Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Learn how to get to the park from Vlorë, what to pack for a day with no facilities, and how to explore Sazan safely.
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park
Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island, Vlorë
GPS 40.3666, 19.3666
Open directionsGetting there
All visitors arrive by boat from Vlorë Port or nearby Radhima.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Tours and water taxis depart daily from Vlorë Port (and nearby Radhima) | 40-45 minutes crossing to Sazan | €25 - €35 per person | Shared speedboats or larger multi-deck ships. Pre-booking is essential in July and August. |
| Car: Drive to Vlorë Port to catch your departing boat | N/A | Parking fees apply in Vlorë | There are no roads to the western coast of the Karaburun Peninsula, and no cars on Sazan. |
| Walk: Hiking paths exist on Sazan Island | 1-2 hours | Free (after boat fare) | Hikers must stick to marked trails due to unexploded ordnance and military zones. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The marine park is accessible from May to October. June and September are the best months. The sea is calm, and you avoid the large August crowds.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
There are no facilities on Sazan Island. Bring plenty of drinking water.
You must pack snacks, sunscreen, and proper shoes.
How the day runs
Most visitors take a 5-to-7-hour boat tour.
A typical 5-hour speedboat loop covering the island and peninsula.
- Depart Vlorë
Board your speedboat at Vlorë Port for the 40-minute crossing.
- Sazan Ghost Village
Spend 45 minutes walking through the abandoned military base.
- Haxhi Ali Cave
Ride into the largest sea cave in Albania for photos.
- Karaburun Beach
Stop at Saint Jan or Saint Basil beach to swim and relax.
- Return to Vlorë
Arrive back at Vlorë Port.
An 8-hour deep exploration of the remote western Karaburun coast.
- Depart Vlorë
Start your longer journey along the rugged peninsula coastline.
- Blue Gem Cave
Stop to swim in a sea cave known for its blue waters.
- Arrive at Grama Bay
Dock at the secluded cove to see ancient sailor inscriptions.
- Beach Time
Swim in the turquoise waters and enjoy an onboard lunch if provided.
- Return to Vlorë
Complete the long boat ride back to the mainland.
Packing and Preparation
Preparation is crucial because the park has very few facilities. There is no drinking water available on Sazan Island. Pack a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a packed lunch. Wear closed walking shoes if you plan to explore the bunkers on Sazan Island. You will also need water shoes for the pebble beaches along the Karaburun coast.
Respect the park rules during your visit. Drones are strictly banned on Sazan Island due to military restrictions. You must also stick to marked trails to avoid unexploded ordnance in the military zones. Review our Park Rules before you go.
Easiest way to do it
Speed Boat Trip to Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cave and Karaburun
4 h to 5 h 4.4 (202)
- All Fees and Taxes
- Insurance coverage during the tour
From$31per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I pack for Sazan Island?
Bring plenty of drinking water, snacks, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You need closed shoes for the bunker trails and water shoes for the pebble beaches. Also pack a headlamp or phone torch for the dark bunkers.
Can you drive to Karaburun Peninsula?
No, there are no roads to the western coast of the Karaburun Peninsula. You must drive to Vlorë Port and catch a boat.
Is there food available on Sazan Island?
No, there is no food available on Sazan Island. Some larger boat tours offer pre-ordered lunches at the Karaburun beaches, but you should bring your own snacks.