Albania surprises anyone who delves into its culture, gets to know its people and discovers its untouched landscapes. Like Iran, it is one of those countries about which we have preconceived ideas, prompting travellers to reset their expectations and start from 0 when they get there.
The former Soviet Union was dissolved and the Berlin Wall fell, but Albania continued to resist reforms for years.
What we know about Albania is that, besides being Europe’s least-known country, it was closed for years under a communist dictatorship. Until the 1990s, it turned its back on the world, surrounded by “enemies” and fearing an invasion that never came.
Now, with the parliamentary republic, changes in domestic policy and the granting of tourism visas, Albania begins to show its treasures.
For this Christmas we have prepared trips to Albania with departures from Madrid and Barcelona.
Our trips to Albania
Albania✔️ Departures MAY to OCT 2024
✔️ Price from 1380€
✔️ Departures JUN to SEP 2024
✔️ Price from 1190€
Did you know that in Albania...
Sworn Virgins
They were born women, but They gave up having sex and getting married to become the man of the family: they may carry weapons, wear trousers and be treated as clan chiefs.
Blood feuds
In northern Albania, relatives of a murdered man traditionally have the right to avenge their honour by killing a man from the killer’s family. This is what the ancient Muslim Kanun code. The only salvation for the threatened is to hide in their own home.
Gjirokaster
One of the secrets of Albania; ancient villages of Ottoman origin, well preserved and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Typical Balkan Ottoman architecture, with a spectacular citadel and castle.
Bunkers
During the Communist Regime around 750,000 bunkers were built to protect the country from an imagined enemy. They are everywhere and are beginning to be reused as bars, dance floors and even homes.
Unspoilt beaches
Much of Albania’s coast is built up and has a slightly neglected feel, reminiscent of our beaches in the early 1980s. Heading south, it becomes more attractive, with pebble beaches and unspoilt, hard-to-reach places that coexist from afar with bars and music at full volume.
Mother Teresa of Calcutta
Although born in neighbouring Macedonia, Mother Teresa always was considered Albanian. The place of birth does not matter, but the race and culture. More than a million Albanians were not born in the country.
Mercedes Benz
More than frequent on Albanian roads. They're stolen vehicles in other countries. they end their life in Albania.
Safety
After years of isolation, it seems that tourism is welcome and the population is very hospitable. Visitors are very unlikely to encounter crime; on the contrary, even tourist scams are uncommon.
Opinions of other travellers
C. Alcala, He left us this comment on our Facebook:
What can I say about Albania that Viajes Tuareg travellers have not already said?
Without the agency’s recommendation, I would never have thought of visiting. A wonderful country surrounded by majestic mountains, with charming towns and cities.
Its kind, resilient people are transforming the country.
Our group of 12 made the trip more enjoyable. And our guide? FANTASTIC. Thank you, Dorjiam.