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Mount Korab: The Roof of the Balkans

Conquer the Balkans' highest peak! Hike Mount Korab for unmatched views and a unique cross-border adventure in a pristine natural setting.

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Mount Korab, soaring at 2,764 meters (9,068 feet), is the highest peak in both Albania and North Macedonia, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with stunning panoramic views. Part of the Korab mountain range, it's a unique geographical landmark and a haven for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Mt Korab

Local tips

  • The best time to hike Mount Korab is from May to October when the weather is most favorable.
  • Bring plenty of water, as the last reliable water source is at the start of most hikes.
  • Carry your passport, as the trail crosses the border between Albania and North Macedonia, and checks may occur.
  • Be cautious of shepherd dogs, especially near sheep farms, and try to make contact with the shepherds.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Skopje International Airport, rent a car and drive towards Mavrovo National Park. The drive is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (100 km). Be aware that the last 15 km to the trailhead near Strezimir is an unpaved road, which may take around 40 minutes to navigate. A vehicle with high clearance is recommended. Parking is available near the army facility at Strezimir.

  • Public Transport

    From Tirana, Albania, take a minibus to Peshkopi. From Peshkopi, another minibus goes once a day to Radomirë, the starting point for the Albanian route. The minibus from Tirana to Peshkopi costs approximately 500-700 Lek (€4-€6). The minibus from Peshkopi to Radomirë is less frequent and may cost around 200-300 Lek (€1.5-€2.5). Check local schedules as they can be unreliable.

  • Park Entrance Fee

    Mavrovo National Park requires a visitor tax. You can purchase tickets online (https://npmavrovo.mk/tickets) or at the information center just outside of Mavrovi Anovi. The park entrance fee is approximately 30 MKD (0.5 Euro) per person.

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Discover more about Mt Korab

Mount Korab, known as Maja e Korabit in Albanian and Golem Korab in Macedonian, is the undisputed monarch of the borderlands, reigning as the highest peak in both Albania and North Macedonia. This impressive mountain is part of the larger Korab mountain range, which stretches for approximately 40 kilometers along the eastern Dibër region. Its unique position makes it one of only a few European peaks that serve as the highest point for multiple countries, adding to its allure for avid hikers and peak baggers. The mountain's slopes are characterized by rugged terrain, featuring a mix of rocky stretches, grassy meadows, and stunning glacial valleys. The ascent to the summit is a demanding but fulfilling experience, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Šar Mountains, as well as deep river valleys and pristine glacial lakes. The area is rich in biodiversity, home to species like the brown bear, grey wolf, and the elusive Balkan lynx. Historically, Mount Korab's location on the border made it a restricted area for many years. Today, however, all restrictions have been lifted, and hikers can freely access the summit from both the Albanian and North Macedonian sides. The most popular route on the North Macedonian side starts near Strezimir, while the Albanian route begins from the village of Radomirë. Climbing Mount Korab is more than just a physical challenge; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the Balkans and stand on the roof of two countries.

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