Hiking Tour of Theth,Valbona Valley & Koman Lake in 3 Days

This 3-day Albania hiking tour covers the stunning natural beauty of Theth, Valbona Valley, and Koman Lake. You’ll start with a scenic drive and 3-hour trek to the Blue Eye spring, then explore Theth National Park. Day two features a challenging 6-8 hour hike over Valbona Pass to reach the picturesque Valbona Valley. The final day includes a scenic boat ride across Komani Lake before returning. The tour requires moderate fitness, with options for mule or horse transport. While the cancellation policy is non-refundable, the 96% recommendation rate suggests an unforgettable adventure awaits. Keep reading to learn more about this immersive Albanian experience.

Key Points

• This 3-day hiking tour in Albania covers the natural wonders of Theth, Valbona Valley, and Koman Lake, showcasing the country’s stunning landscapes.
• The tour includes 2 nights in traditional guesthouses, a professional tour leader, and offers hotel pickup and drop-off options.
• Highlights of the itinerary include a hike to the Blue Eye, exploration of Theth National Park, a challenging trek through the Valbona Pass, and a scenic boat ride on Koman Lake.
• The tour is recommended for moderately fit travelers, with mule or horse transport available for luggage, but it is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour has a 96% recommendation rate based on 26 reviews, but the non-refundable cancellation policy requires travelers to purchase travel insurance.

Tour Overview

This 3-day hiking tour in Albania is an adventure that immerses travelers in the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region.

The "Hiking Tour of Theth, Valbona Valley & Koman Lake" takes explorers through picturesque landscapes, including wild fields, rivers, and mountains.

The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation in traditional guesthouses with breakfast, a professional tour leader, and hotel pickup and drop-off in Shkoder or Tirana.

While lunches, dinners, drinks, and personal expenses are excluded, the tour offers a personalized small-group experience with a 96% recommendation rate based on 26 reviews.

Detailed Itinerary

The tour kicks off early at 6:00 am, departing from Tirana and picking up participants in Shkoder.

The scenic drive takes travelers through wild fields, rivers, and mountains, with a stop at the lavender fields in Theth (May-June).

After reaching Theth, hikers embark on a 3-hour trek to the Blue Eye, a natural spring with crystal-clear water.

The group then explores the Theth National Park, visiting the Old Church and the "Lock in" Tower before overnighting in a guesthouse.

On Day 2, they trek from Theth to Valbona Valley via the Valbona Pass, enjoying spectacular views of the Peaks of the Balkans.

The final day features a boat ride on Komani Lake with stunning scenery before the tour concludes.

Day 1: Tirana/Shkoder to Theth

Where does the tour begin? The tour departs early from Tirana at 6:00 AM.

Participants are picked up in Shkoder before embarking on the scenic drive through wild fields, rivers, and mountains to Theth. Along the way, visitors may spot local lavender fields in bloom during May and June.

The first stop is Qafa e Thores, an elevation of 1,700 meters offering stunning views.

Next, the group embarks on a 3-hour hike (6.2 km round trip, 700 m elevation) to the Blue Eye of Theth, where the water temperature is a crisp 5°C.

The day concludes with a visit to Theth National Park to see the Old Church and "Lock in" Tower before overnight accommodations in a local guesthouse.

Day 2: Theth to Valbona Valley

On the second day, the group treks from Theth to Valbona Valley via the Valbona Pass, a journey that takes 6-8 hours and covers an elevation gain of 1,050 meters.

The hike offers spectacular views of the Peaks of the Balkans and the Accursed Mountains. The trail winds through rugged terrain, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Trekkers are rewarded with an overnight stay in the picturesque Valbona Valley, surrounded by the stunning Albanian Alps.

This leg of the journey allows participants to enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s remarkable landscapes.

Day 3: Valbona Valley to Komani Lake

After a rewarding trek through the Valbona Valley on the previous day, the tour continues its journey to Komani Lake on the final day.

The group will board a boat for a scenic ride across the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps, cascading waterfalls, and rural villages along the shoreline.

From Komani Lake, the tour will transport guests over bumpy roads to Vau i Dejes before heading back to either Tirana or Shkoder, marking the end of this adventurous 3-day hiking tour.

With stunning natural landscapes and a chance to immerse in the local culture, this final leg of the journey promises to leave a lasting impression.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This hiking tour requires a moderate fitness level, as it involves several challenging treks through mountainous terrain.

The hikes can be strenuous, with significant elevation gains and distances up to 8 hours. However, mule or horse transport is available for luggage at an additional cost of 90 Euros.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the rugged nature of the trails and terrain. Travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions and come equipped with proper hiking gear.

While the experience is immensely rewarding, it’s important for participants to assess their physical capabilities before booking this tour.

Cancellation Policy

The cancellation policy for this hiking tour is non-refundable. No refunds will be issued for cancellations, regardless of when they’re made. This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can cover their costs and plan accordingly.

Customers should carefully consider their travel plans before booking this tour. While weather or other unforeseen circumstances may require changes, the tour company prioritizes safety over profit and will make adjustments as needed.

Travelers are advised to purchase travel insurance to protect against potential cancellations or delays. The tour’s logistics and staffing can’t accommodate refunds, so customers must accept the non-refundable policy when booking.

Customer Feedback

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this hiking tour, with an impressive 5.0 overall rating based on 26 reviews. Glowing comments highlight the stunning views, rewarding hikes, and excellent guides that make the experience highly enjoyable. The tour’s strong focus on safety has also been appreciated, even in the face of some inclement weather. Guests have consistently praised the great hospitality provided by the local guesthouses. The only negative feedback pertained to unsafe conditions due to weather, but the company’s commitment to prioritizing safety over profit has been commended.

Positive Comments	Negative Feedback
Stunning views, rewarding hikes, excellent guides	One review regarding unsafe conditions due to weather
Great hospitality in guesthouses	Company prioritizes safety over profit
Well-organized tour with attention to safety	N/A
N/A	N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time to take this tour is during the warmer months of May through October. The weather is milder and permits optimal hiking conditions, with the added bonus of seeing the lavender fields in bloom from May to June.

Are There Options for More Challenging Hiking Routes?

The tour offers more challenging hiking routes for experienced trekkers. Guests can request longer, steeper trails with higher elevations that traverse rugged mountain terrain. These options provide a more strenuous yet rewarding experience for those seeking a greater adventure.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is It Provided?

Hikers can bring their own gear for this tour, but it’s not required. The tour company provides necessary equipment like hiking poles, with an optional fee for mule/horse transport of luggage if needed.

How Much Spending Money Should I Budget for the Tour?

The tour includes 2 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, but you’ll need to budget for lunches, dinners, drinks, snacks, and personal spending. Approximately $20-30 per day should cover these additional costs.

Are There Any Wildlife Sightings Commonly Encountered on the Hikes?

Hikers on the tour may encounter wildlife such as chamois, brown bears, and mountain goats in the rugged terrain of the Albanian Alps. Sightings are possible but not guaranteed, as the animals tend to be elusive in their natural habitat.

Sum Up

This 3-day hiking tour is an excellent way to learn about Albania’s stunning natural landscapes. From the picturable Thethi National Park to the breathtaking Valbona Valley and the scenic Komani Lake, you’ll witness the country’s rugged beauty and rich cultural heritage. Guided by experienced professionals, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore Albania’s untamed wilderness.