Discovering Albania, Culture & Heritage

Spend the day discovering Tirana, starting at Skanderbeg Square, the city’s vibrant centre, surrounded by landmarks like the National History Museum and Et’hem Bey Mosque. Tirana’s colorful buildings, lively markets, and diverse architecture reveal its rich history and dynamic present. Stroll through the Blloku district, once exclusive to the communist elite, now a trendy area packed with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. This neighborhood offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern energy, perfect for experiencing local culture. End your day with a trip to Mount Dajti, accessible by cable car. The mountain offers breathtaking views of Tirana and the surrounding landscapes.Tirana’s lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and welcoming locals make it a must-visit destination, offering a truly memorable experience.

Wake up and dive into expedition life. Get to grips with the local currency (Albanian lek) and meet the ground team to discuss your plans. Berat, known as the ‘town of a thousand windows’ because of its white Ottoman houses, is split by the Osum River and flanked by mountains, offering culture and adventure. Discover Berat’s history at its medieval fortress, Albania’s only inhabited castle. Explore the stone courtyard with its 24 watchtowers and get a bird’s-eye-view of the town’s houses, mosques, bars, and bazaars. Don’t miss the museum and Byzantine churches, some carved into cliffs with beautiful frescoes. Feeling hungry? Roll up your sleeves and join a cooking class in Berat, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Albanian dishes and authentic Berati recipes. Discover where locals buy their ingredients and immerse yourself in the flavors of this historic town.

Boots on, time to trek. You’re about to spend two days exploring Tomorri National Park, home to thick woodland, sparkling lakes and its namesake mountain range towering above it all. Spanning more than 261 square kilometres, the park is teeming with wildlife, from wild boar to wolves. Step forward as team leader and set the pace through forests of pine and beech. As you trek, look up at the snow-capped mountains, the highest is Çuka Partizani (2,416m). If you’re lucky, you might spot a golden eagle overhead. Put down your trekking poles and grab a paddle, it's time to explore Tomorri by kayak. Glide through the water and get a different perspective on the park. You’ll sleep like a log tonight!

Begin your day with a journey through Osumi Canyon, one of Albania’s most spectacular natural sites. This hike takes you through a dramatic landscape where towering cliffs have been sculpted by the Osumi River over millennia. With breathtaking views, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. Scientists say the chasm was formed around three million years ago by water erosion. But according to local legend, it was created from the tears of Osumi, a beautiful woman who wept a river after two brothers she fell in love with killed each other. Explore the canyon, following trails through limestone rock and splashing through the river. Climb steep sections for epic views and stop at landmarks like Crocodile Head, Love Waterfall and Devil’s Gate. Take the time to pause and soak in the views of this largely untouched and unique ecosystem.

Embark on an exhilarating trek through Llogara National Park, nestled in the stunning Vlore region where the Adriatic and Ionian seas converge. As you ascend the rugged trails, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of Albania’s southern coast, where the deep blue sea meets the towering mountain slopes. Your journey will lead you to Qorre Peak, the highest point in the park. From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular 360-degree view of Vlora Bay, the Albanian Riviera, and the vast Shushica River region. The trek is a challenging ascent, with a 1,000-metre elevation gain, but the panoramic vistas and the sense of achievement at the top make it an unforgettable experience.

And relax. You’ve made it to Vlore, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet. This coastal city is packed with some of the country’s best beaches as well as bags of culture and activities. Discover why the area is dubbed the Albanian Riviera by checking out the city’s shoreline; sink your toes into the sand, cool off in their crystal-clear waters and watch fishing boats come in. Learn about Albania’s struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912 at the Museum of Independence. Why not visit the Castle of Kanina with its Roman ruins and panoramic views of the bay, or get a close-up view of the Albanian Riviera on a stand-up paddleboard? Find your balance, paddle through the calm waters and explore the coastline at your own pace.

Return to the heart of Tirana for another chance to explore the vibrant city. If you missed any spots on your first visit, now’s the perfect time to dive deeper into Tirana’s cultural and social scene. Head back to the bustling markets, where you can engage with friendly vendors and perhaps pick up some unique local crafts or fresh produce. Visit the House of Leaves, Albania’s Museum of Secret Surveillance, offering a glimpse into the country’s history or stop by the National Gallery of Arts to see Albanian art. For a relaxed afternoon, explore the Grand Park of Tirana, where you can stroll along tree-lined paths, visit the lake, or unwind in nature. As evening approaches, enjoy a meal at one of Tirana’s eclectic restaurants, sampling traditional Albanian and international flavors.

After the best ten days of your life, it’s time to travel home. Cram everything into your backpack and head to the airport. Check in, sit back and let it all sink in. You’ve just experienced something incredible. Albania has opened your eyes and challenged you more than you ever imagined. You’ve fast-tracked your life skills and connected with locals; you’ve led your team and made new friends for life. These experiences will shape who you are and put you on the path to becoming a true global citizen. Prepare to return home forever changed.