Trekking to Buni Jezerce: The Great Valley of Lakes (Updated for Late 2025)
Buni Jezerce (Great Valley of Lakes) ranks as one of the most stunning spots in the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije/Albanian Alps), straddling the Albania-Montenegro border. This amphitheater of jagged peaks surrounds six glacial lakes (though water levels vary seasonally). It serves as a spectacular side trip on the Peaks of the Balkans trail or a challenging standalone hike.
Best time to visit: June–September for full lakes and greener scenery. Late season (October+) often sees most smaller lakes dry, but the dramatic peaks and valleys remain breathtaking (as experienced in mid-October hikes).
Quick Stats (Round-Trip from Vusanje, Montenegro – Recommended Route)
- Distance — 22 km
- Elevation gain/loss — ~1,677 m
- Time — 8–10 hours (4 hours one-way)
- Difficulty — Strenuous; steep forest climb, then open alpine terrain. Well-marked but exposed.
From Theth (Albania): Longer (~26 km round-trip, ~1,900 m gain), via Qafa e Pejës pass and old bunkers.
Route Options
- From Vusanje (Montenegro – Easiest & Most Popular)
Follow Ropojana Valley road/trail to Katun Zastan (summer huts). Option: Arrange 4WD transfer (~€60–100 round-trip) to save ~4 hours walking on dirt road.
Pay €3/person national park fee at checkpoint (valid 24 hours).
Steep marked trail through forest → unofficial border crossing (no stamps) → emerge to first lakes.
All six lakes sit on Albanian side. - From Theth (Albania)
Head north to Qafa e Pejës pass → green alpine lake → old bunkers → right fork to southern end of valley.
No border issues (stays in Albania).
Border Permits (Important for 2025)
Approaching from Vusanje crosses unofficially into Albania → requires Peaks of the Balkans border permit (even for day trip). Risk €300+ fine if checked (though rare).
No permit needed from Theth side.
Arrange via services like Zbulo.org (~€5–15/person + Montenegro fees) or local operators. List exact crossing dates/locations.
Tips for 2025
- Water levels: Smaller lakes often dry by late summer/fall; main lake holds some water (recent reports note low levels but still scenic).
- Navigation: Use Wikiloc, AllTrails, or Maps.me (offline). Trails well-marked with red/white blazes.
- Water sources: Limited high up—carry plenty (no reliable sources above ~2,000 m in summer).
- Accommodation:
- Vusanje: Dedushi Guesthouse Cabins or Lola Guesthouse (great views, meals).
- Theth: Guesthouse Rrashkadoli or Bujtina Tinari.
- Transport: Minibuses Shkodër → Theth (daily, ~€10). Plav → Vusanje by foot/taxi.
Buni Jezerce delivers raw, untouched alpine beauty—perfect for experienced hikers seeking a highlight of the Balkans. Pair it with the full Peaks of the Balkans for an epic adventure!
Questions about permits, current conditions, or combining with other hikes? Ask below! 🏔️