Shala River & Komani Lake: Day Trip with Boat Ride & Swim

Summary

Albanian Alps boat ride swimming Shala River day escape

You’ll float through Komani Lake’s wild gorges by boat, swim (or brave) the icy-clear waters of Shala River, and share riverside lunch with fellow travelers. With pickup from Tirana or Shkodra and an Albanian guide who knows every bend in the river, this day trip leaves you sun-warmed and oddly peaceful — even after your signal returns.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to lose your phone signal and not even care? That hit me somewhere between Tirana and Komani Lake — I think it was after our guide, Erion, handed out strong coffee at a rest stop that smelled like rain on stone. The drive was longer than I expected (over three hours from Tirana), but honestly, watching the landscape change from city to wild green mountains made it feel like we were slowly leaving regular life behind. There was this old man at the bus station in Shkodra who nodded as we passed — I’m still not sure if he wished us luck or just liked our confused faces.

The boat ride on Komani Lake is something I keep replaying in my head. It’s not quiet, exactly — there’s wind and the low rumble of the engine and people laughing when someone mispronounces “Shala.” The cliffs close in tight sometimes, then open up to these pockets of turquoise water that look unreal. Our guide pointed out some goats way up on a ledge; I couldn’t even spot them until he laughed and said, “You need Albanian eyes.” When we finally reached the Shala River, it almost didn’t seem real — the water is so clear you can see every stone under your feet. Cold too. Like meltwater cold. I tried to swim but mostly just yelped and splashed around while a group of locals watched from their picnic table.

Lunch was simple — grilled fish and salad by the riverbank. Nothing fancy but everything tasted better after swimming (or shivering). There’s an optional hike up to this lookout point; a few of us went for it with Erion leading the way, telling stories about how his grandmother used to cross these mountains on foot. The view from up top isn’t something I can really describe — light bouncing off water, mountains all around, just space everywhere you look. We lingered longer than planned because no one wanted to leave yet.

The ride back felt quieter somehow. Maybe everyone was tired or maybe just full in that good way you get after a day outside with strangers who don’t feel like strangers anymore. If you’re thinking about a day trip to Shala River from Tirana or Shkodra — well, just go for it. You’ll remember how cold that water was long after your photos disappear from your phone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Komani Lake and Shala River day trip

• Depart from Tirana by car
• Stop briefly en route to Komani Lake
• Board boat for Komani Lake cruise
• Enjoy boat ride through gorges and lakes
• Arrive at Shala River
• Free time for lunch, swimming, or hiking
• Return by boat to Komani Dam
• Drive back to Tirana

Top questions

How long is the drive from Tirana to Komani Lake?

The drive takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes from Tirana to Komani Lake.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included if you’re staying in Tirana; otherwise pickup points are available in Shkodra city center and Lezha main street.

Can I swim in the Shala River during the tour?

Yes, you’ll have free time at Shala River for swimming in its crystal-clear waters.

How much free time do we get at the river?

You’ll have around 3 hours of free time at Shala River for lunch, relaxing, or swimming.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No set lunch is included but food is available for purchase by the river during free time.

Is there a hike option during the tour?

Yes, there’s an optional guided hike (about 45 minutes round-trip) to a viewpoint over the river.

What languages does the guide speak?

The tour includes an English-speaking guide throughout the day trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old.

Will my phone work during the tour?

You may lose mobile connection along parts of Komani Lake and Shala River; communication is via WhatsApp when possible.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from central points in Tirana, Shkodra city center (at Shkodër bus station), or Lezha main street roundabout; all transportation between locations; entry ticket for the boat ride across Komani Lake; guidance throughout by an English-speaking local expert; plus plenty of time at Shala River for swimming or hiking before returning late afternoon or evening.