Peaks of the Balkans – Practical Tips and Answers to Common Questions
- Tomáš Klíma
- 1. 6.
- Minut čtení: 3

After completing the Peaks of the Balkans trail, I decided to write a blog post summarizing some key points and frequently asked questions I received during the hike or saw discussed in Facebook groups. Hopefully, this guide will make planning easier for future hikers.
1. Border Crossing Permits
The trail crosses three countries: Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. Even if there are no physical border checks, a permit is required for legal border crossings.
You have two options to obtain the permits:
Apply yourself by contacting local police or authorities in each country.
Use an agency that handles the process and sends the permits by email.We used Balkan Natural Adventure – it cost us around €20 per person (price may vary).
⏰ Apply at least one week in advance.
🔗 Additional info: The Sandy Feet – Border Permits Guide
2. Maps and Navigation
🗺️ Map App
We strongly recommend using Mapy.cz:
Trail is fully mapped and well-marked.
Offline maps are available with Premium (around €10/year).
Works offline in remote areas (which is crucial due to limited signal).
📲 Navigation
Use Mapy.cz app or export GPX data for your Garmin device.
📍 Trail Markings
The trail is mostly well-marked, but some signs are faded or missing.
During high season, you’ll likely meet other hikers, so getting lost is unlikely.
Offline maps are strongly recommended.
🔄 Clockwise vs. Counterclockwise
Most hikers go counterclockwise, but we chose clockwise due to a poor weather forecast and hoping for better conditions later in the hike (at Valbona pass).
Going clockwise also helped us avoid the crowds – great for those seeking solitude.
🗺️ Our Route
We hiked for 8 days (19.05.2025 - 26.05.2025), skipping part of Kosovo due to bad weather and feedback from other hikers suggesting it’s less scenic.Still, if you have time – go for the full loop!
3. Accommodation: Guesthouses vs. Tents
🏠 Guesthouses
The entire trail is well-supported by guesthouses:
~€35/day, includes bed + dinner + breakfast + packed lunch
All have beds, showers, toilets, drinking water, Wi-Fi
We finally decided for guesthouses due to weather and to support locals
Great opportunity to experience local culture and meet other hikers
⛺ Tents / Wild Camping
Wild camping is allowed and scenic spots are plentiful
Great if you’re experienced and looking for beautiful and calm nights
Offers full freedom and immersion in nature
4. Signal, Data & Wi-Fi
📶 Signal is limited, especially in mountains and remote valleys – another reason to use offline maps.
📱 We used M:tel eSIM (500GB WB6 plan) – works in Montenegro, Albania & Kosovo, with 8.3GB roaming
💸 Cost: €15 for 15 days🔗 M:tel Tourist eSIM
📡 Wi-Fi is available in most guesthouses but may not be strong enough for uploading photos.
5. Money and Prices
💶 Euros are accepted almost everywhere. No need to exchange to Albanian Leks (ALL).
💳 Card payments are rare in guesthouses – bring cash!
💡 Tip: Carry small denominations. If you pay with €100, you’ll likely get change in ALL.
💶 Exchange rate is usually 1€ = 100 ALL.
🛒 Prices are reasonable, even in remote mountain villages.
6. Gas Canisters for Cooking
If you're camping and cooking, here’s where to find gas canisters:
🏢 Skhoder
Luggage Storage – Threaded canisters available, you can contact the guy via whatsup in advance📍 Google Maps
Gas Works Hardware – Threaded type, check opening hours, it does not correspond during weekend📍 Google Maps
🏢 Theth
Mini Market Jezerca – Only pierce-type (C206) canisters📍 Google Maps
7. Transportation
✈️ Flight
We flew Prague → Tirana.
🚐 Tirana Airport → Shkodër
Used shuttle from Rinas Transport
💰 €15/person – ⏱️ ~1 hour📍 Map Link
🚐 Shkodër → Theth
Stayed one night at The Wanderers Hostel
Booked bus for €10/person – departs 7 AM
🚐 Theth → Shkodër
We arranged pickup via WhatsApp with the same driver or it can be booked through Wanderers Hostel
Two departures: 10:30 AM and 4 PM
💰 €10/person
🚌 Shkodër → Tirana (city)
Again booked via Wanderers Hostel
💰 €12/person
⏱️ ~2.5 hours
🚌 Tirana city → Airport
Shuttle bus runs hourly
💰 ~€5 📍 Shuttle Bus Stop
💼 Need to store luggage? There’s a storage service near the shuttle stop:📍 Luggage Storage
Final Thoughts
The Peaks of the Balkans is an unforgettable adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe.
Feel free to comment (instagram is the best option) if you have questions or want to share your own experience. Happy hiking! 🏞️🥾
Comments