A private day tour from Tirana to Mali me Gropa reveals an unusual karst landscape of shallow basins that double as seasonal reservoirs. This accessible outing combines geology, village culture, and easy walking with practical guidance from a local guide.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low rise of pale rock and shallow basins sprawls into the horizon as you leave Tirana; wind rolls across the hollows, and the pits seem to blink with reflected sky. On a private day tour to Mali me Gropa (the Mountain with Holes), a local guide steers the route through Shëngjergj and across karst plains where limestone has been sculpted into saucer-like depressions and seasonal ponds.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves several hours of standing and walking on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
Local shepherding and village life have shaped the plateau for centuries; water collected in the basins has long been essential to nearby settlements.
Conservation
Karst landscapes are hydrologically sensitive—stay on hard surfaces, avoid disturbing sinkhole edges, and pack out all trash to protect groundwater.
Reserve your spot on the Private Tour to The Mountain with Holes in Tiranë today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Wear grippy shoes
Terrain is uneven limestone and loose scree; low-profile hiking shoes with good traction reduce slips.
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water
Karst plateaus offer little shade and the basins can be dry; hydrate before and during the tour.
Start mid-morning
Morning departure avoids the hottest midday sun and gives better light on the basins for photos.
Follow your guide near pits
Stick to established paths—some basins have thin edges or soft ground that can be unstable.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Offers traction and ankle support on rocky karst terrain.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects against strong sun on exposed plateaus.
summer
Water bottle (1–2 L)
Necessary due to limited shade and reliance on carried water.
Light wind/waterproof layer
Useful for sudden weather changes at higher elevation.
spring