Shkoder is a fantastic base for exploring some of Albania’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Its proximity to the Albanian Alps means you can enjoy a variety of national park tours that showcase rugged mountains, crystal-clear waterfalls, and charming mountain villages. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a quick scenic hike, Shkoder offers options that cater to different interests and fitness levels. We particularly love trips that combine stunning scenery with cultural highlights, like visiting Theth’s iconic Blue Eye or hiking to Grunas Waterfall. These tours provide a genuine taste of Albanian wilderness and are perfect for travelers eager to see untouched nature.
For those planning their trip, check out our top picks below. Each offers a distinct experience—from guided day-trips filled with sightseeing to active hikes in the Albanian Alps—giving you a well-rounded view of what this region has to offer.
Quick Overview
Our list includes guided day-tours to Theth National Park (Theth Guided Day Tour) that highlight highlights like The Blue Eye and waterfalls, a longer day trip to Boge and Theth (Boge & Theth Tour) perfect for those wanting to explore multiple destinations, and a short but scenic hike (Hiking to Grunas Waterfall) for adventure lovers. Now, let’s look at each experience in detail.
1. Theth National Park Guided Day-Tour from Shkoder
At number one, this 10-hour guided day-trip takes you straight into the heart of Albania’s most visited natural area—Theth National Park. The tour kicks off from Shkoder and includes scenic drives, with stops at Qafe Thore and Theth Village itself. One of its biggest draws is the visit to The Blue Eye, a striking natural spring, and the 25-meter waterfall, both of which are highlights for anyone who loves dramatic scenery. The tour also offers panoramic views from 1700 meters above sea level in Theth Valley, which is a photographer’s dream.
What makes this tour stand out is its well-rounded itinerary and the excellent reviews. Travelers often mention the friendly, accommodating guides like Renato and Aurel, who make the journey informative and fun. The itinerary includes a visit to The Church of Thethi and some time to soak in the landscape, with a focus on easy hikes and sightseeing rather than strenuous trekking. The moderate pace makes it ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of the park without overexerting themselves.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of scenic highlights, cultural sights, and manageable walking. It’s a great value for what’s included, especially considering the personalized nature of guided trips.
2. Day Trip to Boge and Theth National Park
The second option is a longer, more comprehensive day trip that combines visits to both Theth and Boge villages. Ranging from 8 to 12 hours, this tour offers an immersive experience into the Albanian Alps, with a focus on diverse landscapes and cultural stops. The trip is guided, and the reviews highlight the flexibility of the guide, Marjan, who adapts to the group’s needs—including helping older travelers and those tired from hikes.
The highlight here is the visit to Qafa Thorë, with breathtaking views, and the chance to explore both Theth’s iconic Blue Eye and the surrounding mountain scenery. This tour stands out for its value—covering more ground and including personalized touches like a countryside restaurant stop and even a zipline adventure. The inclusion of some optional hikes makes this a good pick for more active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and outdoor activity.
Bottom line: If you want to see both Theth and Boge with the company of a flexible guide and don’t mind a longer day, this tour offers great variety. It’s especially suited for those who love hiking, scenic drives, and a bit of local culture.
3. Shkoder: Hiking to Grunas Waterfall in Theth National Park
For travelers looking for an active adventure, the 3-hour hike to Grunas Waterfall (Hiking to Grunas Waterfall) offers an up-close experience of Theth’s natural beauty. Priced at $58 per person, this guided trek takes you through the picturesque valley to reach a 30-meter-high waterfall, one of the park’s most stunning sights.
This tour is ideal for those who enjoy hiking at a moderate pace and want to combine a scenic walk with swimming in the pool beneath the falls. The guide, with national credentials, will share insights into local flora and fauna, making it both an active and educational experience. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a short but invigorating hike and want to include some swimming and relaxation.
While it doesn’t include the broader cultural sights of Theth, this hike provides a focused, nature-filled experience that can be easily combined with other activities. Reviewers mention the clear water and beautiful views as major highlights, making it a memorable half-day outing.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers eager to see one of Theth’s most famous waterfalls with minimum time commitment. It balances adventure and scenery nicely.
How to Choose
When deciding between these trips, consider your budget, available time, fitness level, and interests. If you’re after a comprehensive day exploring both cultural sites and scenic spots, the Theth Guided Day Tour is a good pick. For a more flexible, multi-destination experience, the Boge and Theth day trip offers great value. If you prefer outdoor activity and a shorter, more focused adventure, the hiking tour to Grunas Waterfall is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (spring through early fall), as popular tours fill quickly. Always check availability and starting times, and consider your own fitness and interests when choosing.
Final thoughts
Shkoder provides a fantastic gateway to Albania’s stunning mountain landscapes and waterfalls. For travelers with limited time, the guided day trips to Theth or Boge offer a taste of rugged terrain and scenic beauty, while those looking for a shorter, active outing might prefer the hike to Grunas Waterfall. Each tour offers a different perspective, so think about what kind of experience excites you most—be it cultural sights, outdoor adventure, or scenic drives—and book early. Your Albanian mountain adventure awaits.