Hiking the Theth to Valbona pass is one of the best things to do in Theth. This 17km hike takes a full day to complete, 6-8 hours in total, and guides you up over the Accursed Mountains for spectacular panoramas of rugged mountain peaks and wide valleys.

Important info before you hike

A quick word of caution: this hike is becoming increasingly busy throughout the year and people are hiking without doing their due diligence beforehand. 

Be extra cautious during the spring months, particularly in May and early June. We suggest asking about the weather conditions prior to hiking in Facebook groups, such as Peaks of the Balkans or Albania Travel Info. You can also reach out to your guesthouse in Theth for an update on conditions as well.

If you are determined to hike the pass, even with snow, then we highly recommend getting a guide who has the right equipment. You can find a guide through your guesthouse.

Hiking during the summer months is not a problem if there is no snow.

 The trail is safe and easy to follow – it’s only one particular stretch of the hike that unfortunately causes fatal accidents during the spring months.

How to hike the Theth to Valbona pass (full hike + half hike)

Full hike: The hike is a one-way route and can be done in either direction, either from Theth to Valbona or Valbona to Theth. Plan on a full-day for the hike, most people do it within 6-8 hours, and bring extra food and water just in case.

There are several cafes along the way that serve snacks and have water re-fill stations if needed.

Half hike: Another alternative is to do a round-trip hike from Theth to Valbona Peak and then back down to Theth in one day. This takes 4-hours each way and is a good option if you want to spend the whole time in Theth.

There is a cafe about 45-minutes from the peak where you can take a rest, refill your water bottle, or grab a snack if needed.

Getting from Valbona to Shkoder

The journey from Valbona to Shkoder takes a few steps. First, you’ll take a minibus to Fierze on Lake Komani from Valbona, which takes 1-1.5 hours. This can be arranged by your accommodation in Valbona.

Second, you’ll take the ferry across Lake Komani to Koman. The ferry ride takes 2.5 hours. We highly recommend booking your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months. 

Once you arrive in Koman, you’ll take a final minibus back to Shkoder, which takes 2 hours. This can be arranged through your accommodation in Shkoder.

Overall, the journey takes almost an entire day to get back to Shkoder from Valbona.