Walking Albania's Coastal Trails
Walking Albania's Coastal Trails
Walking Albania's Coastal Trails
8 Days Starting and ending in Tirana, Albania
Visiting: Vlora, Karaburun Peninsula, Llogara Pass, Himara, Albanian Riviera, Qeparo, Tirana
Tour operator:
Tour code:
WCA
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
16-
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the "Walking Albania's Coastal Trails" tour, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Albania's stunning Riviera. This coastal hiking holiday invites you to discover authentic stone villages, Byzantine castles, and an island fortress, all while indulging in fresh seafood and traditional Albanian cuisine. Starting from Tirana, the journey takes you through the unspoiled beauty of the Karaburun Peninsula, the dramatic Llogara Pass, and the picturesque Gjipe Canyon. Experience the charm of Himara, trek the historic 'Prisoner Trail,' and visit the Ali Pasha Fortress. With a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Albania's hidden gems, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Join Trip At Tirana Airport And Drive To Vlora On The Adriatic Coast
Location: Vlora
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bologna
Our trip begins in the arrivals hall at Tirana Airport (airport code TIV) at 3.00pm. Look out for your tour leader who will be holding an Explore signboard. The latest time you should book a flight to arrive at is 2.30pm. We'll travel together as a group to Vlora, the 150 kilometre journey should take us around two-and-a-half hours.
After some time to freshen up upon arrival, your tour leader will hold a short welcome meeting at the hotel followed by dinner at a local restaurant for anyone wishing to join.
Vlora is Albania's third largest city and enjoys a stunning location on a sweeping bay protected by the Karaburun Peninsula. Expanding rapidly in recent years, it's becoming a popular holiday destination with both Albanian and international visitors.
Day 2: Hike On The Unpopulated Karaburun Peninsula
Location: Karaburun Peninsula
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bologna
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we head south along the coast from Vlora to set out on our first hike of the week from close by the Pashaliman naval base. Our route takes us along the Karaburun Peninsula, a stunning and rugged 16 kilometre-long stretch of land that marks the boundary between the Adriatic Sea to the north and Ionian Sea to the south. The unpopulated peninsula, with its rolling hills and secluded beaches, is part of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Our hike takes us along quiet bays and up on to the ridge for stunning coastal views. Sazan Island can be seen across Vlora Bay. A mysterious island with a legacy that goes back to Albania's communist period, it was only reopened to the general public in 2010 and today is still a military base with around 3600 bunkers and many miles of tunnels dating back to communist times.
Returning to Vlora in the afternoon, there's time to join in with the locals taking an early evening stroll along the Lungomare, a recently constructed five-kilometre long promenade that is part of a broader government initiative to revitalize the city's coastline and boost tourism. You can also pay a visit to the restored Old Town area which offers a picture-postcard setting with some great cafes and restaurants.
Today's 8 km hike is expected to take around 4 hours with a total ascent and descent of 390 metres (1280 feet).
Day 3: Morning Hike From Llogara Pass To Dhjopuri Pass. Afternoon Walk Through Gjipe Canyon And Along The Coast
Location: Llogara Pass
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chimaera
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we depart Vlora for the Llogara Pass (1043m), the highest point along a road that was until very recently the main route south along the southern Albanian coast (the alternative Llogara tunnel route was opened in July 2024). Our drive up to the Pass takes us through the Llogara National Park, a diverse terrain of alpine meadows, dense coniferous forests and dramatic rock faces.
Our hike ascends steeply at first on a narrow, zig-zagging path through the pine forest, climbing on a shepherds' trail to the saddle, the Dhjopuri Pass. The views from here down to the sea and Karaburun Peninsula are simply stunning. We return back on the same route and plan to refuel with lunch at a roadside restaurant with panoramic views.
Continuing for a short while in our bus, we'll stop off to take a shorter contrasting hike this afternoon. This route takes us alongside Gjipe Canyon and down to the beach where there's the chance to take a refreshing swim in turquoise waters. We then follow the coastal path to Monastery where we pick up our bus for the onward drive to Himara, where we stay for the next four nights.
Sited between the Ceraunian Mountains and the Ionian Sea, on a coastline that is widely known as the Albanian Riviera, Himara retains a small town charm and makes for a great base from which to enjoy the best of the region's coastal walks and attractive beaches.
This morning's 5 km hike is expected to take around 3.5 hours with a total ascent and descent of 480 metres (1575 feet). The afternoon 3 km walk will take us around 1.5 hours with an ascent of 80 metres (262 feet) and descent of 300 metres (984 feet).
Day 4: Morning Boat Ride To Jala Bay; Hike To Himara Castle Via Livadi Bay. Free Afternoon
Location: Himara
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chimaera
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we head down to the seafront to catch a boat along the coast to the start of today's walk at Jala Bay. The first part of our route hugs the coast along a path towards Livadi Bay before heading uphill inland to the village of Old Himara, a maze of narrow streets and traditional stone houses around 240 metres above the coast. The focal point of Old Himara is its ruined castle which dates back to the Byzantine era although parts of its ancient walls are believed to date back as early as the 5th century BC.
We return to our hotel in Himara by bus and the afternoon has been left free for you to relax and explore at your leisure. You may like to spend some time down at town's beach where kayaks and paddle boards are available for rent in season. The restaurants in Himara serve up freshly caught seafood, traditional Albanian dishes and Italian cuisine is also popular and of a good standard, many Albanians having spent some time living and working in their neighbour just a short hop across the Ionian Sea.
This morning's 6 km hike is expected to take around 2.5 hours with a total ascent of 256 metres (840 feet) and and descent of 85 metres (279 feet).
Day 5: Coastal Trek Along The 'Prisoner Trail' From Lukova To Borsh
Location: Albanian Riviera
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chimaera
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our trek today enjoys beautiful views of the Albanian Riviera, passing through small stone villages along the way and terraced landscapes used for the cultivation of olives, lemons and oranges. Constructed during the communist era by prisoners (alongside military personnel and local volunteers), the route has become popularly known as the 'Prisoner Trail'.
Today's 12 km hike is expected to take around 4 hours with a total ascent of 175 metres (574 feet) and descent of 400 metres (1312 feet).
Day 6: Hike From Kudhes To The Coast At Qeparo
Location: Qeparo
Accommodation Name: Hotel Chimaera
Meals Included: Breakfast
A short bus transfer takes us to the start of today's hike, the villages of Khudes. We follow an ancient shepherd's trail out and above the village before descending through forests and past terraced fields and groves of olives to Old Qeparo, a sleepy village occupying a picturesque location with stunning views. From here we continue down to the beach and the modern settlement of Qeparo. We've time to refresh ourselves with a dip in the sea before returning to Himara for our final night on this wonderful stretch of coast.
Today's 12 km hike is expected to take around 4hours with a total ascent of 235 metres (771 feet) and and descent of 430 metres (1411 feet).
Day 7: Visit Ali Pasha Fortress Before Driving To The Capital, Tirana
Location: Tirana
Accommodation Name: Hotel Oxford
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we leave the coast behind and head back to the Albanian capital Tirana. Before our route heads inland, we'll stop for a look at the Ali Pasha Fortress at the beautiful bay of Porto Palermo. The fortress was built in the early 19th century by the Ottoman Albanian ruler Ali Pasha of Tepelena. We'll explore the different rooms and tunnels of the fortress before admiring the views from its terrace.
We should be back in Tirana by mid afternoon and check into our centrally located hotel, after which your tour leader plans to guide you on a brief orientation so you can make the most of your time here. The Albanian capital is one of the most dynamic of the Western Balkans and surprises many first-time travellers with its lively restaurant, bar, and cafe scene worth discovering by both day and night. Tonight there's the opportunity to go as a group for our last dinner in the city.
Day 8: Trip Ends In Tirana
Location: Tirana
Meals Included: Breakfast
The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Tirana.
There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Tirana at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you would like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Tirana airport (airport code TIA), which is around 30 minutes from our hotel.
If you want more time in Tirana, why not book some extra nights before or after the tour? The capital is a safe and friendly city, easy to navigate and has lots to offer.
What's Included
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Meals
Breakfasts are included for 7 days.
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Guided Tours
The tour includes guided hikes and visits to various locations such as the Karaburun Peninsula, Llogara Pass, Gjipe Canyon, and Ali Pasha Fortress.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels including Hotel Bologna, Hotel Chimaera, and Hotel Oxford.
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Transportation
Transportation is provided from Tirana Airport to Vlora and throughout the tour, including a boat ride to Jala Bay.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from Tirana are not included in the tour package.
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Lunches and Dinners
Lunches and dinners are not included, except for the welcome dinner on the first day.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional activities, and tips are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.
Meals
Breakfasts: 7
Mode of Transport
Travel as a group from Tirana Airport to Vlora, with a scenic drive along the coast. Enjoy boat rides and bus transfers to various hiking locations, ensuring a seamless exploration of Albania's beautiful landscapes.
Accommodation
Stay in comfortable accommodations including Hotel Bologna in Vlora and Hotel Chimaera in Himara, offering convenient access to Albania's stunning coastal trails and local attractions.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the starting point of the tour?
The tour starts at Tirana Airport, where you will meet your tour leader in the arrivals hall.
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What is the first activity on the tour?
The first activity is a drive from Tirana Airport to Vlora on the Adriatic coast, followed by a welcome meeting and optional dinner at a local restaurant.
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What can I expect during the hike on the Karaburun Peninsula?
The hike on the Karaburun Peninsula offers stunning coastal views, quiet bays, and a chance to see Sazan Island across Vlora Bay. The hike is part of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, known for its rich biodiversity.
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What is the significance of the 'Prisoner Trail'?
The 'Prisoner Trail' is a coastal trek constructed during the communist era by prisoners, military personnel, and local volunteers. It offers beautiful views of the Albanian Riviera and passes through small stone villages.
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What historical site will we visit on the last day of the tour?
On the last day, you will visit the Ali Pasha Fortress at Porto Palermo Bay, built in the early 19th century by the Ottoman Albanian ruler Ali Pasha of Tepelena.
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What is the final destination of the tour?
The tour ends in Tirana, the capital of Albania, where you can explore the city's lively restaurant, bar, and cafe scene.
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I'm going on a walking/cycling trip-do I need to train?
It will depend on the grade and how fit you already are. Check the trip page for details of the walking or cycling grade and how far you’ll be walking/cycling each day. For moderate or challenging trips in particular we’d recommend doing some walks or cycles before you leave to build up your fitness and prepare you for the distances being covered.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have a wide range of ages nationalities on our small group trips and they come from all walks of life.
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Should I get travel insurance?
Yes–it is a condition of booking that you are fully insured when travelling with us
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How long has the tour company been trading?
At Explore, we're the experts in adventure travel. Our small group adventure holidays have been running since 1981. Today, Explore is one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK with over 500 trips to more than 120 countries.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but there are no concessions for doing so, and we must have a record in your booking advising as such before the trip departs.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Being a responsible company is a large statement, something that has to be entwined within the very fibre of a company. Discover the charities and partnerships we support as part of this at https://www.explore.co.uk/about/sustainability/charities-and-partners
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
We want to be as clear as and as honest as possible about what happens if you decide to that you no longer wish to travel on your trip. Our booking conditions have details of the costs you’ll incur when you cancel-these charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure.
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What is the accommodation like?
We choose comfortable accommodation in the best locations possible. We opt for small, local and family-run accommodation where we can, as opposed to large chain hotels. We typically use hotels that are the equivalent of European 3-star, and you’ll usually have an en suite room. Occasionally, where we want to get off the beaten trail we may stay in more basic accommodation.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. But as we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help, and Explore has created a sustainability strategy based on the 2015 UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you're protected before and during your travels with us. Receive a full refund if your trip is cancelled, transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure minus any irrocoverable costs.
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Do I need to be very fit to book with you?
All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Final documents will include a comprehensive trip itinerary, climate and country information, budgeting and packing advice visa and passport information and details on optional activities available.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes on most of our trips. Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room, known as our single room option. On some trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided o
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Do we have to be vaccinated against Covid-19 to travel
It’s now a condition of booking a trip with us that customers should have one of the following before they travel - — Be vaccinated against COVID, having received the full recommended course, and allowing enough time for immunity to take effect. Full vaccination includes any booster required to keep the vaccine valid. — Have taken a negative test (rapid antigen or PCR) within 72hrs of departure.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Explore will only offer hotels that have specific COVID-19 protocols in place and comply with local government guidelines. We will ensure these measures include; enhanced room cleaning, ventilation, social distancing, regular cleaning and disinfection of high frequency touch points in public areas, food safety, staff re-training and minimising contact within the properties.
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Free Date Changes
Explore! allows you to make 1 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 70 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Explore! requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of explore! charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 13 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.