Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure in Shebenik National Park.
Visitor Center Hours
Summer: Mon-Thu 9AM-5PM
Fri-Sun 9AM-7PM
Winter: Daily 9AM-4PM
Park Entrance
Fushë Studë Village
Elbasan County, Albania
64km from Tirana
Contact Information
Visitor Center: +355 69 6223130
Forest Directorate: +355 51 423 738
Emergency: +355 67 207 9658
Getting There
Shebenik National Park is accessible by car from several routes. Public transport options are limited.
By Car (Recommended)
From Tirana (Capital City)
Distance: 64 km to Librazhd, then additional distances to park entrances
- 1. Take SH3 highway east towards Elbasan
- 2. Continue to Librazhd (about 1.5 hours)
- 3. From Librazhd, choose your destination:
- • Fushë Studë village (north): 25 km
- • Stëblevë village (north): 34 km
- • Qarrishta village (center): 32 km
- • Rrajca village (south): 50 km
Vehicle Recommendations
Strongly Recommended:
- • 4×4 vehicle or SUV
- • High ground clearance
- • All-weather tires
- • Full fuel tank
Road Conditions:
- • Paved road to Librazhd
- • Mountain roads vary by season
- • Some unpaved sections
- • Weather-dependent accessibility
Public Transport & Tours
Limited Public Transport
Public transport to the park is very limited. A daily minibus runs from Librazhd to Fushë Studë village, departing around noon.
Note: Return transport may not be guaranteed. Plan accordingly.
Organized Tours
Several tour operators offer guided trips to Shebenik National Park from Tirana and other major Albanian cities.
- • Transportation included
- • Professional guides
- • Group or private options
- • Equipment rental available
Rental Options
Car and 4×4 rentals are available in Tirana and major cities. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Tip: Many rental agencies offer GPS units and local maps.
Best Time to Visit
The park offers different experiences throughout the year, with optimal conditions from May to October.
Spring
May - June
Weather
15-25°C (59-77°F)
Mild temperatures, occasional rain
Highlights
- • Wildflower blooms
- • Active wildlife
- • Fewer crowds
- • Lush green landscapes
Considerations
- • Some high trails may have snow
- • Muddy conditions possible
Summer
July - August
Weather
20-30°C (68-86°F)
Warm, dry conditions
Highlights
- • All trails accessible
- • Perfect for lake swimming
- • Long daylight hours
- • Ideal camping weather
Considerations
- • More crowded
- • Book accommodation early
Autumn
September - October
Weather
10-20°C (50-68°F)
Cool, crisp conditions
Highlights
- • Spectacular fall colors
- • Excellent wildlife viewing
- • Comfortable hiking
- • Clear mountain views
Considerations
- • Shorter daylight hours
- • Layer clothing needed
Winter
November - April
Weather
-5 to 10°C (23-50°F)
Cold, snow at elevation
Highlights
- • Snow-capped mountains
- • Winter photography
- • Peaceful solitude
- • Animal tracks in snow
Considerations
- • Many trails inaccessible
- • Requires winter gear
- • Road conditions challenging
What to Bring
Pack smart for your wilderness adventure with this comprehensive checklist.
Essential Gear
- • Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- • Backpack (30-50L for day hikes)
- • Navigation tools (GPS, map, compass)
- • First aid kit and personal medications
- • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
- • Multi-tool or knife
- • Emergency whistle
- • Rope or paracord (for emergencies)
Clothing & Protection
- • Moisture-wicking base layers
- • Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)
- • Waterproof/breathable outer shell
- • Rain pants and poncho
- • Warm hat and sun hat
- • Waterproof gloves
- • Extra socks and underwear
- • Gaiters (for muddy conditions)
Safety & Comfort
- • Bear spray (recommended)
- • Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and sunglasses
- • Insect repellent
- • Water bottles or hydration system
- • Water purification tablets/filter
- • High-energy snacks and meals
- • Cash (for park fees and local purchases)
- • Garbage bags (Leave No Trace)
Important Guidelines
Follow these essential guidelines for your safety and the protection of the park's pristine environment.
Safety Guidelines
Wildlife Safety
Maintain safe distances from all wildlife. Bears, wolves, and lynx inhabit the park. Never feed animals or approach them for photos.
Weather Awareness
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Check forecasts before departing and be prepared for sudden temperature drops and storms.
Emergency Preparedness
Inform someone of your plans. Carry emergency contacts and know that cell service may be limited in remote areas.
Conservation Rules
Leave No Trace
Pack out all waste, stay on designated trails, and leave natural objects undisturbed. Respect the pristine wilderness for future generations.
Fire Restrictions
Campfires may be restricted during dry seasons. Always check current conditions and use established fire rings when permitted.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals quietly from a distance. Do not use flash photography, make loud noises, or attempt to attract wildlife for photos.
Need Help Planning?
Our visitor center staff are ready to help you plan the perfect adventure.
Visitor Center Services
- • Trail maps and current conditions
- • Weather forecasts and safety briefings
- • Guided tour arrangements
- • Equipment rental information
- • Local accommodation recommendations
- • Emergency contact coordination
Essential Contacts
Visitor Center (Fushë Studë)
Phone: +355 69 6223130
Librazhd Forest Directorate
Phone: +355 51 423 738
Mobile: +355 67 207 9658
Emergency Services
Police: 129 | Medical: 127 | Fire: 128