Shala River Tour from Komani Lake

4.9 (136 Reviews)
From: €20,00
4.9
(136 reviews)
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Duration

About 7 hours

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

Albanian, English

About this tour

Komani Lake to Shala River Tour. Scenic Boat Tour!

Book Your Trip in Advance for Free! Plan your adventure ahead and secure your spot at no cost. If your plans change or you need to cancel, just reach out to us—we’re here to make your experience seamless and unforgettable.

Book anytime – it’s never too late or too early! We are available every day and accept reservations at any hour. Your comfort, convenience, and safety are our top priorities. ✨


Komani Lake to Shala River – Boat Journey to the “Thailand of Albania”!

Shala River Tour is one of Albania’s most spectacular day trips. Nestled in the heart of the Albanian Alps, this route offers breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Shala River, often referred to as the “Thailand of Albania” due to its emerald waters and dramatic cliffs, is a destination that captures the imagination of travelers from all over the world.

Komani Lake itself is a man-made marvel, created after the construction of the Komani Dam in the 1980s. The lake is surrounded by towering cliffs, dense pine forests, and small villages that have preserved their traditional charm. The lake and river together create a natural corridor filled with photogenic landscapes, making this journey an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone seeking tranquility in nature.

Departure and Journey Timings of the Tour from Komani Lake to Shala River.

The Boat departs from Komani Lake at 09:30 and arrives at the Shala River around 10:45. During the 1 hour and 15 minutes ride, travelers pass through dramatic canyons, steep cliffs, and dense pine forests lining the lake. The water is so clear that fish can often be seen swimming beneath the surface, while mountains and forests are reflected in the lake, creating perfect opportunities for photography.

Guides provide informative commentary about the history of the region, local folklore, and natural features of Komani Lake. Stories of ancient Albanian tribes, traditional lifestyles, and legends about the lake and river make the trip educational as well as visually stunning. Travelers will also spot local wildlife such as eagles, herons, and occasionally deer along the shores.

Activities at Shala River

Upon arrival at 10:45, guests enjoy several hours of leisure until 15:00. The activities are diverse and cater to all types of travelers:

  • Swimming: Shala River’s clear, fresh waters are perfect for a refreshing dip during summer.
  • Relaxation: Sit or lie down on soft white pebble beaches surrounded by nature’s tranquility.
  • Photography: Capture the river’s emerald waters, forested cliffs, and reflections of the surrounding mountains.
  • Canoeing: Paddle along calm sections of the river to discover hidden coves and small waterfalls.
  • Hiking: Explore scenic trails along the river or in nearby hills, where panoramic views of the Albanian Alps await.
  • Bird Watching & Wildlife: Spot native birds, fish, and occasionally small mammals in the forests and along the riverbanks.
  • Local Cuisine: Try traditional Albanian meals at riverside guesthouses, including fresh fish, homemade bread, local cheese, and seasonal vegetables.
  • Picnicking: Bring your own snacks or enjoy meals purchased locally to dine in one of the most beautiful natural settings in Albania.

Optional Overnight Stays

With same ticket of the Tour Komani Lake to Shala River, travelers who wish to extend their adventure, overnight stays are available at Shala River. They can use same ticket to return with Boat from Shala River to Komani Lake, Spending a night allows you to enjoy the sunset over the river, listen to the calming sounds of flowing water, and stargaze under a clear sky. While accommodation and meals are not included in the ticket, travelers have a range of options from guesthouses to small eco-lodges. Please notify us in advance so arrangements can be made to ensure a comfortable stay.

Return Journey

The return boat departs Shala River at 15:00 and arrives back at Komani Lake around 16:00. The journey back is a relaxing experience, offering one last chance to admire the dramatic cliffs, sparkling waters, and surrounding alpine scenery. Many guests take this time to reflect on their day, take photographs, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.


Meeting Point & Departure Location

The boat departs from Komani Lake to Shala River. Guests are advised to arrive a few minutes early to ensure timely departure. Our staff provides guidance and instructions to ensure your trip is safe, smooth, and enjoyable.

📍 Departure Location, Komani Lake Ferry. View on Google Maps: View the Location


Transportation from Nearby Hotels & Guesthouses

Guests staying in hotels or guesthouses near Komani Lake can enjoy free transportation to the boat port. Simply show us your location, and our staff will pick you up on time, ensuring you don’t miss your departure and start your adventure stress-free.


Why Choose This Tour?

  • Experience Albania’s natural beauty Komani Lake to Shala River Tour, in one day.
  • Enjoy crystal-clear waters, untouched forests, and breathtaking mountain views.
  • Perfect for families, photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
  • Optional overnight stays for a longer, immersive experience.
  • Safe, organized, and guided by experienced staff.
  • Opportunities to enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine and cultural immersion.
  • Flexible booking options through online system or WhatsApp.
  • Ideal for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure in Albania.

Travel Tips!

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on pebbles and hiking trails.
  • Bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen for water activities.
  • Carry a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery.
  • Pack light snacks and water for the day.
  • Follow guides’ instructions to ensure safety and respect nature.
  • Consider visiting early in the season for fewer crowds and optimal photography conditions.
  • Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure during the boat ride.
  • Keep a small backpack for valuables and personal items.

Nearby Attractions & Hidden Gems

While Shala River is the highlight of this trip, the surrounding region offers additional attractions worth exploring. During the Tour fro. Komani Lake to Shala River and vice-versa, you will see Small alpine villages along Komani Lake feature traditional stone houses, local markets, and friendly residents eager to share their culture. Scenic viewpoints along the lake provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, perfect for photography and nature appreciation.

For those interested in trekking, nearby trails lead to waterfalls, forested hills, and river confluences. These hidden spots allow visitors to experience Albania’s untouched wilderness and provide excellent opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Highlights

  • Scenic boat ride across the emerald waters of Komani Lake
  • Stunning canyon landscapes and mountain views along the way
  • Visit to the “Thailand of Albania” — Shala River with its pristine nature
  • Several hours to swim, relax, and enjoy the peaceful river environment
  • Perfect opportunity for photography and nature lovers

INCLUDED / EXCLUDED

  • Included

 ⛴ Boat ride Komani Lake → Shala River → Komani Lake

 🦺 Life jackets & safety equipment

 👨‍✈️ Assistance from trained, friendly crew

 🌿 Free time to swim, relax & explore

  • Excluded

 🍽 Meals & drinks at Shala River

 💰 Personal expenses

 🎯 Optional activities (kayak, zip-line, etc.)

 🧾 Everything Else


ITINERARY

09:30 – Departure from Komani Lake
📍 Meeting point: Kapaj Boat Pier
Start the journey across emerald waters and steep canyon landscapes.

10:45 – Arrival at Shala River
🏖 Free time to swim in crystal-clear waters, relax on hidden beaches, or explore the natural surroundings.

15:00 – Return to Komani Lake
⛴ Scenic cruise back through the dramatic alpine landscapes.

16:00 – Arrival at Komani Lake
📍 Kapaj Boat Pier
End of the tour & farewell.


Book Now – Reserve Your Unforgettable Adventure!

Don’t miss the opportunity to get Shala River Tour and explore one of Albania’s most stunning natural destinations. Book now and enjoy an unforgettable journey from Komani Lake to Shala River.

PRICE

👤 Adult (9+ yrs): 20 EUR
👧 Child (3–9 yrs): 10 EUR
👶 Infant (0–3 yrs): Free

  • Book Online: Use the booking system

  • Book by WhatsApp: Message us directly at: +355 68 368 0081


Komani Lake to Shala River Tour. Experience a scenic boat ride through crystal-clear waters. Glide along emerald rivers and majestic canyons for a truly unforgettable adventure.
Shala River Tour

You Can Book Also a Private Boat Tour

Languages

Albanian
English

Frequently asked questions

A: The boat departs directly from Komani Lake, usually from the main pier near the village of Komani.

A: The ride from Komani Lake to Shala River takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

A: Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, camera, and water. Food can be purchased locally at Shala River.

A: Yes, boats have life jackets and are operated by experienced crews for a safe trip.

A: Absolutely. Many travelers start directly from Komani Lake for this boat tour.

A: Meals are not included but available for purchase at local guesthouses at Shala River.

Tour's Location

Reviews

4.9/5
Excellent
(136 Reviews)
Excellent
123
Very Good
10
Average
3
Poor
0
Terrible
0
136 reviews on this Tour - Showing 41 to 60
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Ingrid Bekker
07/10/2025
Hele mooie tocht
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Yvonne
07/10/2025
Sehr schöner Ausflug! Tolle Landschaft! Und der Fahrer war ausgesprochen nett und freundlich!
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Sabrina Mekideche
07/10/2025
Très belle excursions à faire absolument !! C’est juste magnifique, sur place vous avez des transats (payant 10 euros/personne) et pas mal de petit resto 😍 Si vous voulez de la tranquillité je vous conseille d’aller au fond du Shala River Seul petit bémol, quelques bouteilles en plastique sur le trajet du lac Koman qui est incroyable .. dommage
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
eyal aaron
07/10/2025
שירות מצויין.ממליצה בחום.אדיבים,מנומסים, מקסימים ולבביים.שווה כל יורו.
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Margit Ott
07/10/2025
Traumhafter Ausflug. Dort sieht es aus wie in der Karibik. Gute Cocktails(€6,-)
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Ellemieke Laman
07/10/2025

Echt een aanrader!

Fantastische boottocht naar het guesthouse dat we voor 1 nachtje hebben geboekt. Prachtige uitzichten onderweg. Echt een aanrader!
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
atv atv
07/10/2025
לא לפספס מדהים
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Gretten stephanie
07/10/2025
L'organisation était ai top, personnes très agréables, boissons sur le bateau pas cher et l'excursion vaut le coup, c'est magnifique !!
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Chloé Ca
07/10/2025
Moi et mon amie avons passé un magnifique moment avec l’ensemble de l’équipe de Shala River Trip. Tout était parfait. Nous recommandons cette organisme.
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Jakub Jelinek
07/10/2025
Visita imprescindible si viajas a Albania. El tour está muy bien organizado, el equipo es amable y profesional. Una experiencia fantástica!
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Abdessamad KOUDIA
07/10/2025

Véritable paradis caché.

véritable paradis caché. Ses eaux cristallines d’un bleu éclatant et ses paysages montagneux environnants offrent un cadre spectaculaire. C'est l'endroit idéal pour se ressourcer, faire du kayak ou simplement admirer la nature. Un lieu à ne pas manquer pour les amateurs de beauté naturelle et de tranquillité.
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Chris C
07/10/2025

Fabuleux!

Une super journée malgré la pluie qui nous a empêchés d'aller au Waterfall. Mais la rando au Blu Eye est vraiment magnifique. Nous avons apprécié notre chauffeur / guide (Renato), adorable et super prudent malgré une route très étroite et une conduite des locaux... Euh... Comment dire... À l'albanaise quoi! 😂 Bref, horaires respectés, très bon chauffeur parlant parfaitement anglais et très sympa. Nous recommendons vivement cette compagnie. Fabulous! We enjoyed it inspite of the rain. We couldn't walk until the waterfall as it was raining but blue eye was amazing. We appreciated as well to have such a good driver and guide. Very careful on the road and sympathetic. We recommend this company and his driver Renato!
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Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Moritz Hentschl
07/10/2025
Es lohnt sich auf jeden Fall eine Bootstour über den Komani Lake und den Shala River zu unternehmen, da die Landschaft fantastisch ist. Auch die Organisation des Veranstalters war in Ordnung und freundlich. Allerdings sollte man folgende Dinge beachten, wenn man diese Tour bucht: 1) es ist nur möglich vor dem Tunnel zu parken. Von den Parkplätzen benötigt man je nach Lage noch ca. 15 Minuten zur Bootsanlegestelle. Genug Zeit einplanen. 2) die Straße zur Bootstour ist nicht durchgehend geteert und mit schlaglöchern versehen 3) vorab sollte man zur Sicherheit eine Nachricht an den Veranstalter schreiben, um zu prüfen, ob die online Reservierung angenommen wurde
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Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Amal Hanine
07/10/2025
We hebben een leuke dag gehad en genoten van de prachtige natuur . Ook al had het de hele dag geregend . Was wel erg druk bij de boten . Maar de organisatie had het goed geregeld en we konden vrij snel in onze gereserveerde boot .
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Sachou
07/10/2025

Je recommande vivement

Très rapide, très bonne compagnie, meilleur qualité prix, je recommande vivement
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Nadine Nicklaus
07/10/2025
Sehr schöner Trip, viele Touristen. Wir sind den Fluss ein wenig hoch gewandert. 3h aufenthalt gut machbar. Dort auf einer kleinen Steininsel angekommenhaben wir noch ein paar Aufnahmen mit der drohne gemacht. Badebag und Badeschuhe sind von Vorteil. Haben den Rucksack über Kopf mitgenommen. Wasser war sejr kalt und teilweise tief bis zur Brust (bin 169cm). Der Weg hat sich dahin gelohnt. Auf dem Rückweg gab es ein überteuertes Eis Nähe Boot. Man sollte gut zu fuss sein und keine Einschränkungen haben. Man läuft nur auf Steinen, Kies oder über selbstgebaute wackelige Brücken um die kleinen Wasserstellen zu überqueren. Hinweg und Rückweg sind ca 1h fahrt auf einem überfülltem mit ca 30 Personen Boot, entlang der sehr schönen Berge .Wir sind mit Barisha 25€/Person los geworden und hatten glücklicherweise max 8 Personen auf dem Boot. Schwimmwesten sind auch mehr Deko.
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Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Darek Z
07/10/2025
Trzeba tam być , widoki zapierające dech w piersiach 😊 …
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Anna Maria Kub
07/10/2025

Serdecznie polecam

Bardzo udana wycieczka. Obsługa bardzo miła, bardzo pomocna. Widoki zapierające dech w piersiach. Byliśmy na koniec lutego a mimo wielu odmów ze strony innych organizatorów oni jako jedyni nam nie odnowili.
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Florence Wynants
07/10/2025
Chouette endroit pour passer la journée ou demi journée. Des petits coins où manger, des prix corrects, une rivière et un cadre splendide. Dommage que les transats soient payants mais c'est le jeu.
Shala River Tour | Komani Lake
Dominik Almeida Riethmüller
07/10/2025

Ein wunderschönes Erlebnis.

Die Tour war unkompliziert. Start 09:30 Uhr, Abfahrt um 15:00 Uhr. Die Bootsfahrt dauert ca. Eine Stunde. Da Hin- und Rückfahrt inkludiert ist hat man somit zwei Fahrten. Leider findet man innerhalb des Flusses viel Plastikmüll, welcher sich durch Eigenengagement sicher beseitigen bzw. Reduzieren lassen würde. Müll fachgerecht entsorgen hilft, damit auch zukünftige Generationen dieses schönes Naturspektakel erleben dürfen.

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From: €20,00
4.9 (136 Reviews)

Owner

Shala River Boat Tour

Member Since 2025

Information Contact

Email

info@shalariver.al

Phone

+355 68 36 800 81