Tour of Komani, Valbona, Thethi, Blue Eye in three days

If you’re considering a trip to Albania and craving a deep dive into its incredible mountain scenery and untouched wilderness, this three-day tour covering Komani Lake, Valbona, Thethi, and the Blue Eye is a solid choice. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve seen enough reviews and itineraries to tell you it offers a well-balanced mix of jaw-dropping views, cultural stops, and adventurous moments.

What makes this experience especially appealing? First, the stunning natural landscapes—from mountain peaks to alpine lakes—are genuinely breathtaking. Second, the local guides and traditional guesthouses add a warm, authentic touch, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the intensity of the itinerary—it’s packed with sights and long drives, so if you prefer a slower pace or travel with small children, it might feel a bit rushed. But overall, this tour seems tailored for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to explore Albania’s spectacular northern regions. If you’re after a meaningful, immersive experience with good value, this might just be right for you.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect mountain passes, lakes, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
• Comfortable logistics: Transportation, ferry rides, and accommodations are included, easing the planning burden.
• Authentic local flavor: Stay in guesthouses and enjoy organic, regional food.
• Well-organized itinerary: Covers major highlights with a balance of nature and culture.
• Long days, full experience: Prepare for some walking and a packed schedule—good for adventurous travelers.
• Great value: Many reviewers highlight the reasonable price for the extensive experience.

An Overview of the Albanian Alps Adventure

This tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most spectacular parts of northern Albania, an area still largely untouched by mass tourism. From the start, you’ll feel drawn into a landscape that feels more like an adventure book than a typical travel destination. The trip culminates in immersive moments—ferry rides on Komani Lake, hikes through untouched forests, and visits to traditional mountain villages.

What we love about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with cultural authenticity. Staying in guesthouses, you get a taste of local life and organic foods, which add a genuine flavor to your trip. Plus, the tour is designed to show off the most iconic sights—like the Blue Eye and Valbona Valley—which are hard to match elsewhere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Komani Lake & Valbona

The journey begins with a drive from Tirana, offering views of villages, rivers, and the historic Shkodra castle. You’ll pass by the Vau Dejes artificial lake and the hydropower plant built during communist times, a reminder of Albania’s recent past. The highlight comes with a ferry ride across Komani Lake, a reservoir carved into mountain gorges, often called one of the most stunning waterways in the Balkans.

This lake is surrounded by dense forests, steep slopes, and traditional villages, making the boat ride a highlight for many. As one reviewer put it, “the combination of specific topography and hydrological conditions have contributed to the formation of different habitats,” which is just a fancy way of saying this place is a photographer’s dream.

Next, you’ll visit Valbona, a remote mountain village within a pristine national park. It’s the embodiment of untouched nature—glacial springs, waterfalls, and dense forests. The old Mulliri I Vjeter I Valbones mill is a charming stop, offering a glimpse into traditional life, and it’s still well-preserved. If you like authentic, rustic charm, you’ll love this stop.

Day 2: Valbona & The Natural Wonders

Today is a day of contrasts—powerful waterfalls, mountain passes, and national parks. The Rrogami Waterfall, sourced from Valbona’s spring water, offers a peaceful spot for photos and reflection. It’s a perfect example of how Albanian Alps blend natural force with serenity.

The Valbona Pass is a major highlight. This 1759-meter-high mountain trail connects Valbona with Thethi, and it’s a trail many hikers cherish. The walk takes about 7 hours, so be prepared for a full day of trekking—if you’re into hiking, this will be a memorable challenge. The views from the pass are said to be breathtaking, and from the reviews, many travelers describe it as “an epic trail through the entire Albanian Alps.”

You’ll also visit Theth National Park, a UNESCO-listed site filled with rivers, waterfalls, and traditional stone houses. The combination of natural beauty and cultural preservation makes it a must-see for any adventure traveler.

Day 3: Thethi & Return to Tirana

On the final day, you’ll explore the historic Lock-in Tower of Nikoll Koceku, a fortress built to protect families during blood feuds—a reminder of the rugged, independent spirit of the mountains. Then, enjoy a visit to Grunasi Waterfall, a 25-meter cascade that’s a favorite among travelers for its raw power and scenic spot.

The Blue Eye of Theth is a top highlight—this natural well and spring is famous for its vivid blue waters, surrounded by green slopes. The stunning color contrast and clear waters are perfect for photos and offer a peaceful moment amid the adventure.

Finally, you’ll visit the village of Boge before heading back to Tirana, with some quick stops for photos along the way. The round-trip journey wraps up with a sense of accomplishment and incredible memories.

What We Think About the Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who seem to make all the difference. As one put it, “The tour guide is very thoughtful,” making sure everyone feels comfortable and informed. The scenery is another recurring theme—many describe it as “amazing,” with some calling it one of their best travels ever.

The value for money also gets high marks. For around $578, you get a comprehensive experience with transport, ferry tickets, and accommodations included, which makes this a pretty accessible way to explore these remote regions. The accommodations in traditional guesthouses, along with organic local foods, add genuine flavor to the trip, as many reviews mention.

However, keep in mind that the days are packed, often involving several hours of walking or hiking, especially on the second day. If walking long distances or high-altitude hiking isn’t your thing, this might be more challenging. Also, since the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness who love adventure and natural beauty.

Practical Details That Matter

• Transportation: The tour provides all transport from Tirana, including hotel pickups and drop-offs, ferry rides, and local transit—this takes some planning out of your hands, which we appreciate.

• Duration: Just three days, but intense—each day packs in many sights and activities, making it ideal if you want an immersive experience in a short time.

• Cost: At $578.22 per person, considering all included elements—transportation, ferry tickets, accommodations, and guiding—it’s competitive and offers good value for the comprehensive experience.

• Group size: The tour operates as a private activity, so you’ll be with your own group. This tends to be more personalized and flexible.

• Booking: The tour is popular, booked on average 70 days in advance, so plan ahead if you’re interested.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your idea of travel involves real encounters with nature, a bit of physical activity, and the chance to see some of Europe’s most beautiful mountain scenery, this trip delivers. It’s especially suitable for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy exploring on foot and appreciate authentic local culture. The inclusion of traditional guesthouses and local foods makes it more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive experience.

For those who prefer a leisurely trip with plenty of time to relax or travel with very young children, this might be a bit too intense. But if you’re after a series of memorable moments surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and lakes, you’re likely to find this tour to be well worth the price.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, all transportation from Tirana, ferry tickets, and local transit within the trip are included.

How many days does the tour last? It’s a 3-day experience, with each day packed with sightseeing and activities.

Are accommodations provided? Yes, you stay in traditional guesthouses with breakfast included for all overnight stays.

Is food included? Breakfasts are included, but lunches and dinners are not, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible if plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families? It’s best for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to the walking and hiking involved. Not specifically tailored for children.

What’s the price? About $578.22 per person, which covers transportation, ferry, accommodations, and guiding.

What is the highlight of the trip? Many say the ferry ride on Komani Lake and the hike through the Albanian Alps are the most memorable parts.

Do I need to be physically fit? Yes, moderate fitness is recommended, especially for the longer hikes like the Valbona Pass.

Is it a group tour? No, it’s a private tour, so your group will enjoy a personalized experience.

If this sounds like your kind of adventure, then this trip could be a highlight of your Balkans journey. The combination of pristine landscapes, cultural authenticity, and expert guiding makes it a compelling option for anyone eager to see Albania’s wild side.