Starting it in Shkoder, a beautiful city in Northern Albania that is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With its historic castle, museums, and churches, Shkoder is a fascinating destination for history and culture enthusiasts. The city also offers a vibrant food scene, where you can indulge in delicious local cuisine and fusion dishes that reflect the diverse influences of neighboring countries. So why not begin your adventure in Shkoder and discover all that this incredible city has to offer?
The Peaks of the Balkans is a hiking trail that leads you through the mountainous region of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. It is about **192 kilometers** long and consists of 10 sections. The trial can be completed in **10 to 14 days** depending on your pace and preferences. It is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the Dinaric Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, and a chance to experience the culture and hospitality of the local people.
The weather in the peaks of the Balkans can vary greatly depending on the season and the altitude, the area is far less temperate than some tourist destinations, with cold temperatures all year and a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The best times to visit for ideal weather are October 22nd to December 2nd. The warmest months are August, July, and then June, with highs around 55.9°F (13.3°C)1. The coldest months are January, February, and then December, with lows around 13.7°F (-10.2°C).
June and July are the most popular months for the Peaks of the Balkans trek, with less risk of rain and more summer flowers. However, these months can also be more crowded and expensive. August and September are less busy but have more chances of thunderstorms and lower temperatures. April and May can be done but require snowshoes and shorter days.
The difficulty of the trail varies depending on the stage, but it is generally rated as easy to moderate. However, you need to have good physical condition and mountain equipment, such as hiking boots, waterproof clothing, lamps, and a first aid kit. You also need to be able to hike for several hours a day, covering distances from 13.9 km to 23.26 km and altitudes from 670 m to 2290 m. The total cumulative height uphill is about 9800 m and downhill is about 9900 m. If you are not confident in your hiking skills or orientation, you may need to have a face-to-face(via Zoom) conversation with our guide.
You need a special permit to cross the borders between Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro along the trail, as they are not official border crossings. You can apply for this permit by filling out an online form and attaching copies of your passports. You need to provide the exact dates and places of your border crossings, as the permit is valid only for those specific points and days. You can also ask us to apply for the permit on your behalf, which may save you some time and hassle. The permit is usually issued by email or as stamped paper, depending on the country. You need to print it and carry it with you during the hike, and show it to the police if they ask for it. The permit is free of charge, but if you cross the border without it, you may face a fine of about 300 euros.