Kosovo, Albania & Macedonia Explorer

Travel through the valleys, towns and mountainscapes of Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia

It’s hard to find a patch of Europe that hasn’t been overrun by travel. Hard, but not impossible. Among the rocky mountains and green fields of Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia there are plenty of shepherds, monasteries, lakes, valleys and Byzantine churches – what’s lacking is crowds. It’s taken decades for the Balkans to wipe away memories of conflict and communism, but (amazingly) they’ve emerged strong and smiling. From hip cafes in Skopje and the soft shores of Lake Ohrid to the mosques of picture-perfect Prizren, this Intrepid tour showcases Balkan beauty at its very best.

DATE: TBD (Summer 2019)

PRICE: $2485 per person (Double Occupancy)

Available Tickets: TBD (Maximum 12)

Trip Summary

Start:  Tirana, Albania

Finish:  Tirana, Albania

Destination:  Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia

Style:  Standard

Theme:  Explorer

Physical Rating:  2 out of 5

Ages:  Minimum 15

Group Size:  Min 1, Max 12

Small groups

Average group size of 10

Local leaders

Local food, accommodation 
and transport

Responsible travel

Make a difference in the world,
just by exploring it

Why you’ll love this trip

  • Explore the remote northern reaches of Albania and take one of the world’s best boat trips with a cruise through the mountainous corridors of Lake Koman

  • Experience daily life in the Valbona Valley with a stay at a local guesthouse. Clink glasses with the locals in the village and hike the rugged valley passes

  • Discover the secret staircase of Kalaja Fortress, and find your way to a hilltop lookout over Prizren – Kosovo’s most beautiful town

  • Sail across the blue waters of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest lakes. No wonder Macedonia and Albania share this beautiful attraction – nobody would want to let it go

  • Kososvo is rich in history and contrasts. Step back in time and learn about the infamous Battle of Kosovo on a day trip to the Field of Blackbirds, before embracing the modern culture thriving in Prishtina, Europe’s youngest capital

  • Lose yourself in Tirana, the Albanian capital full of a revitalised urban energy, and partake in the local’s favourite pastime: drinking coffee and people-watching

Is this trip right for you?

  • Weather in this part of Europe can be unpredictable. Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. On the other hand, the weather in the mountains can be cold and wet throughout the year. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

  • As accommodation on this trip is twin-share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same sex. This trip is a great opportunity to get to know other like-minded people, so embrace it while you can. However, if you’d prefer not to share, a single room supplement is available at an additional charge. Please ask your travel consultant for more details. Also, hotels in Europe often don’t have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.

 

Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1: Tirana
Mire se vini – welcome to Tirana, Albania. If you think you know Albania, think again. This addictive country has myriad faces. In the rugged north the Alps are so fierce they’re deemed ‘accursed’, while the south enjoys one of Europe’s least known and most beautiful coastlines. If you arrive early, perhaps get your bearings of the city with a walk around town. Tirana is filled with activity, from its traffic to its nightlife, but on its doorstep are mosques, citadels, Ottoman architecture and museums. This is a truly progressive city that’s working hard to alleviate the Soviet block feeling that pervaded it for so long. In the evening, perhaps head out for dinner with your new travel companions.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Skanderbeg Museum in Kruja – ALL200
  • Sky Tower – ALL400
  • National History Museum – ALL700
  • National Art Gallery – ALL200
  • Bunk’Art – ALL500
Meals Included

There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information

Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm – check with reception to confirm the time and place. If you’re going to be late, please inform the hotel reception. We’ll be collecting your insurance details and next of kin information at this meeting, so please have these on hand. If you can’t arrange a flight that will arrive in time for the meeting, you may wish to arrive a day early so you’re able to attend. We’ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Day 2: Tirana/Shkoder
This morning head out on an orientation walk of central Tirana. It’s the capital of Albania and its biggest city, but it’s still small and compact, with architectural influences from Italy and Turkey. Visit the Skanderbeg Monument, the mosaic on the National History Museum and the Palace of Culture, which are all located on Skanderbeg Square (Skanderbeg is the national hero of Albania). The main sight in Tirana is the Et’hem Bey Mosque, which sits right on the city’s main square. Closed under communist rule, the mosque resumed as a place of worship in 1991 and is seen as a monument to religious freedom in the country. The mosque is currently closed for extensive renovation works, but you can still take a look at the frescoes outside and in the portico that depict trees, waterfalls and bridges – motifs rarely seen in Islamic art. After lunch time take a local bus to Shkoder, one of the oldest cities in Europe and now the main commercial centre and largest town of northern Albania (approximately 2 hours). Upon arrival head out on a short orientation walk along the Pjaca, which is the main pedestrianized street, lined with 19th-century architecture and dominated by Ebu Beker Mosque. Later in the afternoon, why not head north of the city to visit the Venetian era Rozafa Castle, set high on a mountain with panoramic views of a lake and the Albanian countryside.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Shkoder Rozafa Castle – ALL200
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 3: Lake Koman/Valbona Valley
Take an early morning transfer to Lake Koman (approximately 1.5 hours), where you’ll board the ferry for the daily run through a series of connected reservoirs between Koman and Fierza, in the remote north eastern corner of the country (approximately 3 hours). The series of lakes were created when a hydroelectric dam was built at Koman in the 1970s. Locals use the boats here when returning from shopping trips or school in the cities, with the boat drifting to the sides to drop off or pick up passengers waiting on the banks, waving for attention. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the scenery of sheer cliff walls on both sides of the narrow lake. The mountains that surround the lake and can reach over 1,700 metres in height are almost uninhabited, except for the occasional settlement. You’ll navigate past seemingly impenetrable passes and come across tiny hamlets, with the few families who live on the hillsides relying on the daily supply boat for sustenance. This is simply one of the most beautiful boat rides you will ever take – emerald water merging with the green vegetation dotting the bright white cliffs, and the feeling of slowly drifting back in time. Upon arrival to Fierza you’ll be transferred to your guesthouse in Valbona Valley, where a delicious home cooked meal awaits you.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lake Koman Ferry
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 4: Valbona Valley
Take an excursion deeper into the remote Valbona Valley – complete with green meadows of traditional houses, farmland, and alpine tress, surrounded by imposing snow dusted mountain peaks. Due to the remoteness of the region and the lack of tourist infrastructure, today’s activities will come as a surprise to all of us, including the leader! You may go for a hike in the surrounding mountains, walking through wide valleys, ascending to mountain passes and trekking though thick forest, or you might simply hang out in the village with the locals. One of the best things about Albania is the people, their warmth to strangers is infectious and you’re bound to find yourself having a chat and swapping stories over a glass of raki or two. This is a great place to discover the history of Albania from the people who have lived through it, and to learn about the local way of life. Perhaps discover more about the stories of blood feuds, said to be carried out in the name of the Kanun code, the customs that governed all aspects of life in the mountains.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Valbona Valley Village Tour
  • Valbona Valley Tea House
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
Day 5: Peja
Tiny Kosovo is Europe’s newest (official) country: a handful of landlocked mountains, poppy-dotted meadows and oak forests smack bang in the middle of the Balkans. The shadow of conflict in the late 90s has kept Kosovo off traveller’s radars, but go there today and you can feel that shadow lifting. NATO troops may still guard Serbian monasteries, and proper independence is an on-going struggle, but the headlines now are increasingly good ones: an emerging tourist trade, film festivals in Peja, Prishtina’s trendy cafe scene, and world-class walking in the Rugova Mountains. Yep, Europe’s youngest member is definitely making up for lost time. Today you’ll cross the border into Kosovo by private vehicle (approximately 2 hours). The first stop in this newly independent country will be the Dečani Monastery, built in 1327, and known as the final resting place of Serbian King Stefan Uroš III Dečanski. Time stands still here, a place of stunning art heritage, but whose symbolic significance as a Serbian Orthodox cultural monument unfortunately makes it vulnerable to destruction. Continue on to Peja (Pec in Serbian), the gateway to the Rugova Mountains and a major agricultural centre (approximately 30 minutes). Visit the beautifully restored Peja Bazaar, dating back to Ottoman times, and Bajrakli Mosque. Having been destroyed twice in the last 80 years, the bazaar has been fully rebuilt after the Kosovo War, according to historical Ottoman architecture, and is one of the many protected monuments in Kosovo.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Dečani Monastery – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 6: Rugova Valley/Peja
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the village of Drelaj, which is deep in the Rugova Valley and close to the Montenegrin border (approximately 30 minutes). The Rugova Mountains rise to over 2,400 metres and were declared a national park in 2013. Drelaj will be your base to explore the surrounding area on a three-to-four-hour guided hike. The Rugova Valley is often compared to Switzerland in its landscape, and here at the foot of Hjala mountain, be surrounded by tall grass pastures dotted with wildflowers, the sound of cow bells drifting through the valley, and simple wooden shacks and stone houses with smoke drifting up to the granite cliffs above. Afterwards, you’ll be able to rest your weary bones with a delicious refuelling lunch at a local family home. Head back to the hotel in the early evening, with your night then free – perhaps try the local Birra Peja, brewed here in town.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Hike in Rugova Valley including Lunch
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Day 7: Prizren
Journey to the south of the country today, to Kosovo’s second biggest, and arguably its most beautiful, city – Prizren (approximately 1.5 hours). Located at the foot of the Shar Mountains, this city was first inhabited by the Romans in second century AD, while the Ottomans and the Byzantines also left their mark in the architecture of the cityscape. Luckily it was also spared destruction during the 1999 conflict. On arrival, head out an orientation walk of Prizren, walking alongside the Bistrica river, taking in the cobbled Shadervan square and the Old Stone Bridge, all of which will help you get your bearings of the city and prepare you for a full day of exploration tomorrow. Explore the city’s famous mosques and contrast it with abandoned Serbian Orthodox churches that stand as sombre reminders of the ethnic divisions that still simmer just under the surface. Wander the bazaar or admire some of the traditional jewellery in the many filigree shops, and do some people watching in a restaurant in Shadervan square, before another memorable Balkan sunset and a required glass of raki.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 8: Prizren
Today is free to explore the city’s sights, after venturing out on an included visit to Prizren’s sixth century Kalaja Fortress. This sixth century fortress sits proudly on a hilltop above the town and has a 43-step staircase hidden in a tunnel that connects to the river, giving you a great sense of discovery and view over the city. Make sure you visit the House of the Albanian League of Prizren, where in 1878 the Assembly of Prizren gathered to consolidate Albanian leaders to unite and protect the country against foreign threats. If you feel energetic, you may want to consider walking upstream along the Bistrica River, where you might meet locals tending to their flocks of sheep among mountainous scenery. There’s plenty to see and do in this exciting city. For many Prizren is the gastronomic heart of Kosovo, and it’s a great place to browse confectionaries, try qebaptore (barbeque) restaurants, and snack on Djathë i Sharrit (Shar cheese) and tullumba (syrup soaked filo pastry). If you’re feeling adventurous then maybe try the food in the Old Bazaar and eat the local delicacy of deep fried lamb brains.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Kalaja Fortress Visit Prizren
Optional Activities
  • House of the Albanian League of Prizren – EUR1
  • Church of Our Lady of Ljevis – EUR3
  • Church of the Holy Saviour – EUR2
  • Sinan Pasha Mosque – Free
  • Halveti’s Tekke – Free
  • Day Trip to Sharr Mountains National Park (Black Lake) – from – EUR180
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 9: Prishtina/Prizren
Take a day trip to Prishtina and surrounds. The capital of Kosovo is currently reinventing itself as a major commercial centre in the region, and its historical importance makes it an essential stop on any itinerary to Kosovo. First head to Kosovo Polje (Field of Blackbirds), which the country is named after. This flat area outside the capital is the site of the 1389 battle of Kosovo, a skirmish that lead to the Ottoman Empire finally taking control of this area of the Balkans, and a battle that some argue is one of the reasons for the problems that still affect the region. There is a memorial here that commemorates this important historical event. Nearby is the tomb of Sultan Murat, leader of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century, who was assassinated just a few hours after the end of the battle. You’ll then get to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gracanica Monastery, one of King Milutin’s last monumental endowments. It now plays home to 24 sisters who actively tend to the building which serves an an important spiritual and political centre for Kosovo’s Serb community. The afternoon is free to explore the vibrant city of Prishtina and all it has to offer. If you have time, perhaps visit the Prishtina Ethnographic Museum, the Sultan Fatih Mosque or the Kosovo Museum. Check out the Newborn Monument, which was unveiled on the day Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia (17th February 2008). Nearby, on the boulevard in his name, is a brass statue of Bill Clinton – thanks for the President’s role in ending the war. After exploring the city, head to the nearby Bear Sanctuary, a 16-hectare area of woodland providing a natural home for rescued dancing bears (also sometimes called ‘restaurant bears’), complete with ponds and hibernation caves. In the afternoon head back to your accommodation in Prizren for the night.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Field of the Battle of Blackbirds & Tomb of Sultan Murat
  • Day Trip to Prishtina
  • Gracanica Monastery
  • Prishtina Bear Sanctuary
Optional Activities
  • Prishtina Ethnographic Museum – Free
  • Prishtina Sultan Fatih Mosque – Free
  • Prishtina Kosovo Museum – EUR2
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 10: Skopje
Craggy mountain backdrops, time-weathered monasteries, stunning lake panoramas, hearty national cuisine – Macedonia has only one missing ingredient from the standard Europe recipe. And happily, that happens to be crowds. Landlocked into relative obscurity in a region worshipped for its coast, Macedonia’s tract of the Balkans is often overlooked. Yet for those looking to venture beyond the Adriatic and Aegean, Macedonia’s rugged interior contains rewards aplenty. Excellent hiking can be had in the mountain forests, Lake Ohrid’s waters rival the clarity of Croatia’s, and 500 years of Ottoman rule can be acutely felt in the capital’s bazaars. And to round it all out, the locals will be delighted to have you. This morning head out early and travel to Skopje, Macedonia’s capital city. Upon arrival in Macedonia’s political and cultural centre, take an orientation walk past Byzantine domes, Turkish baths, and also newly built neo-classical buildings and grand monuments (aimed to bolster national pride). In the afternoon, wander past the mosques, innumerable caravanserais and hamams that fill its winding streets – a testament to Skopje’s Ottoman past. Take a step back to those times with a visit to the Daut Pasha Hamam, or journey through the humbling Holocaust Museum to learn how Macedonia suffered during this tragic chapter of history.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Mount Vodno Cable Car to Millennium Cross – MKD100
  • Kale Fortress – Free
  • Skopje Holocaust Memorial Centre – Free
  • Skopje Daut Pasha Hammam – MKD50
  • City Museum of Skopje – Free
  • Archaeological Museum – MKD300
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 11: Matka Canyon/Skopje
Venture out to Matka Canyon, a deep ravine cut into the Suva mountains by the Treska River, 15 kilometres southwest of the city. This area is home to several medieval monasteries, caves, and over 70 species of endemic butterflies. There is the option to explore the canyon’s sights by boat. One of the monasteries worth exploring is St Andrew’s Monastery, which contains many superb frescoes of great artistic importance. There is also Vrelo cavern, a water-filled cave with incredible stalagmites and unchartered depths – it’s speculated to be the deepest underwater cave in the world. Alternatively, you can take one of the many nature walks in the canyon, or up to tracks that hug the ridge high above the valley. Return back to Skopje, with the remaining part of the day free for you to continue exploring this exciting city. Perhaps take the Mount Vodno cable car to the giant 66-metre high Millennium Cross, mainly for the views back down across the city. Get lost in the narrow lanes of Caršija, Skopje’s most atmospheric neighbourhood, or take in the stone bridge over the river Vardar – an iconic sight that acts as a handy connection between Macedonia Square and the Old Bazaar. Perhaps visit the Museum of the City of Skopje, housed in the old Railway Station, which is itself a unique piece of history. For dinner this evening head to the Old Bazaar, or the restaurants in the Debar Maalo area.
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Day Trip to Matka Canyon
Optional Activities
  • Matka Canyon Boat Ride – MKD400
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 12: Lake Ohrid
Travel by local bus from Skopje to Ohrid, situated on a lake with the same name (approximately 3 hours). Europe’s oldest lake, and one of the oldest human settlements in the world, Ohrid has a wealth of historic sites and religious monuments to discover. Ohrid is an eternal town, a magical hill whose primordial pulsation links ancient and modern times forever. The town is said to have once been home to 365 churches, one for each day of the year, earning it the nickname “the Macedonian Jerusalem”, while historical excavations date back to Neolithic times. Despite being a World Heritage site for over 30 years, the town remains under the radar of visitors. Get your bearings on an orientation walk around Ohrid, maybe picking up a bargain or two in the vibrant Old Bazaar.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 13: Lake Ohrid
Take to the lake on a cruise on the turquoise waters of Lake Ohrid to take in the views of the town and the surrounding scenery from the water. The rest of the day is free for you to discover the area. There are many churches and monasteries to visit, but one of the most popular is the Macedonian Orthodox Church of Sveti Jovana Kaneo, situated on a rocky outcrop above the town, overlooking the lake. Past the church you can wander around to the back of town, exploring the old walls and fortress, and admiring the views of the lake. The Sveti Naum Monastery is also a great option, lying on the shores of the lake south of town, with well-kept grounds that are home to peacocks. The ancient Tast Samoil’s Fortress stands on the top of Ohrid Hill and looks across the town, while a 2,000-year-old Roman theatre was uncovered near the Upper Gate – in summer it’s again being used for concerts and performances.
Accommodation
  • Guesthouse (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Lake Ohrid Boat Cruise
Optional Activities
  • Robev Family House National Museum – MKD150
  • St Jovan Church – MKD100
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 14: Tirana
Say goodbye to the endless, merging blues of lake and sky as you board your private transfer to the northern end of the lake and across the border into Albania, for your journey back to Tirana (approximately 3 hours in total). On arrival, your day is then free to explore and to enjoy the last night of your adventure. Feel the urban energy of this transforming city, where colour splashes enliven drab communist architecture, and if there’s time perhaps take a cable car ride up Dajti Mountain one last breath-taking overview of the city below. If you stay in town longer consider heading out to Kruja, the old capital of Albania. Tonight, perhaps gather together the group for a final farewell dinner as this expedition comes to an end. You could head to Blloku (the Block), once the domain of the Communist party’s inner circle and now home to designer cafes, glizy restaurants, and boutique bars. For something a little more traditional maybe head to an old house restaurant, where the menus are filled with Albanian recipes like eggplants stuffed with onions and garlic and fried rice balls or oven-baked cottage cheese with pepperoni. Raise a raki to this adventure!
Accommodation
  • Hotel (1 night)
Optional Activities
  • Dajti Mountain Cable Car – ALL1000
  • Day Trip to Kruja – ALL900
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Day 15: Tirana
There are no activities planned for the final day and you’re able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you wish to stay on in Tirana we are able to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to your travel consultant at the time of booking.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Joining point

Hotel Kruja
Rruga Mine Peza Perballe Komisariatit Nr 3 te Policise
Tirana
ALBANIA
Phone: +355 42238106

Joining point instructions

Rinas Express operates 12 hours (6 am to 6 pm) as an hourly bus service between the Airport and the National Museum in the centre of Tirana. The single fare is 250 Albanian Lek. From Sheshi Skenderbej Square head west along Rruga e Durrësit. Turn slightly right at Rruga Mine Peza and follow this road. The hotel is on the left hand side after about 500m. It takes about 10 minutes to walk, or alternatively taxis are cheap and abundant. Agree on a price before getting in.

If you have pre-booked an arrival transfer, your transfer driver will be holding a board with the Intrepid logo or your name at the arrivals hall. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the emergency phone number: +355 (0) 69 20 81113.

Problems and emergency contact information

For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction – if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. But we do ask you to be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is complete.

In the case of a genuine crisis or emergency, Intrepid’s Europe Operations Team can be reached on the number listed below:

+49 8677 9186 657

Finishing point

Hotel Kruja
Rruga Mine Peza Perballe Komisariatit Nr 3 te Policise
Tirana
ALBANIA
Phone: +355 42238106

Finishing point instructions

If you are making your own way to the airport the hotel will be able to help book you an airport shuttle or taxi. Please ask at reception.

If you have pre booked a departure transfer, you will be collected at the hotel reception 3 hours before your flight departure time. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the emergency phone number: +355 (0) 69 20 81113.

Itinerary disclaimer

Occasionally our itineraries are updated during the year to incorporate improvements stemming from past travellers’ comments and our own research. The information given in this itinerary may be slightly different to that in the brochure. It’s very important that you print and review a final copy of your Essential Trip Information a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans. If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff. We are here to help you! Please note that while we operate successful trips in this region throughout the year, some changes may occur in our itineraries due to inclement weather and common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes. This can happen with little notice so please be prepared for modifications to the route. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary from time to time.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:
A selection of optional activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn’t an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only. Prices are approximate and are for entrance only and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability and it may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. This means that it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, however we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with booking these activities. The decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Inclusions

Essential Trip Information

Essential Trip Information:

Single Supplement

A Single Supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. The price of the single supplement does not include the following nights, where a single room does not form part of the package. In this case you will be matched up with another traveller of the same gender. If a single room becomes available at check-in for these nights, there may be the option for you to upgrade to a single room and pay the surcharge locally for that night:
– Days 3-4: Valbona Valley
Please also note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement and enquire about availability please speak to your booking agent.

Passport and visas

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it’s important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Your consultant will also be happy to point you in the right direction with acquiring visas. Visas can take several weeks to process, so familiarise yourself with any requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for processing time.

Visas for Albania, Kosovo and Macedonia are not required for passport holders of the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. All other nationalities should check with the relevant authorities.

PASSPORT STAMPS
Serbia officially states that it will block passports containing stamps or visas from Kosovo, and denies passage to travellers who enter Serbia via Kosovo, as the Serbian Authorities view this as having entered their country illegally. Passport stamps are rarely issued, however to make sure you can remind Kosovar authorities not to stamp your passport at the border.

Medical and health information

All Intrepid travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please note that if, in the opinion of our group leader or local guide, any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, Intrepid Travel reserves the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations on this trip. For legal reasons our leaders and guides are prohibited from administering any type of drugs including headache tablets and antibiotics. Please ensure that you are adequately prepared.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you’ll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. There’s no obligation to do this though.

Vegetarians might find the menu selection less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.

There are some basic breakfasts included on this trip which may simply include bread/toast or pastries, butter, jam, coffee/tea/juice (or similar).

Accommodation

Hotel (12 nights), Guesthouse (2 nights)

OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.

TWIN SHARE BASIS
Accommodation on this trip is on a twin share basis (unless noted otherwise in the day-to-day itinerary). Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite.

CHECK-IN TIME
Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we’re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn’t always possible which means we won’t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.

PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
If you’ve purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.

FACILITIES
Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don’t provide kettles or fridges.

Transport

Public bus, Private vehicle, Boat, Taxi

TRANSPORT IN EUROPE
Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that’s why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a train in Spain, cycling past a historic chateau in France, or encountering the world’s most extravagant public transport system on the Moscow Metro. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.

Money matters

CURRENCY
The official currency of Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL) and Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar (MKD). After independence Kosovo has adopted the common currency of the European Union, the Euro (EUR), even though they are not a member of the EU. The northern part of the country and Serbian enclaves also use the Serbian Dinar as legal tender.

CASH
The most convenient and cheapest way to acquire money in Europe is via an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or Bancomat as they are often referred to. Check with your bank in advance concerning the suitability of your account / card overseas and any international fees that will be applied. You can withdraw local currencies easily at airports, major train stations and most city centres, but be sure to bring some extra emergency cash in a major currency that can be exchanged if the ATMs are not functioning. When leaving home don’t forget your PIN and make sure you know the telephone number for cancelling your card if it is stolen. Keep this in a safe place. Credit cards are not always accepted in stores and restaurants. We recommend you carry some cash to pay for restaurant bills and other services.

SPENDING MONEY:
When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget a sensible amount for things like meals not included, drinks, shopping, optional activities and laundry. It’s always better to bring a little more than you think you’ll need. Also make sure you’ve read your trip details thoroughly so you know what’s included in the trip price and what isn’t. This should make budgeting a little easier. You’ll find this info in the Inclusions section of your Essential Trip Information (that’s this document).

BUDGET
Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. We suggest EUR 500.00 for meals not included on this trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less.

TIPPING
If you’re happy with the services provided a tip – though not compulsory – is appropriate. While it may not be customary to you, it’s of great significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels, inspires excellent service, and is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many Intrepid destinations. The following amounts are per person suggestions based on local considerations and feedback from our past travellers: In local markets and basic restaurants and cafes – round your bill up to the nearest €1. In more up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill. Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your tour leader. We suggest €2-€3 per day for local guides. You may also have a range of drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group, however we suggest €1-€2 per day for drivers. You may also consider tipping your tour leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline €4-€5 per person, per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length of your trip. Remember, a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service. In total, we recommend you budget approx €5-€10 per day of your trip to cover tipping.

CONTINGENCY FUNDS:
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. Please make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result there may be some extra costs involved.

Packing

PACKING
On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won’t be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 10kg / 22lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are lightly to encounter while carrying your luggage. You’ll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. You can find Intrepid’s Ultimate Packing List on our website. It should be used as a guide only and isn’t intended to be a complete packing list.

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

TRAVELLING ON LOCAL TRANSPORT
It’s important that your bags can be locked, as on local transport it may be necessary that your luggage gets stowed separately (and unattended). The smaller your bag the better for you and other passengers. To ensure maximum comfort, try to pack small and light.

WATER BOTTLE
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion ends up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided at some of our accommodation or simply refill with tap water (your leader will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination). When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day.

IMAGES FROM HOME:
During our trip there will be many opportunities for you to meet and talk with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos / postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.

Climate and seasonal information

SUMMER
Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection and drink plenty of water. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

SHOULDER SEASON
In contrast, weather in shoulder season can be unpredictable, and snow is not unheard of at higher altitudes. If you travel at the start or towards the end of the European season please pack accordingly with warm and/or waterproof clothes (preferably layers). The advantage of travelling during this time is that there are less tourists around.

Group Leader

All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Safety

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas your itinerary covers. Please refer to our website’s safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trip.

We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

Your leader will accompany you on all included activities, however during your trip you’ll have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your leader will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your Leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it’s deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

For more details on the type of conditions and safety standards you can expect on your trip, please refer to Intrepid’s operational safety policy on our website. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how well it’s being implemented in the field:

http://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us/safety

FIRE PRECAUTIONS:
Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD:
Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY:
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

SEAT BELTS:
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

A couple of rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land, but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for Intrepid travellers. Intrepid’s philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular, the local people who make our destinations such special places. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our group leader has the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure on their trip. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment at Intrepid, either between passengers or involving our leaders, local operators or locals.

Sexual relationships (consensual or otherwise) between a leader and a passenger are unacceptable. If you ever feel another person is behaving inappropriately please inform us immediately by contacting the emergency contact number detailed in these trip notes.

Travelling on a group trip

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well – this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.

SINGLE TRAVELLERS:
Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and don’t involve a compulsory single supplement. Single travellers share with people of the same gender in accommodation ranging from twin to multishare. Some of our itineraries have accommodation booked on a mixed gender share basis and where applicable this will be specified in our Trip Notes. On a selection of our trips, you have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure that you have your own accommodation (where available). Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour – pre-trip and post-trip accommodation will be booked on a single room basis.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.

When travelling on a trip, you won’t be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company’s 24 hour emergency contact number has been seen by your leader.

If you have credit card insurance your group leader will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number and emergency contact number rather than the bank’s name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country.

http://www.intrepidtravel.com/insurance.php

Responsible Travel

We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Please visit our website for further details and suggestions on how you can be a responsible traveller.

http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/rt/responsibletraveller

DRESS CODE
In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe. Note when visiting churches, monasteries or other religious sites modest dress is required – shorts or skimpy tops may not be permitted, for both men and women.

Exclusive Offer

Get $ Off Your NEXT Trip

Refer your friends and get a credit toward your next booking with us.
View Packages