Visit The National Park of Blue Eye

Visit The National Park of Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder Near Saranda

If you’re traveling to Albania and eager to see one of its most remarkable sights, the Blue Eye of Saranda is a must-visit. For around $71 per person, this 3-hour guided tour takes you from the heart of Saranda directly to the National Park of Blue Eye in Muzinë, a site renowned for its striking spring that resembles a human iris. The experience includes pickup from your accommodation and skip-the-line access, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing.

What we love most about this tour is how well it balances scenic beauty with educational insights. The guide’s explanations about the spring’s source and the surrounding park add depth to the visit, transforming a simple sightseeing stop into an engaging experience. Plus, the fact that the tour is family-friendly and stroller accessible makes it suitable for travelers of all ages.

That said, one consideration is that some reviews mention the short duration—only about an hour in the park—which may leave some visitors wishing for more time to explore at their own pace. Also, the tour is somewhat structured around transportation, so if you’re after a more self-guided adventure, you might prefer to visit independently.

This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized outing with a focus on natural beauty and local insights, especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer having logistics handled for you.

Key Points

• Convenient Pickup and Drop-off: Transfers from Saranda make transportation hassle-free.
• Includes Entry Fee: Skip lines and pay once, simplifying the experience.
• Educational Element: Learn about the spring’s origins and the park’s features.
• Family-Friendly and Stroller Accessible: Suitable for travelers with children or mobility needs.
• Limited Time in the Park: About an hour to explore, which may feel brief for some.
• Rich Scenery: Crystal-clear water, lush vegetation, and dramatic landscapes.

Exploring the Blue Eye: A Natural Marvel

When you arrive at the Blue Eye, you’re greeted by a truly scenic sight. The spring’s oval shape, reminiscent of an eye, immediately captures your attention. Surrounded by dense greenery, the crystal-clear water gushes out from the mountain Mali i Gjërë, creating a mesmerizing display. The spring reaches depths of up to 50 meters, adding a sense of mystery and awe.

This site has gained popularity because of its standout visual appeal and the fact that it has been declared a Natural Monument. The lush surroundings and the pure water make it a refreshing stop, perfect for a quick photo or a dip in the cooler months.

The tour’s guided component enhances the visit. Your guide explains how the Blue Eye spring is just one of 18 springs flowing from Mali i Gjërë, giving you a sense for the area’s geological richness. As one reviewer noted, “The Blue Eye national park is absolutely stunning. One of the most picturesque places I have ever been to.” This appreciation for the scenery underscores why many travelers find this tour worthwhile.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Trip

The tour begins with a pickup from Saranda’s port or your accommodation, making it easy to start your adventure without any logistical worries. Once at the site, you’ll spend around two hours exploring the area, which includes walking around the springs and taking in the natural beauty.

You’ll visit the main spring—the “eye”—and learn about its source and significance. The guide will also point out the dense vegetation that surrounds the spring, giving a sense of the area’s biodiversity. The crystal water is especially striking because of its clarity, which makes for fantastic photos and memorable views.

Some reviews mention that the duration can be a bit short—approximately one hour in the park—but this is balanced by the convenience and educational insights provided by the guide. If you’re particularly interested in hiking or spending more time immersed in nature, this might be a bit limited; for some, it’s just enough to get a glimpse and appreciate the beauty.

The tour concludes with transportation back to Saranda, allowing you to relax after a fairly brisk visit. The group size is limited, with a maximum of 100 travelers, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd.

Transportation and Logistics

The pick-up service is a major plus, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or have limited time. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to book ahead and skip the lines. The tour runs daily, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, giving flexibility to choose a convenient time.

The duration of about three hours, with about two hours at the park, strikes a balance for travelers who want to see the sights without spending an entire day. For families or those with tight schedules, this is a practical option.

What the Reviews Say

While the majority of travelers rate the experience at 4.3 out of 5, opinions vary. One reviewer, Emily, found the national park to be “absolutely stunning” and appreciated the picturesque landscape. She did mention that “the experience itself was not quite what we were expecting,” highlighting that some people might anticipate more time or a different kind of guided tour.

On the other hand, some reviews note that the tour is more transportation-focused—about an hour of walking and an hour of driving—and that there is no guide in the traditional sense, just a driver providing narration. For those expecting a guided experience with detailed historical or geological explanations, this might fall short.

One positive review from Jodi praised the informative narration and personalized service, emphasizing that “Erald from Tea Tours made the day” and made it a memorable outing. This highlights the importance of the guide’s role in enriching the experience.

Pricing and Value

At $71.15 per person, the tour is priced competitively considering the included entry fee, transportation, and guided insights. The convenience of skip-the-line access and door-to-door transfers adds to the value, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

While some may wish for a longer or more in-depth experience, many find the tour offers good value for those seeking a picturesque, educational, and hassle-free visit to one of Albania’s most iconic natural sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, small groups, or solo travelers who want an easy, guided visit to the Blue Eye. If you’re looking for a quick yet informative overview that combines scenic beauty with easy logistics, this tour hits the mark.

Those interested in nature, photography, or simply experiencing a unique natural wonder will find this tour rewarding. However, if you prefer more time to explore independently or are seeking a more interactive or hiking-focused experience, you might want to explore other options or visit the site on your own.

The Sum Up

The Visit The National Park of Blue Eye tour offers a beautiful, hassle-free way to see one of Albania’s most photogenic and intriguing natural sights. It combines convenience, education, and scenic beauty—perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without sacrificing comfort. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a family-friendly approach, it stands out as a solid choice for a quick nature escape near Saranda.

While the short duration may leave some wanting more, the tour’s value and ease make it a good pick for those with limited time or who prefer guided comfort. If your goal is to witness the striking beauty of the Blue Eye and learn a little about its origins, this tour will satisfy those needs nicely.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transfers from and back to your accommodation in Saranda are part of the package, making it very convenient.

Do I need to buy an entry ticket separately?
No, the entry fee is included, so you can skip the lines and just enjoy the scenery.

How long is the tour at the Blue Eye?
You’ll have about an hour to explore the park and see the spring, with the total trip lasting around 3 hours.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and stroller accessible, making it suitable for travelers with children.

Can I visit the Blue Eye independently?
Absolutely, but this tour offers the benefit of transportation and guided insights, saving you the hassle of organizing your own trip.

What are the opening hours?
The tour runs daily from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with no specific seasonal restrictions.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and camera gear to capture the stunning views.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour operates from November 2019 through July 2026, so you can plan your visit anytime within that window.

Whether you’re after a quick scenic fix or a chance to learn about Albania’s natural treasures, this tour offers a straightforward, memorable experience. It’s a beautiful way to see the Blue Eye and appreciate the natural beauty that makes southern Albania a hidden gem.