Before You Go

Travel Advice

Everything practical for planning a trip to the Shepherd’s Trail in Southern Albania — how to get there, when to come, how to stay safe in the mountains, what to pack and how to travel responsibly.

Getting there

The nearest airports are Tirana (TIA) and, in summer, Corfu in Greece. From Tirana, buses and transfers run south to Sarandë, the gateway for Konispol and the start of the trail. The route finishes in the far east near Mt. Gramoz; arrange a transfer back to Ersekë or Korçë, from where onward buses run to Tirana.

Best time to go

Late spring (May–June) brings rushing rivers, green pastures and a riot of wildflowers, while autumn (September–October) offers stable weather and golden light. Mid-summer is hot on the low coastal stages; the high passes around Nemerçka and Gramoz are best avoided in deep winter when snow lingers.

Mountain safety

Mountain weather turns quickly — check the forecast, start early and turn back if storms build. Carry plenty of water, sun protection and warm layers for the high stages. Tell someone your plan, keep the GPX tracks offline, and give livestock and guardian dogs a wide, calm berth. Albania's emergency number is 112 (127 for ambulance).

Local guides

Certified guides from the Albanian Mountain Guides Association (SHUMSH) know every spring, shortcut and shepherd along the route. Independent hiking is possible with the roadbook and GPX tracks, but a local guide adds safety, language and stories — and supports the mountain communities directly.

Pack smart

What to bring

Pack light but be self-sufficient. The trail blends warm coastal days with cold, exposed alpine stages, and shops are scarce between villages.

Phone/GPS with offline maps & GPX tracks loaded
Power bank and charging cables
2+ litres water capacity & purification tablets
Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots
Sun hat, sunglasses & high-SPF sunscreen
Warm layers & waterproof jacket for the high stages
Trekking poles (also useful around dogs)
Basic first-aid kit & any personal medication
Headlamp for early starts and remote huts
Snacks & lunch for stages without shops
Cash in Albanian lekë for guesthouses & villages
Lightweight sleeping bag/liner for simple rooms

Practical essentials

Good to know

Money

The currency is the Albanian lekë (ALL). Carry enough cash for guesthouses, meals and transfers — card payment is rare in mountain villages, and ATMs are only found in larger towns like Sarandë, Gjirokastër and Ersekë.

Connectivity

A local SIM (Vodafone, One or Telekom) gives cheap, decent coverage in towns and many valleys, but expect dead zones on the high ridges. Download maps, tracks and accommodation contacts before each stage.

Language

Albanian is the local language; some guesthouse hosts speak only Albanian, while younger people and guides often speak English or Italian. A few words of Albanian and a translation app go a long way.

Entry & health

Most visitors enter Albania visa-free for short stays — check your nationality's rules before travel. There are no special vaccination requirements; bring travel insurance that covers hiking and remote evacuation.

Have a question before you go?

Get in touch for the full roadbook, accommodation contacts and local guide recommendations.

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