about 6 hours. The hike is described as manageable but demanding enough to require decent physical conditioning. The trail offers spectacular views—think high alpine meadows, towering peaks, and forests that seem to stretch forever. Many reviews note that this hike is “positively challenging” but “absolutely worth it” for the scenery**.

Along the way, there are plenty of spots to rest and take photos. Some travelers mention the option to take local transport for part of the hike, from Valbona to Rrogam or Thethi to Ndërlysaj, which shortens the walk by about 2 hours. If you prefer less strenuous options, these can be a good choice, but be aware that during winter months, the hike is closed due to snow, and the tour might switch to visiting Kosovo instead.

By late afternoon, you arrive in Thethi. The village is a quiet mountain gem with traditional houses and friendly locals. You’ll have free time and the chance to explore or relax before dinner.

Day 3: Exploring Thethi and Blue Eye

The final stretch is packed with sightseeing. You’ll visit the historic Church of Thethi—the oldest in the Albanian Alps—as well as Grunas Waterfall, which is accessible for a guided tour. The “Blue Eye”, a natural spring with stunning blue water, is also on the agenda, and you might get to swim if you’re feeling brave.

The reviews repeatedly highlight how beautiful these spots are, with travelers mentioning “the Blue Eye as one of the most astonishing places” they’ve visited. The tour allows plenty of time for photos, wandering, and soaking in the tranquility of this remote area.

Late afternoon, you’ll make your way back to Tirana, stopping briefly in Shkodra along the way—an opportunity to experience a charming city and its scenic views.

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Transportation, Accommodation, and Cost

Transportation is a key part of this tour’s appeal. All logistics are taken care of, from pickup to drop-off, including boat tickets, road taxes, and transfers between valleys. The accommodations in mountain guesthouses are straightforward but comfortable—enough to rest after long days of hiking. The inclusion of breakfast is a nice touch, giving you energy for the adventures ahead.

At $494 per person, the price offers good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, guided support, transportation, boat cruise, and lodging. Reviews show that many travelers feel they received “great value for money” and appreciate the organization and guide expertise.

What’s Not Included?

You’ll need to budget for lunch, dinner, and snacks, as these are not included. Travelers suggest bringing energy snacks and water, especially for the hike. Also, souvenirs, personal expenses, and museum visits are extras.

What to Expect From the Guides

Many reviewers praise the guides, describing them as “very knowledgeable,” attentive, and friendly. Guides like Bledi and Endri are noted for their local insights, helpful attitude, and ability to keep the group motivated. One traveler even mentioned how the guide made the trip “magical from start to finish,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in creating a memorable experience.

Physical Fitness and Preparation

The tour involves a moderate hike that’s physically demanding but doable for anyone in decent shape. It’s essential to wear hiking shoes, bring sunscreen, and pack light but with essentials like a change of clothes and water. Some hikes have optional local transport to reduce walking time, which can be helpful if you’re less confident in your stamina.

Authentic Albanian Experiences

Beyond the landscape, travelers love the opportunity to engage with local culture. The mountain villages are simple but welcoming, and local food is often highlighted as a highlight—though not included in the tour. The hospitality of the hosts, the chance to see traditional Albanian architecture, and the peaceful environment all add to the authenticity.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Breathtaking scenery and natural wonders
• Well-organized with inclusive transportation and guides
• Active experience combining hiking, boating, and sightseeing
• Knowledgeable guides and friendly local hosts
• Good value for the price given the scope of the trip

Cons:

• The hike from Valbona to Thethi is moderate and requires good fitness
• Accommodation is basic, which might not suit everyone
• The tour is not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues
• Weather conditions can impact the itinerary, especially in winter

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a mix of physical activity and stunning landscapes. If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and want to experience the true heart of Albania’s mountains, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s less suited for those seeking luxury or traveling with very young kids, but perfect for those craving authentic mountain scenery and a taste of local life.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. The tour involves a 6-hour hike that requires good physical condition, and it’s not recommended for children under 10.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, change of clothes, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and water or energy snacks for the hikes.

Do I need to be in good shape?
Yes, the Valbona to Thethi hike is moderate but physically demanding. Good fitness levels will make the experience more enjoyable.

Are meals included?
No, lunch, dinner, and snacks are not included, so plan to bring your own or buy along the way.

Can I opt for local transport?
Yes, there are optional local transports from Valbona to Rrogam and Thethi to Ndërlysaj that cut down on walking time.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The company states they are not responsible for heavy weather conditions. In winter, hikes may be closed, and the tour could switch to visiting Kosovo instead.

How long are the boat rides?
The boat cruise on Komani Lake lasts about 2.5 hours and offers some of the most dramatic mountain views in Albania.

What kind of accommodation is included?
Basic mountain guesthouses that are cozy and functional, with shared rooms.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting friendly travelers and enjoying the camaraderie of guided group travel.

When is the best time to go?
The tours run year-round, but note that winter hikes are closed, and the itinerary might change. Summer and early fall offer the best weather for hiking and outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a trip that packs stunning scenery, active days, and cultural discoveries, this Albanian Alps tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy hiking, boat rides, and exploring remote mountain villages with a knowledgeable guide by their side. While the accommodations are simple and the physical effort considerable, the vistas and authentic experiences make it all worthwhile.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, immersive adventure that balances physical activity with natural beauty, this trip offers an experience to remember. Just come prepared, wear good hiking shoes, and bring your curiosity—Albania’s mountains won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: