Semi-Private Tour Albanian Riviera; Saranda, Ksamil & Dhermi

Discovering the Albanian Riviera: A 5-Day Semi-Private Tour Review

Traveling along the Albanian Riviera has long been a secret among those seeking unspoiled beaches, charming coastal towns, and scenic drives without the crowds. This 5-day semi-private tour offered by Co Adventures promises to bring travelers to some of the most captivating spots in southern Albania — from the lively waters of Ksamil to the historic Porto Palermo Castle, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the views.

What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances structured sightseeing with free time — giving you the chance to truly enjoy the beaches or explore at your own pace. The inclusion of professional guides and comfortable, private transport makes the journey smooth, and the hotels, rated 3-stars, provide decent comfort without breaking the bank. One minor consideration is that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for travelers who are able to handle some walking and uneven terrain.

Two things I love about this tour: First, the stunning scenery at each stop, especially the turquoise waters of Ksamil and the sweeping views from Lekursi Castle. Second, the authentic coastal experience — you’ll meet local guides, visit lesser-touristed beaches, and get a real taste of what life by the sea here is like, not just the typical tourist spots.

• Stunning Views: The tour highlights some of the most photograph-worthy locations along the Albanian coast, especially the beaches and castle overlooks.
• Authentic Experiences: Small groups and local guides ensure a more personal, genuine feel.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of sightseeing, beach relaxation, and free time to explore or unwind.
• Comfortable Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicles make the long drives between stops pleasant.
• Value for Money: All accommodations, site entry tickets, and transport are included, making it straightforward to budget.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs, so check accessibility if needed.

Exploring the Coastal Charm of the Albanian Riviera

This tour is designed for travelers who want a taste of the Albanian coast’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail. Starting from Tirana, you’re picked up from your hotel and whisked away in a private vehicle. The first stop is Saranda, a lively coastal town with beautiful views of the Ionian Sea and Lekursi Castle perched on a nearby hill. The castle offers a panoramic backdrop for photos, and the gentle sound of waves below sets a relaxing tone for the days ahead.

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines scenic drives with time to explore. The guide, whose name I’ve seen mentioned in reviews, is noted for being friendly and informative, making the experience more engaging. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the included entry tickets remove the hassle of navigating local fees.

Day 1: Saranda and Lekursi Castle

Your first day sets the tone with relaxed sightseeing. From the castle, you’ll see sweeping views over Saranda and the distant Albanian mountains. It’s a great spot for photos and absorbing the coastal atmosphere. Many travelers love the way the guide shares local insights, making history and geography interesting rather than dry.

Day 2: Ksamil Beaches

One of the tour’s highlights is a full morning in Ksamil, which is famed for its crystal-clear waters and small, sun-drenched islands that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Perhaps the most praised part of this stop is the turquoise waters, which many reviewers describe as “unlike anything I’ve seen in Europe”. You’ll have plenty of time to relax on the soft sand, take a dip, or explore the nearby islands by boat if you choose.

Day 3: Borsh and Porto Palermo Castle

Driving along the coastline, you’ll reach Borsh — the longest and largest beach in the Ionian Sea. The expansive sands are ideal for a leisurely walk or sunbathing. Just nearby, Porto Palermo Castle offers a glimpse into Albanian history with its fortress setting overlooking the water.

Many guests appreciate the scenic drive, noting that the views of rugged cliffs and azure waters are truly breathtaking. The guide often shares local stories, making the stops more meaningful.

Day 4: Himara and Dhermi

Himara is a charming, less touristy town with a relaxed vibe. You’ll have free time to wander through its streets, visit local cafes, or head straight to Dhermi’s beaches. Dhermi is renowned for its crystal waters and pebble beaches, perfect for a laid-back afternoon. Several reviews mention how quiet and authentic Dhermi feels compared to more crowded Mediterranean spots, which is a big plus if you’re after an authentic experience.

Day 5: Vlora Bay and Return to Tirana

Your final day offers a relaxed morning by Vlora Bay, a scenic area with a lively waterfront. It’s a good spot for a last swim or some final photos before heading back to Tirana. The drive back is scenic, and the guide often shares tips on local eateries or how to extend your stay in this beautiful region.

This experience is excellent for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic taste of the Albanian coast without the stress of self-driving or booking multiple accommodations. It’s great for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy meeting like-minded adventurers. If you love stunning views, quiet beaches, and discovering local towns, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re wheelchair-bound or prefer a fully independent itinerary, you might find the group size and walking involved a bit restrictive. Also, keep in mind that lunches and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly.

Considering that all accommodations, transport, entrance fees, and a professional guide are covered, the price offers solid value for a 5-day package. The quality of hotels and the small group size help justify the cost, especially compared to independent travel expenses.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded taste of southern Albania’s most scenic and authentic spots. The combination of scenic drives, beach relaxation, and insightful guiding makes for a memorable experience. It’s particularly suited for those who want a hassle-free way to see the highlights and enjoy some downtime without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re after a trip that showcases the stunning views and genuine coastal ambiance of the Albanian Riviera, this tour by Co Adventures could be a perfect choice.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who can handle some walking and are comfortable in small group settings will enjoy this tour. Just be aware that beaches involve some uneven terrain.

What is included in the price?
All accommodations, breakfast, private transport, tour guide, entry tickets, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and taxes are included.

Are lunches or dinners included?
No, meals apart from breakfast are not included, so you’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners during the trip.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there free time at the beaches?
Yes, each day includes free time to relax, swim, or explore on your own.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended.

Are there any restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and logistics.

How many people are typically in the group?
Small groups are available, and the experience is tailored for a semi-private feel, usually under 10 participants.

What is the guide like?
The guide is professional and friendly, often sharing local stories and tips, making the journey both fun and informative.

How long are the driving days?
You can expect several hours of scenic driving each day, but stops are planned to break up the journey and enjoy the scenery.

To sum it up, this Albanian Riviera tour offers a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty, laid-back charm, and authentic coastal towns of southern Albania. It’s ideal for travelers craving scenic views, quiet beaches, and local flavor, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package.