Hiking the Balkans: Via Dinarica
Experience Overview
Get your heart racing on a hiking trip across four countries, showcasing the best of the Western Balkans. The Dinaric Alps stretch over 2000 km from Italy through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania – and you’ll discover some of the best bits of this breathtaking mountain range. Start in the port-side hub of Split, Croatia and head out for an evening hike in Blidinje Nature Park. Discover Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, then trek through Durmitor National Park in Montenegro, known for its glacial lakes. In Albania, stay in Theth before tackling the Valbona-Theth hike, and end the trip with a scenic ferry ride to Koman. With history, culture, nature and adventure combined, this is a journey through the Dinaric Alps you won’t want to miss.
Highlights
- Trek one of the world’s most beautiful mountain ranges and discover the history, culture and landscapes of not one, not two, but four southern European countries – Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Albania.
- Embark on a scenic hike to the highest and most remote village in Bosnia – Lukomir, where you’ll meet the locals, learn about their way of life and share lunch, laughs, local cheese and, of course, Bosnian coffee together.
- Stay overnight in the fairytale-like Theth – one of the wonders in the Albanian Alps, declared a Protected Historic Center by the Albanian Government. Maybe you’ll swim in the Blue Eye of Theth or Grunasi Waterfall to promote muscle recovery after your walking.
- Hike through Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site, that will leave you awe-struck by the vistas across glacial lakes and pine forests.
- Enjoy a ferry ride across Komani lake that proves that it’s just as much about the journey as the destination as you cruise across the turquoise waters framed by towering mountains that seem to plummet directly into the water below.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3271
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Ferry
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMXH
Starts: Split, Albania
Finishes: Tirana, Albania
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Demanding
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (10), Lunch (2), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hotel (8 nights),Guesthouse (1 night),Pension (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,855 ($350 /day)
Itinerary
Zdravo! Welcome to Croatia. This Mediterranean paradise might be best-known for its island-dotted coastline, but it’s also filled with historic streets and leafy green mountains. Your trip starts in the port hub of Split, lapped by the Adriatic Sea, with local produce stalls, cobblestone lanes and ancient buildings. You’ll kick off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm this evening, where you’ll get to know your new travel companions and local leader. If you arrive early, maybe wander along the waterfront, grab a fresh gelato and soak up the Mediterranean sun. Or, head to the Old Town, which has ancient Roman architecture juxtaposed against modern museums, shops, and homes.
Optional Activities:
- Split - Fish Market - Free
- Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery (12 EUR)
- Split - Ethnographic Museum (3 EUR)
- Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower (10 EUR)
- Split - City Museum (4 EUR)
- Split - Gallery of Fine Arts (5 EUR)
- Split - Archaeological Museum (8 EUR)
- Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, hit the road to neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina. Stop off at Blidinje, where you’ll have some free time to explore before the hiking begins in the late afternoon. This nature park is in the heart of the Dinaric Alps, so you’re sure to find many like-minded hikers enjoying the green space. Start your trek at the Vitlenica point and hike through to Hajducka Vrata (Outlaw’s Gate). A certified mountain guide and your leader will be there to guide you along the path as the sun sets, to a scenic platea on Cvrsnica Mountain where you can take a break. One of the highlights of this trek is that night begins to fall just as you finish the walk – giving you a special opportunity to stargaze from the Alps! Make sure you pack a head lamp (and spare batteries) and walking poles for extra support.
Included Activities:
- Blidinje Nature Park: Hajducka Vrata guided night hike
- Blidinje Nature Park: guided stargazing on Cvrsnica Mountain
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Relax with a free morning in Blidinje before you travel to Sarajevo – Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital. The city gained global attention with the assassination of Franz Ferdinand and his wife, which sparked World War I. Then, in the early 90s, it was held under siege for almost four years during the Balkan War. You’ll have the day to explore the city at your own pace, so consider diving into its history at the Sarajevo Museum or the National Museum. Or, if you want to get back into nature, you can visit Ilidza Park and Springs – this spot has been known for its tranquility since the Ottoman period. You might also like to explore the Old Town, sip a local Bosnian coffee, walk across the famous Latin Bridge, or look for the Sarajevo roses (memorials made from the marks on the pavement where mortar shells exploded during the 90s).
Optional Activities:
- Sarajevo - Despica House (3 BAM)
- Sarajevo - Brusa Bezistan (3 BAM)
- Sarajevo - War Tunnel (10 BAM)
- Sarajevo - Ilidza Park and Springs (15 BAM)
- Sarajevo - Sarajevo Museum (5 BAM)
- Sarajevo - City Hall & Old National Library (10 BAM)
- Sarajevo - National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (8 BAM)
- Sarajevo - Jewish Museum (5 BAM)
- Sarajevo - Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (3 BAM)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
You’ll be up bright and early this morning to hit the road toward the village of Umoljani where our next hike, in Bjelašnica Mountain area, will kick off. With more than 40km of ski slopes in this area, Bjelašnica Mountain hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984 which were deemed ‘the best in history’ by the International Olympic Committee. So, it’s safe to say today’s terrain is the kind of take-your-breath-away alpine scenery you could only dream of. Your hike will be along a loop trail that crosses through the highest and most remote village in Bosnia – Lukomir. You may get the opportunity to hang out with the locals here, share lunch, and possibly a Bosnian coffee. This village is particularly charming; at 1,500m above sea level, it’s unique for its centuries old stone houses and traditional dress. You’ll discover fascinating history, culture and architecture during your pitstop here. After some time learning more about local life, you’ll hike to our overnight location at Umoljani village.
Included Activities:
- Bjelasnica mountains guided hike
- Lukomir village visit
Accommodation:
- Pension (Number of Nights: 1)
Soak up the beauty of Umoljani at breakfast, as you’ll drive even higher up today, towards your next temporary home – Zabljak, the main town within Durmitor National Park. Located on the mountain of Durmitor, Zabljak is the highest city in the Balkans, with an altitude of 1456 m – just think of that view! The rest of the day is yours to settle in as you wish. Maybe get your bearings with a leisurely walk or swim in the glacial lakes. Make sure you ask your local leader for any restaurant recommendations for dinner.
Optional Activities:
- Durmitor National Park - Tara Canyon sunset hike - Free
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Fuel up on a hearty breakfast this morning, as you'll hit the mountains today! Strap on your boots and start the hike from the main entrance of Durmitor National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the national park is made up of mountains traversed by rivers and dotted with glacial lakes. Since Durmitor National Park is so vast and beautiful, there are plenty of trail options for today’s hike. Your leader will take you on one that caters to the group’s personal tastes and fitness levels – they'll expertly mix and match the trails to create an epic day of hiking that everyone enjoys. One thing is certain – lakes, pine forests and alpine air are guaranteed for any trail combination. Your final climb of the day will get your heart rate up and lead you to one of the best viewpoints overlooking Tara Canyon. Once you reach the top, rest, relax and soak up those views – you've earned it! After the hike, take some rest, pack and head towards your next destination – Gusinje - a small village on the border of Montenegro and Albania.
Included Activities:
- Durmitor National Park - Lake Trail guided hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today start after the breakfast and hike towards Karanflii peaks which stand proudly over Grbaja Valley below. You’ll walk along the ridge of the mountains and while the distance isn’t as far as previous days, the elevation gain is significant – pack your walking poles to help you out! The trail winds around Prokletije Mountain and includes Popadija and Talijanka peaks with a front row view of the towering Karanfili peaks in the distance. Enjoy unforgettable views before heading to your accommodation in the afternoon.
Included Activities:
- Prokletije Mountains guided hike: Karanfili peaks
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Another day, another country to explore. You’ll cross the border into Albania today – the fourth and final country on this Balkan hiking adventure. Stop in Theth – one of the wonders in the Albanian Alps, declared a Protected Historic Center by the Albanian Government. With narrow country roads, cows and horses in wooden fenced fields and small stone buildings, Theth is like a fairytale. As this village is your home for the night, settle in and explore your surroundings – maybe even swim in the Grunasi Waterfall if the sun is out!
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
After a relaxing day in Theth yesterday, it’s time to lace up your walking shoes for your final hike – this time on the Valbona-Theth trail. This is a signature hike in the region – recognised for the rewarding vistas that sprawl far across the pine-dotted valley below and snow-capped Albanian Alps above. After a day on your feet, retire to your guesthouse in Valbona Valley where you’ll be treated to an authentic Albanian dinner with your group. Put your feet up and reflect on all the hiking you’ve achieved in the last week.
Included Activities:
- Albanian Alps: Theth to Valbona guided hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Head on a scenic private boat ride to Koman after breakfast. Surrounded by mountains that seem to dive directly into the turquoise water of the lake, the cruise will be just as much about the journey as the destination. It’s a nice opportunity to rest your legs and sit back to enjoy one of Mother Nature’s best shows. Halfway through, your boat will stop for some refreshments and an opportunity to swim. Once the boat docks in Koman, you’ll be taken to Tirana by minibus. When you arrive, your leader will take you on a short orientation walk around the country’s capital. You’ll have the evening at your leisure – you might like to head to a local restaurant to enjoy one final dinner with your newfound travel friends. Be sure to ask your leader for the best recommendations.
Included Activities:
- Fierza to Koman picturesque private boat trip
Optional Activities:
- Tirana - National Art Gallery (200 ALL)
- Tirana - National History Museum (700 ALL)
- Tirana - Sky Tower (400 ALL)
- Tirana - Bunk'Art Gallery (500 ALL)
- Tirana - Dajti Mountain Cable Car (1000 ALL)
- Kruja - Ethnographic Museum (300 ALL)
- Tirana Local Guide- half day (60 EUR)
- Apollonia Roman Ruins Archaeological Site (600 ALL)
- Et'hem Bey Mosque - Free
- Kruja Castle (500 ALL)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your Balkan hiking adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to extend your stay in Tirana, just get in touch with your booking agent to organise additional accommodation ahead of time.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Hee-ok - Traveled, August 2023
Hiking trails were better than I expected in challenge wise. I came after hiking of 119km and over 4500m elevation over 5 day period before coming for this trip. Dispite some adjustment at the end the trip, my friends will love the trails we've done.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Emma - Traveled, August 2023
This trip is definitely an adventure - the scenery is incredible and while the hiking can be challenging (especially in the heat) the views are always worth it. Ivan (our guide) is one of the best. If you’re looking for something a bit different put this on your list - you won’t be disappointed.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Alana - Traveled, August 2023
Hiking Via Dinarica was such a beautiful adventure - the combination of the stunning alps, the wonderful women on this tour, our extremely knowledgeable and dependable tour guide Bashkim, and the hospitality and generosity of the Balkan people has made this a trip of a lifetime. Highly recommended, and forever grateful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Shova - Traveled, July 2023
I really enjoyed the Hiking- the Balkans: via Dinarica. It was definitely challenging but equally rewarding and fun. The accommodation locations, history, cultural and dining experience were out of the world for me. Highly recommended to anyone.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/01/2023
Lou - Traveled, July 2023
This is a unique region to visit and should be on people's bucket list.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/31/2023
Wasim - Traveled, July 2023
The hikes should have started in the morning. More hikes and destination in Croatia. Wild horse activity should be taken out.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/09/2023
Christopher - Traveled, July 2023
A fantastic trip led by Ivan that showcases the breathtaking natural beauty of Bosnia, Montenegro and Albania. While physically challenging (particularly in 30 degree heat!), the views were worth it and the Day 1 hike to Devil's Gate, the Three Peaks hike in Gusinje and the Theth-Valbone hikes are particular highlights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/06/2023
Martin - Traveled, July 2023
Highly recommended! The hikes go through beautiful and relatively quiet routes. Our guide (Bashkim) is passionate and extremely knowledge, meaning we learned lots about the area. The cities we visited are fascinating and have delicious food. A great escape from normal life.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/16/2023
Jonathan - Traveled, June 2023
What an amazing trip , 4 beautiful countries , Bashkim was a brilliant guide , full of knowledge and a pleasure to be with . Trip was well organised and I met some amazing people from all over the world.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2023
Johan Rickard - Traveled, June 2023
I can warmly recommend this trip to anyone loving mountains - you will get an unforgettable insight into the stunning scenery of the countries of the Western Balkans. I was on the very first trip that took place, and it was a unique experience being the guinea pig! There are some tweaks needed to the timings of things to ensure a smooth flow, but I have full confidence that the Intrepid team will make this trip even better for future groups.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2023
Fiona - Traveled, July 2024
This trip exceeded my expectations in terms of scenery, variety of hikes and itinerary. The rest day was great to do some exploring and relax the pace a little. You won't be disappointed! I highly recommend this trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2024
Kevin - Traveled, June 2024
Would love to do another Italian tour with Vincenzo
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2024
Kathryn - Traveled, June 2024
Hiking the Dolomites with Intrepid was a fabulous and unforgettable trip. Based in a wonderful hotel, it was made easy for us to experience different highlights of the Dolomites every day. The guide (Vincenzo) was excellent in every way and great fun! Highly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2024
Ricky - Traveled, June 2024
This trip was magical. Dobbiaco is an absolute fairy tale heaven of a town. The hikes were inspiring. Every moment of this trip was marvelous, I would stay in town and do it again if I could!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2024
Ian - Traveled, July 2023
Do it. This was a challenging and highly rewarding trip Very well led. Glorious scenery. Lots to learn and enjoy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/15/2023
Lee - Traveled, June 2023
Absolutely amazing experience and worth doing. ( I would do it again). It does require a certain level of fitness as some hiking is steep and intense. The views are worth the hard work in my opinion. You really get a feel of achievement. The tour guides are brilliant.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2023
Lawrence - Traveled, June 2023
Our guide was very knowledgeable with the country and the area. But the timing of activities are a bit off which impacted overall experience. Places visited are beautiful and very scenic. I had a good time throughout the trip. I’m a happy traveler and have done many intrepid tours in the past and already booked/paid one for September. But I will probably choose another tour company if I’m given a choice. Their customer service/back office is seriously lacking a common courtesy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/25/2023
- Traveled, August 2023
This proved to be a very challenging and rewarding trip for those who opted to tackle every hike. The Balkans were new to most of us, and many spots (the drive through the national park in Montenegro in particular) were truly beautiful. Meals and accommodations were sometimes limited but generally sufficient, and the trout this pescatarian was served virtually every evening was exceptional.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Hazel - Traveled, June 2024
Loved this trip. Our leader Vincenzo was so enthusiastic it was infectious. The hikes were beautiful and not too difficult there was no pressure to take part and you could always make time for yourself. I feel recharged and enthused after spending time in the beautiful mountains. The hotel is well located and the transport around is easy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/08/2024
Suzanne - Traveled, June 2024
The dolomites sell themselves, stunning scenery at every turn, a magical place which will steal a piece of your heart. Matteo our tour leader is exceptional at his job, going above and beyond to create the most wholesome experience, with him and the group I was with, it made for the best week, forging friendships for life!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2024
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