Small Group Tour of Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye from Tirana

Traveling through Albania often feels like uncovering a secret—a land of stunning coastlines, crystal waters, and welcoming locals. If you’re short on time but eager to see some of the most beautiful spots the country has to offer, the Small Group Tour of Saranda, Ksamil & Blue Eye from Tirana might just be your perfect day trip. At around $173 per person and lasting 10 to 12 hours, this tour packs in a lot of ground, taking you from the bustling capital straight to the picturesque Albanian Riviera and its most iconic sights.

What we particularly love about this trip is how it combines stunning scenery with informative guides. You’ll get to see the gleaming waters of Ksamil’s beaches and the mystical Blue Eye, all while learning about the area from guides who seem genuinely passionate about their country. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the long driving hours, which can be tiring if you’re not accustomed to lots of road time. Still, if you’re a traveler who values authentic sights and expert insights, this tour offers solid value for a comprehensive Albanian experience.

This tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a full day on the road and want a structured way to explore multiple highlights without renting a car. It’s ideal if you appreciate small, intimate group settings and enjoy having guides who can answer your questions and enrich your understanding of Albanian culture and nature.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines multiple popular sites—Saranda, Ksamil, and Blue Eye—into one day.
• Expert guides: Guides like Llir and Bailey are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Ionian coast, beaches, and turquoise waters.
• Long drive, rewarding sights: The journey involves several hours in the car, but the destinations make it worthwhile.
• Small group size: Max 15 travelers, offering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Limited beach time: Some reviews mention tight schedules at the beaches and Blue Eye, so be prepared for a quick visit.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Tirana

Your adventure begins early, with pickup from your hotel in Tirana at 7:00 am. Having a hotel pickup included makes things easier, especially if you’re staying in the city’s center. The tour is operated with private transportation—a comfortable way to cover the long distances without the hassle of navigating yourself. Expect the vehicle to be well-maintained, driven by a friendly guide eager to share facts along the way.

First Stops: Durres and Saranda

En route, the tour makes a quick 5-minute stop in Durres, Albania’s historic port city. It’s a brief break, mostly to stretch your legs and appreciate the Mediterranean vibe. Then, the real highlight kicks in with about an hour in Saranda, dubbed the pearl of the Albanian Riviera.

Here, you’ll get a chance to walk around the seaside promenade and take in views of Corfu across the water. Saranda is a lively spot with a mix of rocky beaches, citrus groves, and vineyards—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere. Many reviews mention the warmth and friendliness of the guides during this part, making it a relaxed start to the day.

Exploring Ksamil

Next, the tour heads to Ksamil, often referred to as the “Bora Bora of Albania.” You’ll love the white sandy beaches and the crystal-clear waters. The four islands just offshore create an idyllic backdrop—ideal for a swim or just lounging with a drink in hand.

With about two hours here, you’ll have time to dip your toes in the sea, take photos, or stroll along the coast. Several travelers praise Ksamil as a beach destination in Europe, with its turquoise waters and peaceful vibe. One review describes it as feeling like a tropical paradise—definitely a highlight for beach lovers.

The Blue Eye

In the afternoon, your guide picks you up again to visit the Blue Eye, a natural wonder that looks straight out of a fairy tale. The source of fresh water plunges into a deep, mesmerizing blue pool surrounded by green trees. Divers have gone as deep as 50 meters, but most visitors just marvel at the crystal-clear water and the magical atmosphere.

You’ll spend about an hour here, enough time for some photos and to appreciate the unique beauty of this natural spring. The cool water temperature, staying below 10°C, is a refreshing contrast to the Albanian heat and adds to the experience’s authenticity. Many travelers rave about the mesmerizing blue water and how surreal it looks—well worth the short visit.

Returning to Tirana

Finally, after a full day of sightseeing, you’ll head back to Tirana, arriving around 7:00 pm. The return journey takes about an hour, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s adventures or chat with fellow travelers.

The Value of This Tour

At first glance, $173 might sound steep, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—transport, guides, entry fees—the cost reflects a well-organized way to see a lot in one day. The tour’s small size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides—like Llir, Bailey, and Sam—are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep the group engaged.

The transport is comfortable, and the entry tickets for sites are included, saving you the hassle of lining up or worrying about additional costs. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off are especially convenient for travelers unfamiliar with the area or those staying in Tirana.

However, some reviews mention that the long driving hours—roughly 4 hours each way—are tiring, and the limited time at each site might leave you wishing for more. If you’re not a fan of long bus rides, this might be a drawback. Yet, for those who prioritize seeing multiple highlights without the stress of self-driving, the trade-off is reasonable.

What to Expect and What to Bring

Expect a full day on the road with several stops, each offering a glimpse into Albanian coastal beauty. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water—especially since much of the tour is outdoors and in the sun. Snorkeling gear isn’t included but could be fun if you want to take a quick dip. Remember that lunch isn’t provided, so packing a snack or quick lunch might be wise, especially if you’re particular about your meals.

Although the tour is well-paced, some reviews note that the time at beaches and Blue Eye can feel rushed. If you’re eager to relax longer at the beaches, consider that this tour prioritizes sightseeing and efficient travel over leisure time.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Insights

Many travelers highlight how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience—participants praise guides like Llir, Bailey, Sam, and Toni for their fluency in English, clarity, and enthusiasm. They don’t just point out sights; they share stories, answer questions, and add context, making the journey more engaging.

For instance, one review mentions that Toni was “absolutely awesome with all the details, care, hospitality, facts, and tips,” which indicates the extra effort guides put into making the day memorable. This personal touch is often what we love about this tour from a simple coach ride.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Albania’s stunning coastline and natural wonders without the hassle of renting a car. It suits those who appreciate small-group settings and prefer to learn from guides who can answer questions and provide insider tips. If you’re comfortable with long drives and are eager to see Ksamil’s beaches and Blue Eye, this is a great choice.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more relaxed beach days or hates long bus rides, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Still, the quality of sights and guided commentary often makes up for the travel time for most participants.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. It’s a good value for those who want to tick off multiple highlights in one day, especially if they enjoy small-group travel with knowledgeable guides. The stunning photos and authentic sites will likely leave you with lasting memories of Albania’s coastline.

While the long hours in the vehicle can be a challenge, the breathtaking scenery and friendly guides help make this a rewarding experience. It’s a great way to see the best of Albania’s Riviera if you’re short on time but still want an in-depth look at some of the country’s most iconic spots.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:00 am, with hotel pickup in Tirana included, making for an early but well-planned day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transportation is provided, and travelers generally find it comfortable for the long drive between sites.

How much time do I get at each stop?
Expect about 30 minutes at Durres, 1 hour in Saranda, 2 hours in Ksamil, 1 hour at Blue Eye, and 1 hour returning to Tirana, which can feel rushed but covers the main highlights.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so bring snacks or plan to buy food during the day.

Is this suitable for travelers who dislike long drives?
The drive is lengthy—around 4 hours each way—so if you dislike long bus rides, this might not be the best option unless you don’t mind the journey.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a pre-planned tour, so customization isn’t typically available. However, guides are praised for their flexibility and friendly approach.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience compared to large bus tours.

Embark on this Albanian adventure if you’re eager for stunning scenery, insightful guides, and a taste of the coast’s best sights—all packed into one well-organized day.