Peaks of the Balkans Trek

Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo

August 31-September 12, 2026

Women Only

Trip Overview:

Step into one of Europe’s last true wilderness regions on this unforgettable high-mountain journey through Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. The Peaks of the Balkans Trail winds through remote alpine valleys, dramatic passes, and centuries-old mountain villages where hospitality is heartfelt and life moves simply.

This is more than a trek — it’s a cultural immersion paired with serious mountain adventure. We’ve curated a “highlights” route that focuses on the most stunning and rewarding sections of the trail, avoiding unnecessary road walking and prioritizing pure hiking joy. Evenings are spent in family-run bujtinas (guesthouses), sharing meals, stories, and connection in places few travelers ever reach.

Trail Specs

Total Distance: ~75 miles

Countries: Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo

Highest Elevation: Under 8,000 ft

Daily Elevation Gain: ~3,000–4,000 ft (average)

Terrain: Alpine passes, forest trails, rocky paths, open meadows

Trail Type: Point-to-point trekking with village-to-village hiking

Luggage: No luggage transfer — hikers carry their personal essentials in a daypack

What Type of Challenge Is This?

Physical Challenge

This is an advanced trekking challenge designed for strong, well-prepared hikers.

Daily distances average 7–13 miles
Daily elevation gain often ranges from 2,500–4,000+ feet
Steep ascents and descents are common, often beginning early in the day
Highest elevation stays below 8,000 feet, but sustained climbing adds intensity

Preparation, endurance, and consistency matter more than speed.

Mental Challenge

Remote terrain, shared accommodations, border crossings, and unpredictable mountain weather require adaptability and grit. Flexibility, teamwork, and a positive mindset are essential. This is a journey where mental resilience is just as important as physical strength.

Accommodations & Comfort

Accommodations are simple and authentic:

Family-run bujtinas and mountain guesthouses
Shared or dorm-style rooms are common
Shared bathrooms and minimal amenities
Warm hospitality and unforgettable settings outweigh luxury

Reward Level

Exceptionally high.
From crossing international borders on foot to hiking nominated National Geographic trails, this trek offers deep cultural connection, raw wilderness, and profound personal accomplishment. Expect moments that feel earned — and unforgettable.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 — Arrive in Tirana

Arrive in Albania’s vibrant capital. Group welcome, airport transfers, and evening introductions. Overnight in a centrally located hotel.

Day 2 — Tirana

Enjoy the highlights of Tirana with a guided walking tour, a cable car to a city view lookout for lunch, and a cooking class exploring authentic Albanian cuisine.

Day 3 — Berat

Travel south to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat. Guided walk through the old town, historic neighborhoods, and castle ruins. Return to Tirana.

Day 4 — Tirana to Theth

Scenic mountain drive into Theth National Park. Short walks, village exploration, and preparation for trekking days ahead. Overnight in a guesthouse.

Day 5 — Theth to Valbona Pass

Begin trekking with a stunning climb over Valbona Pass. Expansive alpine views and forested descents. Overnight in a mountain guesthouse.

Day 6 — Valbona to Çerem

Cross into remote highland terrain with open meadows and quiet valleys. A full day of hiking through traditional mountain landscapes. Overnight in a bujtina.

Day 7 — Çerem to Dobërdol

Ascend into the Dobërdol Highlands near the Montenegro border. Rolling alpine scenery and wide-open skies. Overnight in a remote mountain lodge.

Day 8 — Dobërdol to Milishevc (Kosovo)

Cross into Kosovo, hiking toward the iconic three-border region. Cultural transition and dramatic ridgelines define the day. Overnight in a guesthouse.

Day 9 — Milishevc to Babino Polje (Montenegro)

A challenging but rewarding day over high mountain passes into Montenegro. Overnight in a family-run guesthouse.

Day 10 — Babino Polje to Gashi Valley

Descend into the pristine Gashi River Valley, a UNESCO-protected ecosystem. Lush forests and riverside trails. Overnight in a guesthouse.

Day 11 — Gashi Valley to Theth

Final trekking day back to Theth, completing the core loop of the Peaks of the Balkans. Group celebration dinner. Overnight in Theth.

Day 12 — Theth to Tirana

Return to Tirana via Shkodra. Farewell dinner and reflections on the journey.

Day 13 — Departure Day

Depart Albania or continue onward travel.

(All itineraries are subject to small changes based on weather, booking availability, trail conditions, etc.)

A couple of tourists rest on a meadow in the mountains of Albania Mountains on the north A

WanderWell Donation

At Authentica, we believe that travel should leave the world better than we found it. That’s why every trip directly fuels our WanderWell Fund—a commitment to supporting the landscapes, wildlife, and communities that make our journeys so meaningful. With each booking, guests become active partners in conservation and cultural preservation. Your adventure doesn’t just take you across new horizons—it helps protect them for generations to come.

Our Impact in The Balkans

For the Peaks of the Balkans trek, a portion of each booking supports EuroNatur’s Balkan Lynx Recovery Program, helping protect one of Europe’s most endangered big cats and preserve the fragile mountain ecosystems it calls home.

When you hike these trails, you’re also helping ensure they remain wild — for generations to come.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

Exclusions

Accomodations in Tirana before and after the trek
English speaking guides throughout daily excursions and english speaking trekking guide on POB Trek
Airport transfers to and from the Tirana Airport
All bujtina accommodations on the POB Trek
All breakfasts included
Luggage storage in Tirana
Most meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) provided on POB Trek
All tours and activities listed in itinerary
POB trek border crossing permits and fees
Booking fees and taxes
WanderWell donation to the Balkan Lynx Recovery Program

International airfare
Personal gear needed for your trek other than sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, and trekking poles
Some meals along the way (assistance is provided in reserving restaurants, and providing dinner locations for the group)
Any personal expenses – laundry, phone, internet, shopping, spa, etc.
Tipping to guides and other team members
Any extra drinks (including bottled water, canned juice, soft drinks, liquor)
Travel Insurance & Any expense that occurred during rescue or evacuation
Solo occupancy booking ($500/person). Can only be guaranteed in Tirana.

Your Trip Host

Brooke B.

Brooke brings years of experience leading trekkers through remote mountain landscapes across the world, with extensive high-altitude trekking experience and a deep commitment to responsible adventure travel. She believes the most meaningful journeys happen when challenge, culture, and connection intersect — and the Peaks of the Balkans embodies all three.

As your host, Brooke is there to support logistics, foster group connection, and ensure each traveler feels confident, prepared, and empowered throughout the journey.

Vusanje to Theth hiking tour in balkan .jp2

Trip Cost:

$3,700.00/person

To secure your spot on this adventure, a deposit of $700 is required at the time of booking.

All deposits are non-refundable but may be transferred to another Peaks of the Balkans Trek itinerary if you’re unable to join the trip you originally selected.

Final payment is due on June 1, 2026.

Get in Touch

For questions regarding remaining trip spaces, itinerary, high altitude, gear or other details, please send us a message!

In order to put your deposit down to secure your place, please contact us via the form provided!

Inclusions and Exclusions

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