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Summit Balkans
Peaks of the Balkans – Classic (Guided)
GuidedClassic

Peaks of the Balkans – Classic (Guided)

The full 16-day Peaks of the Balkans experience — deep immersion into landscapes, culture and cross-border trekking across three countries.

Duration
16 days
Distance
202 km
Elevation gain
11,069 m
Max elevation
2,656 m
Difficulty
Challenging
Min. participants
3
Overview
The Classic tour is the complete Peaks of the Balkans experience. Over 16 days you traverse every major section of the trail: the Albanian Alps from Theth to Dobërdol, the summit of Gjeravica, the remote Rugova valley stages through Kosovo (Milishevc, Reka e Allagës, Drelaj, Kuqishtë), the dramatic crossing into Montenegro via Babino Polje, Hridsko Lake, Plav, the spectacular Grebaja Valley, and the final return to Theth. For those who want the full story — this is it.
Dates & Prices

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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Low: 746 mHigh: 1,795 m+1134 m gain-950 m lossForest, AlpineModerate

This is where the journey truly begins — not just a hike, but a rite of passage through the heart of the Albanian Alps. Leaving behind the storybook village of Theth, you ascend through dense forest where the air is crisp and alive with the sound of flowing water. As the trail climbs higher, the landscape gradually transforms, opening into alpine terrain and guiding you toward the legendary Valbona Pass. At the top, the reward is immediate and unforgettable — sweeping panoramic views of jagged peaks and deep valleys stretching in every direction. The descent into Valbona Valley is long and scenic, leading you into one of the most breathtaking alpine valleys in the Balkans.

Highlights

  • Theth village and Lock-In Tower
  • Valbona Pass at 1,795m
  • Classic alpine crossing
  • Panoramic pass views
  • Dramatic descent into Valbona

🏠 Accommodation: Guesthouse in Valbona

What's included

Included

  • Experienced mountain guide throughout
  • Accommodation in guesthouses for all nights
  • Meals (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner) — except Day 1 dinner only
  • Luggage transfers
  • Transfers as per itinerary
  • Border permits and National Park entrance fees
  • Full logistical support
  • POB trail map
  • Route briefing
  • 24/7 local assistance

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Personal drinks and snacks
  • Tips for guide (optional)
  • Gear rental (available on request)
  • Pre/post tour accommodation
Gear

What to pack

Full packing guide

Essential

  • Hiking boots (well broken-in, ankle support)
  • Waterproof rain jacket and pants
  • Backpack 30–40L
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Headlamp with spare batteries
  • Water bottle (2L)
  • Sun hat, sunglasses
  • Warm mid-layer and down jacket
  • Gloves (multiple stages above 2,000m)

Recommended

  • Trekking poles (highly recommended)
  • Camera and extra memory
  • Power bank (large capacity)
  • Blister prevention kit
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+
  • Lightweight towel
  • Gaiters (for wet/muddy terrain)

Provided by us

  • First aid kit
  • Emergency shelter
  • Trail maps and GPS coordinates
  • 24/7 emergency contact
  • POB map

Minimum 3 participants to guarantee departure. Solo and duo bookings are welcome — we match you with other travellers.

Emergency contacts on the trailExpand

📞 112 — works everywhere in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. Call first.

🇦🇱 Albania

Mountain rescue: 112

🇽🇰 Kosovo

Mountain rescue (KPSS): 0800 80080

Mountain rescue (mobile): +383 49 840 228

🇲🇪 Montenegro

Mountain rescue: 112