From the day I arrived in the Balkans last summer, this was the trip everyone was recommending. I resisted changing my plans for 3 weeks, saying I wasn’t going to be able to fit it in before I caved and booked to go to Shkoder. This hike has DEFINITELY exploded in popularity over the last year or so – when I was in Shkoder in 2024, I hadn’t even heard of the hike. Yet in 2025, seemingly everyone and anyone travelling in the Balkans had done it and said it was their highlight. And yeah, I have to say, now I’ve done it, it was one of my highlights to. It’s ABSOLUTELY not a stop you can miss while you’re in the Balkans.

Do you need to have hiking experience?

Not particularly. I mean, I wouldn’t do it if you’re dislike walking and think you’d struggle to be fit enough. However, you can take it at your own pace and the paths are extremely clear over the mountain. I did the hike in trainers – you don’t need any kit specifically, just make sure you’ve got enough water, snacks and suncream etc.

What do you need to take on the hike?

If you do the hike through a hostel like The Wanderers Hostel, Shkoder you’ll be able to leave your main bag in Shkoder and just take what you need for the three days. Also everyone there will be doing the same route, and they have so many social activities like a free evening meal, karaoke and free shots at the bar so it’s great to make friends with the people you’ll hike with first! Quick checklist below

  • Layers – it gets cold up in the mountains at night
  • Cash – not everywhere takes card. Make sure you have plenty of Lek.
  • Swim wear and towel – so many waterfalls and the Thethi Blue Eye to swim in.
  • Water and Snacks – you might be hiking for a couple days if you walk to the Blue Eye the day after the main hike. Bring sufficient water and snacks.
  • Clothes – Whatever you’re planning on walking in. Shorts and a t-shirt should be fine.

What is the itinerary for the three days?

Day 1 – Travel to Valbona.

This consists of an early morning bus from Wanderers hostel (which feels even earlier if you took the hostel up on the offer of raki shots during karaoke the night before). There’s a quick stop off at a services before you get on a ferry at Komani Lake. This is an amazing 2 hour trip through Komani Lake – sunbathing on the boat, photos etc. Then there’s another van to take you up to Valbona. The afternoon is your own time, however a group of us went swimming in the river after grabbing lunch and then back to the hostel for a home cooked dinner, card games and drinking in teh mountains.

Day 2 – The Main Hike.

You’ll be treated to another early morning, but with a lovely breakfast again. Then a mini-van (if you’re on stools rather than seats I think that’s normal – just hang on). The hikes takes the majority of the day but has stunning views. Try to get the climb done as early as possible before the sun hits midday if you’re doing this in summer. Once you’re in Theth, the guesthouse has such an authentic feel ( I had to walk past all of the goats to get to my room). A quick nap may be needed, but then get to the waterfall (1 hour walk) in the afternoon for a quick dip before dinner.

Day 3 – Thethi Blue Eye.

So you can either hike all the way to Blue Eye, or get driven to a nearby carpark (recommended) and just do the pretty part of the hike. This is such a good place to spend the day and swim in the Blue Eye however it is FREEZING so make sure you’re fully aware of the temperature before diving in. You’ll also drive back to Shkoder in the afternoon, or you can request a morning shuttle from the hostel (but this would mean skipping the Blue Eye)

How much does it cost?

Around 110 euros for the trip – then add your cost of at least one night previously in Wanderers which takes you to around 140 euros for three days. However it is 100% worth it and I would genuinely tell anyone and everyone to do it if they can.

Can I do it as a solo traveller?

YES! You make so many friends in Wanderers before you start that you don’t need to worry about hiking alone. The Valbona-Theth hike is one of my top adventure suggestions for solo female travellers in the Balkans!

Where do I book?

Wanderers Hostel does get booked up early, so either through Hostelworld or by getting one of the hostels you’re already staying at to book Wanderers for you and make sure they have room on the Hike. You can also message them on Whatsapp or send an email. For the actual cost of the hike, you’ll pay some at Wanderers and some directly to the Hostels in Valbona and Theth.

Is it really worth it?

YES. Photos below as proof. I then went down to southern Albania to the beaches with some of the girls I met on the hike for a few beach days and seafood.

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