Tirana/Shkodra:Valbona to Theth Hike via Shala River (SelfGuided)

Self-Guided Experience with Transport + Digital Map

Embark on one of Albania’s most iconic adventures — a 2-day journey from the fjord-like waters of Koman Lake to the turquoise beauty of Shala River, followed by a self-guided hike from Valbona to Theth.

Start your day with a scenic boat ride to Shala River, often called the “Thailand of Albania.” After time to swim and relax, continue through Fierza to Valbona. The next morning, begin your self-guided hike across the stunning Valbona Pass, using our digital GPS map to guide your way.

Perfect for hikers and nature lovers who want freedom without the hassle of organizing transport.

Trip Info Delivery

You’ll receive everything one day before departure:

✔️ Transport tickets (PDF)

✔️ Digital GPS hiking map

✔️ Full itinerary with pickup points & contacts

Sent via WhatsApp or email.

Itinerary

1. Koman

   Day 1: Travel from Tirana/Tirana Airport/Shkodra to Valbona Your journey toward the Albanian Alps begins early in the morning, with organized departures from several locations. Departures: 05:30 AM - From Tirana: Meeting point at Rruga Asim Vokshi, at “Gazheli” gas station. 06:00 AM - From Tirana Airport: Meeting point at the “Alpet” gas station. 06:45 AM - From Shkodra: Meeting point in the city center, in front of Hotel Rozafa. From here, you will travel toward Koman Lake, enjoying scenic views of mountains and rural villages along the way. Important Note: Due to high demand, hotel pick-up at your accommodation is not available. Select one of the designated meeting points and confirm your departure city when booking. 08:30 AM – Arrival at Koman Lake and ferry boarding. Enjoy a spectacular journey by boat through Koman Lake, famous for its fjord-like cliffs and emerald waters. You’ll continue along the river to reach the stunning Shala River, often called the “Thailand of Albania.”

2. Shala River · 3 h

   09:00 AM – Boat Ride: From Koman Lake to Shala River. Enjoy a spectacular journey by boat through Koman Lake. 10:30 AM – Arrive at Shala River: Spend time swimming, relaxing, or exploring this remote and beautiful location. The turquoise water, peaceful riverbanks, and surrounding mountains offer the perfect break in nature. 14:00 PM – Departure from Shala River to Fierza: Reboard the same boat for a scenic continuation to Fierza (approx. 2 hours).

3. 14:00 PM – Departure from Shala River to Fierza Reboard the same boat for a scenic continuation to Fierza (approx. 2 hours). Please note: this is a transport transfer, not a guided tour, and food/drinks are not included. 16:00 PM – Arrival in Fierza & Minivan Transfer to Valbona Upon arrival, a shared minivan will be waiting to transfer you to Valbona Valley. Let the driver know your guesthouse name for direct drop-off.

4. Valbona Valley National Park · 1 h

   17:00 PM – Arrival in Valbona Check into your accommodation (not included). Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the hike the following day.

5. Valbona Pass · 8 h

   Day 2 – Self-Guided Hike from Valbona to Theth This day is dedicated to the Valbona–Theth hike, one of the most scenic trails in the Balkans. Start early, ideally no later than 07:00 AM, to allow enough time and avoid midday heat. Many guesthouses offer transport to the trailhead for an extra fee, so confirm this in advance. Once at the trailhead, follow the GPS map provided one day before your trip. Hike details: Distance: ~17 km Duration: 6–8 hours Elevation gain: ~1000 m Trail: Well-marked with panoramic views The route passes through forests, alpine meadows, and mountain passes. Important: This is a challenging mountain hike. We recommend bringing: ✔️ Hiking shoes ✔️ 2–3L of water ✔️ Snacks ✔️ Sun protection ✔️ Layered clothing depending on weather

6. Theth National Park · 4 h

   Arrival in Theth & Return Options You will arrive in Theth in the afternoon. Option 1: Stay overnight (not included) and return the next day at 11:00 AM to Shkodra, then continue to Tirana at 14:00. Option 2: Return the same day if you arrive before 17:00. Return point: Theth village center (Minimarket Jezerca). Duration to Shkodra: approx. 2 hours.

7. Shkoder · 2 h

   Return to Shkodra Pick-up Location: Minimarket Jezerca, Theth center Departure: 5:00 PM (same day) or 11:00 AM (next day) Duration: ~2 hours Drop-off: Shkodra city center or nearby address upon request

What's included

• Boat ticket from Koman to Shala River
• Minibus transfer from Fierza to Valbona
• Transport ticket from Shkodra to Koman
• Transport ticket from Theth to Shkodra
• Boat ticket from Shala River to Fierza
• 24/7 online support from Co-Travel team
• Digital hiking map (Valbona to Theth) with GPS navigation

What's not included

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Personal expenses
• Accommodation in Valbona/Theth
• Transport ticket from Tirana to Shkoder
• Luggage transfer (hike is with your own backpack)
• Tour guide – this is a self-guided experience
• Entrance fees (if any apply during your own exploration)

Meeting point

Start time

06:30

End point

Languages

Written guide: German, English, Italian, Spanish

Travellers

• Infant (0–2)
• Child (3–11)
• Youth (12–17)
• Adult (18–70)

Options

• Tirana/Shkodra:Valbona to Theth Hike via Shala River (SelfGuided)from €149

  Start time: 06:30

  Written guide: Italian, German, Spanish, English

Additional information

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Travel time is included in the total duration!

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.