Discover the culture, nature, and traditions of southeastern Albania on this 4-day adventure. Hike scenic trails, visit historic villages, ride mules in the mountains, and experience authentic shepherding while sampling regional cuisine. This tour offers a balance of outdoor activity, cultural immersion, and hands-on experiences in a remote and beautiful region.
Day 1: Tirana → Korça → Voskopoja
Departure from Tirana at 08:00. The drive passes through the scenic plains of southeastern Albania, with views of rolling hills, rivers, and small villages. Arrive in Korça around 09:30 for a short stop to stretch and admire the city’s architecture before continuing to Voskopoja.
Upon arrival in Voskopoja, explore the historic churches of St. Nicholas and St. Mary, renowned for their frescoes and centuries-old architecture. Wander through the village streets and surrounding forests, taking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere. A traditional lunch at a local restaurant includes dishes such as byrek, baked lamb, and yogurt casserole. The evening is spent relaxing at a cozy guesthouse with opportunities to mingle with locals and fellow travellers.
Day 2: Hiking the "Path of Letters" to Vithkuq
Depart Voskopoja at 08:00 for the 17 km hike along the “Path of Letters.” The route spans roughly 6 hours with an elevation gain of 700 meters, offering a mix of forested trails, meadows, and streams. The path includes several designated rest stops for hydration, photography, and taking in panoramic mountain views.
Arrive in Vithkuq in the afternoon, where the village’s traditional guesthouses welcome you. Guests can settle in and explore the village, meeting locals to learn about their crafts and customs. The evening includes a communal dinner featuring regional specialties, giving insight into the area’s culinary traditions.
Day 3: Shepherd Life in the Rrungaje Mountains
Depart early at 08:00 for a mule ride to the shepherds’ station in the Rrungaje mountains. Along the way, take in rugged mountain scenery, including steep slopes, forested valleys, and panoramic vistas. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the shepherding lifestyle: feeding animals, tending flocks, and learning practical skills used in daily mountain life.
A traditional lunch is prepared on-site, featuring fresh produce from the mountains such as homemade cheese, butter, and yogurt. In the evening, set up camp near the shepherds’ station, share stories around a fire, and enjoy the clear night sky full of stars. This day combines physical activity with authentic cultural experiences.
Day 4: Descent with Mules and Dairy Workshop
Begin the day at 08:00 by descending from the mountains on mules, transporting fresh milk collected from the shepherds to a local dairy. The descent follows scenic trails with occasional stops to admire waterfalls, mountain meadows, and remote villages.
At the dairy, participate in a hands-on tour demonstrating traditional cheese, yogurt, and butter production. Guests can taste freshly made products and interact with local producers. After the workshop, return to Tirana by late evening, around 20:30, concluding a memorable 4-day adventure combining nature, culture, and hands-on experiences in Albania’s mountains.
The tour begins in Tirana and travels southeast toward Korça before reaching Voskopoja, a village known for centuries-old churches and rich cultural heritage. Walking through forests and meadows along the route, guests encounter untouched scenery, traditional settlements, and a peaceful rural atmosphere.
Hiking and mule rides take you to Vithkuq and the Rrungaje mountains. These areas are remote and largely untouched, offering panoramic mountain views, quiet trails, and the chance to observe authentic shepherding practices. The journey provides a mix of natural beauty and cultural insight, highlighting local traditions.
Guests stay in comfortable traditional guesthouses throughout the tour, giving a sense of authentic Albanian village life. Rooms are clean and cosy, with either private or shared facilities depending on the property, providing a relaxing retreat after active days.
Three overnight stays are included: in Voskopoja, Vithkuq, and near the Rrungaje mountains. Meals are provided each day with traditional breakfasts, lunches, and dinners prepared from regional ingredients, allowing guests to fully experience the local cuisine and hospitality.
Participants should be comfortable with moderate hiking and basic horse riding. Normal fitness is sufficient, but guests should be prepared for uneven mountain trails and walking over varying terrain.
Appropriate footwear, layered clothing for changing mountain conditions, and a small backpack for personal essentials are recommended. Following guidance from guides ensures a safe and enjoyable experience on all activities.
This tour blends outdoor adventure with cultural and hands-on experiences, led by guides familiar with the region’s history, traditions, and natural environment. Guests gain insights into both village life and shepherding practices while enjoying scenic hikes and mule rides.
The group size is kept small to provide personalised attention, flexibility, and a welcoming atmosphere. The combination of hiking, horse riding, and cultural activities offers a comprehensive way to experience southeastern Albania’s landscapes, heritage, and traditions.
This tour involves moderate hiking and basic horse riding, so participants should be comfortable walking several kilometres over uneven terrain. Each day’s activity varies, with some longer hikes, mule rides, or gentle walks depending on the itinerary. Those with average fitness will find it manageable, but it’s important to be ready for sustained physical activity.
Guides provide pacing advice and adjust routes if necessary to accommodate the group. Breaks are included along hiking paths and during horse riding segments, giving time to rest, enjoy the scenery, and take photographs while maintaining safety and comfort throughout the tour.
No prior horse riding experience is required. Participants are provided with a basic introduction to riding, including guidance on mounting, dismounting, controlling the mule or horse, and following safety protocols. Instructors remain with the group throughout each ride to provide support and ensure confidence.
Rides are planned at a pace suitable for beginners, with some gentle trails and opportunities to walk alongside experienced riders. Even those new to riding can enjoy the experience while taking in panoramic mountain views and accessing areas otherwise difficult to reach on foot.
Accommodation is in traditional guesthouses located in Voskopoja, Vithkuq, and near the Rrungaje mountains. These properties are family-run or locally managed, offering clean, comfortable rooms with either private or shared facilities, providing an authentic experience while maintaining comfort.
Guesthouses typically include common areas for relaxing after the day’s activities, and some offer opportunities to interact with hosts and local communities. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, allowing guests to unwind in a safe and homely environment after hiking or horse riding.
Yes, meals are included throughout the 4 days. Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are prepared from local ingredients and feature traditional Albanian dishes. Guests will enjoy freshly baked goods, dairy products, vegetables, and meats sourced from the surrounding villages.
Special meals, such as lunches with shepherds or dinners in guesthouses, allow visitors to experience authentic regional cuisine while learning about local food traditions. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated if communicated in advance, and guides can provide guidance on meal options.
Families with older children can participate, particularly for hiking and cultural visits. While there is no minimum age specified, parents should consider each child’s stamina and ability to follow instructions during hikes and mule rides.
Some sections, such as the more active mountain trails and shepherding experiences, require supervision and a moderate level of independence from children. Guides are attentive and will offer support to ensure that younger participants enjoy the experience safely.
Guests spend time with local shepherds learning about daily mountain life, including tending to flocks, feeding animals, and observing traditional routines. You’ll gain insight into the challenges and skills involved in shepherding in remote areas.
This immersive experience also includes a traditional lunch prepared on-site with fresh produce such as cheese, butter, and yogurt. Guests can participate in hands-on activities like milking, feeding animals, and learning about the mountain lifestyle, offering an authentic cultural connection.
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots are essential, along with layered clothing suitable for mountain weather that can change quickly. A small backpack for water, snacks, and personal items is recommended, as is sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
For the horse riding and mule segments, long pants and sturdy footwear will improve comfort and safety. Guides provide any additional equipment needed for specific activities, including helmets or protective gear, depending on the day’s itinerary.
About the centre
Tiranë
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