Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Divjakë-Karavasta National Park is located in western Albania along the Adriatic coast, encompassing the largest lagoon in the country, the Karavasta Lagoon, and extensive wetlands that support a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park covers a landscape of marshes, sand dunes, reed beds, forests, and sandy beaches, providing a crucial habitat for many migratory and resident bird species. It is internationally recognized as an Important Bird Area, with noteworthy populations of the Dalmatian pelican, one of the largest freshwater birds in Europe, along with herons, egrets, and various waterfowl. The park’s geography includes the lagunar system separated by narrow sandbars from the open sea, maintaining a delicate balance of brackish waters. Historically, the area has been a center for traditional fishing and reed harvesting, contributing to the local culture and economy. Visitors to Divjakë-Karavasta can enjoy birdwatching, nature photography, boating, and hiking along trails through the forest and around the lagoon. The park’s natural booms of biodiversity and serene landscape attract eco-tourists and researchers alike. It also offers pristine, undeveloped beaches, as well as opportunities to observe Mediterranean flora and fauna in their natural environment. The park is managed with an emphasis on conservation and responsible tourism to protect its fragile ecosystems while providing access to outdoor recreation. Divjakë-Karavasta remains a key destination for nature lovers seeking quiet, unspoiled coastal wilderness and rare wildlife sightings in the Balkans.
