Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, Albania 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Travel to Librazhd

Take a bus or furgon (minibus) from Tirana to Librazhd, the main gateway town to Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park.

The journey offers scenic views of the Albanian countryside.

Stock Up on Supplies

Visit local shops and markets in Librazhd to buy provisions for your hiking and wild camping days, including water, non-perishable food, and any last-minute essentials.

Ensure you have enough water purification tablets or a filter, as clean water sources might be limited in the park.

Guesthouse Check-in & Briefing

Check into your guesthouse in Librazhd, relax, and prepare your gear for the upcoming multi-day trek.

You can also ask locals for up-to-date trail conditions.

Traditional Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner at a local restaurant in Librazhd, sampling local dishes before heading into the wilderness.

Try 'tavë kosi' (lamb and yogurt casserole) or fresh grilled meats.

Transport to Park Entrance

Arrange a taxi or furgon from Librazhd to the designated starting point for hiking into Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, likely near Qarrishte or Steblevë.

Hike to Fushe Studen

Begin your trek into the heart of the park.

Follow marked trails towards Fushe Studen, a beautiful alpine meadow known for its tranquility and proximity to glacial lakes. The terrain will be varied, moving from forest paths to more open, rocky sections.

Carry a map, compass, or GPS device. Trails can be less frequented here than in other Albanian parks.

Wild Camping at Fushe Studen

Set up your tent in a suitable spot near Fushe Studen, respecting 'leave no trace' principles.

Enjoy the peace and quiet of the wilderness under the stars.

Ensure you are away from water sources and potential animal paths. Pack out all your waste.

Camp Dinner

Prepare a simple camp dinner using your packed supplies.

Enjoy the quiet solitude of the Albanian wilderness.

Ascend Maja e Librazhdit

Embark on a challenging ascent towards Maja e Librazhdit (Peak of Librazhd), one of the prominent peaks in the park. The trek offers rugged terrain and rewards you with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glacial valleys. This is an all-day strenuous hike.

Start early, carry plenty of water and snacks. The trail can be steep and rocky; good hiking boots are essential.

Wild Camping in Alpine Meadow

After descending from the peak, find a suitable and sheltered spot in an alpine meadow for another night of wild camping.

Enjoy the sunset over the mountains.

Stargazing

With minimal light pollution, the remote mountains offer an incredible opportunity for stargazing.

Explore Glacial Lakes

Dedicate the morning to exploring some of the park's beautiful glacial lakes.

There are several scattered throughout the park, each with its unique charm. Enjoy the serene environment and clear waters.

Some lakes are suitable for a refreshing dip on a warm day, but be prepared for cold water!

Trek through Ancient Forests

Hike through dense, ancient beech and pine forests that cover much of the lower and mid-altitudes of the park.

These trails offer shade and a different type of natural beauty, often leading to hidden clearings.

Keep an eye out for wildlife, including brown bears (rarely seen) and various bird species.

Wild Camping by Forest Clearing

Find a suitable spot for your final night of wild camping in a secluded forest clearing.

Enjoy the sounds of nature as you reflect on your wilderness journey.

Hike to Small Village

Begin your descent out of the deeper wilderness towards a local village on the outskirts of the park, such as Steblevë or Rrajcë.

This hike will take you through beautiful landscapes, transitioning from dense forests to pastoral lands.

The exact route will depend on your chosen guesthouse location for the night.

Guesthouse Stay & Relaxation

Arrive at a guesthouse in a local village.

Enjoy a hot shower and the comforts of a bed after several nights of camping. Take time to relax and clean up.

Traditional Village Dinner

Savor a homemade traditional dinner prepared by your guesthouse hosts, offering a taste of authentic Albanian village cuisine and hospitality.

Morning Hike to Maja e Librazhdit Vista

Enjoy a final moderate hike to a scenic viewpoint like Maja e Librazhdit, offering panoramic views of the park's rugged landscape.

This shorter trek allows you to savor the natural beauty one last time before heading out.

Ensure your backpack is ready for packing up afterwards. This hike is designed to be accessible and not overly strenuous for your last day.

Pack Up Camp & Departure Prep

Return from your hike, enjoy a final snack, and efficiently pack up all your camping gear.

Ensure no trace is left behind, adhering to Leave No Trace principles. If you stayed in a guesthouse, check out.

Double-check you have all your belongings and leave the area pristine.

Local Transport to Librazhd

Arrange for local transport (e.

g., shared taxi or 'furgon' minibus) from the nearest accessible point of the park to the town of Librazhd. This will be your hub for onward travel.

Lunch in Librazhd

Upon arrival in Librazhd, find a local restaurant to enjoy a hearty Albanian lunch.

This is a good opportunity to taste local cuisine in a more urban setting.

Look for small eateries (byrektores) or traditional restaurants for authentic and affordable meals.

Check into Librazhd Guesthouse

Check into a pre-booked guesthouse or small hotel in Librazhd for a comfortable night after your wilderness adventure.

This will allow for easy access to transport for your departure tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner in Librazhd

Enjoy a final dinner in Librazhd.

Relax and reflect on your incredible hiking adventure through the Albanian wilderness.

Try some local specialties like 'qofte' (meatballs) or a fresh salad.