The hotel, conveniently located a short walk from the historic center of Gjirokstra for the 1st and the last day. It may be possible to pay for a single supplement on the first and last night of the trail, but riders must be prepared to share accommodation on the other nights. The single supplement, if we provide a single room, is 30€ per night paid here. The rest days are hosted in the local village houses.

Day 1:

Arrive at Tirana airport ideally in the morning, but no later than 14.30. This allows time for the transfer and an opportunity to explore the town of Gjirokastra. The drive to Gjirokastra takes approximately 3 hours. Settle into your hotel, which is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the historic centre of Gjirokstra. Before dinner, take a stroll around the historical town, including the old Bazaar, and visit notable attractions such as Enver Hoxha’s house, Gjirokastra castle, the church of the Old Bazaar, and Skenduli house, offering insights into traditional Gjirokastra life. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where your guides will provide information about the trail, address any inquiries, offer advice, and share useful details. We recommend purchasing a map of the area before dinner to familiarize yourself with the itinerary.

Day 2:

After breakfast at the hotel and horse allocation, embark on your ride through the countryside towards the medieval village of Karjan. This village holds a traditional charm and once served as a rural stop for passing caravans. Admire its small churches and the old Roman bridge. The route traverses a rural landscape, passing by small houses, gardens, and traditional farming activities. Expect a mix of hilly landscapes, valleys, small water streams, and cliffs. Along the way, catch glimpses of the “Tree of Life” river, the important water basin in the area associated with ancient pagan beliefs. Encounter the ruins of the castle of Santa Triada, reconstructed by Ali Pasha in 1809-1810 as a strategic point for controlling caravan routes. The castle ruins were later utilized for military purposes during the socialist era. Pause for lunch in Shen Toder village, and after another 1.5 hours of riding, reach Karjan village where you’ll be hosted by a local family. Experience the local cuisine, prepared from their own garden produce, and indulge in raki and wine.

Riding hours: 4.5

Day 3

After breakfast, we’ll start our ride through the picturesque Drino’s Valley. Our first stops will be Andon Poci village and later Hundkuq village, where the ride becomes more challenging as we enter a small forest. Emerging from the forest, we’ll reach the historic village of Labova of Zhapa, renowned for its magnificent Church and grand merchant houses, although most of them now lie in ruins. Labova is also the birthplace of Vangjel Zhapa, a famous businessman and philanthropist who lived around 200 years ago. We’ll enjoy a visit inside the unique medieval church, known for its distinctive style and pagan elements in the wall paintings. Afterward, we’ll start riding up the mountain, marvelling at the rare vegetation and endemic plants along the way. The path will lead us to the valley of Cajupi, where we’ll encounter a cattle of 1000 sheep. This scenic spot will be our camping place for the night, offering the chance to taste the famous Brati spring water, witness a small medieval protection tower called “karakoll,” and experience sheep milking and cooking with the shepherds. Please note that depending on the day’s temperatures, the guides may opt for a shorter path to Cajupi valley and plan an afternoon ride in the surrounding mountains. Riding hours: 5

Day 4:

After enjoying a delicious traditional breakfast, our trail will follow the medieval Caravan pathway, passing by the infamous bandit hideout known as ‘Hija e Mallkuar’ or ‘The Cursed Shadow.’ This pathway was once used by medieval thieves to ambush caravans traveling through Zagoria. Continuing our ride, we’ll traverse the most important horse pathway of the 17th and 18th centuries, which connected the major commercial centers of Southern Albania. Along the way, we’ll be treated to the breath-taking view of the natural monument, the Rock of Zhej.

Prepare for a challenging downhill route that will lead us to the ruins of a medieval stone bridge, where we’ll enjoy a lunch break and a refreshing swim in the nearby river. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to the Church of the Monastery of Nivan, constructed in 1702, and cross a symbolic bridge over the Zagoria River to conclude the day’s ride in Nderan, one of the region’s significant villages. We’ll spend the evening and night with a welcoming local family.

Total riding hours: 3,5

Day 5:

Today’s ride will begin with a return to Hoshteva and a mountain climb to reach the Gjurmemushka mountain pass. Once we reach the summit, we’ll mostly enjoy a downhill ride, passing through Maleshova village to visit its charming church and the ruins of the Limari antic castle. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch near a tranquil water stream, where we can rest under the shade of the trees. During the afternoon ride, we’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Vjosa River from the mountaintop. Our overnight stay will be in a comfortable village guest house in Grabova village, a remote and isolated area known for its warm hospitality. Here, you can experience the traditional mountain cooking and savour the famous “petanik,” a special local pie. Grabova is renowned for its Raki production and delectable “spoon” desserts. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner on the guest house’s terrace, overlooking the magnificent flow of the Vjosa River just 200 meters away. Riding hours: 6-7

Day 6:

After a satisfying breakfast, we’ll embark on a downhill ride to reach the Vjosa River. The rest of the day’s ride will take place along the river bank, offering breath-taking and diverse landscapes. This leg of the journey will be particularly enjoyable, with ample opportunities for exhilarating gallops. We’ll pause for a swimming break near Piskova village, taking advantage of the dry part of the river bed. For lunch, we’ll relish in the delicious food prepared by a small restaurant in Permet, which will be conveniently transported to our riverside stop. If interested, you can also indulge in some fishing. Spend the entire afternoon swimming and relaxing before riding the final 1.5 hours to reach the small town of Permet. After settling the horses at the accommodation, we’ll spend the night in a nearby hotel, just a short 10-minute walk from the town center. Dinner will be served at a well-known traditional restaurant. Riding hours: 3

Day 7:

This day is a free riding day, allowing you to choose your own adventure. We suggest a visit to the Benja thermal waters in the Langarica canyons, a mere 30 minutes away from Permet. There, you can explore the canyons, swim, and for the more daring, engage in river hiking to discover the “Pigeons Cave” perched on a rock along the Langarica River. We have arranged lunch at a restaurant near the canyons, and we’ll return to Permeti town in the late afternoon. Dinner will be served at a small restaurant close to the hotel. Alternatively, if you prefer to rest and relax, you’re free to create your own plan for the day. Riding hours: None (but taking care of the horses is required)

Day 8:

Prepare for one of the longest and most challenging days of our journey. Due to branches and foliage, it’s advisable to wear long sleeves. We’ll embark on a mostly uphill ride, climbing Dhembel Mountain. The panoramic view from the top will leave you awestruck. We’ll carry a picnic lunch in our saddles since the car cannot reach us until the final destination later in the day. Our rendezvous point will be in Hoshteva Zagoria, where logistic arrangements await us. We’ll camp beneath the trees near Hoshteva’s church, and as a group, we’ll collaborate to cook dinner and enjoy a memorable meal under the starlit sky. This camping experience will be truly enchanting. Riding hours: 6

Day 9:

Get ready for an exhilarating equestrian adventure this morning. After a fresh country-style breakfast, we’ll ride through a mountain valley that’s perfect for gallops. Along the way, we’ll pass small remote farms, awe-inspiring cliffs, and numerous historical paths off the beaten tourist trail. Our route through the Pogoni region will transport us through time, passing ancient ruins and mythical natural wonders. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch near the famous stone bridge of Hllomo or Kacarello’s, an isolated construction from the merchant period accessible only by horse. In the afternoon, we’ll reach the heart of the Pogon region, the mountain village of Polican, inhabited by a Greek minority. You’ll spend the night with a Greek minority family, who will accompany you to explore remarkable cult monuments from the medieval period. In the evening, you’ll indulge in local gastronomic delights, including a variety of honey flavours, as this village is renowned for its mountain honey production, offering up to 10 different seasonal tastes. Riding hours: 6

Day 10:

This riding day offers a blend of changing landscapes and varying riding paces. You’ll traverse wide valleys, navigate steep downhills, pass through verdant forests, and admire the beauty of the Suha River. We can take a refreshing swimming break in Suha River, explore the bridge, waterfalls, and caves along the river. Later, we’ll embark on a special equestrian climb up the Swallow Rock. Afterward, we’ll head to Labova of the Cross for a late lunch at a traditional guest house and restaurant. Before our afternoon ride, we’ll visit the Church of Labova of the Cross, one of the most significant churches in the country. Built by Justinian the Great in 554, this church served as the venue for his marriage to his wife, Teodora. The villagers have preserved her wedding dress for centuries. The monument was reconstructed in the 10th century and features an old wooden iconostasis adorned with floral and symbolic animal scenes. We’ll conclude the day with a two-hour ride to reach Libohova, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Bureto Mountain. The town boasts an ancient settlement that flourished in the 17th century, becoming a vital commercial center. During the afternoon, you’ll have the option to take a leisurely stroll, visit Libohova’s castle, explore a Bektashi cult object, or pay respects at the tomb of Ali Pasha’s sister, Shanisha. We’ll spend the night in a local family’s house and savour delicious local cuisine. Riding hours: 5

Day 11:

On this day, we’ll embark on a shorter riding adventure. In the morning, we’ll ride through rolling hills and the picturesque Drino’s valley, crossing a few water streams. Afterward, we’ll conquer a steep hill to reach Antigonea National Park, where we’ll stop for a visit. Antigonea, built by King Pyrrhus in 295 BC and named after his first wife Antigona, showcases ancient ruins steeped in history. After the break, we’ll continue riding for another hour to reach the stables, where you’ll experience the joy of releasing your horses and bidding them farewell. A picnic lunch prepared by our last hosting family awaits in the village of “Asim Zeneli,” a short 5-minute drive from the stable. Later, we’ll return to Gjirokastra and stay at the same hotel. For our farewell dinner, we’ll gather at a small restaurant in the old Bazaar. If you’d like, we can conclude the evening with a drink at a popular bar. Riding hours: 3.5

Day 12:

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be transferred back to the Tirana airport, marking the end of our equestrian adventure.

Important information:

All itineraries provided are for your guidance only and may be altered on-site and in accordance with prevailing conditions by the organizing team.

Climate Summary

Albania offers optimal conditions for visiting between April and October, with reduced rainfall compared to other months. Despite generally higher precipitation levels in the country, the central highlands receive the majority of rainfall due to the influence of the continental air mass. Albania encompasses a diverse range of climatic regions considering its landmass. The coastal lowlands exhibit a typical Mediterranean climate, while the highlands feature a Mediterranean continental climate. The specific trail mentioned in this context is located in southern Albania, where temperatures tend to be approximately 5 degrees Celsius higher than in other parts of the country. As you traverse the trail, you can expect to encounter varying weather conditions, ranging from cooler mountainous air to a warmer climate along the coast.

Health (ride specific)

Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.

Film and Camera Equipment

Internet access will be difficult during the ride. Riders can buy an Albanian sim card/phone number for round €13 and have free internet access and around 30 minutes of free calls with most European countries.
Access to electricity is possible every evening and the whole area is covered very well with signal.

Packing List Attire:

Riding hat

Long-sleeved shirts (avoid expensive or favourite clothing)

Riding trousers and chaps

Gloves

Footwear:

Good mountain shoes with a grip (not too thick)

Avoid smooth-soled riding boots

Outerwear:

Waterproof raincoat

Swimming Clothes:

Swimwear

Evening attire:

Casual clothes

Protection:

Sun cream

Sunglasses

Hat

Medical supplies:

Anti-allergy medicine for insect bites

Essentials:

Torch (flashlight) for walking to feed the horses in the evening

Photography:

Small camera (avoid large professional cameras)

Identification:

Copy of passport

Saddlebags:

Personal saddlebags welcome (provided by riders)

Small saddlebags provided by the ride for food and water.

In addition to the other items, including a torch (flashlight) is recommended for walking to the horses to feed them in the evening. This will provide better visibility and ensure your safety during this activity.

• 18 April 2026 – 29 April 2026: SOLD OUT!
• 10 October 2026 – 21 October 2026: Saddles available

The ride is accompanied by the local English speaking guide. Second guide joins if more than 4 riders in the group.

The ranch has been welcoming horse, nature, history and culture lovers since 2011.  As founders, owners and guides (three childhood friends) we succeeded in creating a great life environment for our 42 horses and a harmonious and eco-friendly environment for our guests, as well.

Our stable is situated amidst scenic hills, green valleys, surrounded by high mountains and rural life, few kilometers away from Gjirokastra’s UNESCO protected city in South of Albania. While much has changed since our first year of operation, the motto remains the same: offering real moments in the saddle, which means enjoyable and professional riding holidays for our international guests. Our riding tours aim to keep the harmony among humans, horses and nature.

We dream to save the Albanian horse, a unique mountain breed that is suffering nowadays due to the very bad conditions. The local mixture of the archaic Tarpan and medieval Arab for centuries now represents a very great climber, a clear mind and very surefooted horse. In the last 70 years the breed lost more than 70% of all exemplars. Our breeding program aims to also make evident the very peculiar characteristics of these horses and the wide variety of their use.

Your host families will treat you to delicious homemade meals, fostering engaging conversations over dinner. Expect the freshest ingredients sourced from local gardens and farms, providing a true taste of the region.

• All accommodations and meals from dinner of day 1 till breakfast of day 12 except day 7.
• English speaking guide.
• Second guide (if more than 4 riders).
• Water and drinks during the meals.
• Luggage transport by car from destination to destination.

• flights, entrance tickets to monuments or parks, lunch on day 1, extra drinks, any other services or expenses during free time, meals, drinks, and additional activities on Day 7, which is a designated free day.
• Single Supplement: It may be possible to pay for a single supplement on the first and last night of the trail, allowing riders to have a single room. However, on other nights, riders must be prepared to share accommodation. The single supplement for a single room is 30 Euros per night, payable here.
• Small Group Supplement: The small group supplement is applicable if only 2 riders are booked onto the ride. If, at the time of departure, more than 3 riders are booked, the small group supplement will be refunded. The small group supplement is 203 Euros per person.

Transfers

Tirana Airport ↔ Gjirokastër

• Round trip: €90 per person (€45 one way)

• Scheduled group transfers: Saturdays at 12:30 & 14:30

• Meeting point: Sixt Rent a Car, Tirana Airport (driver holding “Caravan Horse Riding Albania” sign)

Private Transfers (if flights do not match the schedule):

• 1 person: €140 one way

• 2 persons: €70 each one way

• 3+ persons: €55 each one way

Saranda Port ↔ Gjirokastër

• 1 person: €40 one way

• 2 persons: €30 each one way

• 3+ persons: €25 each one way

• Riders arriving a day early may join scheduled transfers if coordinated in advance.

• Transfers are arranged according to the ferry timetable, usually one morning and one afternoon option.

• Riders using other transport are responsible for their own arrangements.

• Transfers, entrance tickets, and park fees are not included unless explicitly stated.

Additional Notes

• Flights should arrive before 14:30 and depart after 13:00 to fit scheduled transfers.

• Private transfers can be shared to reduce costs.

• Entrance tickets for parks or monuments are approximately 300–400 ALL (≈ €2.5–3.5).

A 20% deposit is required to confirm the booking and must be paid by bank transfer.

The deposit is refundable only if the rider cancels at least 180 days (6 months) before the Tour start date. Otherwise, it is non-refundable.

Balance Payment:

The remaining 80% balance must be paid no later than 44 days before the Tour start date. If the booking is made less than 44 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

Note: Cancellation fees are calculated based on the total tour price, excluding the 20% deposit required to confirm the booking. This deposit is refundable only if the rider cancels at least 180 days (6 months) prior to the tour start date.

Date Changes
The rider may request to reschedule the tour without losing the deposit if the request is made at least 90 days before departure, subject to availability for the same year.

Requests made less than 90 days before departure are subject to cancellation fees and require a new booking at the full tour price.