Cave of Pellumbas, Erzen Canyons & Petrela Castle — Full-Day Hiking Tour from Tirana
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness who can handle a few hours of uphill walking and stair-like cave passages.
Overview
Spend a day hiking into the Black Cave of Pellumbas, wandering the Erzen River canyons and finishing with a drink at Petrela Castle. This accessible full-day from Tirana mixes geological drama, local food and scenic swims (summer only).
Cave of Pellumbas, Erzen Canyons & Petrela Castle — Full-Day Hiking Tour from Tirana
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A narrow track peels away from a sunbaked village road and climbs through low oak and pine, the air sharpening with each switchback. By the time you crest the ridge, the view drops away: a braided river carved into limestone, a scattering of farmhouse roofs, and a cleft in the rock where the cave’s mouth gapes like a backdoor to the earth. The guide hands out headlamps and the group slips into a cool, black corridor where water has been slowly sculpting chamber after chamber for millennia.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear grippy shoes
Stretches of loose limestone and cave floors can be slick—sturdy hiking shoes with a good tread are essential.
Bring swim gear in summer
If temperatures are high, pack a swimsuit and quick-dry towel for a dip in Erzen’s pools; water remains cool even on hot days.
Carry small cash
Village cafés and small vendors may not accept cards—carry change for snacks or tips.
Pace the cave sections
The cave has narrow passages and uneven footing; move deliberately and use the provided headlamps for hands-free navigation.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Common buzzard
- Mediterranean lizard
History
Petrela Castle occupies a strategic hill and has served as a fortified waypoint since medieval times, with layers of reconstruction visible in its stonework.
Conservation
The karst and river habitats are sensitive; stick to trails, avoid touching cave formations, and pack out all trash to protect waterways and local biodiversity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Tirana
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on loose limestone, rocky trails and inside the cave.
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Stay hydrated on exposed sections and during the canyon walk.
summer specific
Headlamp or small flashlight
Headlamps are supplied, but a personal light is useful as backup in the cave.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Optional for summer swims in the Erzen River pools.
summer specific