20 Days, Two Groups, Countless Lessons: Peaks of the Balkans Tips That Matter

Mixed Groups: Know Before You Go

When you join a mixed group, do your homework. Ask about fitness levels, ages, and experience. These things can shape the whole journey, either for the better or the worse.

Logistics also matter. Sometimes your luggage gets transported by mules, sometimes by cars—it depends on the section.

Smart Packing: Less is More

A 30-35L backpack is the sweet spot for daily hiking. You don't need a massive pack if your main luggage is being transferred—just focus on daily essentials and you'll thank yourself later.

Pack only what you need for the day:

• Weather protection: Rain jacket, extra layer, hat
• Safety essentials: First aid kit, emergency whistle
• Energy: Energy bars, snacks, electrolyte tablets
• Hydration: Water bottles/hydration system
• Personal items: Sunscreen, sunglasses, phone/camera

Keep your first aid kit simple but complete: bandages, pain relievers, blister treatment, and any personal medications. Energy bars are worth their weight—when you hit that afternoon energy dip, they can make the difference between pushing through and struggling to the finish.

Trail Difficulty: More Than Just the Path

Each section of the trail might be "medium," but many days in a row is a whole other game. Fatigue stacks up. Add poor sleep—whether from dorms full of snorers or just bad beds—and suddenly the trek feels twice as hard.

I had one night where I shared a dorm with a heavy snorer. I barely slept, and the next day every uphill step felt like I was carrying an extra 20 kilos. That experience taught me fast—pack ear plugs. Protecting your sleep is just as important as packing food and water.

Mountain Guesthouses: Set Your Expectations Right

Let's be honest about the guesthouses—they're not fancy. Don't expect luxury or city-level amenities. You're in remote mountain villages where infrastructure is basic by necessity, not choice.

The water might not run sometimes. The food selection might be limited. The WiFi might be spotty. This isn't poor service—it's mountain reality.

What you will get is genuine hospitality, hearty meals (even if simple), and the incredible experience of staying in places where life moves at a different pace. The hosts do their best with what they have, and that effort means everything in these conditions.

Hygiene: The Hidden Challenge

This is the part most people underestimate. Shared bathrooms, hikers going days without showers, and everyone touching the same chairs, handles, and doors. Hygiene becomes the real challenge.

Essentials to pack:

• Hand sanitizer
• Wet wipes
• Small bar of soap (wash before eating; use paper towels if possible)
• Water filter, electrolytes, magnesium
• Ear plugs + melatonin for better sleep
• Spare set of lightweight ear plugs (trust me, snorers exist in every group)

Spots That Get Overcrowded

Some places are beautiful, but the crowds can ruin the experience—especially on weekends:

• Theth – Blue Eye
• Taljanka Loop

My Favorite Stretch

If I had to pick one section, it would be Çerem → Dobërdol → Gjeravica. The views are endless, there's plenty of wildlife, and the people in the villages are some of the kindest you'll meet. This part feels like the heart of the Peaks of the Balkans.

The Unexpected Friendships

Here's something that surprised me: regardless of the group dynamics or personalities, you always end up making at least one good friend. There's something about shared hardship and beautiful moments that breaks down barriers.

Key Takeaways