Following Zagoria Pathways

5.0 (6)
8 days 7 nights
Albania
Photo Kristina F.
5.0
Kristina F.
Tour Provider
View Kristina’s tours
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Basic+
Weight limit

Embark on an enchanting journey along the medieval Zagoria caravan routes, immersing yourself in a realm of timeless legends, folklore, and melodies. Explore the remnants of the ancient Ilirian civilization, meander through medieval villages, and discover hidden gems like secluded churches and monasteries. Marvel at the exceptional mountain bridges constructed during Ali Pasha's rule, boasting rare and exquisite designs. The climax of this extraordinary trail awaits you at Swallow’s Rock, a breathtaking ascent..

Connect with the warm-hearted locals, gaining insights into their customs and way of life, all while experiencing the genuine hospitality of authentic homestay accommodations. Our knowledgeable guides not only prioritize your safety but also make excellent companions, sharing their expertise and engaging in delightful conversations. 

Lets celebrate the harmonious bond between humanity, horses, nature, and culture!

from
$1,306
per tourist for 8 days
Departing from
Tirana
Available dates
Date of travel
Number of individuals
Only in the Horse Tours Club
  • Local prices – no extra fees
    Book tours directly from local tour providers
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    All guides confirm their qualifications
  • Reviews from travelers
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Photo Kristina F.
Kristina F. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English
I was born in Albania and now am a journalist with a unique background in history and archaeology. My deep affinity for horses goes beyond a mere interest, it is a lifelong passion that has become a driving force in my endeavors. Recognizing the potential of Albania`s cultural and natural treasures, I have committed myself to building some of the finest horse holidays in the country. My vision extends beyond tourism, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with horses, the preservation of nature, and support for local communities. I believe a horse represents more than a companion on the trails it symbolizes a partnership rooted in mutual respect and understanding. I stand at the intersection of passion, profession, and purpose, weaving together a narrative that celebrates the rich tapestry of Albania`s history, culture, and natural beauty while championing the symbiotic relationship between humans and horses. My story is one of dedication to sustainable practices, community empowerment, and the enduring connection between people, horses, and the environment.

Tour highlights

Enjoy the Breathtaking Views
Prepare to be amazed as the mountainous ecosystem rapidly transforms before your eyes
Live Like a Local
Experience the evening and night in a village houses, relishing homemade traditional food and beverages
See the Extraordinary Monuments
Pass by the remnants of different heritage sites - castles, churches, bridges ans many more

Route details

Day 1
Arrival

Arrive at Tirana airport, aiming for a morning arrival but no later than 14:30 to allow time for transfer and a visit to Gjirokastra. The drive to Gjirokastra will take approximately 3 hours. Once you reach your hotel, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the historical center of Gjirokastra, settle in and get ready to explore. Before dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the captivating historical town and the old Bazaar. Along the way, you can visit various attractions such as Enver Hoxha’s house, Gjirokastra castle, the church of the Old Bazaar, the mosque of the Bazar, and the Skenduli house, which offers a glimpse into traditional life in Gjirokastra.

For dinner, enjoy a delicious meal at a traditional restaurant. During this time, your guides will be available to discuss the trail with you, addressing any questions or requests you may have and providing valuable advice and insights. We highly recommend purchasing a map of the area before dinner to familiarize yourself with the itinerary and enhance your understanding of the upcoming journey.

Day 2
Ride towards the village of Karjan
Day 3
Cajupi Valley
Day 4
Towards the Nderan village
Day 5
Through the Pogoni region
Day 6
Reaching the Libohova
Day 7
Drino’s Valley
Day 8
Departure
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity
Tour provider's comments

Horse riding is a risk sport and activity and it can be dangerous. We train our horses to be friendly, confident and with a good understanding about their environment, but they are given to the rider with the understanding to ride at own risk.

horse

Accommodation

Comfort
Basic+
Guest House
7 nights
7 nights
Village House

Single Supplement 
It may be possible to pay for a single supplement on the first and last night of the trail, but riders must be prepared to share accommodation on the other nights. 
The single supplement, if we provide a single room, is 25 Euros per night paid here.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place
Tirana
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Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips
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Tour conditions

Included

  • all accommodations and meals from dinner of day 1 till breakfast of day 8;
  • English speaking guide (second guide if there are more than 4 riders);
  • water and drinks during the meals;
  • luggage transport by car from destination to destination.

Extras

  • flights;
  • entrance tickets to monuments or parks;
  • lunch on day 1;
  • extra drinks;
  • other services or expenses during free time;
  • transfer from/to the airport;
  • the small group supplement (158 Euros/person). This is applicable if only 2 riders are booked onto the ride. If, at the time of departure, more than 2 riders are booked, the small group supplement will be refunded. 

Group size

up to 10 tourists

Duration

8 days
7 nights

It's important to know

Personal equipment you need for the tour

Attire:

Riding hat
Long-sleeved shirts (avoid expensive or favorite clothing)
Riding trousers and chaps
Gloves

Footwear:

Good mountain shoes with a grip (not too thick)
Avoid smooth-soled riding boots

Outerwear:

Waterproof raincoat

Swimming Clothes:

Swimwear

Evening attire:

Casual clothes

Protection:

Sun cream
Sunglasses
Hat

Medical supplies:

Anti-allergy medicine for insect bites

Essentials:

Torch (flashlight) for walking to feed the horses in the evening

Photography:

Small camera (avoid large professional cameras)

Identification:

Copy of passport

Saddlebags:

Personal saddlebags welcome (provided by riders)
Small saddlebags provided by the ride for food and water.

In addition to the other items, including a torch (flashlight) is recommended for walking to the horses to feed them in the evening. This will provide better visibility and ensure your safety during this activity.

Cancellation of booking

Tour reviews

5.0
Based on 6 reviews
  • M
    Malaren
    24 Mar, 2024
    about provider
    Awesome provide
    24 Mar, 2024
  • B
    Bernadette
    17 Nov, 2023
    about provider
    My 14-year-old daughter and I embarked on the one-week Zagoria trail in November. It was a week filled with joy as we cherished every minute, thanks to the breathtaking views, reliable and sturdy horses, delightful cuisine, and hospitable families we stayed with. Most importantly, I truly valued the friendly approach towards the youngest rider in our group, my daughter. Thanks to the Caravan Horse Riding Albania team's kindness and professionalism, it became an unforgettable experience.
    17 Nov, 2023
  • A
    Astriflette
    27 Jun, 2023
    about provider
    There are no words sufficient to express how truly amazing this trail was! It held great significance for me to embark on this journey solo. Filled with warmth, sharing (and raki), it provided the perfect avenue to explore Albania and its people. Thank you, Kristina, for being such an inspiring woman. Your attention to detail and care resonates deeply with me and will stay with me always. Your team's exceptional work extends beyond just horses; it encompasses the rich culture of your country and its people. Many thanks for sharing that with us. (They even surprised me with a birthday cake 🤩🤩) I returned home with countless memories and newfound friends. FALEMINDERIT!
    27 Jun, 2023

Dates and Prices

  • from
    $1,306
    16 – 23 Nov 8 days 7 nights
    Request to book
  • from
    $1,306
    23 – 30 Nov 8 days 7 nights
    Request to book

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