Embark on an extraordinary 8-day self-guided 4×4 adventure through Albania’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountain roads to untouched beaches and UNESCO-listed towns. Drive off-road through Tomorr National Park, Osum Canyon, and the villages of Pilur and Dardhe, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking views. Experience Albania’s rich culture by staying in traditional guesthouses, tasting local cuisine, and exploring charming villages. Whether it’s rafting near Permet, hiking to waterfalls, or swimming in the turquoise waters of Gjipe Beach, this flexible itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation.
Selfdrive Albania in 8 days
What's this trip about?
Albanian Self-Guided 4x4 Adventure: Mountains, Villages & Riviera
OVERVIEW
PRICE
- €1,800 for 2 persons
- Groups (3-5): 10% Discount
- 6+ Guests: Contact us for special offers
- Family Discounts Available
Trip Type
- Self-Guided 4x4 Off-Road Adventure
Level
- Moderate (Off-Road Driving Required)
Duration
- 8 Days, 7 Nights
Highlights
- Off-Road Exploration through Albania’s most remote & scenic routes
- Hike to Sotira Waterfall, one of Albania’s hidden natural wonders
- Drive through Tomorr National Park, a landscape of peaks & valleys
- Explore Osum Canyon, Albania’s largest & most stunning canyon
- Relax in the thermal hot springs of Permet, known for their healing properties
- Visit UNESCO-listed Berat & Gjirokaster, two of Albania’s most beautiful cities
- Experience life in remote villages like Pilur & Dardhe, staying with local hosts
- Swim at Gjipe Beach, an untouched paradise between cliffs & the Ionian Sea
- Optional Cooking Class in Berat, learning to prepare authentic Albanian dishes
- Rafting near Permet, an adrenaline-pumping experience (optional)
Details
Group Size: Minimum 2 persons (Custom sizes available upon request)
Start & End Point: Tirana → Gramsh → Sotira Waterfall → Dardhe → Berat → Osum Canyon → Permet → Gjirokaster → Nivica → Himara → Gjipe → Vlora → Tirana
Travel Themes: Off-Road Adventure, Hiking, Nature, Local Culture, Self-Guided, Outdoor & Active Travel
Trip includes
4×4 Vehicle Rental
Road Assistance & Technical Support
Accommodation
Daily Breakfast
Parking Fees & Road Taxes
Mobile SIM Card with Internet
Detailed Road Maps & GPS Coordinates
Itinerary
Day 1: Tirana → Gramsh → Sotira Waterfall → Dardhe
- Drive from Tirana to Gramsh, starting on paved roads
- Go off-road to Sotira Waterfall, a hidden natural wonder
- Short hike to the waterfall & swimming opportunity
- Stay at Guest House Qafe Dardha, enjoying local hospitality
- Overnight stay in Dardhe
Day 2: Dardhe → Off-Road Drive to Berat via Tomorr National Park
- Scenic off-road drive through Tomorr National Park
- Wine tasting & lunch at Pupa Winery (Optional)
- Explore Berat Castle & UNESCO-listed Old Town
- Optional Cooking Class in Berat (Learn traditional Albanian recipes!)
- Overnight stay at Oda e Tomorrit or similar
Day 3: Berat → Osum Canyon → Permet
- Drive from Berat to Osum Canyon, with off-road sections
- Hike & swim in the crystal-clear waters of Osum Canyon
- Continue the drive to Permet, known for its traditional food & slow pace
- Stay at Dimitri Guest House in Permet
Day 4: Permet → Hot Springs & Village Exploration
- Morning relaxation at Permet’s famous thermal hot springs
- Visit Peshtan & Leuse villages, experiencing authentic local life
- Traditional lunch at Mira Guest House (home-cooked Albanian food!)
- Overnight stay in Permet
Day 5: Permet → Gjirokaster
- Optional morning rafting experience near Permet (thrilling rapids!)
- Arrive in UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster, Albania’s best-preserved Ottoman town
- Explore the Old Bazaar & visit Gjirokaster Castle
- Stay at Hotel Kalemi or similar
Day 6: Gjirokaster → Nivica → Kuc → Pilur → Himara
- Off-road drive through remote mountain villages, including Nivica & Pilur
- Arrive in Himara, a charming coastal town on the Ionian Sea
- Overnight stay in Himara
Day 7: Gjipe Beach Hike & Coastal Drive to Vlora
- Hike to Gjipe Beach, a hidden gem between towering cliffs
- Enjoy a swim in the turquoise Ionian waters
- Scenic coastal drive to Vlora, stopping at Porto Palermo Castle
- Overnight stay at Hotel Noar in Vlora
Day 8: Vlora → Zvernec Island → Karavasta Lagoon → Tirana
- Explore Zvernec Island, a peaceful monastery on a secluded lagoon
- Drive through Karavasta Lagoon, a wildlife-rich national park
- Return to Tirana, marking the end of your epic 4x4 adventure!
- Trip ends – Until next time!
FAQ
Where is the meeting point for the tours?
For tours starting from Berat:
The meeting point is our office (Click here)
If you are more than 1.5 km away from our office, we offer pick-up service.
For tours starting from Tirana:
The meeting point is your hotel.
What happens if it rains on the day of the tour?
Tours proceed as scheduled, rain or shine. However, in case of severe weather, we will notify you of any changes or cancellations in advance.
Can I customize the itinerary of the tour?
Small adjustments can be made to meet your needs, depending on the type of tour. Please contact us in advance to discuss any specific requests.
Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy has been designed to offer flexibility while ensuring quality service for all our guests:
Day Trips
- Full Refund: Available for cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled start time.
- No Refund: Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.
Multi-Day Trips
- Full Refund: Available for cancellations made at least 7 days prior to the scheduled departure date.
- Partial Refund: A 50% refund will be issued for cancellations made between 3 and 7 days prior to the start of the trip.
- No Refund: Cancellations made less than 3 days before the departure date are non-refundable.