OFF-ROAD TOUR DESCRIPTION.

Level of Difficulty:   MODERATE

Off-road tour through Montenegro and Albania.

Camp & Hotel Tour

MEETING DATE:

🏁 MEETING POINT: IZVOR HOTEL AND RESTAURANT ZABLIAK MNE
Location:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/FBbaMvUCqoS581ts8

📍 End point HOTEL PANORAMA ELBASAN

Location: CENTRAL ALBANIA

Things to Know Before Travelling to Albania & MNE

 Albania:

 (Albanian: Republika e Shqipërisë) is a country in Southeast Europe. The country is located in the Balkans on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas within the Mediterranean Sea and shares land borders with Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east and Greece to the south. Spanning an area of 28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi), it displays a varied range of climatic, geological, hydrological and morphological conditions. The country’s landscapes range from rugged snow-capped mountains in the Albanian Alps and the Korab, Skanderbeg, Pindus and Ceraunian Mountains, to fertile lowland plains extending from the coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Tirana is the capital and largest city in the country, followed by Durrës, Vlorë, and Shkodër.
In ancient times, the Illyrians inhabited northern and central regions of Albania, whilst Epirotes inhabited the south. Several important ancient Greek colonies were also established on the coast. In the 2nd century BCE, the region was annexed by the Roman Republic, and after the division of the Roman Empire it became part of Byzantium. The first known Albanian autonomous principality – Arbanon – was established in the 12th century. The Kingdom of Albania, Principality of Albania and Albania Veneta were formed between the 13th and 15th centuries in different parts of the country, alongside other Albanian principalities and political entities. In the late 15th century, Albania became part of the Ottoman Empire until 1912, when the modern Albanian state declared independence. In 1939, Italy invaded the Kingdom of Albania, which became Greater Albania, and then a protectorate of Nazi Germany during World War II. Following the war, the People’s Socialist Republic of Albania was formed, which lasted until the Revolutions of 1991 concluded with the fall of communism in Albania and eventually the establishment of the current Republic of Albania.
Albania is a unitary parliamentary constitutional republic. It is a developing country, ranking 67th in the Human Development Index, with an upper-middle income economy dominated by the service sector, followed by manufacturing. It went through a process of transition following the end of communism in 1990, from centralised planning to a market-based economy. Albania provides universal health care and free primary and secondary education to its citizens. Albania is a member of the United Nations, World Bank, UNESCO, NATO, WTO, COE, OSCE, and OIC. It has been an official candidate for membership in the European Union since 2014. It is one of the founding members of the Energy Community, including the Organization of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation and Union for the Mediterranean.

What food is Albania known for?
The country’s cuisine is largely meat-based. Beef and veal are the most commonly consumed meats in Albania, followed by pork. Albania has many small eateries specializing in beef and lamb, goat and veal. In high elevation localities, smoked meat and pickled preserves are common.

What is the national drink of Albania?
Albania’s national drink is raki, a spirit made from fermented plums or grapes, with an anise-like flavour. The country also produces good red wine, and beer is widely available.

Montenegro
Montenegro is a country in Southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula.[10] Its 25 municipalities have a total population of 633,158 people in an area of 13,883 km2 (5,360 sq mi). It is bordered by Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest, Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, Albania to the southeast, Croatia to the west, and has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea to the southwest. [11] The capital and largest city is Podgorica, while Cetinje is the Old Royal Capital and cultural center.

Before the arrival of the Slav peoples in the Balkans in the 6th and 7th centuries CE, the area now known as Montenegro was inhabited principally by people known as Illyrians. During the Early Medieval period, three principalities were located on the territory of modern-day Montenegro: Duklja, roughly corresponding to the southern half; Travunia, the west; and Rascia proper, the north.[12][13][14] The Principality of Zeta emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries. From the late 14th century to the late 18th century, large parts of southern Montenegro were ruled by the Venetian Republic and incorporated into Venetian Albania.[15] The name Montenegro was first used to refer to the country in the late 15th century. After falling under Ottoman Empire rule, Montenegro gained semi-autonomy in 1696 under the rule of the House of Petrović-Njegoš, first as a theocracy and later as a secular principality. Montenegro’s independence was recognised by the Great Powers at the Congress of Berlin in 1878.

In 1910, the country became a kingdom. After World War I, the kingdom became part of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, the republics of Serbia and Montenegro together proclaimed a federation. In June 2006 Montenegro declared its independence from Serbia and Montenegro following an independence referendum, creating Montenegro and Serbia as they exist today.[16]

Montenegro has an upper-middle-income economy, mostly service-based, and is in late transition to a market economy.[17] It is a member of the United Nations, NATO, the World Trade Organization, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe, and the Central European Free Trade Agreement.[18] Montenegro is also a founding member of the Union for the Mediterranean,[19] and has been in the process of joining the European Union since 2012.[20]

Durmitor National Park

Is one of Montenegro’s most spectacular natural areas — a UNESCO-listed national park in the northwestern Dinaric Alps known for dramatic mountains, deep river canyons, glacial lakes, rich biodiversity and outdoor adventure opportunities.

🌄 Overview

• Location: Northwestern Montenegro, near the town of Žabljak.
• Size: Around 32,100–39,000 hectares (approximately 339 km²). Established: 1952 as a national park; UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Landscape: Mountain massif shaped by glaciers and rivers, forested slopes, alpine meadows, and karst terrain.

⛰️ Key Features

• Durmitor Massif: Features 48 peaks over 2,000 m, with Bobotov Kuk as the highest at around 2,523 m.
• Tara River Canyon: The park includes the Tara River Canyon — one of Europe’s deepest canyons (up to ~1,300 m deep) and a highlight for rafting and scenic views.
• Glacial Lakes: Around 17–18 glacial lakes, often called “mountain eyes”, with Black Lake (Crno Jezero) being a popular visitor destination.

🌿 Nature & Wildlife

Durmitor’s varied altitudes and microclimates support diverse ecosystems:

• Flora: Dense pine and mixed forests, endemic plant species and ancient European Black Pine stands. Fauna: Brown bear, grey wolf, European wild cat, chamois, wild boar, and many birds including golden eagles.
• Rivers & Fish: Clean waterways host trout and endangered species like Danube salmon in the Tara system.

🥾 Activities

• Hiking & Mountaineering: Trails range from easy walks to challenging ascents like Bobotov Kuk.
• Rafting & Water Sports: White-water rafting on the Tara River is a major draw.
• Skiing & Winter Sports: Zabljak is Montenegro’s main ski base for winter visits.
• Camping & Nature Tours: Many choose multi-day treks with camping or stay in Žabljak and explore from there.

📍 Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Summer and early autumn for hiking and rafting; winter offers snow sports but requires winter-ready travel.
• Getting There: Nearest major hub is Žabljak, reachable by road from Podgorica or other cities — there’s no nearby airport.
• Access Without Car: Many trails and park entries can be reached on foot from Žabljak, or via local tours/taxis.

Durmitor National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure travelers, offering some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes in the Balkans.

Rikavačko Lake
(Montenegrin: Rikavačko jezero) is a scenic glacial mountain lake in Montenegro, located in the Kuči mountain range near the Albanian border. Discover Montenegro+1

📍 Where It Is

• Region: Kučke Planine (Kuči Mountains), part of the broader Dinaric Alps in eastern Montenegro. Discover Montenegro
• Nearest Major City: Around 50 km from Podgorica. travel
• Elevation: ~1,313 m (4,311 ft) above sea level. travel
• Border: Very close to the border with Albania. Discover Montenegro

🌄 Physical Characteristics

• Origin: Glacially formed lake from the last Ice Age.
• Size: About 525 m long and 235 m wide.
• Depth: Up to ~14 m. Water Source: Fed by the Rikavac stream, rain and snowmelt; part of its outflow connects underground to the Cijevna and Ribnica
• Water: Cool, clear mountain water typical of alpine lakes.

🏞️ Landscape & Nature

The lake lies at the foot of Vila Peak (~2,093 m). It is surrounded by rugged mountains, pastures (katuni), and wildflower meadows in summer. The region’s dramatic terrain is shaped by glacial and tectonic activity.

🚗 Access & Activities

• Access: Reachable by off-road vehicle or on foot — roads get you close (e.g., via Mokra / Širokar area), then a hike leads down to the lake.
• Activities: Ideal for hiking, nature photography, picnicking, and in some areas fishing (trout).
• The lake historically served as a summer grazing and settlement area (katun) for local shepherds, and some traditional cottages are still used.

🧭 Visitor Tips

• Roads are not fully paved all the way to the lake — a good 4×4 or hiking from nearby plateaus/katuns is typical.
• The area is relatively quiet and less touristy than more famous lakes, offering a more secluded natural experience.

If you’re exploring Montenegro’s highlands or planning a trip focused on mountain nature and local culture, Rikavačko Lake is a beautiful and authentic destination — especially for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

What and where we drive ?

         MONTENEGRO

• Zabljak Durmitor National Park
• Zaragaci MT
• Podomar MT
• Rikavacko Lake

HOTEL AT LAKE SHKODRA RESORT

ALBANIA

• Koman Lake
• Munella MT
• LURA National Park

HOTEL AT DOKA RESORT IN KLOS

(LAST DAY OF THE TRIP)

Koman Lake

 (Albanian Liqeni i Komanit) is a striking reservoir in northern Albania — a scenic waterway carved into the rugged landscape of the Albanian Alps along the Drin River, known for its dramatic canyon scenery and one of the most beautiful boat journeys in the Balkans.

🗺️ What & Where

• Type: Human-made lake (reservoir) formed after the Komani Dam was built on the Drin River in the 1980s.
• Location: Northern Albania, between the villages of Koman and Fierza (in the Kukës and Shkodër regions).
• Length: Roughly 30–34 km winding through narrow gorges and steep forest-clad cliffs.
• Surroundings: Deep canyon walls, emerald waters, remote villages, and pine-covered mountains — often compared to Norwegian fjords for its dramatic scenery.
•  

🚢 Scenic Ferry Ride

One of the highlights of visiting Koman Lake is the ferry trip between Koman and Fierza:

• Route: Koman ↔ Fierza (some services include stops or connections to the Shala River).
• Duration: Around 2–2.5 hours one way.
• Experience: The journey itself is a major attraction — sitting on deck while the boat navigates narrow passages, high canyon walls, and scenic coves.
• Ferries: Several operators run daily boats, including larger ferries that carry passengers (and sometimes vehicles) and smaller sightseeing boats.
• Best Time: Spring through autumn when schedules are frequent and the weather is pleasant.

🏞️ Things to Do

Beyond the ferry ride, Koman Lake is a base for:

• Boat tours & water taxis exploring coves and the crystal-clear Shala River
• Hiking on trails above the lake for panoramic views of the Drin gorge and surrounding mountains.
• Kayaking or swimming (water temps rise in summer).
• Start for further alpine adventures — especially toward Valbona Valley and the Accursed Mountains.

🚗 Getting There & Practical Tips

• From Shkodër: About 5–2 hours by car or shuttle to the Koman ferry terminal; many day tours and minibus transfers run from there.
• From Tirana: Around 3–3.5 hours by car or organized transport.
• Parking: Available near the Koman ferry port; arriving early helps secure spots and tickets.
• Booking: In high season it’s wise to book the ferry/transfers in advance to avoid long waits or sold-out departures.

🌟 Visitor Experience

Travelers often describe the Koman Lake ferry as one of Europe’s most scenic boat journeys, offering peaceful passage through wild, dramatic nature — a highlight of any trip to northern Albania.

Lura National Park

(Parku Kombëtar i Lurës) is one of Albania’s most beautiful and lesser-visited national parks, famous for its glacial lakes, mountain scenery, forests and outdoor activities in the northeastern part of the country.

🗺️ Where It Is

• Location: Northeastern Albania, in Dibër County, on the eastern slopes of Lura Mountain (massif “Kunora e Lurës”).
• Nearest City: Peshkopi (about ~20–25 km east of the park).
• Altitude: Roughly 1,350 – 1,720 m above sea level.

🏞️ Natural Highlights

The park’s main attraction is a group of glacial lakes formed during the last Ice Age — often called the Lura Lakes — set among alpine meadows and forests:

• Around 12–14 glacial lakes, varying in size and color depending on the season.
• Notable lakes include:
  • Great Lake (Liqeni i Madh)
  • Lake of Pines
  • Black Lake (Liqeni i Zi)
  • Lake of Flowers (famous for water lilies)

In winter the lakes can freeze, and the landscape becomes a snowy alpine wonderland.

🌳 Landscape & Biodiversity

• Forests: Rich conifer and beech woodlands with colorful wildflowers in spring/summer.
• Fauna: Habitat for wildlife including brown bear, wolf, red fox and birds of prey.
• Meadows & Fields: Scenic open spaces like the Field of Mares offer peaceful views and picnic spots.

The broader expanded area (Lurë-Dejë Mountain National Park) now protects much of the Lura and Dejë mountain ecosystems and covers over 20,000 ha (about 202 km²).

🚶 Activities

Lura National Park is ideal for:

• Hiking & trekking around lakes and via mountain trails.
• Photography & nature observation — stunning glacial lakes, forests, and alpine landscapes.
• Camping & picnics in tranquil natural surroundings.
• Mountain biking and horseback riding on scenic routes.

🚗 Visitor Tips

• Access roads can be rough mountain tracks — a 4×4 vehicle may be helpful, and local guidance is useful.
• Best visited late spring to early autumn for hiking and exploring the lakes; winter offers snow scenery but requires winter precautions.
• Accommodation and facilities are modest — the nearby town of Peshkopi and villages like Fushë-Lurë offer guesthouses.

🌿 Conservation Notes

The area has faced challenges like forest fires and past deforestation, and efforts continue toward reforestation and ecosystem rehabilitation.

Lura National Park’s blend of glacial lakes, mountain landscapes, and relatively untouched nature makes it a true hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers exploring Albania.

There are plenty Beautiful mountains and landscapes during our Offrod Tour throught Albania and MNE.

Length of time

9 days
8 days off-road

Type

Offroad tour

Vehicles

Maximum 10 Cars

Overnight stays

Wild Camp & Hotel

Requirements

MT tires, winch, ground clearance, differential locks recommended.

The hotels are always beautiful oases of peace

We spend the night in local, rustic inns and on beautiful natural campsites that hardly anyone has discovered before. Far away from the noise of the streets and electric light sources, we enjoy the starry sky with a clear view of the Milky Way around the campfire.

OUR STAY DOURING THE TOUR.

• 2 nights in local guesthouses/hotels

• 7 nights camping on particularly beautiful natural wild camp (not campsites)

Supply options:

We pass through villages every 3 days where we can stock up on fuel and fresh provisions. 

THE PROGRAM

DAY 1:  ZABLJAK –  KATUN KUTA

DAY 2:  KUTA MAGANIK  – TARA RIVER

DAY 3: TARA RIVER – RIKAVACKO LAKE

DAY 4: RIKAVACKO LAKE – KORITA BORDER CROSS  – SHKODRA ALBANIA.

DAY 5: LAKE SHKODRA – KOMAN LAKE  – IBALLE

DAY 6: IBALLE – FUSHARREZ  – LURA NATIONAL PARK

DAY 7: LURA NATIONAL PARK  – KLOS

DAY 8: KLOS  – TIRANA (THE CAPITAL OF ALBANIA)

DAY 9: TIRANA  – ELBASAN AREA (END OF THE TOUR)

Note: The Above route and Plan during the trip may be modified depending on the weather conditions, technical conditions of the Cars, road conditions and other reasons…
In our tour we can have options to change time to time directions, it depends all on our speed during driving, what we like to do, easy or hard tracks will decide in our morning briefing after our Breakfast.

TOUR PRICE: 1350 EURO

FOR TWO PEOPLE IN THE VEHICCLE.

Services Included in the Price:

-The organization, hotel & restaurant bookings.
-1 Local Guide Multilanguage. English, Italian, Greek, and Spanish -fluent speaker-
-Land Rover Discovery Tdi with all expenses
-Free WIFI for our Customers
-2 Nights in typical hotels
-2 Dinners in the restaurants (excluding drinks)
-All entrance, fees and Parking’s (excluding Ferry Ticket)
-Assistance with technical and Mechanical problems
-Detailed travel documents

We kindly ask you to make your reservation by paying the 35 % of the total amount  via bank transfer.

Your reservation will fully take place after the deposit have been made and confirmed.

Deposit amount 470 Euro.

This document will be accompanied with the Bank account Information and the  PARTICIPANT RELEASE OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT

Thank you very much and am glad to see you here driving and leading you to the most beautiful tracks and highlights of Montenegro and Albania.

Note: The Above route and Plan during the trip may be modified depending on the weather conditions, technical conditions of the Cars, road conditions, and other reasons…

In our tour we can have options to change time to time directions, it depends all on our speed during driving, what we like to do, easy or hard tracks will decide in our morning briefing after our Breakfast.

In most cases, I change the route when I see my customers that they really like something different…

Travel documents and itinerary will be delivered to you by E-mail

Discover with us breathtaking and original mountain landscapes in one of the wildest mountain regions in Europe, on the way on an exciting off-road and adventure tour through Albania. The country has impressive natural beauties such as sandy beaches on the Mediterranean, impressive mountain landscapes, fertile plains, large and small lakes, and many untouched areas. Albania has a long history that goes back to the Illyrians. There are many ancient ruins and other ancient treasures. Many different cultures have left traces, so the country can offer an interesting mix of architectural monuments and social influences.

Welcome to the Land of the Eagles – Welcome to Albania, the hidden natural gem of the Balkans!