DEHUROEN

Plizio Visual Lab

Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife
—°1
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)

Weather…

The Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park was established in 2010 as Albania's first and so far only marine park, protecting the waters around the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island. The park covers a marine area of about 125 square kilometers near the city of Vlorë at the border between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. The underwater world is characterized by Posidonia seagrass meadows, coral reefs, and deep marine caves that host enormous biodiversity. Protected species include the critically endangered Mediterranean monk seal and various dolphin species. Historically, the area is known for its numerous shipwrecks, ranging from antiquity to World War II, which are now popular destinations for divers. The Karaburun Peninsula itself is uninhabited and provides secluded bays with turquoise water, accessible only by boat or via long hiking trails. Sazan Island served as a military base for a long time and is now partially open to tourism. Conservation measures aim to protect the fragile marine space from overfishing and uncontrolled tourism.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101012151823262622191511
Rain mm103908261573622268098123128

📋 Practical info

📅
Best season
The best time to visit Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park is May to October, when the sea is calm and weather warm. Dolphins and sea turtles are most frequently spotted then, and the Posidonia seagrass beds are clearly visible.
🌅
Best time of day
Early morning boat trips offer the best chance for dolphin sightings as they actively hunt then. Late afternoon light is convenient for underwater shots of the seagrass beds and rock formations.
📜
Etiquette
Anchoring on the seagrass beds is forbidden to prevent habitat damage. Diving without a guide is only allowed in designated zones, and feeding marine animals is prohibited.
🎒
What to bring
Snorkelling or diving gear is recommended for exploring the underwater world. A waterproof camera and a drysuit or wetsuit may be useful depending on water temperature.
🧭
Getting there
The park is only accessible by boat; most tours depart from Vlora or the Karaburun Peninsula. Private boats need a permit obtainable from the harbour authority in Vlora.
🦌
What to expect
Dolphins are not guaranteed - sometimes hours pass without a sighting, but the scenic coves and clear water make up for it. Patience is rewarded when a pod suddenly appears alongside the boat.

Geography

Coordinates
40.43000, 19.30000

Facts

  • First Marine National Park in Albania (2010)
  • Total area of about 125 square kilometers
  • Habitat for the rare Mediterranean monk seal
  • Contains ancient and modern shipwrecks
  • Meeting point of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas
  • Includes Albania's largest island, Sazan

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Karaburun-SazanKaraburun-Sazan<1 km · NExplore →
Karaburun PeninsulaKaraburun Peninsula7 km · SEExplore →
Sazan IslandSazan Island8 km · NExplore →
Zvërnec MonasteryZvërnec Monastery13 km · NEExplore →
Vlorë Industrial ParkVlorë Industrial Park15 km · NEExplore →
Narta LagoonNarta Lagoon15 km · NEExplore →
Port of VlorëPort of Vlorë16 km · EExplore →
OricumOricum16 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (1)

The Cave of Haxhi Ali📍 landmark

A prominent sea cave on the Albanian coast, named after a legendary sailor.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to the marine park?
Only by boat, usually starting from Vlora or Orikum.
Can you visit Sazan Island?
Yes, the former military island is open to tourists in summer.
Are there caves there?
Yes, Haxhi Ali Cave is a famous sea cave.
Is snorkeling allowed?
Yes, the clear water is good for snorkeling.
Are there any restaurants?
Only a few seasonal kiosks in certain bays.
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park: where is it located?
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park is located in Albania.
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park was established in 2010 as Albania's first and so far only marine park, protecting the waters around the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Albania →

Nearby cities

Arapaj — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Arapaj
Arapaj is a historical village near Durrës, famous for the remains of one of the largest early Christian basilicas in the Balkans.
Bradashesh — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Bradashesh
Bradashesh is a suburb of Elbasan and an important industrial location.
Elbasan — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Elbasan
Elbasan is located on the Shkumbin River and serves as a major industrial and cultural hub.
Lushnjë — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Lushnjë
Lushnjë is located in the fertile Myzeqe plain and serves as a key agricultural center.
Karbunarë — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Karbunarë
Karbunarë is a suburb of Lushnja, serving as an important agricultural and industrial gateway to the Myzeqe plain.
Kuçovë — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Kuçovë
Kuçovë is known as Albania's oil city and was formerly named after Stalin.
Karpen — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Karpen
Karpen is a charming coastal village in Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere by the Adriatic Sea.
Kavajë — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Kavajë
Kavajë is a historical city located near the Adriatic coast.
Qerret — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Qerret
Qerret is a popular coastal village in Albania with fine sandy beaches and warm waters.
Golem — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Golem
A popular seaside resort south of Durrës, known for its extensive sandy beaches, pine forests, and a wide variety of modern resorts.
Cakran — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Cakran
Cakran is a village rich in history located in the hills south of Fier.
Peqin — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Peqin
Peqin is an ancient town located on the Via Egnatia.
Patos — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Patos
Patos is an important industrial center in southwestern Albania, defined by its oil extraction.
Cërrik — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Cërrik
Cërrik is a small town near Elbasan in central Albania.
Shijak — Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park (Albania)
Shijak
Shijak is located between Tirana and Durrës on the Erzen River.