If you’re exploring Albania and want to see a side of the country that’s often overlooked, this Gjirokaster off-road experience might just be what you’re after. Designed for those craving a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight, it combines 4×4 off-road riding, horseback exploration, and visits to some of southern Albania’s quieter gems.
What makes this tour stand out are a couple of standout features: the peaceful horseback rides through village landscapes and the chance to swim at a picturesque waterfall. You’ll also get a peek at Labova of the Cross, one of Albania’s oldest Byzantine churches, which adds a layer of history to the day. On the flip side, this is a full-day experience—about 11 hours—so it’s not ideal if you’re after a quick visit or traveling with very young children.
This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and rural culture. If you’re comfortable with a full day on the move, and you’re not worried about some physical activity (like hiking or horseback riding), you’ll likely find a lot to love here.
Key Points
- Scenic routes and stunning mountain views are a highlight, perfect for photography lovers.
- Horseback riding is suitable for beginners, guided by professionals, making it accessible for most.
- Visit to Labova of the Cross adds a historical dimension to the day.
- Swim at Selcka Waterfall offers a refreshing break amid nature.
- The tour is a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly.
- It’s priced at $242 per person, which reflects a comprehensive experience, including meals and transportation.
What to Expect from Your Day in Gjirokaster
This experience kicks off in the historic town of Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stone architecture and winding streets. From there, the journey immediately shifts gears into adventure mode. The 4×4 transportation takes you through rugged mountain tracks, offering stunning views that make the rough terrain worth every bump.
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The Horseback Ride in Asim Zeneli
One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the horseback riding in the peaceful countryside of Asim Zeneli. The guide ensures the ride is suitable for beginners, which is great if you’ve never tried it before or if you prefer a gentle ride rather than a high-speed adventure. We loved the way the horses moved through the quiet village scenery, surrounded by lush green hills and traditional farms. It’s a relaxed, authentic way to connect with Albanian rural life.
Visiting Labova of the Cross
Next, you head to Labova of the Cross, one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Albania. The site is steeped in history and offers a peaceful moment to appreciate the country’s early Christian heritage. It’s a small but significant site that adds depth to the day’s cultural exploration. Reviewers mention it’s an “ancient church with a lot of history,” and it’s worth the short stop for anyone interested in religious architecture or history buffs.
Traditional Village Lunch
After the historical stop, you’ll enjoy a homemade Albanian lunch in a local mountain village. This meal is typically served in a communal setting, giving you a taste of genuine Albanian hospitality. Expect local products and simple, hearty dishes that reflect the rural culinary traditions. Many reviews highlight this lunch as a highlight, describing it as “authentic,” “delicious,” and a real window into local life.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Refreshing Swim at Selcka Waterfall
Post-lunch, it’s time for some physical activity—walking and swimming at the Selcka Waterfall. Tucked away in the mountains, this waterfall offers a serene setting for a swim or just relaxing by the water. The hike to the waterfall is manageable, and the cool water provides a refreshing break. Reviewers say it’s “a beautiful spot” and that the water “feels fantastic after a day of exploring.”
The Sweet Stop in Polican
On your way back, there’s a special dessert stop in Polican, where you can sample a local sweet treat. It’s a small but appreciated gesture that adds to the overall experience, giving you a taste of regional flavors in a relaxed setting.
Scenic Off-Road Return & Final Highlights
The return journey to Gjirokaster is along off-road mountain tracks, offering more stunning vistas and opportunities for photos. The guide keeps the atmosphere friendly and informative, sharing insights into local life and the landscape. The entire day wraps up with a visit to the picturesque Lekursi Castle and some final mountain views, making sure you leave with plenty of memorable images.
The Practicalities: What You Need to Know
This tour is priced at $242 per person, which includes all the main activities, transportation, meals, and the guidance of an experienced English-speaking guide. Given the full-day nature and the variety of experiences packed into it, the cost feels reasonable—especially because it offers a mix of adventure and cultural richness.
Transportation is in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, perfect for navigating the rough terrains. The group size is limited to 8 participants, which helps maintain a personal and engaging atmosphere. The tour starts in the morning and lasts around 11 hours, so be prepared for a long but rewarding day.
Important Guidelines & Suitability
Safety is paramount, so you’ll need to follow some basic rules—wear sturdy shoes, avoid jewelry, and keep your camera secure (large or mounted cameras are not permitted). The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health issues, including back problems, mobility impairments, or respiratory conditions. The physical aspects, like walking and horseback riding, require a reasonable level of fitness.
What to Bring
Pack essentials such as a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, hiking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and long pants. Note that backpacks, jewelry, sandals, or flip-flops are not allowed during activities.
Why This Tour Is Worth It
If you’re someone who craves adventure with a cultural twist, this experience delivers. The mix of off-road riding, horseback exploration, and visits to historic sites make it a well-rounded way to see southern Albania beyond the usual tourist spots. The stunning mountain views and the chance to relax in nature are especially attractive for travelers wanting more than just city sights.
The tour’s pacing is generally good, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the scenery, learn about the history, and relax. Reviewers mention the beautiful views repeatedly—these are what make the trip memorable. Although it’s a long day, many describe it as “worth the effort” for the authentic experience.
However, keep in mind that the full-day itinerary involves some physical activity, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with walking, riding, and a bit of outdoor exploration. If you’re after a quick visit or traveling with very young kids, this might not be the right choice.
Final Thoughts
This Gjirokaster off-road adventure offers an authentic slice of Albanian life, combining natural beauty, history, and rural culture into one immersive day. It’s especially appealing to those who enjoy outdoor activities and are interested in seeing lesser-known parts of the country. Expect stunning mountain views, cozy village meals, and some fun horseback riding—plus a chance to cool off at a scenic waterfall.
While the full-day commitment might be a lot for some, many travelers find the variety and authenticity well worth it. It’s a chance to escape the tourist trail, get active, and enjoy some genuine Albanian hospitality. If you’re ready for a day of adventure with a side of history and scenery, this tour could be just the ticket.
Gjirokaster: Off-Road Tour with Horseback Riding
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners in horseback riding?
Yes, the horseback riding is guided and suitable for beginners, with a focus on a gentle pace through peaceful countryside.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a 4×4, horseback riding, a traditional homemade lunch, visits to Labova of the Cross and Polican, a stop at Selcka Waterfall, a dessert in Polican, and the guide.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 11 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the evening. It’s a full-day adventure.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.
Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues due to the physical nature of the activities.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, swimwear, a towel, sturdy hiking shoes, long pants, a reusable water bottle, and a sun hat. Avoid jewelry and backpacks during the activities.
Are large cameras allowed?
Large or mounted cameras are not permitted during activities to ensure safety.
This tour offers a genuine taste of southern Albania’s landscapes and traditions, making it a memorable choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty.
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