Cave of Pellumbas, Canyons & Castles hiking tour includes lunch

If you’re looking to get out of Tirana and experience some of Albania’s most captivating natural sights and historic sites, this Cave of Pellumbas, Canyons & Castles hiking tour offers a solid mix of adventure and scenery. From underground caves to rushing river canyons and ancient castles, this day-long trip packs in quite a bit—perfect if you enjoy moderate hikes, stunning views, and a taste of local flavors.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances active exploration with comfortable breaks—plus, the inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it easier to enjoy the day without unnecessary fuss. And the small-group format means you get a more personalized experience, with guides who genuinely seem invested in making sure everyone has a good time.

Of course, there are some points to consider. The tour involves moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some uphill walking and uneven terrain. Also, the weather can influence the experience, especially if it’s particularly hot or rainy. But overall, this is a well-rounded outing for travelers who want to see a different side of Albania without too much hassle.

If you’re comfortable with walking and interested in nature, history, and local cuisine, this tour is likely to satisfy your curiosity and give you some memorable moments in Tirana’s countryside.

Key Points

• Suitable for moderate fitness levels—expect some uphill hiking and uneven terrain.
• Includes all essentials: headlamps for caves, lunch, bottled water, and a scenic drive.
• Small group experience—maximum of 4-5 travelers, for a more personal feel.
• Variety of sights: underground caves, canyon swimming, and a castle with panoramic views.
• Weather-dependent—be prepared for changing conditions, especially if you want to swim.
• Authentic local food during lunch, offering a taste of Albanian produce and flavors.

Starting with the Cave of Pellumbas

Your adventure begins with a moderate hike up to Pellumbas Cave, which is situated 500 meters above the Adriatic coastline. The actual cave, often called the Black Cave, is around 360 meters deep—enough to evoke a sense of mystery with stalagmites and stalactites lining the inside. The inclusion of headlamps in the tour is a thoughtful touch, as it allows you to explore the darkness comfortably and safely.

Travelers seem to appreciate the guide’s knowledge and helpfulness here. Silvia Matilda, in her review, highlighted how their guide was “very communicative” and offered to carry heavy bags, which is a nice touch when dealing with uneven ground or steep sections. Expect about two hours for this part—the highlight being the impressive formations inside the cave and the cool underground atmosphere.

The hike back down is less demanding, allowing you some time to relax and chat with others. The cave exploration is an excellent opportunity to see Albania’s geological features up close and appreciate the natural artistry of stalagmites and stalactites.

The Albanian Lunch Experience

Next stop is a charming local village café in Pellumbas, where lunch is included in the tour. You’ll be enjoying locally produced foods, which often include simple, hearty Albanian dishes—think fresh bread, cheeses, and perhaps some grilled meats or vegetables. It’s a great way to refuel after the morning’s activity and get a taste of authentic regional flavors.

One reviewer fondly remembered that the guide went out of their way to pick grapes and red berries for the group, adding a personal touch to the experience. The relaxed pace here means you can savor your meal and chat about what’s next with your fellow travelers.

Discovering the Canyons of the Erzen River

Post-lunch, the tour heads to the Erzen River canyons, often described as one of Tirana’s most beautiful natural sights. The river has carved out impressive rocky formations and deep pools over time, creating a landscape that’s both rugged and picturesque. The crystal-clear water invites those who want to take a refreshing dip—especially during warmer months.

Expect about two hours here, during which you can walk along the canyon’s edge, admire the views, or take a swim. The pools in front of a waterfall are a favorite spot for many, offering a perfect break in the middle of your day’s exploration. The experience of being surrounded by steep rock walls and rushing water is quite memorable, and many travelers (like Kamila) noted how much they enjoyed the scenery and the chance to swim.

Wrapping up at Petrela Castle

The day concludes with a short drive to Petrela Castle, which sits atop a hill offering sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and Tirana in the distance. The reconstructed castle houses a charming restaurant where you can relax with a drink and soak in the sunset if timing allows.

This part of the tour is a relaxing way to end a busy day, with a scenic backdrop that’s perfect for photos and reflection. The guide often mentions the castle’s historical significance, but even if that’s not your top interest, the view alone makes it worthwhile.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am, which gives plenty of time to cover all sites comfortably. The group size remains small—up to five travelers—which enhances the experience by allowing more interaction with the guide and flexibility during stops.

Transportation is air-conditioned, and bottled water, coffee/tea, and even some alcoholic beverages are included. The price of $117.40 per person reflects a package that covers transport, guided hikes, entrance fees, and lunch, making it a reasonable deal considering the variety of sights and activities packed in.

You should wear comfortable walking shoes—the terrain is uneven, especially around the cave and canyon areas. If you plan to swim, bringing swimwear is a good idea. The weather can influence the day’s comfort, so dressing for variable conditions and bringing sun protection or rain gear as needed is wise.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Silvia, for example, appreciated the guide’s helpfulness and the memorable cave exploration. Kamila enjoyed the friendly driver and the chance to sample local berries, noting that the hike can be challenging but fun.

One critique from Andrea pointed out that it was “too hot” for some, and the tour was physically demanding in warm weather, with limited time to see all the canyon areas. Still, she highlighted how the guide’s empathy made a difference, and language wasn’t an issue since the guide spoke excellent Italian.

This honest feedback underscores the importance of being prepared for weather conditions and the physical aspect of the hike. It’s a tour that rewards those with moderate fitness who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

If you’re interested in exploring Albania’s natural beauty and historic sites in a small-group setting, this tour offers a compelling option. The combination of underground caves, river canyons, and an ancient castle provides a varied experience that appeals to lovers of nature, history, and local culture.

The inclusion of lunch and transportation makes it accessible and convenient—no need to worry about booking separate meals or navigating public transit. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided day out that balances activity and relaxation, as long as you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and unpredictable weather.

However, if you’re unprepared for some uphill walking or don’t enjoy hot weather, this might not be your best fit. The tour is also quite full on the practical side—be sure to wear proper footwear and bring your swimsuit if you want to swim.

This experience is a well-rounded way to see a side of Albania that many travelers overlook, offering a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and local flavor.

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour includes lunch, a guided hike in the caves, transportation via air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, coffee/tea, and some alcoholic beverages. Entrance fees for the sites are also covered.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 9:00 am and concluding with hotel drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical activity and terrain suggest it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Children who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures may find it enjoyable, but check with the operator for specific age recommendations.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to uneven terrain. Bringing swimwear is recommended if you plan to swim in the canyon pools. Weather-appropriate clothing and sun protection are advisable.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is the guide fluent in English?
The guide is capable of speaking English, but some reviews mention that guides can speak other languages well, such as Italian, which was helpful for some travelers.

If you’re ready for a day of outdoor discovery with a local touch, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Albania beyond the city. Just come prepared, and you’ll likely walk away with some wonderful stories and stunning photos.