Blue Eye tour

If you’re considering a trip to Saranda or Ksamil and want to experience one of Albania’s most mesmerizing natural sights, the Blue Eye tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a compact, well-priced excursion offering a blend of nature, culture, and some well-earned relaxation.

What really stands out about this tour are two things: first, the small group size (up to 10 travelers), which means you’ll get a more personal experience and better interaction with your guide. Second, the professional photography included—because let’s face it, the Blue Eye’s waters are so stunning, you’ll want those high-quality shots to remember your trip.

One aspect to keep in mind is that this tour involves walking around the Blue Eye, so a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. It’s not an extensive hike, but you might find the 2-hour stop sufficient to get your photos and enjoy the scenery. This isn’t a full-day adventure, but rather a focused, scenic outing perfect for those with limited time or looking to add a unique experience to their Albanian travels.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, small-group experience that combines natural beauty with local charm. If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides, a comfortable ride, and a chance to get gorgeous photos of a surreal natural wonder, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the experience and interaction with the guide
• Includes professional photography to capture your visit
• Efficient 4-hour trip suits travelers with limited time
• Comfortable air-conditioned transport makes it easy to relax between stops
• Scenic drive through lush landscapes offers more than just the main attraction
• Moderate walking involved — manageable for most travelers with average fitness

What Is the Blue Eye Tour All About?

The Blue Eye tour offers a quick yet immersive escape into one of Albania’s most striking natural sights. For just over $30 per person, you get a 4-hour journey that includes pickup from Saranda or Ksamil, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned car, and a chance to see the famous Blue Eye spring. This spring is renowned for its bright, glowing turquoise waters that seem almost unreal, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The experience is small-group, capped at around 10 travelers, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. This setup is perfect if you’re the kind of traveler who prefers intimate encounters rather than large tour buses. From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are knowledgeable, passionate about showcasing Albania’s beauty, and dedicated to making the trip seamless and enjoyable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation in Ksamil or Saranda. This convenience is a big plus, saving you the trouble of figuring out transportation or navigating local transport options. Once everyone’s on board, the journey begins with a scenic 40-minute drive through the Albanian countryside.

Scenic Drive and Village Stops

The drive itself is part of the charm. Albanian landscapes tend to be lush and inviting, with rolling hills, charming villages, and fields stretching under the sun. These stops and views add context and allow you to stretch your legs before reaching the main attraction.

The Blue Eye

The highlight, naturally, is the Blue Eye itself. Once you arrive, you’ll walk around the spring, which is surrounded by a natural setting. The spring’s waters are crystal-clear and seem to glow from within, thanks to their vibrant blue hues. According to reviews, this spot is as stunning as you’d hope, with many travelers capturing incredible professional photos during their visit.

One reviewer shared, “The view was really beautiful,” emphasizing how striking the sight is in person. The water’s surreal clarity makes it a fantastic subject for photos, and the guided comments help you appreciate what makes it so unique.

Coffee and Photography Break

After soaking in the views, the tour includes a coffee stop—a perfect chance to relax, chat with your fellow travelers, or enjoy a quick snack. The 2-hour stop allows enough time to wander, snap photos, and take in the peaceful surroundings. This relaxed pace ensures you’re not rushed and can truly savor the moment.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to your original pickup point, providing a stress-free experience. As one reviewer put it, “The ride was safe and comfortable,” which is always reassuring when you’re in a new area.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $30, this tour provides a lot for the price. The transportation alone is worth noting—being in a climate-controlled vehicle makes the outing more comfortable, especially during hot days. Including professional photos adds value, because these are high-quality shots you might not be able take with your phone alone.

The guide’s role is crucial here, and reviews praise their knowledge and passion. They help bring the region’s stories to life, making the visit more meaningful beyond just seeing the sights.

While lunch isn’t included, the coffee stop and local recommendations give you options to grab a bite afterward without rushing. The tour’s short duration makes it suitable for those who want a taste of Albania’s natural beauty without committing to a whole day.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—walking around the Blue Eye and possibly some light exploring. If you have mobility issues or prefer very leisurely outings, this might require some planning.

Another point is that, since the tour is limited to 10 travelers, it can fill up quickly—booking a couple of weeks in advance is recommended. Also, it’s important to note that lunch is not included, so plan accordingly if you need a meal afterward.

Lastly, some reviews mention that, while the scenery is spectacular, the stop may be crowded or busy at times. Going early in the day could help avoid the biggest crowds and get a more tranquil experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized trip that combines natural beauty with some cultural storytelling. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a short, focused outing with professional photos and a small group.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy nature and don’t mind walking, this will suit you well. However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or want to include other attractions, you might want to combine it with additional activities.

In short, this tour fits those who value comfort, personalized attention, and stunning scenery—all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for the Blue Eye tour?
Yes, pickup is available from both Ksamil and Saranda, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers air-conditioned transport, a professional guide, a bottle of water, and professional photos of your visit.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, you will walk around the Blue Eye, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. The walk isn’t strenuous but involves some standing and exploring.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Booking around 15 days in advance is typical, as the tour fills up quickly due to its popularity.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There’s a coffee stop, and local recommendations are provided for nearby eateries.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, ensuring flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the moderate walking and focus on natural scenery suggest it’s suitable for most travelers with average fitness.

What makes this tour special compared to other options?
Its small group size, professional photography, and the passionate guides make it more personal and memorable than larger, generic excursions.

Will I have enough time at the Blue Eye?
Yes, the 2-hour stop allows ample time to photograph, explore, and relax before heading back.

To sum it up, the Blue Eye tour from Saranda is a smart choice if you’re craving a brief, beautifully curated outing that combines stunning scenery with personalized service. It’s especially appealing to those who value quality photos, relaxed pacing, and local insights. While it’s not a full-day deep dive into Albanian attractions, it’s a well-priced, memorable experience that offers a true taste of the country’s natural wonder.