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Maja e Gjallicës

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Maja e Gjallicës is the highest peak in the Kukës District of northeastern Albania, reaching an elevation of 2,489 meters above sea level. Geologically, the mountain is composed of massive Triassic and Jurassic limestone, resulting in its sharp ridges and steep rock faces. It dominates the landscape overlooking the city of Kukës and provides panoramic views of the Fierza Reservoir and the confluence of the White and Black Drin rivers. The mountain is part of the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park, serving as a habitat for rare alpine flora and golden eagles. In Albanian folklore, Gjallica is regarded as a sacred mountain, associated with various myths about mountain spirits and local legendary figures. Due to its prominence and altitude, the summit remains snow-capped well into early summer, making it a challenging destination for experienced mountaineers. Traditional pastoralism remains an important part of the local economy, with shepherds using the high-altitude meadows during the summer months. Today, the peak is a focal point for the developing ecotourism industry in the region.

Location: Albania
Nearby: Kukës (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	-1	3	7	12	16	20	20	15	10	5	-1
Rain mm	81	73	77	68	75	56	37	38	71	91	102	92

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The approach to this dominating peak usually begins from the surrounding villages near Kukës or via rough access tracks heading up the slopes. Depending on the chosen route, a sturdy 4x4 vehicle might be required to reach the higher trailheads.

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Best season

Late spring, summer, and early autumn offer the safest and most enjoyable conditions for tackling the substantial elevation. Snow tends to linger late into the year on the upper slopes, making winter ascents an endeavor strictly for trained mountaineers.

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Terrain & paths

Hikers face a physically demanding trek characterized by steep pine forests that eventually yield to barren, highly exposed limestone slopes. The conical shape of the mountain means the final sections are intensely steep and lack shelter.

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What to bring

Stout hiking footwear with thick soles is essential to cope with the relentless rocky incline and extended downhill pressure. Packing extra layers for the chilly summit and carrying more water than expected is crucial due to the arid upper slopes.

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Parking

Vehicles are generally left at informal spots in the valley villages or wherever the unpaved mountain access roads become too rough to proceed. Ensuring you do not block local agricultural or residential access is always a basic requirement.

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Safety

The combination of significant altitude and steep gradients requires good physical conditioning and careful pacing to avoid rapid exhaustion. Weather can turn hostile with little warning on the prominent summit, increasing the risk of getting lost in fog.

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Time needed

Attempting this formidable peak is a serious undertaking that typically swallows a grueling eight to ten hours of continuous trekking. Due to the long, strenuous nature of the climb, an early dawn start is practically mandatory for a safe return.

Geography

Coordinates

42.01500, 20.41300

Facts

Reaches a total height of 2,489 meters above sea level.
Primarily composed of Triassic and Jurassic limestone formations.
Located within the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park borders.
Overlooks the confluence of the White and Black Drin rivers.
The summit often retains snow cover until June or July.
Regarded as a sacred peak in regional Albanian folklore.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kukës International Airport Zayed2 km · NExplore →

Kukës7 km · NExplore →

Borje16 km · EExplore →

Shishtavec18 km · SEExplore →

Dragash19 km · EExplore →

Krumë21 km · NExplore →

Restelica23 km · EExplore →

Mount Pashtrik23 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Maja e Gjallicës (1)

Keshtjella e Bushatit

Ruins of a fortification near the Gjallicë mountain range, exact history unknown.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Mount Gjallica located?

Gjallica is located in northeastern Albania and prominently towers over the city of Kukës and Lake Fierza.

How high is Gjallica?

The summit reaches a considerable height of 2,489 meters and is often snow-covered until June.

What is special about the shape of the mountain?

It has an almost well-suited pyramid shape, making it easily recognizable from a distance.

How long does a hike to the summit take?

From Kukës, it is a very long tour, usually requiring 8 to 10 hours of walking time.

What view does the summit offer?

You can see Lake Fierza, Mount Korab, and on clear days, far into Kosovo.

Maja e Gjallicës: where is it located?

Maja e Gjallicës is located in Albania.

Maja e Gjallicës: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Maja e Gjallicës: why is it worth visiting?

Maja e Gjallicës is the highest peak in the Kukës District of northeastern Albania, reaching an elevation of 2,489 meters above sea level.

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