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Horseback riding vacations in
Albania
Albania, for years a forgotten corner of the Mediterranean, is now open for business again. Gifted with beautiful mountain scenery and a stunning coastline, Albania has an untamed beauty that is now a rarity in Europe.
Albania has only been independent since 1912. The last country to gain independence from the Ottoman Empire, it was then invaded by everyone of its neighbours before the government took over, ruling with a combination of terror, nationalism and isolation. It remained in power long after other communist regimes in Europe crumbled. Civil unrest bordering on anarchy overwhelmed the country in 1991-92 and again in 1997, and it is only since then that Albania has really started to find some sort of normality and relation with the rest of Europe.
This checkered past has left its mark on the country, the general infrastructure, such as the roads, are a far cry from European standards, although improvements are now being made.
While the roads may have suffered, the spirit of Albanians seems unaffected, the hospitality, especially in the remote areas, is incredible. Life has changed little in the mountains of the north and the homemade cheese, bread and raki tastes amazing.
Our Ancient Zagoria Pathways offers a trip back in time, following routes of formers caravans, through Illyrian ruins and medieval villages.
We also offer an exciting riding holiday along the Vjosa River - the last wild river of Europe.
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Holidays on horseback in
See Mini Country Guide
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King Skerdilajdi Trail
(IT-ALBCV02)
Central, Albania
8 days / 7 nights, rate from
$1,640
This ride follows in the tracks of King Ilirian Skerdilajd, on his way to conquer Kaonia 2,300 years ago. Experience unspoiled nature, colourful culture heritage, and welcoming people on the back of reliable, strong horses. Wind your way through a variety of landscapes combining mountain climbing, steep downhill and uphill rides, river crossings, woods, and the seaside. Here you will find ancient ruins, castles, churches, and monasteries sitting adjacent to the bunkers and military infrastructure from communist past. During this period of isolation and militarization, communist leaders built around 750,000 bunkers of defense in case of attack from western “enemies”.
This is a mountainous trail ride with around 6 hours riding and some walking every day. T...
Minimum riding level: Strong Intermediate
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Below is a list of our trips in this area with video clips.
 Click on the 'watch video' icon
to view a video clip,
Albania
Travel restrictions
Albania’s land, maritime and air borders are now open for travel, but some neighboring countries have travel restrictions in place.
Commercial flights are now available again in Albania from June 15th 2020.
Effective May 1st 2022, the Government of Albania repealed COVID-19-related entry requirements. Travelers to Albania are not required to present proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test, or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 in order to enter Albania.
Measures taken by the government
As of May 1st 2022, the Government of Albania lifted many COVID-19-related public health measures within the country. There are no restrictions on public movement, and bars and restaurants may operate any time of day. Nevertheless, we recommend that all U.S. citizens travel with the latest official documentation of their COVID vaccination (or proof of recovery), as individual businesses may ask for it, or it may be required at other transit points on the way to/from Albania.
Testing
Individuals can arrange private testing by going to a private testing lab. No symptoms or doctor’s order is required to arrange a private test, and no advance appointment is necessary.
According to the Albanian Ministry of Health and Social Protection, there are six private labs authorized to perform SARS-CoV-2 testing for administrative issues:
— American Hospital Laboratory (Tel: +355 4 222 5640)
— Biocheck Diagnostic (Tel: +355 4 242 7025)
— Genius Lab (Cell: +355 69 303 3026)
— German Hospital International (Cell: +355 67 200 4282)
— Intermedica (Tel: +355 4 220 0600)
— Noval Diagnostic (Cell: +355 68 804 2045)
— SALUS Lab (Cell: +355 68 205 3180)
The average cost for testing is: PCR = 8,500 ALL or ~85 USD – Antigen = 4,000 ALL or ~40 USD.
Hard copy letters of test results are provided within 24 to 72 hrs. You can arrange another method of delivery (e.g.: email or text) with the individual labs.
Emergency number (related to COVID-19) while visiting the country
Medical Emergency Number: 127
Source:
US Embassy in Albania https://al.usembassy.gov/updates_covid19/
Published on October 6th 2022 (checked on April 5th 2023)
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Mini guide not available.
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