Prohibited Driving Routes in Albania

Albania's stunning landscapes make it perfect for road trips, allowing access to authentic villages, pristine lakes, and uncrowded mountain trails. However, rental vehicles have restrictions on certain roads and areas.

Key Restrictions

  • • Rental cars may only be driven on paved roads
  • • Mountainous unpaved roads pose significant safety risks
  • • Insurance coverage is void on prohibited routes
  • • GPS tracking monitors vehicle location

Prohibited Routes

Berat to Përmet via Osumi Canyon (SH74)

Navigation apps may suggest this scenic route, but it's strictly prohibited for rental vehicles. The canyon road features:

  • Unpaved surfaces with large potholes and rocks
  • No insurance coverage
  • Potential for expensive recovery fees (€200-300)
Osumi Canyon road

Recommended Alternative

Take the route through Levan for a safe, paved journey.

Alternative route via Levan

Tirana to Qafë-Shtamë via Lake Bovilla

This panoramic route includes dangerous unpaved sections with steep drop-offs and rockfall hazards.

Lake Bovilla road

Restricted Beach Access

Many coastal areas have unpaved access roads that violate rental agreements. Notable locations include:

Southern Albania Beaches

Unpaved exits along SH8 highway between Shpella e Pëllumbave and Pigeons Cave

Southern beach access

Mirror Beach Area

Multiple unpaved approaches to Edon-Bina Beach and nearby coastal areas

Mirror Beach access

Restricted Natural Parks

Tomorri Mountain National Park

Mountainous terrain with poor road conditions requiring 4WD vehicles

Tomorri Mountain National Park

Lura National Park

Glacial lakes accessible only via damaged dirt roads

Lura National Park

Korab Mountain

Unpaved park roads with no insurance coverage

Korab Mountain

Qafë-Shtamë Nature Park

Steep serpentine roads requiring rental company approval

Qafë-Shtamë Nature Park

Important Reminders

  • • Google Maps routing isn't always reliable in Albania
  • • Local advice about road conditions may be financially motivated
  • • Violations can result in fines, vehicle immobilization, or repair charges
  • • Emergency services have limited access to prohibited areas