Shala river & Komani lake -Day trip departure from Tirana/Shkodra
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Named "the Thailand of Albania", Shala River is definitely one of the most beautiful destinations of Albania. Reachable only by boat and surrounded by mountains, this river is a perfect getaway for those who want to get rid of the mobile connection. The source of this river is in the Albanian Alps.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Pick up from Shkodra city center at Shkodër bus station (in front of Neptun shop))
English speaking tour guide
Pick up and drop off from the hotel located in Tirana
Transportation to the destination locations
Pick up from Lezha city (At the roundabout on the main street)
Boat ticket
Foods and drinks
Tips for the tour guide & driver
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Komani Lake
Komani Lake and Shala River Day Trip is ideal for people seeking a fresh peaceful day with scenic views of Komani Lake and Shala River. You will get a chance to do the Boat Trip in Komani Lake and then swim and relax in the fresh crystal clear waters of the Shala River with views of dreamlike nature. The tour starts in Tirana, Lezha and Shkodra city and involves a 3-hour and 20-minute car ride(from Tirana) with a short stop on the way to the Komani Lake, which was formed in the 1970s by damming the Drini valley.
Shala River
Visitors will then board a boat and embark on a ride through a series of deep gorges and interconnected lakes, passing between high mountains and enjoying the tranquil beauty of the natural surroundings. The ride will continue for approximately 1 hour until reaching the Shala River, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery. FREE TIME/LUNCH: You’ll have around 3 hours of free time at Shala River to enjoy the stunning nature, relax, have lunch, or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. An optional hike is available, led by the tour guide upon arrival. It takes about 45 minutes (both ways) and is well worth it—the view from the top balcony is truly breathtaking.
Options
Departure from Shkodra
Duration: 10 hours
Departure from Shkodra
Van/Bus
Pickup included
Shala river from Tirana - Private tour
Lunch at shala river
Pickup included
Departure from Lezha
Duration: 10 hours: Trip duration may vary due to traffic. We recommend not planning anything in Lezha before 19:00 to avoid any risk of delays
Starting from Lezha: We offer pick-up from the meeting point at the roundabout at the entrance of Lezha city, after which the tour will begin.
Van/Bus: Depending on the group size, we use different types of vehicles for the trip. All vehicles are air-conditioned
Pickup included
Departure from Tirana
Duration: 14 hours: Trip duration may vary due to traffic. We recommend not planning anything in Tirana before 20:30 to avoid any risk of delay
Start the tour from Tirana: We offer pick-up from your hotel or accommodation if it’s located within Tirana city, and then we’ll begin the tour.
Van / Bus : Depending on the group size, we use different types of vehicles for the trip. All vehicles are air-conditioned.
Pickup included
Reviews
129 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great trip
Mamdoh A,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00Today’s trip to Shala River and Komani Lake was absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we set off, the landscapes were breathtaking — crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks, peaceful villages, and lush greenery at every turn. The boat ride across Komani Lake felt like sailing through a hidden paradise, and arriving at the Shala River was like stepping into a postcard. Our guide was excellent — knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to every detail, making sure we enjoyed the experience to the fullest. Their insights about the area’s history and nature added so much value to the trip.
Carlos fron NY
carlos b,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00No pick and drop off as agreed but meeting points were good enough Guide and driver were great, very helpful and polite In general excelent service
Wonderful tour but...
Keivan J,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
4.00Wonderful tour. It was lovely, but the traffic jam on the way back home was terrible. We started at 14:30 and arrived in Tirana, very hungry, around 22:00. It would have been good to stop for 10–15 minutes so people could buy some water or snacks. It's not ideal to sit on the bus for almost six hours.
Beautiful day on the...
Audrey I,
Jul 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very nice day on the Shala River. Bledi, the attendant knew how to set the mood by his good humor and kindness!!
Great guide, beautiful views, very fun trip
Brandon Q,
Jul 31, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had Bledjan as our tour guide, he was very funny and informative. The tour was great, a long travel day, but worth it. The views are incredible and the river/lake feel like a tropical getaway. A stunning tour that's a must see
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Operated by Smart Tour Albania