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Home > Tours > Albania - Off-Road Adventures: From Mountains to Coast

Albania - Off-Road Adventures: From Mountains to Coast

Gjirokaster - Gjirokaster
Duration
7 Days
Group Size
16 people
Availability
March - November
Destination
Gjirokaster

Join us for an unforgettable 7-day off-road adventure through the stunning landscapes of Albania, where rugged mountains meet pristine coastlines. Experience a perfect mix of thrilling off-road driving, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the shores of Lake Ohrid to the ancient ruins of Butrint, you’ll explore charming villages, historic landmarks, and hidden gems off the beaten path. With expert guides leading the way, this journey is designed for all skill levels and offers an exciting way to discover Albania’s wild beauty and local traditions. Get ready for a truly memorable adventure!

Terms of Participation:

Minimum Age Requirement: Participants must be at least 18 years old to join the tour. Minors (ages 6-17) may participate if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Driving License: All adult drivers must hold a valid driver’s license from their country of residence.

Health and Fitness: Participants should be in good physical condition, capable of long drives and outdoor activities. Any pre-existing medical conditions must be disclosed prior to departure.

Health Insurance Requirement:

All participants must secure their own health insurance prior to the activity, as purchasing such insurance is not possible within Albania. This is essential for ensuring coverage during the off-road experience.

Off-Road Experience: Prior experience is not required, but participants should be comfortable handling vehicles on challenging terrain. Guides will provide a briefing and guidance.

Responsibility and Conduct: Participants must adhere to local traffic laws, follow guides\' instructions, and respect the environment. Any damage to property or vehicles due to negligence will be the participant’s responsibility.

Acknowledgment of Risk: Participants must sign a waiver acknowledging the risks associated with off-road driving and outdoor activities.

Travel Documents: Ensure valid travel documents (passports, visas) and emergency contact information are carried.

Code of Conduct: Participants are expected to act respectfully towards fellow travelers and local communities.

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Price: €980 per person

Group size: Minimum 8, maximum 16 people

Trail Length: 945km

Difficulty Level: Moderate (🚩🚩)

The Vehicle You\'ll Be Driving:

For your off-road adventure, you\'ll be behind the wheel of a powerful Nissan Patrol Y61 (1998-2007), a robust and reliable vehicle designed for challenging terrains. Here\'s what you can expect:

Engine options: 2.8L turbocharged inline-6 or 3.0L turbocharged inline-4 diesel

Transmission: Manual, for a more hands-on driving experience

Capacity: 7 seats, providing ample room for passengers

Appearance: Dark green matte finish with iron bumpers for extra durability

Off-road capabilities: Full ARB suspension lift (+5 and +7 inches), extra LED lighting, and BF Goodrich or Cooper STT Pro tires (285/75/16 and 275/60/16) for superior traction on rugged terrain

Safety features: Fire extinguisher, medical kit, recovery kit, spare tire, and a high-lift jack, ensuring you\'re well-equipped for any situation

Included in the Price:

Professional driving English speaking guide, tour leader, and content guide

All accommodations and breakfasts

4x4 vehicle use with fuel, mechanical assistance, and technical support

Travel documents and detailed itinerary

Not Included:

Flights

Personal expenses

Lunches and dinners

Guided activities, including hiking and boat tours

Monument entrance fees

Damages caused by reckless behavior

Unlisted expenses

Additional Costs to Expect:

During your off-road adventure, you can expect meals at local restaurants to range between 15-20 euros per meal, including one drink. If you choose to enjoy additional beverages, prices are typically as follows:

Beer or wine: 2-4 euros

Stronger alcoholic drinks or cocktails: 5-12 euros, depending on the location and season.

Entrance fees to cultural and historical monuments vary between 4-10 euros per ticket. For optional activities like hiking, cooking classes, or boat tours, costs range between 45-55 euros. Please note that these activities should be reserved in advance to ensure availability.


Dates 2024

29.09 – 06.10

13.10 – 20.10

03.11 - 10.11

17.11 – 24.11


Dates 2025

09.03 -16.03

06.04 – 13.04

04.05 – 11.05

01.06 – 08.06

27.07 – 03.08

31.08 – 07.09

28.09 – 05.10

26.10 – 02.11

16.11 – 23.11


Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana and Transfer to Pogradec (123km driving)
14:30: Arrival at Tirana International Airport. Meet and greet with tour guides at the designated meeting point.
Transfer to Pogradec via fully equipped 4x4 vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey.
Arrive at a premium lakeside accommodation with secure parking for vehicles.
Orientation session led by experienced tour guides covering safety protocols, vehicle features, and tour expectations.
Enjoy a leisurely exploration of Pogradec, visiting its historical landmarks and cultural sites.
Dinner: Indulge in traditional Albanian cuisine at a local restaurant, with panoramic views over Lake Ohrid.
Evening: Program briefing outlining the full itinerary, activities, and safety guidelines for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Pogradec to Ogdunan Village (205km driving)

Morning: Begin with a guided visit to the Korça Medieval Art Museum, uncovering the region's rich cultural heritage, religion, and iconography.

Depart towards Leskovik, traversing diverse terrains from forest trails to mountain passes.

Early Afternoon: Stop at the Benja Thermal Waters for a relaxing soak followed by a delicious al fresco lunch.

Continue through rugged canyons en route to Ogdunan village.

Check into rustic yet comfortable guesthouse accommodations.

Afternoon: Tour village landmarks such as ancient beehives and the historic 16th-century church.

Dinner: Savor locally sourced, traditional Albanian dishes for an authentic taste of village life.


Day 3: Ogdunan Village to Gjirokaster via Gostivisht Village (124km driving)

Morning: Scenic drive to Gostivisht village, a picturesque stop for lunch amid stunning natural surroundings.

Proceed to Hotova Fir Natural Park, with opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Descend to Kosina village, with an optional visit to its 12th-century church.

Arrive in Gjirokaster, the UNESCO-listed "City of Stone."

Evening: Free time to explore Gjirokaster’s old town, enjoying local restaurants and attractions at your leisure.


Day 4: Gjirokaster to Zagoria Loop and Labova of the Cross (80km driving)
Morning: Embark on the scenic Zagoria Loop, a challenging off-road circuit showcasing Albania’s untamed beauty.
Pause at Cajupi's Valley for panoramic views of pastoral life and enjoy refreshments amidst the wilderness.
Visit the historic monastery bridge in Nivan, followed by a lunch stop in Polican village to enjoy local cuisine.
Afternoon: Visit the secluded Selcka Waterfall, where you can swim, rock climb, or explore hidden caves.
Evening: Accommodation and dinner in Labova of the Cross, a village known for its medieval charm and cultural significance.

Day 5: Labova of the Cross to Butrint via Drino's Valley (186km driving)
Morning: Explore the medieval village of Labova and visit its historic church.
Continue off-road through Drino’s Valley, stopping at Leshnica’s ancient church.
Coffee break in the quaint village of Cerkovica.
Arrive in Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a guided exploration of its ancient ruins and scenic landscapes.
Take a boat tour along the coastline, including a mussel tasting experience. (optional)
Evening: Drive to Progonat for accommodation and a local dinner.

Day 6: Progonat to Berat (126km driving)
Morning: Hike through the rugged canyons of Progonat, exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Drive towards Berat, the "City of a Thousand Windows," stopping en route to visit local villages and scenic landscapes.
Lunch: Enjoy traditional cuisine in Gllave village.
Evening: Explore Berat's UNESCO-listed castle and historic neighborhoods, with optional guided tours of local cultural attractions.

Day 7: Berat to Tirana (101km driving)
Morning: After breakfast with a view of Berat’s stunning scenery, depart for Tirana.
Afternoon: Transfer to Tirana International Airport, concluding the off-road tour.

From
980 EUR
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