Tirana/Durres/Golem: Saranda, Ksamil, Blue Eye Day Trip

Planning a day trip to southern Albania? Then this particular excursion offers a well-rounded mix of scenic coastal towns, natural wonders, and plenty of opportunities to relax by the sea. It’s a full 16.5 hours, but the well-structured itinerary, friendly guides, and breathtaking sights make it a worthwhile experience for travelers eager to see a less-visited, yet stunning part of the Balkans.

What we love most about this tour is its professional organization—from comfortable transportation to knowledgeable guides who truly care—and the variety of stops that showcase Albania’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. The Blue Eye, in particular, is a showstopper. On the downside, the long travel hours mean you’ll want to be prepared for a full day on the road, and some stops are quite brief, which might leave those wanting more feeling a bit rushed. Still, it’s ideal for those with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Albania’s southern coast, especially if you enjoy guided adventures with local insights.

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1 An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Key Points

Stunning natural sights: Blue Eye spring and Ksamil Islands.
Vibrant coastal towns: Saranda and Ksamil offer lively atmospheres and picture-perfect beaches.
Professional guides: Well-reviewed, friendly, and full of local knowledge.
All-in-one experience: Sightseeing, swimming, boat rides, and some food tasting.
Good value: At $77, this includes entry tickets and guided commentary.
Long but rewarding day: About 16.5 hours of scenic driving and exploring.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day trip is designed for travelers who want to see Albania’s southern highlights without the hassle of organizing their own transport, especially those with limited days in the country. We’ll walk through what each part of the tour involves, how it feels, and how it might fit your travel style.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tirana.

The Pickup and Journey: Starting from Tirana, Durrës, or Golem

The day begins early, with a pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Golem, Tirana, or Durrës. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned van or bus. The drive itself is part of the pleasure—within roughly 4.5 hours, you’ll pass through the lush Albanian countryside, with rolling hills, small villages, and rugged terrain. The scenery is so engaging that many reviews mention how quickly the time flies. One traveler remarked, “the long drive passed quickly with interesting info from our guide,” showing that a good guide makes all the difference.

Saranda: The Coastal Welcome

Your first stop is Saranda, a lively seaside town known for its palm-lined promenade and sweeping views of the Ionian Sea. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo, a stretch of the legs, or to enjoy some fresh sea air. You’ll get about an hour here, which is enough to snap some photos, browse a few shops, or grab a quick coffee. Many reviewers appreciated this introduction to the coast, noting that it’s a “vibrant place, perfect for a quick glimpse” before heading further south.

Ksamil: Paradise Found on White Sand Beaches

Next, you’re off to Ksamil, famed for its white sandy beaches and transparent turquoise waters. This is the highlight for many travelers, offering a generous amount of free time (around 3 hours) for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. You could rent a kayak or small boat to explore the nearby Ksamil Islands, a cluster of tiny islets just offshore. Multiple reviews rave about the area: “Ksamil was beautiful—perfect for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach,” and “the water was so clear I could see the seabed even from the shore.”

While you’re here, there’s an option to enjoy a seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant (not included), which many consider a treat—fresh fish, local specialties, and a laid-back atmosphere. Some reviews mention that the beach can be busy, especially during peak hours, but overall, it’s a peaceful spot for a long, refreshing swim.

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The Blue Eye: Nature’s Masterpiece

After Ksamil, the tour takes you inland to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring with a deep, vividly blue pool that looks like an enormous eye staring at you. Surrounded by lush greenery, the Blue Eye is a photographer’s paradise and a must-see for nature lovers. The water remains at a constant 10°C (50°F), so daring visitors often dip their feet in, though most stay on the wooden walkways for the best views.

Visitors consistently comment on how breathtaking the sight is. One traveler noted, “It’s just as beautiful as the photos, if not more so,” while others appreciated the peaceful atmosphere—a nice change from the busier beach areas. The site offers several viewpoints and walking paths, giving you about 1 hour and 45 minutes to explore and take photos.

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Returning Journey and Final Stops

After soaking in the Blue Eye’s beauty, the group begins its return to Tirana, Durrës, or Golem, with a drive lasting around 3.75 hours. The ride back is a good chance to reflect on the day’s highlights, swap stories with fellow travelers, or nap. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the driver and guide, with comments like “the driver drove expertly and safely” and “our guide shared a ton of local insights along the way.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a full-day, guided experience without worrying about logistics. It’s ideal if you appreciate natural beauty, enjoy beach time, and want to see iconic sights like the Blue Eye. The tour’s price point is quite reasonable, especially considering it covers entry fees and includes expert guiding. However, it’s a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or shorter excursions, this might feel a bit rushed.

Most reviews mention how organized and friendly the guides are, with many travelers praising the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Beni, Artol, or Orgest. The tour also receives high marks for value for money—many feel it’s a great way to experience Albania without hefty extra costs.

What To Bring and Consider

Given the full-day schedule, packing light but thoughtfully is key. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and a camera. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are best for walking around the Blue Eye and beaches. Travelers also find it helpful to carry some cash for meals or souvenirs, as lunch isn’t included.

A notable consideration is the long driving hours—around 4.5 hours each way—so if you suffer from motion sickness, be sure to take medication beforehand. The group size varies, but it generally feels intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized tips from your guide.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

The many glowing reviews highlight the quality of guides, with descriptions like “Orgest was warm, welcoming, and very knowledgeable,” and “Beni shared fascinating stories and kept us entertained.” Travelers consistently mention the stunning scenery—the Blue Eye, Ksamil’s beaches, and Saranda’s lively atmosphere—as unforgettable.

Food and local tips from guides are another appreciated aspect. Several reviewers mention the delicious seafood and helpful restaurant suggestions, making the experience not just about sightseeing but also savoring the local flavor.

This day trip offers a comprehensive look at Albania’s southern coast, combining natural beauty, lively towns, and cultural insights, all at a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for those who value guided tours that are well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who genuinely care. The Blue Eye alone makes the trip worthwhile, but the added visits to Ksamil and Saranda give a fuller picture of Albania’s stunning coastline.

Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, beach time, and natural wonders will find this tour a rewarding way to see a less-visited part of the Balkans. Keep in mind the length of the day and plan accordingly—bring your sun protection and a sense of adventure.

Overall, for travelers seeking value, authentic scenery, and expert guidance, this tour hits the mark. It’s a chance to experience Albania’s natural treasures without the hassle of planning every detail yourself—a true hassle-free escape to some of Albania’s best spots.

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned vehicles for the entire day, starting with pickup from Golem, Tirana, or Durrës and ending with drop-off at your original location.

How long is the total driving time? The total journey is approximately 4.5 hours each way, with some reviews noting that the long drive is manageable thanks to engaging guides and scenic views.

Are meals included? No, meals or snacks are not included, but there’s an opportunity to buy lunch at a beachfront restaurant in Ksamil. Many travelers recommend bringing snacks.

Can I swim at the Blue Eye? You can dip your feet in the water, which remains at a chilly 10°C (50°F). The site offers walkways and viewpoints, but swimming is generally not permitted or recommended due to safety.

Is the tour suitable for children or babies? The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year, but infants who occupy their own paid seats can participate. Be mindful of the long hours involved.

What should I bring? Pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, change of clothes, snacks, and cash. Comfortable shoes and outdoor clothing are advised.

How do guides enhance the experience? Many reviews praise guides like Beni, Artol, and Orgest for their local knowledge, friendliness, and humor, making the long day both fun and informative.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This well-organized tour offers a memorable day out for those eager to see Albania’s natural and coastal highlights with expert guidance. It balances scenic beauty, local immersion, and value, making it a solid choice for curious travelers.