Albania’s fifteen national parks offer incredible opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife watching, nature photography, and more. Whether you plan to visit for a few hours, a day, or several weeks, this guide provides all the information you need for an unforgettable experience.
In addition to vibrant cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Saranda, Albania boasts numerous natural destinations in this relatively undiscovered region of the western Balkans.
As in many countries worldwide, Albania’s national parks deserve and demand attention.
Some of Albania’s national parks are renowned beyond the country’s borders, drawing adventurers from near and far. Notable examples include Llogara, Theth, and Butrint—the latter being a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical and cultural significance. Additionally, there are a dozen more national parks waiting to be explored in Albania.
Albania is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering popular activities such as hiking, cycling, wildlife watching, landscape photography, and rock climbing. Exploring the great outdoors is a must-do in Albania. Its stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes will undoubtedly surprise you and leave you eager to share your experiences with friends and family back home.
If you’re wondering what to do in Albania after exploring Tirana and the Albanian Riviera, visiting one (or more) of Albania’s national parks is an excellent choice.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of all 15 national parks in Albania. They are divided into the top 10 parks and five lesser-known alternatives. Read on to choose a few and add some adventure to your Albania holiday.
10 Stunning National Parks in Albania
1. Shebenik-Jabblanicë National Park
Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, with its varied elevation ranging from 300 to 2,200 meters above sea level and diverse vegetation types, combined with its remote location, is an excellent destination for wildlife watching.
In the remote mountains of eastern Albania, near the border with Macedonia, a significant population of large mammals thrives, including brown bears, Balkan lynx, gray wolves, and European otters. Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is a hiker’s haven, offering numerous trails of varying difficulties. The park is especially picturesque in the autumn, with vibrant foliage adorning the slopes and surrounding the glacial lakes.
How To Get To Shebenik-Jabblanicë National Park
Despite its remote and rugged nature, the park is located only approximately 90 kilometers east of Tirana. However, due to the winding mountain roads leading to the park, the drive takes about 2.5 hours.
For those intending to engage in thorough exploration, it’s advisable to base yourself in the small villages surrounding the park. Several of these villages are situated along the SH3 highway, which runs parallel to the Shkumbin River.
2. Mount Dajti National Park
Situated in central Albania, Dajti National Park, sometimes referred to as Dajti Mountain National Park, stands out as one of Europe’s most easily accessible national parks. Located just east of Tirana, the capital of Albania, it’s remarkably close to the city, reachable via the Dajti Express cable car. This picturesque journey spans approximately 1 kilometer and takes about 15 minutes, making it the longest cable car ride in the Balkans.
Upon reaching the cable car terminus, you’ll find a tourist complex bustling with restaurants, various activities, and even a couple of hotels. However, the true beauty awaits beyond this area. After savoring the panoramic view of Tirana below, venture onto one of the trails that wind through the forest and hills.
How To Get To Dajti National Park
Undoubtedly, the most enjoyable way to reach Dajti is via the cable car. Starting from the renowned Clock Tower at Skanderbeg Square, you can catch a bus to Teleferiku, followed by a brief 5-minute uphill walk. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi ride directly to the drop-off point of the Dajti Express.
Alternatively, if you prefer to stay grounded, you have the option to drive or cycle up Dajti Mountain as well.
3. Divjakë-Karavasta National Park
The salt marshes, floodplains, estuaries, sand dunes, and coastal meadows of the Karavasta Lagoon provide a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. It serves as a crucial refuge for waterbirds such as pelicans and egrets, making it a truly captivating sight to behold.
The Karavasta Lagoon’s diverse ecosystem, including salt marshes, floodplains, estuaries, sand dunes, and coastal meadows, supports a rich variety of flora and fauna. It serves as a vital sanctuary for waterbirds such as pelicans and egrets, making it a truly remarkable sight to see.
How To Get To Divjakë-Karavasta National Park
From Tirana, Divjakë-Karavasta National Park is easily accessible by a 100-kilometer or 1.5-hour drive, situated on the Adriatic Sea coast just south of Dürres. The journey from Dürres is straightforward, taking approximately an hour via the SH85 and SH57 highways.Alternatively, if you prefer to stay grounded, you have the option to drive or cycle up Dajti Mountain as well.
4. Fir Of Hotovë-Dangelli National Park
Located in Gjirokastër County in the southeastern corner of the country, Fir of Hotova-Dangelli National Park stands as Albania’s largest national park. Named after the Hotova fir, a prevalent tree species that blankets much of its terrain, the park is one of Albania’s most underappreciated natural destinations. It offers activities for every season, catering to a wide range of interests.
While the fir trees dominate the forests of Fir of Hotova-Dangelli National Park, you’ll also encounter other tree species such as maples, oaks, and black junipers. Despite its relative accessibility, the park encompasses some remarkably untamed landscapes inhabited by wildlife including wild boars, badgers, red foxes, grey wolves, and even brown bears.
Popular activities within the park include hiking, backpacking, and whitewater rafting in Langarica Canyon.
How To Get To Fir Of Hotovë-Dangelli National Park
The nearest town to Fir of Hotova-Dangelli National Park is Përmet, situated along the SH75 highway, providing connections to other major highways. The closest major cities, Vlore and Saranda, are both approximately a 2.5-hour drive away, located on the coast.
5. Butrint National Park
Less than 20 kilometers south of Saranda in southern Albania, Butrint National Park stands out as a highlight in the Albania national parks system. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts one of the most significant archaeological sites not only in Albania but also in the Balkans as a whole.
The Butrint National Park site encompasses ruins, structures, and artifacts spanning from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages. Among the surviving buildings, often in a state of ruin, are a Roman amphitheater, an ancient baptistery, a grand basilica, the city walls, and two distinct castles. Moreover, the ancient city of Butrint is nestled within an environment characterized by woodlands, waterways, and lakes of immense ecological significance.
Another captivating feature of Butrint National Park is the rocky Ksamil Islands, accessible only by boat. If you have access to a boat, a journey to these islands comes highly recommended. You may even have the chance to spot dolphins frolicking in the surrounding waters, adding to the allure of the experience.
How To Get To Butrint National Park
Butrint National Park is conveniently reachable from the coastal city of Saranda. If you have your own vehicle, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a taxi from Saranda to Butrint. It’s advisable to arrange your return trip with the same driver, as finding a taxi at the park can prove to be a challenge.
Another convenient option is to take the bus. There is a direct bus route between the city and Butrint, with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes.
For travelers vacationing in Corfu, Greece, you can catch a ferry to Saranda and then take a bus or taxi to Butrint National Park. It’s worth noting that when traveling between Greece and Albania, you will cross into a different time zone. Albania operates on GMT+1, while Greece operates on GMT+2.
6. Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park stands as the sole marine national park in Albania, safeguarding an area that extends almost 2 kilometers into the sea. This stunning coastal park is located near Vlore in the southwest of the country. It encompasses both the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, the largest island in Albania.
The Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park boasts extraordinary features, including underwater ruins dating back to Greek and Roman times, as well as relics from World War II. Additionally, the park is teeming with marine life, including corals, three species of sea turtles, and dolphins. Unsurprisingly, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities here.
On the peninsula, visitors may also encounter chamois, roe deer, otters, and wild boar, adding to the park’s diverse wildlife offerings.
How To Get To Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park
The core of the Karaburun Peninsula is located just 37.5 kilometers south of the city of Vlore, accessible by car via the SH8 and SH95 highways. The small coastal town of Orikum sits just north of the park’s border, providing convenient access to the area.
7. Llogara National Park
Llogara National Park offers a remarkable array of landscapes, stretching from the sun-drenched coast of the Ionian Sea to the peaks of the Ceraunian Mountains. It stands out as an exceptional hiking destination in Albania, boasting trails that lead through vertical cliffs, pristine forests, and stunning alpine meadows spread across its vast hectares. A visit to Llogara National Park provides a truly sensational escape from the bustling Albanian Riviera below.
Named after the Llogara Pass, which divides the mountains into western and eastern ranges, Llogara National Park offers breathtaking coastal vistas. From the pass itself, visitors can gaze down upon the pristine white beaches of the Ionian coast and the town of Dhermi. The pass is equipped with a parking lot and several restaurants.
An additional captivating feature of Llogara National Park is Caesar’s Pass, a mountain pass famously traversed by Julius Caesar in pursuit of his adversary Pompeii.
How To Get To Llogara National Park
Situated between the prominent coastal towns of Vlora and Sarandë, Llogara National Park is easily accessed via the SH8 coastal highway. The Llogara Pass is a highlight along this route, providing superb accessibility from Dhermi, a beach town nestled just below the mountains.
The recommended way to experience this region and drive along one of Albania’s most scenic routes is by self-driving. Renting a car in a major town allows you to explore the park at your own leisurely pace, taking in all the breathtaking views and stopping wherever you please to fully appreciate the beauty of Llogara National Park.
8. Lurë National Park
Stretching across the eastern slope of Lura Mountain in northeastern Albania, Lurë National Park is characterized by its long and narrow shape and offers a diverse range of elevations. This geographical diversity gives rise to several distinct ecosystems and abundant biodiversity.
At the heart of the park’s landscape are twelve glacial lakes and dense forests, primarily composed of European beech, silver fir, and various species of pine trees. Each lake is named after its most prominent feature, with notable examples including the Big Lake, Lake of Pines, Black Lake, and Lake of Flowers, the latter adorned with beautiful white water lilies during the summer months.An additional captivating feature of Llogara National Park is Caesar’s Pass, a mountain pass famously traversed by Julius Caesar in pursuit of his adversary Pompeii.
How To Get To Lurë National Park
Situated in the remote northeast of Albania, Lurë National Park presents one of the most challenging journeys to reach among the country’s national parks. Its distance from major cities necessitates several hours of driving, often along narrow roads.
The nearest major city, Shkodër, is approximately a 4.5-hour drive away. Similarly, reaching the park from Tirana city entails a lengthy journey. The closest village with accommodations and amenities is Fushë Lurë, located just north of the park.
9. Theth National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Albanian Alps, Theth National Park stands as one of Albania’s most renowned and breathtaking natural reserves, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts. Located in northern Albania, it encompasses much of the picturesque Shala Valley, offering a stunning array of landscapes including waterfalls, dense forests, rugged mountain peaks, meandering rivers, and captivating rock formations. To the east, the park borders Valbona Valley National Park.
Scattered throughout the lush Shala Valley are a couple of charming villages, providing ideal bases for exploring this captivating wilderness. Activities abound and cater to various interests, including mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Theth National Park is celebrated as one of Albania’s prime locations for encountering iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. Visitors have the opportunity to observe golden eagles, wild goats, and the largest lynx population in Albania, ensuring an unforgettable experience. While large mammals such as brown bears and gray wolves also inhabit these mountains and forests, sightings are rare.
How To Get To Theth National Park
Accessing Theth National Park typically involves taking the SH21, a side road branching off the SH1 from Shkodër. Therefore, reaching Shkodër is the initial step for most visitors. Public transportation offers a viable option, with buses available from Tirana to Shkodër, followed by a mini-bus journey into the park.
For those preferring to drive, it’s worth noting that the final stretch of the SH21 from Qafe e Terthores to Theth is particularly challenging, characterized by winding and bumpy roads along a deep ravine. It’s essential to ensure you have a reliable rental car for this journey and maintain focus on the road ahead.
Alternatively, adventurous individuals can embark on a hike from Valbona Valley National Park to Theth National Park. Covering a distance of 13 kilometers, this rugged terrain typically requires 6 to 8 hours to traverse. This hike, spanning two national parks, ranks among the most epic hiking trails in Albania.
10. Valbonë Valley National Park – Valbona Valley National Park
Located in the far north of Albania, bordering Montenegro to the north and Theth National Park to the west, Valbonë (or Valbona) Valley National Park stands as another spectacular destination for hiking adventures in the Albanian Alps.
Characterized by its dramatic, rugged summits and lush forested valleys, punctuated by glacial springs and cascading waterfalls, Valbonë Valley is a truly heavenly and unique destination cherished by both humans and wildlife alike. The park’s Gashi River forms part of the UNESCO Primeval Beech Forests World Heritage Site, spanning various locations across Europe. In addition to its rich floral diversity, Valbonë Valley is also teeming with wildlife, offering ample opportunities for observing the local ecosystem, including brown bears, lynx, chamois, grey wolves, wild goats, and numerous bird species.
Hiking ranks among the most popular activities in the park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its breathtaking natural beauty. Other activities available include nature photography, mountain biking, fishing, boating, and mountaineering. For families seeking outdoor adventures, Valbonë Valley National Park provides the perfect setting for a memorable afternoon in nature.
How To Get To Valbonë Valley National Park
The village of Valbonë serves as the focal point for tourism in this breathtaking park. However, due to its location deep in the Accursed Mountains, reaching it requires some effort.
Your first option is to drive yourself, embarking on a long and winding journey along several SH roads. It’s important not to rush this journey. Instead, take your time and savor the experience, as the journey itself offers stunning scenery that’s half the fun.
The second option is to travel by mini-bus, which is arguably the most popular means of transportation in Albania. However, finding an itinerary or schedule online can be challenging, as there is no official system in place. Your best bet is to ask around locally for information.
Lastly, as mentioned earlier, you can opt to hike between Theth and Valbonë Valley National Parks. This extraordinary 13-kilometer mountain trek typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, offering a truly memorable adventure amidst the Albanian Alps.
5 Other National Parks In Albania: Less-Known Alternatives To Explore
11. Fir Of Drenovë National Park
Fir of Drenovë National Park, one of the smallest national parks in Albania, is primarily characterized by its forests. These woodlands are predominantly populated by silver firs, from which the park derives its name. Other notable features include the Lenies Lakes, numerous natural springs, and various rock formations, such as the Cave of Tren and the Stone of Capi.
12. Prespa National Park
Situated at the border with Greece and Macedonia, Prespa National Park boasts a diverse range of water features, including wetlands, reed beds, meadows, salt marshes, and lakes. This rich ecosystem makes it a vital area for birdlife, attracting numerous species. Recognized for its ecological importance, Prespa National Park is included in various international preservation programs such as the European Green Belt, UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, and Ramsar Convention.
13. Shtamë Pass National Park
Named after the stunning mountain pass it traverses, Shtamë Pass National Park encompasses an undeveloped mountain landscape, with hiking and scenic driving being the main attractions. While the park does boast some historical features, its primary allure lies in the opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the mountainous terrain.
14. Tomorr National Park
Mount Tomorr, a prominent mountain in southern Albania, rises majestically to a height of 2,416 meters above sea level, serving as the centerpiece and namesake of Tomorr National Park. This mountain has a rich history and cultural significance, being home to a local Bektashi temple and facilities for winter sports enthusiasts. Located just 25 kilometers east of Berat, one of Albania’s main tourist attractions, Mount Tomorr and its surrounding national park offer visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities.
15. Zall-Gjoçaj National Park
Sharing a border with Lurë National Park, Zall-Gjoçaj National Park may be small, covering fewer than 2 square kilometers, but it boasts a diverse range of landscapes including alpine meadows, mountains, pristine forests, ravines, and lakes. Despite its size, the park is rich in wildlife, with species such as lynx, wild boar, and wolves thriving within its boundaries.
Best Time To Visit Albania’s National Parks
For national park adventures in Albania, summer is usually the best time. While it can be pretty hot during the day, this is definitely the time of year with the most sunshine and least precipitation. Visiting a national park in summer, especially if you’d like to hit some of the glorious Albania hiking trails or be active in another way, is best done in the morning or late afternoon for two reasons.
One, you’ll beat the day-trippers that arrive toward midday, which can be a hectic time in some parks. Two, it’s just a lot cooler then and much more pleasant physically (and probably mentally as well).
However, some mountain parks like Theth and Valbonë Valley are at their prime in both spring and fall. Spring comes with snowmelt and roaring waterfalls, wild rivers, and wildflowers. Fall, on the other hand, brings with it glorious foliage in the forest-covered valleys.
It’s hard to pick just one favorite among Albania’s incredible national parks! Each offers its own unique charm and beauty. Whether it’s the rugged mountains of Theth National Park, the pristine lakes of Prespa National Park, or the diverse ecosystems of Llogara National Park, there’s something special to appreciate in all of them. What about you? Which Albanian national park captured your heart? Let us know in the comments below!
