Co-Travel Agency
April 6, 2025
If you’re searching for one of Europe’s most breathtaking hidden gems, the Lake Koman ferry ride in Northern Albania should be at the top of your list. Tucked away in the heart of the Accursed Mountains, this boat journey offers surreal fjord-like scenery, remote wilderness, and a sense of adventure that rivals even the most famous landscapes in Scandinavia. Often described as one of the world’s most beautiful ferry rides, Lake Koman is more than just a means of transportation—it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Lake Koman ferry ride—from how to get there and what to expect on board, to what lies ahead in Valbona and how you can pair this journey with our Shala River tour for a complete Northern Albanian adventure.
Lake Koman is not the easiest place to reach—and that’s part of what makes it so special. The nearest major city is Shkodra, a cultural hub in northern Albania known for its vibrant pedestrian streets, Ottoman architecture, and lakeside views.
Most travelers start their journey in Shkodra, where several tour agencies offer daily transfers to Koman. The drive to the ferry terminal takes about 2.5 hours, mostly along narrow, winding mountain roads. It’s scenic but can get bumpy, especially the last stretch before the dam, so be prepared for a bit of a rugged ride. We recommend booking transportation through a local agency in advance; Co-Travel Albania, which provided a smooth, well-organized early-morning transfer to ensure we made the ferry on time.
There are two main ferry companies operating on the lake—Berisha and Dragobia. We recommend Berisha, as their boat is larger and more comfortable, with better seating, views, and space for luggage or even vehicles.
Boarding the ferry feels like entering another world. After driving through a dark tunnel carved into the cliffs, you suddenly emerge onto a platform overlooking emerald waters. The ferry docks beside towering limestone walls, and the quiet of the mountains is interrupted only by the sound of birds and the low hum of the boat engine preparing to depart.
The ferry usually runs once per day in each direction, from April to October, and the journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the conditions.
Make sure to book your tickets in advance—especially in the summer months—since the boat fills up quickly and space is limited. You can also book package deals that include transportation from Shkodra to the ferry dock and even onward transfers to Valbona, making logistics much easier for travelers.
This is not your average ferry ride. As you glide through Lake Koman, you’ll be surrounded by steep canyon walls, cascading greenery, and narrow gorges that twist and turn with every bend in the water. The landscape is so dramatic, it’s often compared to the Norwegian fjords—but with the added bonus of being nearly untouched by mass tourism.
Onboard, you’ll find:
A spacious upper deck with panoramic views
A car deck for limited vehicle transport
A small snack bar with drinks and basic refreshments
A toilet, which is especially appreciated during a 3-hour trip
Friendly staff who are happy to point out landmarks or help with logistics
Even in the middle of summer, the wind can be brisk on deck, especially in the morning. Bring a light jacket or sweater just in case, and don’t forget your camera—you’ll be reaching for it constantly.
If you’re not planning to continue toward Valbona and Theth, the Lake Koman ferry can still be done as a round-trip day excursion. You’ll get to soak in the stunning scenery without committing to the full mountain trek, which makes it perfect for families or travelers looking for a lighter adventure. However, if you want the full Northern Albanian experience, we recommend continuing to Fierze, from where it’s only a 20-minute ride to Valbona National Park—the starting point for the legendary Valbona to Theth hike.
While Lake Koman offers stunning fjords and remote beauty, if you’re craving crystal-clear turquoise waters, hidden beaches, and a touch of tropical adventure, you shouldn’t miss our Shala River Tour. Departing from Shkodra, this day trip takes you by boat into one of Albania’s most beautiful and remote river valleys—often called the “Thailand of Albania.”
The Shala River is only accessible by boat, and the journey takes you past sheer cliffs, wild forests, and untouched nature until you reach a secluded riverside beach where you can swim, relax, or enjoy a traditional lunch by the water. It’s the perfect addition to your Northern Albania itinerary and an unforgettable way to explore the region’s diversity—from alpine peaks to tropical river canyons.
👉 Click here to learn more about our Shala River Tour and reserve your spot.
As the ferry docks in Fierze, you’ll feel like you’ve just exited a dream. But the adventure isn’t over. If you’ve booked ahead, your transfer to Valbona will be waiting right at the pier. The drive through the valley is quiet and scenic, and in about 20 minutes you’ll arrive at Hotel Rilindja or another guesthouse in Valbona—your base for the next leg of your Northern Albania journey.
From there, many travelers embark on the Valbona to Theth hike, a spectacular full-day trek over alpine passes that connects two of the most beautiful valleys in the Balkans.
The Lake Koman ferry ride is more than just a means of getting from point A to point B—it’s a surreal, serene journey through some of Europe’s wildest and most captivating landscapes. Whether you’re using it as part of a multi-day hiking circuit or taking the round-trip route just for the views, it’s an absolute must-do when traveling in Albania.
Pair it with our Shala River Tour for a balanced mix of fjords, rivers, mountains, and relaxation, and you’ll have the perfect snapshot of everything that makes Northern Albania one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
Ready to explore the hidden heart of Albania?
Let the Lake Koman ferry ride be the gateway to your next great adventure.
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