The Peaks of the Balkans trail is a legendary 192-kilometre trekking route that winds through the Accursed Mountains of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. It is a stunning, challenging adventure. But navigating the logistics of the Peaks of the Balkans trek can be intimidating.
Using Shkoder as your main hub simplifies everything. Here is your ultimate guide to planning the Peaks of the Balkans hike, including itineraries, gear, and crucial luggage storage details.
Overview of the 10 stages and starting points
The official route is divided into 10 stages, typically taking 10 to 13 days to complete. The most common starting points are Theth or Valbona in Albania, Plav in Montenegro, and Peja in Kosovo.
However, because international flights mostly land in Tirana or Podgorica, the vast majority of hikers choose to base their logistics in Shkoder. From Shkoder, you can easily catch morning transport to Theth or the Koman ferry to Valbona, making it the perfect gateway to the Peaks of the Balkans route stages.
Gear checklist
Hiking through three different countries requires careful preparation. Here are the essentials you can arrange directly at our Shkoder hub:
- Trekking poles: The ascents and descents are brutal on the knees. You can easily arrange trekking poles rental before your hike.
- Screw-top gas canisters: Finding cooking fuel in remote villages is almost impossible. We supply standard EN417 camping gas canisters.
- Bear spray: For peace of mind in remote wilderness areas, bear spray is highly recommended.
Luggage logistics: Lockers in Shkoder
You cannot carry your 20kg travel suitcase over a 1,700-metre mountain pass. Storing your non-hiking luggage is the most important logistical decision you will make.
Instead of worrying about hotel reception hours, use our automated luggage storage in Shkoder. It is accessible 24/7, allows card payment, and is located near all the major minibus departure points. You drop your heavy bags, take only your hiking pack, and retrieve everything seamlessly when you finish the loop.
Permits
Because the trail crosses international borders outside of official checkpoints, you must apply for cross-border permits in advance. This process requires submitting your itinerary to local authorities. For a detailed breakdown of how to apply, read our dedicated Peaks of the Balkans permits guide.
By organising your gear, luggage, and transport through Shkoder, you can focus entirely on enjoying the raw, untouched beauty of the Accursed Mountains!