Private Tour

Explore Thailand of Europe Tour from Tirana Durres to Shala River

Overview

Available languages

English

10 hours

Mobile ticket

Embark on a picturesque day tour to two of Albania's natural wonders: Koman Lake and Shala River, often referred to as the "Thailand of Europe." Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Tirana or Durres through Albania's rugged landscapes.

Arriving at Koman Lake, board a ferry for a leisurely cruise through stunning fjord-like scenery. Marvel at turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountains and capture photos of dramatic cliffs and lush greenery.

Next, venture to Shala River, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil ambiance. Here, you'll have the opportunity to swim in refreshing pools and relax on riverbanks amidst pristine nature.

Immerse yourself in local culture, enjoying a traditional Albanian lunch at a riverside restaurant with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

As the day draws to a close, return to Tirana or Durres, reflecting on the breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining 6hours are allotted for the trip from Tirana to Shala River destination and back to the pickup point

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Private transportation

Professional driver-guide for the entire trip

Ferry cruise on Koman Lake

Food and drink

Umbrellas and sunbeds

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

What To Expect

Shala River

Your journey begins at the picturesque Komani Lake, where you'll embark on a traditional boat, eagerly anticipating the adventure ahead. As you cruise through the emerald-green waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, you'll soon reach the stunning Shala River. Known as the "Thailand of Europe," Shala River captivates with its crystal-clear waters, tranquil ambiance, and breathtaking scenery. Here, you can swim in refreshing pools, relax on the serene riverbanks, and marvel at the untouched natural beauty that makes this destination a true hidden gem.

4 hours • Admission Included

Options

Explore Thailand of Europe Tour from Tirana Durres to Shala River

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

3 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Fantastic day!
P9362LKmandym,
Sep 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a great excursion day with friends which was well taken care of by Gold Taxi. Our driver/guide was a reliable man who picked us up on time from the hotel, car ride through the mountains with music, air conditioning and fine conversations to the boat. After the Thailand style boats we arrived at a breathtaking place where we did a hike, and enjoyed the beautiful place and even swam in the river. Definitely recommended to book the excursion at gold taxi.
Unforgettable adventure with Aleksandri
Robert Z,
Aug 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Our day trip to Komani Lake and Shala River in Albania was breathtaking! The scenery was stunning, with crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Our guide, Aleksandri, was excellent, sharing insightful stories and ensuring our safety throughout the journey. The boat ride across the lake and hike along the river were highlights, offering breathtaking views. The tranquility of the surroundings was a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Highly recommend this trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Aleksandri's made the experience even more unforgettable. Five stars!"
Unforgettable Day at Shala River 😍
adimuja19,
Mar 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I took a trip to Shala River with my friends in June, and it was one of the best experiences we had in Albania! From start to finish, Gold Taxi made everything smooth and enjoyable. Our guide, Aleksandri, was fantastic—friendly, professional, and incredibly knowledgeable about the area. The journey itself was breathtaking. The drive to Koman Lake was scenic, and the boat ride through the fjord-like landscapes was absolutely stunning. Once we arrived at Shala River, we were blown away by the crystal-clear turquoise waters—it truly felt like the “Thailand of Europe.” Aleksandri made sure we had enough time to swim, relax, and soak in the beauty of the river. He also took us to a great spot for a traditional Albanian lunch by the water, which was delicious and a perfect way to experience the local flavors. The entire trip was well-organized, and we never felt rushed. If you’re looking for a private, stress-free way to explore Albania’s hidden gems, I highly recommend booking with Gold Taxi. Huge thanks to Aleksandri for making our day so special!