Up Albania

Welcome to Albania!
We’ll meet and greet you at Tirana International Airport and then transfer to Llogara. Based on your arrival time, we can organize visits to historical attractions such as the Ardenica Monastery, Narta lagoon, or arrange a guided tour in the city of Apollonia archeologic site. At the hotel in Llogara, we’ll organize an orientation workshop designed to facilitate introductions among participants, discuss the program, and infuse guiding values throughout our journey: respecting and supporting local communities, preserving cultural heritage, minimizing waste and plastic usage, and respecting nature and biodiversity.After the orientation session, a delightful traditional dinner awaits, marking the beginning of our Albanian journey.

Meals included: Welcome dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Llogara
Drive time: 3 hours

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set out for the first adventure of this tour, exploring the beautiful Llogara National Park, will walk through dense forest of pine trees breathing the fresh air and flower of Meditarrean plants. The highlight of the day will be the hike to Peak of Qorre, the second-highest peak of the Ceraunian Mountains at 2,018 meters. Nestled near the Ionian Sea, the mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the azure waters and rugged coastline. Upon reaching the Qorre Pass, be prepared to be captivated by the breathtaking panorama, where the azure waters of the Ionian Sea seamlessly merge with the majestic mountains. Our lunch for today will be a picnic in the middle of the nature. After returning from the hike, we’ll be transfer in 1 hour-drive to the beautiful coastal city of Himara. Enjoy a free leisurely evening in Himara.

Difficulty: Moderate
Hiking distance: 8.9 km (5.5 mi); approx. 6-7 hours;
Elevation gain: +1,110 m (3,642 ft);
Elevation Loss: -1,110 m (3,642 ft);
Highest altitude: 2018 m (6,620 ft)

Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Himara
Drive time: 1 hour

Our exploration of the Albanian Riviera begins at Himara port, where we’ll board a fully equipped boat. Our first stop is the picturesque Jale beach, nestled in a half-moon-shaped bay surrounded by mountains. Continuing north, we’ll discover untouched bays until we reach Gjipe beach, hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches. Tucked away in a tiny bay at the mouth of the dramatic Gjipe canyon, it offers crystal-clear waters and stunning cliffs. After Gjipe stop, we’ll head towards the renowned Dhermi beach, with a stop en route to explore the extraordinary Pirate’s Cave-a cathedral-like structure nestled along the coastline. Our journey then takes us to our final destination, Grama bay, a natural marvel in the Karaburun peninsula. Concluding our boat trip exploration, we transfer to a different reality: the wild canyons of Nivica. We’ll transfer to the village, where we’ll be accommodated and have dinner at a local guesthouse.

Difficulty: Moderate
Sailing distance: 56 km (30.2 nm); approx. 2.5 hours (only the sailing)
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse in Nivica
Drive time: 2 hours

Awakening to the melody of birdsong, we’re greeted by the breathtaking panorama of Nivica Canyon. Following a delightful breakfast, our day unfolds with an exploration of this remote gem—a 40 km-long and 15 km-wide canyon nestled in the Kurveleshi highlands of Southern Albania. Our morning adventure includes a short hike to the Peshtura Waterfall, a hidden marvel in the canyons. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to Gjirokastra city, a UNESCO heritage site renowned for its Ottoman architecture. After a quick lunch in the Old Bazaar, our exploration of the Stone City unfolds, featuring visits to the majestic Gjirokastra Castle and the Skenduli House—a beautiful, authentic home from the early 1700s. Checking into a boutique hotel, our free evening allows us to wander through the Old Bazaar. Immerse yourself in its lively atmosphere, take leisurely strolls through its historic lanes, and savor the flavors of traditional cuisine in one of the charming nearby restaurants.

Hiking Peshtura Waterfall
Difficulty: Easy
Hiking distance: 0.4 km (0.24 mi); approx. 1.5 hours;
Elevation gain: +10 m (32 ft);
Elevation Loss: -10 m (32 ft);
Highest altitude : 948 m (3110 ft)

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel in Gjirokastra
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Our day kicks off with a scenic vehicle journey to Goranxi village in Dropull. After exploring the village church, we embark on a low-difficulty trail ascending Broad Mountain (Mali i Gjerë). Hiking towards Ravena Monastery, we traverse a rich habitat of Mediterranean shrubs and curative plants. On a plateau, the monastery provides a panoramic view of the Drino valley. Returning to Goranxi, we then head to Asim Zeneli village for another inspiring adventure: horseback riding in the Lunxheria valley. Before continuing, we’ll stop for a visit to a village family who will welcome us with homemade traditional food for a delicious lunch. The horseback riding, suitable for beginners, explores charming landscapes, including a descent to Krina stream, an ascent to Gjinofshat village and traverse to Antigone archaeological site. For those not into the horse riding, you can still enjoy the valley with a fun buggy-driving adventure or a short hiking in Lunxheria.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Hiking distance: 5.8 km (3.6 mi); approx. 3.5 hours;
Elevation gain: +153 m (502 ft);
Elevation Loss : -475 m (1558 ft);
Highest altitude : 742 m (2433 ft)

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch
Overnight: Hotel in Gjirokastra
Drive time: 1 hour

We travel to Permet in the morning for our last experience before returning to Tirana. And what better way to commemorate this journey than by engaging on an adrenaline rafting adventure on the Vjosa River! One of the remaining wild rivers in Europe, the Vjosa River is a haven of unspoiled wilderness where our trip takes place. It commences near the border of “Tre Urat” and winds elegantly through the Përmet, Këlcyra, and Tepelena before meeting the Adriatic Sea. We will be fascinated by the stunning natural features of the Vjosa river valley as we travel through it: flowing curves, islands, gorges, and swirling streams that unveil charming communities and create picture-perfect panoramas. Once settled into our hotel in Përmet, take pleasure in some leisure time for relaxation or exploring the city center. Wrap up the day by choosing a traditional restaurant to enjoy a flavorful dinner.

Rafting difficulty: Moderate
Meals included: breakfast, lunch,
Overnight: Hotel in Permet
Drive time: 1.5 hours

The day kicks off with a drive to the healing Bënja thermal waters. Once arrived we’ll explore the ancient Katiu Bridge, marvel at the Langarica Canyon, and discover the warm, mineral-rich thermal baths of Bënja. Just 13 km from Përmet, these baths are renowned by the local people for their therapeutic qualities, attracting visitors seeking relief from ailments like rheumatism and skin conditions. Dip into the refreshing waters and enjoy the perfect mix of nature and wellness. We head back to Tirana in afternoon for our last night in the capital. After checking into the hotel, there will be a farewell dinner which is a great way to share memories, pictures, reflect on past experiences, and say goodbye to an amazing adventure.

Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Tirana
Drive time: 4 hours

Before leaving, take advantage of a free morning. Take a guided city walk across Tirana and discover its rich history and culture, stopping at famous locations like Bunk’Art, the Et’hem Bey Mosque, and Skanderbeg Square. Take the spirit of Albania with you, vowing to come back for more laughs, adventures, and treasured memories.

Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight: N/A
Drive: 40 min.