Peaks of the Balkans Trail in 7 Days – Choose Balkans Route

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail offers adventure-seeking hikers a captivating 7-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Balkan region. Organized by the trusted travel company Choose Balkans, this small-group tour provides participants with the opportunity to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. With accommodations in traditional guesthouses and the guidance of a seasoned tour leader, travelers can expect an unforgettable experience that combines physical challenge with the chance to connect with the local way of life. For those eager to explore the Balkans’ hidden gems and forge lifelong memories, this trail might just be the perfect adventure.

Key Points

• The Peaks of the Balkans Trail is a 7-day hiking tour starting and ending in Tirana, Albania, exploring the majestic peaks and valleys of the Balkans.
• The tour is limited to a maximum group size of 10 travelers, offering a small-group experience, and is priced from €1,493.83 with a 5.0 rating.
• Shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses and shepherd’s huts, a professional tour leader, and transportation are included, but meals and excess luggage are excluded.
• Strong physical fitness and hiking experience are recommended due to the trail’s challenges, and light packing is advised to avoid excess luggage fees.
• The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Balkans, with highlights including breathtaking vistas and stays in traditional accommodations.

Overview of the Tour

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail is a 7-day hiking tour that starts and ends in Tirana, Albania.

This small-group adventure, limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, explores the stunning landscapes of the Balkans. Priced from €1,493.83, the tour earns a stellar 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews.

Hikers will enjoy shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses and shepherd’s huts, with a professional guide leading the way. The tour includes transportation, entry tickets, and most taxes, though meals and personal expenses are extra.

Strong fitness and hiking experience are recommended, as the trail poses a challenge. Additional luggage support is available at an additional fee.

Inclusions

This tour packs in an array of inclusions to ensure a seamless hiking experience.

Travelers will enjoy shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses or shepherd’s huts, with 2-5 travelers per room. A professional tour leader will guide the group throughout the journey, and transportation is provided from Tirana to Lepsuhe on day 1 and from Gjakova to Tirana on day 7.

Local transport is also included on day 1 (Gerbaj to Vuthaj) and day 6 (Gropat e Erenikut to Gjakova). The package covers entry tickets for visited sites, as well as tourist and road taxes, and petrol.

The tour also includes:

1. Hotel pickup/drop-off in Tirana or Shkoder
2. 6 breakfasts
3. Luggage transportation available at additional fees
4. Private rooms available for an extra €40 per night (subject to availability)

Exclusions

While the tour includes a wealth of amenities, several expenses aren’t covered.

Lunches, dinners, drinks, and snacks are at the traveler’s own cost, estimated to be around €12-15 per meal.

Souvenirs and personal spending are also excluded from the package price.

Plus, any local transfers not mentioned in the inclusions aren’t provided.

Travelers should factor in these additional costs when budgeting for their Peaks of the Balkans Trail adventure.

The tour operator advises that excess luggage transportation can be arranged at an additional fee of €770 for one person or €385 per person for groups, subject to availability.

Important Details

Travelers meet at the Choose Balkans Office in Tirana, with hotel pickup available upon request (12 hours’ notice required).

The tour starts at 6:00 am and isn’t wheelchair accessible. A strong physical fitness level is required, and hiking experience is recommended.

Light packing is advised, but excess luggage transportation can be arranged for an additional fee (€770 for one person; €385 per person for groups).

The tour features:

1. Shared accommodation in traditional guesthouses or shepherd’s huts (2-5 travelers per room)
2. Private rooms available for €40 extra per night, subject to availability
3. Entry tickets for visited sites included
4. Tourist and road taxes, as well as petrol, covered.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking for the Peaks of the Balkans Trail tour is confirmed upon reservation. The tour is non-refundable, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

However, additional luggage transportation may be arranged depending on availability, for a fee. Travelers are advised to pack light, as excess luggage transportation is available at an additional cost of €770 for one person or €385 per person for groups.

Private rooms can be booked for an extra €40 per night, subject to availability.

Group Size and Pricing

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail tour typically accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers per group.

The starting price for this 7-day adventure is €1,493.83, though the exact cost may vary depending on the group size.

Travelers can expect the following pricing details:

1. Group of 2-3 people: €1,493.83 per person
2. Group of 4-5 people: €1,369.41 per person
3. Group of 6-8 people: €1,259.84 per person
4. Group of 9-10 people: €1,165.17 per person

The tour includes a range of amenities, such as shared accommodation, professional guidance, and local transportation, making it an attractive option for those seeking a comprehensive Balkan adventure.

Location and Duration

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail adventure takes place in the captivating region of Tirana, Albania. Spanning 7 days, this thrilling trek allows a maximum group size of 10 travelers to explore the majestic peaks and valleys of the Balkans.

Duration	Location
7 days	Tirana, Albania

The trail offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this picturesque corner of the world. With a strong physical fitness level and hiking experience recommended, adventurers can embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Balkans.

Review Highlights

With a 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews, the Peaks of the Balkans Trail adventure has captivated travelers.

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s highlights, including:

1. The awe-inspiring natural scenery of the Balkans, with breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush green valleys.

2. The immersive cultural experience, allowing guests to stay in traditional guesthouses and shepherd’s huts, and interact with the welcoming local communities.

3. The knowledgeable and attentive tour leader, who expertly guides the group through the challenging terrain and shares insights into the region’s history and traditions.

4. The overall satisfaction with the itinerary, logistics, and value for money, making this a premier trekking adventure in the Balkans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike?

The hike requires a strong physical fitness level, and hiking experience is recommended. The trail is not wheelchair accessible, indicating a challenging terrain that may be strenuous for some travelers.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear?

Hikers are welcome to bring their own hiking gear for the tour. However, it’s important to note that excess luggage transportation is available at an additional fee if needed. The tour provider recommends packing light for the hike.

What Is the Weather Like During the Trek?

The weather during the trek can vary significantly depending on the season. Generally, the days are warm and sunny, but temperatures can drop sharply at night, especially in the higher elevations. Hikers should pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

Is There an Option for Single Travelers?

Yes, the tour operator offers an option for single travelers. Single rooms are available at an additional cost of €40 per night, subject to availability.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Region?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in the region. The tour operator offers additional services, such as arranging private transfers and accommodations, to allow travelers to explore the Balkans further beyond the 7-day itinerary.

Recap

The Peaks of the Balkans Trail offers an exhilarating 7-day hiking adventure in the stunning landscapes of the Balkans. Designed for adventure enthusiasts, the small-group tour provides personalized attention, shared accommodations in traditional guesthouses, and the expertise of a professional guide. With a focus on fitness and culture, this journey promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich heritage.