Small Group Hiking Tour; Peaks of the Balkans Trail in 7 Days

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail in Albania offers an unforgettable small group hiking adventure. Over 7 days, travelers can experience the region’s stunning scenery, traditional local cuisine, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers. Led by a professional guide, the tour provides shared accommodation in guesthouses and shepherd’s huts. With a maximum group size of 10, this highly-rated tour promises an enriching journey through the Balkans’ remarkable terrain. Those seeking an active and culturally immersive vacation won’t want to miss this remarkable opportunity.

Key Points

• 7-day small group hiking tour along the Peaks of the Balkans Trail in Albania, starting and ending in Tirana.
• Priced from $1,858.98 per person with a maximum group size of 10 travelers and a 5.0 out of 5 rating.
• Includes shared accommodation, professional guide, and breakfast on 6 days, with additional costs for meals, drinks, and transportation.
• Requires strong physical fitness and hiking experience to handle the challenging terrain.
• Highlights include breathtaking scenery, knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodation, and delicious local cuisine.

Tour Overview

This 7-day small group hiking tour takes travelers along the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, starting and ending in Tirana, Albania.

The tour is priced from $1,858.98 per person, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers. It’s rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.

The tour includes shared accommodation, a professional guide, transportation on certain days, entry tickets, and breakfast on 6 days.

Travelers must have a strong fitness level and hiking experience. Luggage transportation can be arranged for an additional fee.

Bookings are non-refundable, and the tour starts at 6:00 am from the meeting point.

Inclusions

The tour includes shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses or shepherd’s huts, with 2-5 travelers per room.

A professional tour leader accompanies the group.

Transportation is provided from Tirana to Lepsuhe on Day 1 and from Gjakova to Tirana on Day 7.

Local transport is covered for the leg from Gerbaj to Vuthaj on Day 1 and from Gropat e Erenikut to Gjakova on Day 6.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Tirana or Shkoder are included, as are entry tickets for visited sites and tourist/road taxes.

Breakfast is provided on 6 days of the tour.

Exclusions

Although the tour includes various amenities, travelers are responsible for covering their own lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks, which are estimated to cost between €12-15 per meal. Plus, the cost of souvenirs and personal spending is not included in the tour price. Any other local transfers not mentioned in the inclusions must also be arranged and paid for separately. Travelers who prefer a private room upgrade can do so for an additional €40 per night, subject to availability. For those with excess luggage, the cost of luggage transportation starts at a minimum of €770 for one person or €385 per person for groups.

Exclusions
Lunches, dinners, drinks, snacks
Souvenirs and personal spending
Other local transfers not mentioned
Private room upgrade: €40 extra per night
Luggage transportation: min €770 (1 person) or €385 per person (groups)

Preparation and Requirements

A strong physical fitness level is required for this hiking tour, as the Peaks of the Balkans Trail involves challenging terrain and strenuous activity.

Hiking experience is also recommended to ensure you’re prepared for the demands of the trail. You’ll need to carry your own belongings, so pack lightly.

Any excess luggage must be arranged for transportation or storage in Tirana.

To prepare, keep these requirements in mind:

1. Strong physical fitness level
2. Hiking experience recommended
3. Carry own belongings; pack lightly
4. Excess luggage must be arranged for transportation or storage

Booking and Cancellation

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this hiking tour.

However, the tour is non-refundable, and no refunds will be issued for cancellations.

Travelers can choose to meet the group at the Balkans Office or request hotel pickup, but 12 hours’ notice is required.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point.

The start time is 6:00 AM, so participants should plan their arrival accordingly.

Those with excess luggage will need to arrange for its transportation or storage in Tirana prior to the tour’s departure.

Group Size and Accommodation

This small group hiking tour along the Peaks of the Balkans Trail has a maximum size of 10 travelers.

Shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses or shepherd’s huts is provided, with 2-5 travelers per room.

The tour includes:

1. Professional tour leader
2. Shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses or shepherd’s huts
3. 2-5 travelers per room
4. No private room upgrade available

Travelers are expected to carry their own belongings and pack lightly, as excess luggage must be arranged for transportation or storage in Tirana.

Tour Leader and Local Transport

The tour is led by a professional guide who accompanies the group throughout the journey. This experienced tour leader is knowledgeable about the region and ensures a smooth and memorable experience for all participants. Along With the leader, the tour includes essential local transport to access the trailhead and complete the hike.

From	To	Transport
Tirana	Lepsuhe	Private transfer
Gerbaj	Vuthaj	Local transport
Gropat e Erenikut	Gjakova	Local transport
Gjakova	Tirana	Private transfer

Ratings and Reviews

Customers have raved about this hiking tour, with 8 reviews awarding it a perfect 5.0 rating.

Reviewers highlight several standout features:

1. Breathtaking scenery along the Peaks of the Balkans Trail
2. Knowledgeable and personable tour guides who enhance the experience
3. Comfortable accommodation in traditional guesthouses and shepherd’s huts
4. Delicious local cuisine that fuels the daily hikes

This tour offers an immersive trekking adventure through the Balkans, backed by glowing feedback from past participants.

The high ratings and positive reviews demonstrate the tour’s ability to deliver an exceptional outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. It is suitable for travelers of all ages who meet the strong physical fitness level needed to complete the 7-day hiking itinerary.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour information does not mention any discounts for students or seniors. Prices appear to be fixed based on the group size, with no special pricing for certain age groups.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Dietary Accommodation?

Yes, travelers can request specific dietary accommodations. The tour operator states they’ll work to accommodate dietary needs, but travelers should notify them in advance. Additional fees may apply for specialized meal requests.

How Much Additional Tipping Is Expected for the Tour Guide?

The tour does not mention any expected tipping for the guide. However, it’s customary to tip tour guides at your discretion, typically 10-15% of the tour price, to show appreciation for their services.

Can I Store My Valuables With the Tour Operator During the Hike?

The tour operator does not provide storage for valuables during the hike. Travelers must carry their own belongings and arrange for luggage transportation separately if needed, as excess luggage is not included in the tour.

The Sum Up

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail hiking tour offers an enriching and unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Balkans. With a small group size, guided by a professional leader, and staying in traditional accommodations, participants can expect breathtaking scenery, delicious local cuisine, and the camaraderie of fellow hikers. Rated 5.0 out of 5, this tour promises an exceptional and memorable journey.