From Tirana/Durrës: Saranda,Ksamil islands and Blue Eye Tour

What’s this tour all about?
From Tirana or Durrës, this full-day adventure takes you to some of Albania’s most stunning spots: Sarandë, the Ksamil Islands, and the Blue Eye. For about 16 hours, you’ll explore pristine beaches, vibrant local culture, and breathtaking natural wonders—all with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport. The tour costs around a reasonable price considering the comprehensive experience, including entry fees and water, making it a great value for travelers eager to see South Albania without the hassle of planning every detail.

We love how this trip balances scenic drives with plenty of stops for exploring, especially the chance to relax on soft sands or swim in crystal-clear waters. The guides are praised for their ** friendliness, knowledge,** and the personal touches they bring, like sharing interesting facts and helping with photos. A key highlight is the visit to the Blue Eye, with its stunning, icy waters that come from underground—truly a unique sight.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a long day with quite a bit of driving—around 2 hours between stops—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and outdoor activities. If you’re seeking a relaxed, flexible day or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider whether the pace matches your travel style.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want efficient access to South Albania’s most famous attractions, especially those who enjoy a good mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a lively, friendly atmosphere.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Visit Sarandë, Ksamil Islands, and Blue Eye—all in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with interesting facts and friendly service.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi included, making the long drive more pleasant.
• Authentic Places: Enjoy local culture, relax on beaches, and see natural wonders firsthand.
• Value for Money: Includes entry fees, bottled water, and seamless logistics, providing a hassle-free day.
• Good for Adventurers: Ideal for those comfortable with a packed schedule and outdoor activities.

Starting point and overall setup
This tour begins with a pick-up from five locations around Tirana and Durrës, which makes it accessible for many travelers. Once onboard in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, the adventure begins. The drive itself is a highlight—expect scenic views of lush Albanian landscapes, rugged mountains, and coastline that sets the tone for the day ahead.

The journey is roughly a 2-hour drive to Sarandë, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and get excited about what’s next. The guide’s insights help pass the time, and reviews repeatedly highlight how well-organized and friendly the experience is, with many travelers noting the knowledgeable guides like Beni and Orgest who bring extra energy and local stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Sarandë: A vibrant coastal town with historical charm

Once in Sarandë, the real sightseeing begins. The city offers a delightful mix of relaxing seaside and cultural sites. Many reviews mention the lively waterfront, filled with cafes and shops, perfect for a quick stroll or an ice cream. Some travelers consider a visit to the UNESCO-listed Butrint ruins, though this is optional and may depend on timing.

We loved the way guides help visitors navigate the town’s highlights without feeling rushed. The reviews praise the organization and timing of visits, ensuring everyone gets enough time to soak in the atmosphere. Travelers enjoy the chance to snap photos of the harbor, explore local markets, or simply relax and people-watch in this lively spot.

Ksamil: Beaches, Islands, and fun in the sun

The highlight for many is the Ksamil Islands — a cluster of tiny islets just off the coast, famous for their white sands and turquoise waters. You’ll have about two hours here for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. Many reviews describe this as “beautiful,” with some mentioning the lively beach clubs and bars that add a fun vibe to the area.

The opportunity to take a boat trip to nearby islands is available, though it’s an optional extra. The waters are crystal clear, making snorkelers happy with marine life, and the soft sands invite long, lazy afternoons. With local cafes nearby, you can grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink while watching the sunset.

Blue Eye: A natural wonder with icy waters

Next comes the Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural spring where crystal-clear, icy water emerges from underground and flows into the Bistrica River. The water temperature hovers around 5°C—a shocking contrast to the warm Albanian sun—and makes for a memorable experience. The guided visit here includes photos, walks, and explanations about its geological origins.

Reviews highlight how spectacular this site is—many describe it as a must-see for anyone visiting Albania. The cooling effect of the water is a refreshing break in the tour, and the surrounding scenery creates perfect photo opportunities.

The long drive and logistics

This tour involves about three hours of driving spread throughout the day, but the comfort of the van, combined with frequent stops, makes this manageable. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at convenient locations, and Wi-Fi on board makes the time fly by. The guides are lauded for their friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to share local insights.

The length of the day—around 16 hours—means it’s best suited for travelers who are adventurous and comfortable with a full schedule. Reviewers describe the experience as “long but worth it,” and many mention the well-organized nature that keeps the day flowing smoothly.

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What’s included and what’s not?

The tour provides transportation, a guided tour, entry fees to Blue Eye, water, and pick-up and drop-off. Meals and snacks are not included, but local restaurants are available at each stop. Many travelers find the value excellent considering all the sights and comfort provided, especially with the expert guidance.

Authentic experiences and traveler tips

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. Their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness turn a busy schedule into a personalized adventure. Many mention how helpful they are with photos and local tips, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.

If you’re someone who appreciates balancing sightseeing with some downtime—like lounging on beaches or swimming in clear waters—this tour hits the spot. Be prepared for a full day outdoors, and bring swimsuits, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers short on time who want an organized, all-in-one trip to South Albania’s top attractions. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy beautiful scenery, lively towns, and natural wonders, and who don’t mind a longer day on the road. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the welcoming guides and well-structured itinerary make it a safe and enriching choice.

The From Tirana/Durrës: Saranda, Ksamil Islands, and Blue Eye Tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of Albania’s most stunning sights. With experienced guides, comfortable transportation, and a carefully planned itinerary, it promises a day packed with breathtaking views, cultural insights, and refreshing dips in crystal waters.

The tour’s value for money is clear—covering multiple highlights with ease—and the authenticity of the sites makes it especially appealing. Whether you’re a nature lover, a beach bum, or a history buff, this experience can be tailored to satisfy your curiosity and sense of adventure.

If you’re looking for a full-day, hassle-free way to see South Albania’s best, and you’re okay with a long day on the road, this tour is a smart choice. Expect friendly hospitality, stunning scenery, and loads of memorable moments.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi, making the long drive more enjoyable and relaxing.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about two hours at Ksamil, including the chance to swim or relax. In Sarandë, enough time to explore the waterfront and snap photos. Blue Eye is about an hour, enough for photos and walks.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included but are available at local restaurants and cafes near each stop.

Can I visit the UNESCO site of Butrint?
This is optional and depends on timing. The main itinerary focuses on Sarandë, Ksamil, and Blue Eye.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best for those who are comfortable with outdoor activities and walks, as it involves some walking and a full day outdoors. The long drive may be tiring for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a camera. It’s also wise to have some cash for optional activities or tips.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, lively towns, and cultural sights, all wrapped in a friendly, well-organized package. Perfect for those eager to see Albania’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: