Albania is a hidden Mediterranean gem, with the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Its diverse landscapes—unspoiled beaches, breathtaking mountain passes, ancient archaeological ruins (Illyrian civilizations, Hellenic colony, Roman and Byzantium Empire, Ottoman Empire), UNESCO sites, and quaint historic villages—make it the perfect holiday destination for families who are happy to stray off the tourist path.

Why We Love This Trip:

• Coastal and Cultural Delights: From the bustling city streets of Tirana to the idyllic beaches of Ksamil, experience the vibrant cities and breathtaking coastline of Albania.
• Thrilling Safaris: Zip through the stunning Ionian coast on speedboat, exploring hidden caves, secluded beaches, and turquoise seas.
• History Unfolds: Step into the past among the ancient ruins of Butrint, the Ottoman architecture of Gjirokaster, and Durrës’ grand amphitheater.
• Wildlife & Nature: Look for the unusual Dalmatian pelicans of Divjakë-Karavasta National Park and admire the Llogara Pass vistas.
• Tasty Local Delights Taste hearty Albanian food, from freshly caught fish in Vlora to village cookery in UNESCO’s town Girokaster.
• Relax & Unwind: Soak white sand beaches, splash crystalline seas, and wallow in sun-warmed afternoons in Albania’s loveliest seaside towns.

Tour Details:

• Trip Pace: Moderate (a balance of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation)
• Group Size: 10 – 16 travelers
  • This family adventure is a great mix of activity, relaxation, and culture. From hiking, swimming, visiting ancient ruins, or simply enjoying the Albanian Riviera scenery, this trip will create memories that will last a lifetime!
• Trip Staff:
  • Tour Leader
  • Local Guides
  • Driver(s)

Trip information:

• Climate and Country: Albania enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Tirana boasts 9 to 11 hours of sunshine during the summer, while temperatures can soar to 40 °C in July. July and August can be hot in Albania. In the beginning of the season and the end, it is a little colder and might rain. The tour leader may have to adjust walks with this in mind. Weather from October to April is mild but highly unpredictable in the mountainous regions. Snow can be found on the highest peaks throughout the year
• Time Difference to GMT +1
• Plugs: standard European 2-pin round plugs.
• Religion: Islam, Orthodox,Catholic
• Language: Albanian, as it is the native and official language, but you can communicate easily in English, and sometimes in Italian and greek

Budgeting & Packing:

• Clothing: Travel during summer by wearing light-colored clothes. Layer for spring and fall travel with a fleece or jacket for chill evenings. It’s always smart to carry a lightweight raincoat. Don’t leave out swimwear for use in beach games and water activities.
• Shoes: Wear hiking boots or good trail shoes, along with good walking shoes for general sightseeing and hiking. Use sandals or water shoes when walking on pebbly beaches, swimming lakes, and whitewater rafting.
• Check-in baggage allowance: 20 kg. A backpack and a single main piece of luggage must be carried by visitors. Stairs are prevalent everywhere in Albania, and there is no porterage facility, so light and hand-carry luggage is recommended.
• Equipment: Minimal equipment includes an inflatable water flask, mosquito spray, sun hat, shades, and suntan lotion. Having a beach towel to jump onto a boat or a sudden emergency dip during the trip is useful. Bring a torch as a definite requirement in case the journey proceeds one round in the dark.

Tipping

Tipping is not necessary but is well appreciated.

• Leader: 20-30 € per person/week (optional, for exceptional service).
• Local Crew: 20€ for tipping local staff
• Food and Drink
  • Approximately
    • Lunch: 10-15 €
    • Dinner: 18-22 €
    • Beer: 2 €
    • Water: 1 €
    • Vegetarian food is everywhere, but the vegan and gluten-free traveler will need to carry extra snack food. Simple meals are grilled vegetables, salads, and roasted potatoes.
    • Tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water or filtered water is preferable.
• Currency & Payment
  • Local currency: Albanian Lek (ALL).
  • Accepted foreign currencies: Euros, US dollars, and British pounds can be exchanged in major towns.
  • ATMs: Available in most larger towns.
  • Credit Cards: Not widely accepted; cash is preferred.
  • Transport trips involve travel by bus, boat, or private vehicle, depending on the itinerary.

Things You Need to Know

Always check the local tax government’s travel advice to stay updated concerning safety, health, and entry requirements.

Visa & Passport Requirements

• Citizens of the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not require a visa.
• Other nationalities should check with their local embassy for visa requirements.
• Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
• Insurance All travelers must have valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities included in the itinerary.

Safety & Health

• We recommend checking government travel advisories before departure. For vaccinations and health recommendations, consult your healthcare provider.

Insurance

• Travel insurance that is mandatory must include medical treatment, emergency repatriation, and any activities outlined in the holiday itinerary. The traveler must ensure that their policy is comprehensive.

Booking Conditions

• Once confirmed, your booking price is locked in and will not change. However, voluntary changes (e.g., date changes) may incur additional costs.
• For further details or specific inquiries, feel free to contact our team!

Under 18 Immigration

• Passengers under 18 years of age may need parent permission to travel abroad. It is best to phone the relevant embassy in advance.

Minimum Age Restrictions

• There is a minimum age restriction of 16 for group tours, whereas that for family tours ranges from 7-11.
• For kids under 16 years old, the price goes down by 150 euros.

Fitness & Safety

• All activities need participants to be fit. The tour leaders can require participants to sit out if they may risk others’ safety or enjoyment. No refund will be made for activities missed.

• Meals: 7 breakfast and 2 lunches
• Transport: Comfortable bus and scenic boat ride
• Accommodation
• Expert tour and local guide

• Flight tickets to and from Albania.
• Entrance fees for museums, castles, and other historical sites.
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and additional meals.
• Travel insurance (mandatory for all travelers).