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Untouched Albania

Ready to meet a rising star? Immerse yourself in Albania on this escape of culinary perfection, Ionian lagoons and ancient Ottoman cities

Package includes

  • All activities mentioned on the itinerary
  • Accommodation in twin rooms
  • 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Local transport
  • Stay in hand-picked 4-star hotels
  • Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip
  • Max 16 travellers per group

Flashpackers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

Albania’s on the up – and we can’t wait to show you why. A world where impossibly-perfect beaches meet culture-rich cities and dramatic millenia-spanning landscapes; we’ve created this showcase for anyone seeking something a little different – and isn’t that all of us?

An unexpected cultural delight; this is a destination that’ll see you diving into waters to rival the Caribbean (who knew?) before getting lost amongst an ancient history that spans far beyond just its Ottoman-era cities and fairytale castles (again, who knew?). And then, of course, there’s the food. Generations-old recipes, undiscovered wineries… An adventure to remind us all that daring to travel differently always brings the greatest rewards.

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A Tirana welcome
  • Touch down in ancient Tirana, the capital of Albania, where a private Flash Pack transfer will take you to your boutique city hotel
  • Take some time to refresh and relax before a welcome drink and first meeting with your group and Pack Leader at your hotel
  • Now to dive into traditional Albanian cuisine in an expert-led cooking class. Perfect the art of authentic savoury pies and a local ‘tave kosi’ dish while getting to know your soon-to-be-friends
Ziplining & UNESCO wonders
  • First up: adrenaline. Strap in and experience the Balkans’ longest zipline as you fly above lush landscapes and spot the 6th-century Petrela Castle
  • Arriving in Berat, discover the city’s fascinating and well-preserved history at the UNESCO site of Berat Castle, ascending to the Gorica Viewpoint for breathtaking vistas of the city and Osum River
  • End the day with authentic Albanian hospitality at the charming Guesthouse Mishaxhiu Gardens, feasting on homemade raki, jam and Turkish coffee
3-million-year-old adventures
  • Today is for pure wonder. Arriving at the 3-million-year-old Osum Canyons, board your raft and sail beneath towering geological marvels and past roaring waterfalls
  • Now it’s onward to Berat for a luxurious private tasting of organic Albanian wines (soon to be world-renowned, mark our words)
  • After a full-on day, this afternoon you’ll have the chance to explore Berat at your own pace once more
UNESCO wonders & sunset riding
  • Onwards to Gjirokaster, an impossibly charming city known for its stone-roofed houses, narrow cobbled streets and the imposing Gjirokastër Castle
  • Explore the historic wonders here, taking in panoramic views from the UNESCO fortress and stepping back in time at the dramatic 336-metre-high castle
  • Now for something memorable: a sunset horseback ride across the stunning landscapes of Gjinofshat – rolling hills, lush valleys and ancient trails illuminating Albania’s rural charm
Mussel foraging & stargazing
  • This morning you’ll experience the beauty of Butrint, the biggest and most important archaeological park in Albania. Stroll amongst ruins that date back to the 7th century
  • Forage for the famous blue mussels of Butrint lagoon, before feasting on a variety of local mussel-infused dishes
  • Travel through the Llogara Pass, passing alpine meadows, beaches and views of the riviera before arriving at the lush mountain paradise of Llogara National Park, where you’ll be staying the night
Sail the Albanian Riviera
  • Your final day and you’ll be doing it just right: private boat cruising along the postcard-perfect Albanian Riviera
  • Spend a full day exploring the area’s scenic beauty, best-known for its crystal-clear waters and secret beaches
  • Back on dry land you’ll be transferred to the capital Tirana for one last traditional meal, and plenty of toasts to unique adventures with incredible friends
Farewell, Albania
  • After breakfast, embark on your private transfer back to the airport and say goodbye to your fellow Flashpackers and Pack Leader
  • Arrive home feeling invigorated and inspired after a week of discovery and wonder in Albania. You’ve opened your eyes to this up-and-coming destination – now it’s up to you if you want to share this beautiful secret

Where you'll be staying

We often feature these unique hotels on this trip, with final options confirmed a month before departure. We work with these or similar hotels to ensure a stylish and comfortable stay every time.

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Hotel Xheko Imperial

Set within an impressive redbrick building at the heart of the capital city; Hotel Xheko Imperial fuses traditional Albanian design with modern luxuries. Grand yet cosy rooms await, while the glass covered rooftop restaurant and bar promises panoramic city views. Nightcap, anyone?

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Portik Hotel Berat

Bursting with charm in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city; Portik Hotel is well-known for its elegance and modern decor; all within view of Berat’s white-washed houses and the Osum River. The location is the star here, enabling you to strike out into the old and new towns with ease.

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Llogora Tourist Village

Nestled within Llogora National Park, Llogora Tourist Village promises cosy mountain accommodation (think charming cabins and scenic views) set amongst pine forests and rugged peaks. Featuring its own spa and on-site restaurant, you’ll have everything you need for an off-grid (but comfortable) stay. Oh, and the star-gazing is amazing.

Adventure FAQs

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA).

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

Before 5pm ideally.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

We recommend taking an afternoon flight so you can relax in Tirana before you fly home. Your hotel will be 20-30 minutes away from the airport and check out is by 11am.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi.

If I book a pre-night, where will it be?

If you’ve booked an extra night at the start of the trip, your hotel will be in Tirana. You will join the rest of the group on Day 1 at a meeting point in Tirana, so there is no need to travel all the way back to the airport.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

  • Pack Leader: 10 EUR per full day
  • Drivers: 8 EUR per full day

However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

Can my special dietary requirements be catered for?

Food allergies and special diets can of course be catered for on this trip, but please speak to one of our friendly team to find out more.

Will I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

3. Government travel advice

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

What fitness levels do I need for this adventure?

There will be a bit of walking involved, as well as the rafting experience, but overall this adventure does not require a high level of fitness.

We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

What should I pack?

Albania enjoys a warm and sunny climate and can be hot in summer (June to September), so you’ll need to bring light and breathable clothes with a few warmer layers for the evenings. If you’re travelling outside of summer, keep in mind that temperatures can drop, especially at night, so warmer clothing will be needed. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea because it can rain at any time of the year.

Baggage

  • A backpack or suitcase – It’s up to you whether you bring a backpack or a suitcase, but a soft-sided bag is best for packing into transfer vehicles.
  • A day bag – This will need to be big enough for your daily essentials such as water and your camera.

Clothing

  • Light layers – T-shirts and light tops are great for layering to keep warm or cool when required. Shorts and other light clothing will be welcome if the sun is shining.
  • Fleeces/jumpers – You’re likely to need a few jumpers/sweaters whenever you travel because even in the summer evenings can get chilly. If you’re travelling between October and April, you’re likely to need more substantial layers, especially at night.
  • Activewear – Breathable and light materials are perfect for keeping you cool during activities.
  • Swimwear – You will have the opportunity to swim at the beach and in hotel pools.
  • Sunhat/sunglasses – The sun is likely to be very strong during the day, so protecting yourself with sunglasses and a sunhat is vital.
  • Waterproof jacket – It can rain at any time of the year, so packing a waterproof jacket is always a good idea.
  • Evening clothes – What you wear in the evening is up to you, but you may want some nicer clothes to wear to bars and restaurants.

Shoes

  • Comfortable, breathable shoes (trainers/sneakers) – For easy hikes and general wear, a pair of trainers/sneakers are perfect.
  • Sandals/flip-flops – Great for relaxing during the day.
  • Evening shoes – You may want to bring a pair of shoes for going to bars and restaurants.

Accessories

  • Electricals and chargers
  • Plug socket adaptor – The plug sockets in Albania are type C and F. They are the same as the ones used in most of Europe and have 2 round prongs.
  • Refillable water bottle – This will help to reduce our plastic footprint.
  • Eye mask and earplugs – If you’re a light sleeper, you may feel more comfortable bringing an eye mask and earplugs.

Toiletries/Medical

  • Personal toiletries like toothbrush, deodorant, razors, hairbrush, etc.
  • Painkillers
  • Anti-bacterial gel
  • Insect repellant
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Moisturiser
  • High SPF factor suncream
Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

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