Hiking in Kelmend, Vajusha Peak, and Selca Waterfall
First Day: Tirana - Shkoder - Vermosh
We will depart from Tirana and travel north, with our first stop in Shkoder. Known as the largest city in northern Albania, Shkoder has traditionally been the cultural, financial, and political hub of the region. We will take a brief tour of Shkoder.
After leaving Shkoder, we will head further northwest into the highlands of Albania, often referred to as Kelmend. This area is renowned for its breathtaking and dramatic scenery, featuring sharp limestone mountains that reach towards the sky, with gentle valleys and small pastoral villages nestled at their base. Kelmend is also celebrated for its cultural heritage, including the traditional female dress “Xhubleta,” which was recognized by UNESCO in 2022, and the historical figure “Nora e Kelemendit.”
Our destination for the day is Vermosh, the northeasternmost village in Albania, which has the highest population in the Kelmend region. After lunch and settling into our guesthouse, we will embark on our first hikes to explore the area. Our destinations for the day include the Kelmend Waterfall and the Bashkimi Canyon. These easy hikes will take approximately 2 hours.
We will have dinner and stay overnight in Vermosh.
Second Day: Hiking Tour of Vajusha Peak from Lepushe
Leaving Vermosh, we will travel to the nearby village of Lepushe. Lepushe is one of the most stunning natural treasures in the renowned Kelmend region and a favorite subject for landscape photographers. The rugged terrain, fresh air, and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature is at its finest here, with towering peaks, lush pastures, and dense forests. Located in the Albanian Highlands (Malësia e Madhe), not far from Shkodra, Lepushe is named after the wild yellow flowers called Lëpushtra that grow in the area.
The hike to Vajusha Peak is not technically challenging and is suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The terrain is gentle and safe to hike for most of the year, even in snowy conditions. The peak is situated on the border between Albania and Montenegro and offers spectacular views year-round.
We will have dinner and stay overnight in Vermosh.
Ascent: 700 m
Descent: 700 m
Distance: 10 km
Third Day: Hiking in Selca - Selca Waterfall
We will depart from Vermosh and head to our next destination, the Selca Waterfall. Located near the village of Selca, this is one of the largest waterfalls in the country. It originates from a powerful spring that flows from ancient rock formations and cascades from a height of about 30 meters. To reach the waterfall, we will hike for approximately two hours, exploring various mountain paths, enjoying stunning landscapes, and visiting the remarkable karstic caves of Pogonica, Grada, Rruga, Vllojaku, Paja, and Turçini, among others. After spending time at the waterfall, we will have a lunch break before returning to Tirana.
Points of Interest
- Tirana
- Private transportation
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Embark on a 3-day hiking adventure in Kelmend and the Vajusha Peak, commencing from Lepushe. This tour binds together the grandeur of mountain peaks, the mesmerizing Selca waterfall and sparkling water canyons. Kelmend region, being one of the most scenic areas in the country, holds a significant position in the ‘Via Dinarica’ and ‘Peaks of the Balkans’ trails that span across Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. The trails often offer gentle and picturesque walks. Coupling this with the hospitable inhabitants and the distinct warmth of the Albanian Highland makes it a truly enriching experience.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
