One of the most unforgettable experiences in Albania is without a doubt a boat trip across Koman Lake to the remote Shala River. Along the way, you’ll sail past steep cliffs and lush green gorges, giving you the feeling of drifting through the Norwegian fjords. Together, Koman Lake and Shala River form one of Albania’s most spectacular landscapes. It’s the perfect place to fully unplug, take a refreshing swim, and end your evening by a crackling campfire. Because visiting Shala River requires a bit of preparation, we’ve put together all the practical tips—and the best things to do in this special region.
What’s the Difference Between Koman Lake and Shala River?
Koman Lake and Shala River are often seen as one destination, but they’re actually two different places with their own character. Koman Lake is a large reservoir created by a dam on the Drin River. The area is mostly made up of rugged cliffs and dense greenery, though you’ll spot a few small settlements here and there. Many of these villages aren’t connected to the road network and can only be reached by water.
Shala River (called Lumi i Shales in Albanian) is a tributary of the Drin River, tucked deeper into the mountains. Getting here takes time, but the closer you get, the clearer the water becomes. It’s no surprise that this section is a favorite among travelers. You’ll find a pebble beach with lounge chairs, a few casual bars, and a laid-back vibe that instantly puts you in vacation mode.
Must-Do: Stay Overnight at Shala River
Many travelers book a day trip to Shala River from Shkodër or Tirana. Perfect if you’re short on time—but for the best experience, stay at least two nights in an accommodation along the Shala River. After 2:00 PM, when most day-trippers head back toward Koman, the beach empties out. That’s when you’ll truly experience the magic of this place.
We stayed at Bee Eco Guesthouse, a small lodge right on the river’s crystal-clear banks. Wake up to peace and quiet, take a refreshing morning swim, and sip coffee on your balcony with a view of the mountains. Aside from its stunning location, Bee Eco Guesthouse offers comfortable rooms, a private beach bar with lounge chairs, incredibly welcoming staff, and a restaurant serving delicious Albanian meals made with local ingredients—think fresh milk and meat from nearby farmers and honey from their own beehives.
Another option is Riverside Komani Lake, a budget-friendly spot just outside Shala River. You can reach Shala River from here with a short boat ride or by kayaking. Since you’re staying just beyond the busiest area, you’ll enjoy even more peace and quiet.
Tip: Accommodations at Shala River are limited and sell out quickly, especially in peak season. Book as early as possible to secure your spot.
Things to Do at Shala River
Shala River is the perfect place to relax and soak up nature. Beyond cooling off with a swim in the icy mountain water, you’ll find plenty of other ways to spend your time:
- Rent a kayak or SUP board from one of the lodges. The farther you paddle toward Koman Lake, the quieter it gets—a great way to explore at your own pace.
- Try the zipline that stretches across the river near Bee Eco Guesthouse. It’s not super high or fast, but it’s a fun way to see the area from another perspective. Tickets can be bought right at the start.
- Climb the staircase across from Bee Eco Guesthouse for a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the turquoise waters and surrounding peaks.
- Hike up to the Balkoni Viewpoint. The trail takes about 45 minutes and rewards you with sweeping views of the mountains and river below.
How to Get to Shala River
Here’s how you can reach Shala River.
By Rental Car
Boats to Shala River depart daily from Koman Harbor. To get there, you’ll drive a stunning but bumpy mountain road, partly unpaved. You can’t park directly at the harbor—cars are left near the Komani Lake Tunnel. We parked at Panorama Coffee Bar, where a shuttle easily brought us to the harbor.
From Koman, longtail boats take about 1.5 hours to reach Shala River. The ride itself is breathtaking! You can book tickets through your accommodation or online at Komani Lake Ferry Berisha. Buying tickets at the dock may also be possible, but availability isn’t guaranteed. Boats usually depart between 9:00 and 10:00 AM.
By Day Tour
Traveling without a car? Then join this guided day trip to Shala River. You’ll be picked up early from Tirana, Shkodër, or Lezhë, driven to Koman Harbor, and then board the boat to Shala River. Once there, you’ll have plenty of time to swim, kayak, or simply relax. You can also hike with the guide to a viewpoint in about 45 minutes.
Best Time to Visit Shala River
The best time to visit Koman Lake and Shala River is from mid-May through late September. The area is lush and green, boats run daily, and accommodations are open. Summer is the most popular season, with warm, sunny weather—daytime highs often climb above 30°C (86°F). Perfect for swimming, though July and August are also the busiest months with both international travelers and Albanians on holiday.
In fall and winter, most lodges and boat services shut down. Rain is more likely, temperatures drop, and access becomes difficult. Unless you’re with a local guide and specifically seeking a rugged off-season adventure, it’s not recommended to visit then.
Practical Tips for Visiting Shala River
Visiting Shala River is an incredible experience, but it’s remote and facilities are limited. Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Plan to stay two nights at Bee Eco Guesthouse to have one full day to truly enjoy the setting.
- Bring water shoes—the riverbed is rocky and slippery.
- Take out cash beforehand. There are no ATMs, and card payments are rarely accepted. Bring enough for lodging, meals, drinks, and activities.
- Pack warm clothes for evenings. Even when daytime highs soar above 30°C (86°F) in summer, nights in the valley get chilly. In May and September, sweaters and long pants are a must.
- Expect limited internet. Shala River is the perfect place to disconnect—whether you want to or not. Wi-Fi and mobile data are spotty at best.
