Visit The National Park of Blue Eye

Planning a trip to Albania? If you’re craving natural beauty and a peaceful escape, the National Park of Blue Eye in Saranda offers a unique experience. This tour, priced at around $71.15 per person, promises a visit to one of Albania’s most captivating sights—an eye-shaped spring with crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush greenery. With guided tours, transportation from Saranda, and an easy schedule, it’s designed to cater to travelers seeking authentic nature encounters without hassle.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it combines convenience with educational insight. Your entry fee is included, meaning no long lines, which is a plus during busy seasons. Plus, the tour is family-friendly and stroller accessible—making it a suitable outing for all ages. However, some reviews hint that the pace might be a bit rushed for those wanting a deep exploration, and the experience can vary depending on your expectations for guided commentary.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a straightforward visit to the Blue Eye without the stress of planning logistics themselves. Ideal for nature lovers, families, or anyone eager to see one of Albania’s natural marvels comfortably and efficiently.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation from Saranda to the Blue Eye ensures hassle-free travel.
• Entry fee included keeps the experience smooth, skipping long lines and saving time.
• Educational guides provide insights about the spring’s origins and surrounding area.
• Family-friendly and stroller accessible makes it suitable for travelers with kids.
• Flexible timing with daily departures from 9:30AM to 4:00PM.
• Approximate 3-hour duration balances exploration with relaxation, including travel and sightseeing.

Exploring the Blue Eye and Surrounding Area

The Main Attraction: The Blue Eye Spring

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the Blue Eye spring itself—a stunning, oval-shaped waterhole that resembles a human iris. Located near the village of Muzinë, this deep spring is fed by the mountain Mali i Gjërë, which supplies water to 18 springs in total. What makes this particular spring stand out is its remarkable clarity and depth, which can reach up to 50 meters. Its vibrant blue hue, contrasted with lush green vegetation, makes for perfect photo opportunities—something you’ll want to capture before jumping into the cool waters.

We loved the way the guide explained that the Blue Eye is a Natural Monument, protected due to its ecological importance, and that the area around it offers a peaceful and scenic environment. The dense vegetation surrounding the spring adds to the feeling of being in a hidden oasis—ideal for nature lovers seeking serenity away from crowds.

What You Can Expect During the Visit

The tour typically begins at the Port of Saranda, where you’ll be picked up and transported directly to the park. The drive itself is short and comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the landscape. Once at the park, you’ll have about two hours to explore.

Expect to walk around the lush Mali i Gjërë mountain area, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the spring’s geological and ecological significance. The guide, often praised for their knowledgeable narration, shares insights into how the spring was formed and why it’s considered a geological wonder in Albania.

Many reviewers note that the actual time spent in the park is relatively brief—about an hour of walking and sightseeing, with some mentioning that the tour’s pace can feel rushed, especially if you’re keen to linger longer. Still, the stunning vistas and the chance to swim in the cold spring make it worthwhile.

Swimming in the Blue Eye

A popular part of the experience is taking a dip into the refreshingly cold waters. For those who don’t mind the chill, swimming here is an unforgettable highlight, providing both a refreshing break and a chance to appreciate the spring’s natural beauty firsthand. Reviewers mention that the water is very cold, so come prepared with appropriate swimwear and an eagerness to cool off.

Additional Features and Practicalities

The tour offers pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Saranda, saving you the trouble of navigating public transport or finding the park yourself. This door-to-door service is especially appreciated by visitors unfamiliar with the area or those traveling with family.

The mobile ticket option simplifies the process—just show your voucher when you arrive. The tour operates year-round, with hours from 9:30AM to 4:00PM, giving flexibility whether you’re a morning person or prefer a late-morning start.

The Guide and Group Size

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary and personal touches. Jodi_S mentions that her experience was somewhat limited, as there was “no guide, just a driver,” and the actual time spent in the park was about an hour. Conversely, Jodi_S also noted the guide, Erald from Tea Tours, made the day enjoyable with informative narration and a friendly attitude.

Group size is limited to around 100 travelers, which means you’re unlikely to feel overwhelmed, but during peak seasons, the area can get busier. Booking 124 days in advance indicates strong interest, so planning ahead ensures you secure your spot.

Analyzing the Experience Value

While the price point of $71.15 might seem high for a 3-hour tour, it covers transportation, entry, and a guided experience—elements that can be complicated to organize on your own. The inclusion of skip-the-line entry helps maximize your sightseeing time, especially during busier months.

However, some reviewers felt that the short duration and limited time in the park might leave those wanting a more in-depth exploration somewhat disappointed. If your priority is an authentic and leisurely experience, this tour offers a convenient introduction, but not an extended or detailed exploration.

What About the Scenic and Educational Value?

The scenery is unarguably spectacular; this alone makes the trip worth considering. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the spring’s natural formation, ecological importance, and the surrounding flora. For families or casual travelers, this mix of sightseeing and light activity strikes a good balance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re short on time but want to see a truly iconic natural site. It suits families, casual travelers, or those interested in a stress-free visit with transportation included. If you’re seeking a deep dive into the geology or extensive hiking, you might find the tour somewhat limited.

The Sum Up

The Visit The National Park of Blue Eye tour offers a solid, well-organized way to experience one of Albania’s most mesmerizing sights. Its inclusive entry, convenient pickup, and short duration make it a practical choice for travelers who want a no-fuss, scenic outing. The stunning vistas and opportunity to swim in the cold spring make it a memorable highlight, especially for nature lovers.

While some reviews note the experience can feel rushed and lacking in guide interaction, the overall value and authenticity remain strong—particularly given the popularity of the site. The knowledgeable guides, scenic setting, and ease of access provide a great introduction to the Blue Eye.

This tour is best suited for visitors who appreciate easy logistics, natural beauty, and a family-friendly atmosphere. If you’re after an immersive, slow-paced exploration, consider extending your stay or seeking a guided hike. For most, though, this experience will deliver a satisfying glimpse into Albania’s captivating natural wonders.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and some time in the park.

Does the tour include entry to the Blue Eye?
Yes, the entry fee is included, allowing you to skip the lines and enjoy your visit without extra costs.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Saranda are included, making it very convenient.

Can I swim in the Blue Eye?
Yes, many travelers enjoy swimming in the cool waters of the spring, though it’s very cold, so bring appropriate swimwear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. It’s family-friendly and stroller accessible, making it easy for travelers with young kids.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear if you plan to swim, and sun protection. The area is lush and outdoor, so dress appropriately.

When is the best time to visit?
The tour operates daily from 9:30AM to 4:00PM. Visiting in the spring or early summer offers the most vibrant scenery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, full refund included.

In summary, this tour offers a straightforward, scenic, and educational way to see the Blue Eye, ideal for those who want a hassle-free experience and don’t mind a shorter visit. Its combination of beautiful views, guided insights, and convenience makes it a worthwhile addition to your Albania itinerary—especially if you’re short on time but eager to witness one of the country’s most iconic natural sites.