One of the most interesting key biodiversity areas of the entire Mediterranean basin, holding a wide variety of flora and fauna species.

Mirjan Topi and Oresta Saliaj, PPNEA

The region of Vlora bay - Karaburun - Cika Mountain lies on the southwestern part of Albania and it has been distinguished as one of the most interesting key biodiversity areas of the entire Mediterranean basin, holding a wide variety of flora and fauna species. This area is without any doubt, one of the most touristic sites of Albania, not only due to its high natural values but also for rich history and culture. Here are found almost all touristic elements of Albania, in just a small surface of land. All this, brings the exiting thought, that this mosaic of nature and culture has been created there just for tourism. In this area, are found some of the Albanian’s most beautiful coast and beaches; the only peninsula of Albania – Karaburun; the largest island of Albania – Sazani; the only Marine National Park of Albania Sazan-Karaburun; there are found high mountains, clean fresh waters; monuments of nature, monuments of culture; the ancient city of Orik, the medieval castles of “Gjon Bocari” and “Sofo”; the old church of “Marmiroi”, the fantastic caves of “Duk Gjoni” and “Haxhi Aliut”; the National Park of Llogara and many other touristic sites and objects.

Why 360’ Experience Dear Tourists? To describe all what can be enjoyed in this area, would even not be enough the entire pages of this magazine, and this is not a literature metaphor, but a true statement. We will start now to describe for you a simple 360’ journey in Karaburun, and you may make this trip real: We start in January: where you can experience 360’ the Mediterranean winter - feel the unique, cozy and diverse wintertime in Karaburun when experience goes beyond any limits. See the Golden eagle in the skies, over the green and white of Llogara and Cika Mountain, smelling the flavor of “Arapashi” coming from the welcoming guest houses. In February: climb the Çika Mountain and feel the diversity of the KARABURUN. Enjoy the magnificent view of the coastline from the top of Çika, feel the benefits of trekking in pure nature in sunny days. In March: Celebrate the spring coming at Llogara and admire the Flag Pines. Perfect for all forms of trekking and hiking. Just pick the right equipment and be ready to get the most out of one of the most picturesque part of Albanian. In April: Dukati valley - explore the diversity and boldness of KARABURUN. The valley is cut into the mountain slopes and provides breathtaking experience from mountain through Orikumi Lagoon to the sea. In May: Birdwatching at its fines. You’ll find about 105 species of birds here, at this time. The high cliffs of Karaburun are perfect for nesting of pelagic seabirds, and you might be the first discovering some nests or colony. In June: Be an explorer -go deep into history in the phenomenal caves. Go after pirates, explore the breathtaking costal caves of KARABURUN. Find out the richest rocky diary of the Mediterranean and learn the legends around some of the most amazing caves. In July: Dive into the mystery hidden underwater. Explore the underwater museum underwater habitats – the secret treasure of KARABURUN that keeps 20thcentury artefacts in an unforgettable form. In August: Encounter the land of castles and legends from different times. Explore the rich cultural heritage of different times and cultures. In September: The amazing Orikum Lagoon. Watch wetland birds or breathtaking sunsets. Enjoy breathtaking views and go exploring the coast from the sea with unforgettable boat trip. October: From Orikum citadel to Orikumi lagoon. The enchanted colors and mythical smells of autumn in KARABURUN. Find out the boldness and power of this area. In November: Enjoy the unique polyphony. Encounter the astonishing sounds of KARABURUN –the birthplace of polyphony –a unique style of singing that stays in your heart for lifetime once heard. In December: A different Christmas experience. Find what we call 360 Christmas –go up in the mountain or down the valley. We hope to have made you already curious! You are all welcome, in our country: in the Land of Eagles and Castles.