Safety Guidelines

Pre-Trip Health Assessment

Before booking, please honestly assess your physical fitness level and any medical conditions. Our tours vary in difficulty, from easy walks to challenging mountain treks. Choose tours appropriate for your fitness level.

Medical Conditions

Please inform us of any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you take when booking. This information is confidential but essential for your safety.

• Heart conditions, high blood pressure, or respiratory issues
• Allergies (food, insect stings, medications)
• Recent surgeries or injuries
• Pregnancy
• Mobility limitations

Medications

Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications in their original containers. Carry a copy of your prescriptions and a doctor's note for controlled substances. Keep medications in your carry-on luggage.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Medical facilities in remote mountain areas may be limited.

Physical Preparation

For multi-day hiking tours (like our Albanian Alps programs), we recommend preparing with regular cardio exercise and hiking practice 4-6 weeks before your tour. Build your stamina gradually.

Essential Hiking Gear

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support
• Appropriate layered clothing for changing mountain weather
• Rain jacket and warm layers (even in summer)
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen
• Hiking poles (recommended for mountain trails)
• Daypack with water bottles (minimum 2 liters capacity)
• Personal first aid supplies

Trail Safety Rules

• Always stay with your group and follow your guide's instructions
• Never venture off marked trails without your guide
• Maintain a steady, comfortable pace - don't rush
• Take regular breaks and stay hydrated
• Communicate immediately if you feel unwell or need assistance
• Be aware of loose rocks, slippery surfaces, and steep drops
• Respect wildlife - observe from a distance, never feed animals

Mountain Weather

Albanian mountain weather can change rapidly. Conditions may be significantly cooler and windier at altitude than in valleys. Always bring warm and waterproof layers, even on summer tours. Your guide will make decisions about route changes or cancellations based on weather conditions.

Sun Protection

UV exposure is intense at altitude and on water. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and cover exposed skin. Heat exhaustion and sunburn can ruin your trip.

Hydration

Dehydration is a common issue during active tours. Drink water regularly throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Carry at least 2 liters of water on hiking days. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine.

Wildlife Awareness

Albania's wilderness is home to diverse wildlife. While encounters with dangerous animals are rare, maintain awareness. Never feed wildlife, secure food properly, and follow your guide's instructions regarding animal safety.

First Aid

All our guides carry comprehensive first aid kits and are trained in wilderness first aid. For minor injuries or ailments, your guide can provide immediate assistance. Inform your guide immediately of any health concerns, no matter how minor they seem.

Serious Incidents

In case of serious injury or medical emergency:

• Your guide will immediately assess the situation and provide first aid
• Emergency services will be contacted
• Evacuation procedures will be initiated if necessary
• Our 24/7 emergency coordinator will support the response
• Your emergency contact and insurance provider will be notified

Communication

While mobile phone coverage is generally good in Albania, remote mountain areas may have limited signal. Our guides carry satellite communication devices for areas without cell coverage. Always provide accurate emergency contact information when booking.