Saranda All Included: Butrint, Ksamil, Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle

Discover the Charm of Southern Albania: An In-Depth Look at the Saranda All-Included Tour

Exploring Albania’s southern coast just got easier with the Saranda All Included tour, designed to showcase some of the country’s most picturesque and historically significant spots in one seamless day. From ancient ruins to natural springs and stunning viewpoints, this guided trip promises a comprehensive experience—without the stress of planning or navigating.

What we particularly like about this tour is the emphasis on authentic, well-paced exploration with a knowledgeable local guide who’s been sharing these stories for over 13 years. The small-group vibe ensures plenty of time to connect with each site, take photos, and ask questions. That said, it’s a full day of sightseeing, so it’s best suited for travelers ready for a moderate pace and some walking.

One thing to consider is that the tour does not include lunch, so you’ll want to plan for that. Otherwise, for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Albania’s highlights and value insightful guiding and comfortable transport, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for those who love history, landscapes, and exploring without the hassle of logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate small groups, personal touches, and well-organized trips.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Includes entrance fees, private transportation, and a friendly guide.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by a local expert with 13+ years of knowledge.
• Highlights in One Day: Covers UNESCO site Butrint, Ksamil beaches, the Blue Eye, and Lekuresi Castle.
• Comfort & Flexibility: Small groups, easy pace, with personalized pickup and drop-off.
• Pricing & Value: Competitive price considering entrance fees and guided insights.
• Note on Food: Lunch not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Exploring the Stunning Itinerary

Starting at Butrint National Park

Your day begins with a visit to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s often described as Albania’s most iconic archaeological location. Having guided here for over 15 years myself, I can tell you that the ruins are a captivating blend of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences. The site is sprawling with well-preserved ruins, ancient theaters, and intriguing mosaics—perfect for history lovers.

The tour includes admission tickets (€11 per person), which means you get front-row access without waiting in lines. The guide’s deep knowledge means you’ll hear stories about the excavations, the historical significance of each structure, and the mysteries still hidden beneath the earth. Reviewers like Sandi_B appreciated the guide’s ability to skip long lines and share detailed insights, making the experience both informative and relaxed.

Ksamil Beach: A Coastal Paradise

Next, the tour pauses at Ksamil Beach for about 30 minutes—a chance to stretch your legs and snap some postcard-worthy photos. This stretch of powder-white sand and crystal-clear waters is what many travelers imagine when they think of the Albanian Riviera. Though brief, this stop gives you a taste of the relaxed seaside vibe and offers a perfect moment for quick swims or just soaking in the views.

Reviewers highlight how stunning Ksamil is, with Dion_D mentioning that the guide made the experience feel like traveling with a knowledgeable friend. The transparent shallows and small islands just off the coast make it a delight for swimming or just unwinding with a cold drink.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Masterpiece

A highlight of the tour is the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring famous for its startlingly vivid, glowing blue waters. It’s a short one-hour stop, which is enough time to admire the spring’s mesmerizing depths and learn about the karstic formation from your guide. The water’s clarity and shades of blue are truly surreal—like stepping into a natural aquarium.

Multiple reviews, including those from visitors like Dion_D, note that the Blue Eye feels almost magical. It’s a place that makes you stop and ponder just how much beauty nature can create. The guided explanation about how the water bubbles up from underground adds an extra layer of appreciation.

Lekuresi Castle: Panoramic Views

Rounding out the day is a visit to Lekuresi Castle, perched 250 meters above sea level. This hilltop fortress provides unparalleled 360-degree views of Saranda and the Ionian coast. It’s a photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the region’s rugged beauty and strategic history.

The short 30-minute stop here is perfect for snapping panoramic shots and taking in the landscape. Since admission is free, it’s a nice bonus for the group, and the guide often shares stories about the castle’s history and its significance over centuries.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:
– Private, air-conditioned transportation with WiFi
– Personalized pick-up and drop-off
– Guided by a licensed local expert with over 13 years’ experience
– Bottled water for staying refreshed
– Entrance fees to Butrint and Blue Eye

Not Included:
– Lunch is not provided, so plan to bring snacks or eat before/after the tour

This setup offers great value, especially considering the entrance fees alone are around €11. The use of private transport and a small group ensures comfort and intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and take your time at each stop.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guide, Gert, for making the tour engaging and friendly. Both reviewers, Sandi_B and Dion_D, mention how Gert’s storytelling and fluent English made the experience smooth and enjoyable. Dion_D notes that Gert “makes you feel like you’re traveling with a friend,” which is exactly the vibe this tour aims for.

Travelers also love the flexibility and ease of this organized trip. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the pace allows for photos, questions, and simply soaking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The stunning views at Lekuresi Castle and the Blue Eye are often cited as highlights, with visitors expressing amazement at the natural beauty and historical ambiance. The combination of cultural sites, natural wonders, and coastal scenery provides a well-rounded taste of southern Albania.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed as a full but manageable day trip, lasting about 6 to 7 hours. It’s ideal for those who want a rundown without strenuous hikes or complicated logistics. The moderate physical activity at sites like Butrint and Lekuresi Castle means travelers should be comfortable walking and standing for periods.

Since the tour operates year-round, weather might influence the experience, but the provider offers a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather. Travelers should budget for lunch separately, as it’s not included, and consider bringing a hat, sunscreen, and camera to capture the scenic moments.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who appreciate history, nature, and scenic landscapes. It suits those who prefer guided tours to navigate historical sites confidently, especially if they value small groups and personalized service.

It’s also well-suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as there’s some walking involved. Since the tour is private, couples, families, or small groups will find it especially comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just around $76.75 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the entrance fees, transportation, and guiding included. The chance to see UNESCO ruins, relax on a postcard beach, stand in awe at a natural spring, and enjoy spectacular vistas—all in one day—makes this a compelling option for anyone keen to explore southern Albania authentically.

The knowledgeable guidance, personalized service, and diverse sights make this a well-rounded, hassle-free way to experience the region’s highlights. If you’re someone who loves to learn, take pictures, and enjoy beautiful landscapes at a gentle pace, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi is included, making traveling between sites comfortable and easy.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, it includes entrance fees for Butrint National Park (€11) and The Blue Eye, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs at these sites.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, with specific site visits allocated about 2 hours at Butrint, 30 minutes at Ksamil, 1 hour at The Blue Eye, and 30 minutes at Lekuresi Castle.

What’s not included in the tour?
Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to bring their own or eat before/after the trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families or those with mobility issues?
While the tour is moderate in physical activity, travelers should have moderate fitness levels. It’s suitable for families, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each site.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, and some snacks or water for the day. Remember that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Whether you’re after history, natural beauty, or simply a stress-free way to explore southern Albania’s top sights, this Saranda All Included tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and visually stunning experience.