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Black Drin River: Albania's Natural Artery

Discover Albania's longest river: the Black Drin, a haven for adventure, rafting, and stunning natural beauty through rugged gorges.

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The Black Drin River, or Drini i Zi, is a vital waterway flowing from Lake Ohrid through North Macedonia and Albania. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning gorges, it's a haven for rafting, hiking, and experiencing Albania's rugged beauty.

A brief summary to Black Drin

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the trails around the river.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the riverbank.
  • Consider visiting Butterfly Camping near the village of Pejkë for an overnight stay in nature.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Dibra, take a local bus towards Kukës. The bus ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes, and the fare is around 100 ALL. From Kukës, take a taxi or minibus towards the Black Drin River. A taxi ride will cost approximately 1,000 ALL.

  • Car

    From the center of Dibra, head south on Rruga Skënderbeu towards Rruga e Dajlës. Continue for approximately 15 kilometers. At the fork in the road, take the left onto Rruga Rëza. Follow for 10 kilometers until you see signs for Black Drin. Limited parking is available near the riverbank.

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Discover more about Black Drin

The Black Drin River, known locally as Drini i Zi, is the longest river in Albania, stretching 285 kilometers. Its source begins at Lake Ohrid in Struga, North Macedonia, and winds through both countries, eventually merging with the White Drin River at Kukës to form the Drin, which empties into the Adriatic Sea. The river's path carves through dramatic valleys and gorges, most notably the Skavica Gorge, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for adventure. The surrounding landscape features picturesque villages with traditional Albanian architecture and views of Mount Korab, Albania's highest peak. The Black Drin is a popular destination for rafting, with several agencies offering guided tours throughout the year. The river's clear waters also invite kayaking, fishing, and swimming. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the riverbanks are ideal for picnics, photography, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. Beyond its natural allure, the Black Drin holds economic importance, supporting agriculture and contributing to Albania's energy production through hydropower plants. The river's cultural significance is also evident in the local traditions and the warm hospitality of the communities along its banks.

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