Albania Adventure: 9-Day Journey through the Alps

Albania

$3600 per person (interest free payment plans available) | $600 deposit to reserve your spot

June 20-28, 2026

16 spots available

About the adventure
About the adventure

About the Adventure

Hidden between rugged peaks and turquoise rivers, Albania is Europe’s best-kept secret — wild, raw, and unbelievably beautiful. This journey takes you deep into the heart of the Albanian Alps, where ancient trails connect remote mountain villages and life moves at nature’s pace.

We’ll trek the legendary Valbona–Theth Trail, stay in cozy guesthouses, and share homemade meals with locals who’ve lived in these valleys for generations. After the mountains, we’ll unwind along the Shala River, a paradise of clear blue water and lush forest — only accessible by boat.

This isn’t just a trip — it’s a chance to disconnect, breathe deeply, and experience one of Europe’s last untouched frontiers.

About the adventure

Trip Co-led by Brynn Wopperer & Kook

This journey will be guided by the energy and care of two leaders who complement one another beautifully.

🌿 Kook (Kaleigh McAndrews) – Founder of Kook’s Wild Ride, she has spent years designing and leading international adventures that are soulful, high-adventure, and deeply connective. Kook brings a contagious enthusiasm for discovery, a heart for building community, and a steady hand in weaving logistics with magic.

Brynn – A grounded and compassionate guide, Brynn carries a gift for creating space where people feel safe, inspired, and at ease. Brynn has led Kook's trips to Guatemala, South Africa, and Peru and continues to take the trips herself knowing there is simply no richer way to travel than on one of these trips.

Together, Brynn and Kook create a container that is adventurous and soulful—holding both the thrill of exploration and the gentleness of connection. Their shared vision ensures that every traveler feels both supported and challenged to step into something bigger than themselve

9-Day Itinerary Overview

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

About the adventure

DAY # 1 | Saturday, June 20

Arrival and Relax (D)

Activities:

☯ Arrival and taken to the hotel for relaxation and group reflection
☯ Afternoon small tour and introduction of the city
☯ In the evening we will enjoy an included cultural dinner

Accommodation: Hotel Tirana

About the adventure

DAY # 2 | Sunday, June 21

Tirana City Exploration Day (B, L)

Today will be an exciting full day exploring the beautiful city of Tirana and its abundant country sides.

Activities:

☯ Morning scenic cable car ride up to Dajti Mountain
☯ Half day city tour around the Kinostudio neighborhood and more
☯ Lunch at a family-run countryside restaurant + light hike on the property

Petrela Hike Details:

Length: ~3.7 miles
Duration: 2–2.5 hours total
Elevation Gain: ~820 feet

Accommodation: Hotel Tirana

About the adventure

DAY # 3 | Monday, June 22

Journey to the North: Shkodra & Theth (B, D)

Activities:

☯ We will begin our drive to the north through the beautiful countryside until we meet Theth.

Drive time: We will spend a few hours driving to different sites throughout the day and will arrive at our hotel in the evening

Accommodation: Bujtina Polia Guesthouse

About the adventure

DAY # 4 | Tuesday, June 23

Volbona Valley Hike (B, L, D)

Today we will begin our scenic hike with a trail connecting Teth to Volbona- an ancient footpath that for centuries was the only link between these two remote valleys.

Hike Details:

Length: ~10.5 miles

Duration: 6 to 8 hours ish

Elevation gain: ~3,280 feet

Highest point: ~5,955 feet at Valbona Pass

In the afternoon, we descend into the peaceful Valbona Valley. A local van will bring us to a

traditional neighborhood where we settle into a local guesthouse.

Accommodation: Hotel Rezidenca

About the adventure

DAY # 5 | Wednesday, June 24

Into the Wild: Valbona to the Shala River (B, L)

Today we venture deeper into the Albanian Alps, beginning with a drive to the town of Fierze. From there, we’ll board a private boat and cruise along the dramatic waters of Koman Lake before reaching the stunning, untouched shores of the Shala River, where we’ll spend the next two nights.

Accommodation: Bee Guesthouse Shala

About the adventure

DAY # 6 | Thursday, June 25

Hiking in the Dukagjin Highlands - Shala (B, L)

Today we will explore the valleys that surround the Shala River. These highlands are rich in legends, hidden treasures, an centuries of proud independance.

Activities:

☯ Day hikes

☯ Stop in a remote village to learn about the people and culture

☯ Evening to explore the quiet Shala River without the population of the tourist who visit during the day by boat

Hike Details:

Length: ~6.2–7.5 miles
Duration: 4–5 hours
Elevation Gain: ~1,310–1,640 feet
Difficulty: Moderate

Accommodation: Bee Guesthouse Shala

About the adventure

DAY # 7 | Friday, June 26

Toward the Lowlands: Shala to Fishte (B, D)

After breakfast, we will return by boat to Koman and begin our drive back toward the lowlands. We will pause at a charming lakefront restaurant for a nice snack.

Activities:

☯ Visit Mrizi i Zanave- a pioneering slow-food farm and restaurant that has become a model of sustainability, culture, and pride
☯ Wine tasting
☯ Unforgettable farm-table dinner

Accommodation: Mrizi Zanave Fishte

About the adventure

DAY # 8 | Saturday, June 27

Local Life and the Adriatic Coast - Fishte (B)

Today, we’ll spend a full day along the Adriatic Sea exploring the town of Fishte. We’ll also visit nearby villages, where we’ll meet artisans, small farmers, and families who are preserving the beautiful traditions and ways of life that have been passed down for generations.

Activities:

☯ Visit nearby villages
☯ Farm-table lunch hosted by a local family
☯ Afternoon of rest and swimming

Accommodation: Mrizi Zanave Fishte

About the adventure

DAY # 9 | Sunday, June 28

Farewell Alabania

Depending on what time your flight is there may be time for morning shopping in Tirana. You will then be transported to the airport for your international flight home.

Included

  • Privat English speaking guide the whole trip

  • 8 nights of accommodation in selected boutique hotels, guesthouses, and local homes

  • Breakfast each day + 11 meals as mentioned in program (4 dinners, 5 lunches, and 1 light snack

  • Multiple cultural, cultural, and nature tours

  • Transportation throughout the whole trip in private cars and buses

  • Wine tasting experience

  • Fully inclusive 3-night trek through the Albanian Alps sleeping in guest houses

  • All entry tickets

  • Dajti cable car ride in Tirana

  • Fishing village village

  • So much more


Not included

  • International flights

  • Trip insurance- (highly recommended)

  • Any Table Drinks, Tea/ Coffee, Water, Chocolates, Beer etc.

  • Any Meals that are not included in the itinerary

  • Personal Insurance & emergency rescue charges if necessary

  • Personal Expenses, Medical and evacuation Cost, Travel Insurance and Laundry

  • Cost raised by re-routing, cancellation, political disturbance which are not under our control etc

  • Tips to the Guides, Porters and the drivers [Tips are expected]

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel is one of those things that naturally gives rise to queries, so we’re here to put your mind at ease. Which trip is right for me? What do I do about visas? How much do I tip? For questions frequent and otherwise, this is the spot.

Who are these trips for?

Our adventures are designed for open-minded, adventurous travelers who crave connection and meaning. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group of friends — you’ll fit right in as long as you’re kind, curious, and up for an adventure.

Do I need to be super fit to join?

Nope! Our trips are active, but accessible. You should feel comfortable walking, hiking, and being on your feet for parts of the day — but we always move at a relaxed, group-friendly pace. Each trip description will outline the activity level.

Can I join solo?

Absolutely. Most of our travelers come solo — it’s part of what makes these trips so special. We match roommates (unless you prefer a solo supplement), and you’ll instantly feel part of the crew.

What’s included in the price?

Most of your major costs are covered — accommodations, guided experiences, local transport, and most meals. International airfare and optional extras are usually not included. See the “What’s Included” section on your trip page for details.

What’s the group size?

We keep our groups intimate — usually between 10–14 travelers plus your trip leader. This size allows us to form genuine connections and go off the beaten path with ease.

Are flights included?

International flights to and from the starting destination are not included, but we can help you find great flight routes and timing suggestions once you’re booked.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes! All KWR trips are designed with flexible, no-interest payment plans. Typically, you’ll place a deposit to reserve your spot, followed by 2–3 equal payments leading up to the trip.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand life happens. Deposits are non-refundable, but depending on timing, partial credit may be applied to another trip. Check your confirmation email for your trip’s specific cancellation policy.

Will there be free time?

Yes! Every trip blends structured adventure with downtime. Think: beach afternoons, café hangs, or journaling in a hammock. We intentionally design space to breathe

Let’s connect and travel

Immerse yourself in local culture, enjoy daring adventures, and form long-lasting friendships with fellow travelers from around the globe.

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