Peja is a treasure trove for travelers who love a mix of nature and culture. Its rugged landscapes and historic sites make it a perfect base for exploring some memorable tours. We particularly enjoy the boat trip on Komani Lake & Shala River because it combines stunning scenery with a touch of adventure, or the Peja City Tour & Rugova Canyon Hike for those who want to enjoy local history and picturesque landscapes. For example, the boat trip offers crystal-clear waters and an opportunity to swim and relax, while the city tour reveals Peja’s bustling bazaar and UNESCO-listed monastery. If you’re planning a trip, these experiences provide a well-rounded taste of what Kosovo has to offer.
Below, you’ll find a selection of the top tours in Peja. Each offers a different way to see the region—whether through scenic boat rides, cultural explorations, or outdoor hikes. Let’s dive into the details.
1. Komani Lake & Shala River: From Shengjin & Shkodra 1Day
This full-day adventure takes you on a boat trip across the stunning waters of Komani Lake and the Shala River, set against the backdrop of the Albanian Alps. The trip begins with a pickup from four locations—Lezhë District, Shkodër, Shëngjin, or Tirana International Airport—and then heads into the Albanian countryside. You’ll traverse by jeep or SUV for about 1.5 hours before reaching the river, where the real magic starts.
Once on the water, the boat cruise lasts about an hour and offers breathtaking views of the rugged mountains and pristine waters. The tour includes a break at the Shala River, perfect for photos, swimming, and soaking in the scenery. Afterward, there’s more time on the river, plus a brief stop at a local café for refreshments. This tour’s key highlights are its adventure spirit, the striking lake scenery, and the chance to swim and relax in nature.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy boat rides and stunning landscapes. The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a small-group experience. A review highlights “the boat cruise through the Albanian Alps was breathtaking,” emphasizing that the trip is a great value for its comprehensive itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an active day filled with incredible views and aquatic fun in a small-group setting.
2. Culture Meets Adventure: Peja City Tour & Rugova Canyon Hike
This half-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture and nature, starting right in Peja. It begins with a guided walk through the Old Bazaar, where local artisans sell crafts and traditional foods. Then, the tour visits a UNESCO-listed monastery, giving insight into Kosovo’s spiritual heritage. The highlight for many is the hike in Rugova Canyon, where you’ll walk to a scenic waterfall, enjoying fresh mountain air and spectacular vistas.
The tour is designed to be non-strenuous but still active, involving moderate walking and hiking. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful experience of both Peja’s historic sites and Rugova’s rugged beauty. The guide shares stories about the area’s history and natural features, making the experience informative and engaging.
This tour is highly rated for its well-paced itinerary and the chance to see hidden viewpoints and local landmarks without the crowds. It’s especially suitable for families or travelers with limited time but a curiosity for culture and outdoor scenery. The tour also includes pickup from your hotel or bus station for convenience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers who want a brief but meaningful introduction to Kosovo’s cultural and natural highlights in one accessible outing.
3. Komani Lake & Shala River: From Shengjin & Shkodra 1Day
If you’re looking for a spectacular full-day nature escape, this boat trip on Komani Lake is hard to beat. The journey kicks off with a scenic jeep ride into the Albanian Alps, where the landscape opens up into towering peaks and lush valleys. Once on the water, you’ll cruise along the crystal-clear Komani Lake, often called the “Albanian Fjord” for its dramatic cliffs and serene waters.
The boat cruise takes about an hour, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Then, you’ll stop at the Shala River for about three hours. During this time, you can enjoy swimming, relaxing, and exploring the area, with plenty of time for photos and picnics. The final part involves returning by jeep, making for a comfortable, scenic return trip. The tour is praised for its stunning scenery, the mix of adventure and relaxation, and the small group size, ensuring personalized attention.
Ideal for adventure lovers who want to experience Albania’s rugged beauty with a mix of boat and land travel. The reviews mention “an unforgettable day on the water with jaw-dropping views,” making this a memorable choice for nature enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking an immersive, scenic experience with options for swimming and photography.
4. Culture Meets Adventure: Peja City Tour & Rugova Canyon Hike
This short but sweet tour covers Peja’s most iconic spots and the rugged Rugova Canyon. Starting from your hotel or the bus station, you’ll explore the lively Old Bazaar, where local vendors sell crafts and fresh produce. The visit to the UNESCO-listed monastery provides an enriching historical perspective, with guides explaining its significance.
Later, the tour transitions to outdoor exploration with a hike to a scenic waterfall in Rugova Canyon. The walk is well-paced and suitable for most fitness levels, providing spectacular views and photo ops. The tour ends with a quick return to Peja, giving you some free time to explore further or shop.
This tour is especially well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and nature, all packed into four hours. It’s a good option if you’re limited on time but still want a rich experience of the region.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for travelers eager to see Peja’s key sites and enjoy a scenic hike without committing a full day.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you love outdoor adventure and stunning landscapes, the Komani Lake & Shala River trip offers a full day of scenic boat riding and swimming. For those wanting a cultural and natural overview, the Peja City & Rugova Canyon hike provides a compact, enriching experience.
Budget and fitness are also key—if you’re comfortable with walking and hiking, the shorter tour is perfect. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of water-based fun, the longer boat trip is the way to go. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Peja offers a range of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re drawn to scenic boat rides, exploring historic sites, or hiking in rugged canyons. For a full-day adventure with stunning views and water activities, the Komani Lake & Shala River trip is unbeatable. If you prefer a quick culture combined with a scenic hike, the Peja City Tour & Rugova Canyon is ideal.
No matter which tour you choose, these experiences will give you a richer appreciation of Kosovo’s natural beauty and local culture. Booking early will help secure the best times, so don’t delay. Happy travels!
