Birding in Lake Ohrid

Birding in Lake Ohrid is a nice choice for the ones that want to see lake birds and other semi-highland birds. Lake Ohrid one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its exceptional natural and cultural value. Shared between Albania and North Macedonia, the lake supports a unique freshwater ecosystem with many endemic species. On the Albanian side, the area around Pogradec and the Drilon–Tushemisht wetlands offers a rich combination of habitats including clear freshwater shores, reedbeds, springs, wet meadows, river mouths, agricultural fields and low hills, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers.

The lake and its surrounding wetlands host a variety of waterbirds such as grebes, herons, cormorants, ducks and gulls, while reedbeds support species like Great Reed Warbler, Little Bittern and various marshland passerines. Migration seasons bring increased activity, with wagtails, pipits, swallows, raptors and a diversity of passage species moving through the area. Winter often gathers flocks of grebes, diving ducks and other freshwater birds on the open lake.

One of the highlights of the Albanian side is the Drilon National Park area, with its network of natural springs, channels and lakeside vegetation, offering peaceful landscapes perfect for relaxed birdwatching. The combination of crystal-clear waters, surrounding mountains, traditional lakeside villages and rich biodiversity makes Lake Ohrid a beautiful and enjoyable site for nature lovers.

Easily accessible from Tirana and ideal for a full-day trip, Lake Ohrid offers a pleasant and scenic birding experience in one of Albania’s most iconic natural locations.

Book this Tour:

For group tours, we depart from Tirana at 07:15. For individual or private tours, we arrange a start time that is convenient for the participants.

The drive to Lake Ohrid (Pogradec area) takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes. On the way southeast, we may make a short 10–15 minute stop for facilities or to grab a coffee, depending on the group’s needs.

Upon arrival in the area, we will begin the itinerary for the day by exploring the main habitats around the lake: freshwater reedbeds, springs and channels at Drilon, lakeshore wetlands, river mouths, wet meadows and surrounding open fields. This variety of habitats provides opportunities to observe waterbirds, marshland species, raptors and many seasonal migrants.

In addition to birdwatching, we aim to show you the characteristic landscapes of the Ohrid region, including clear lakeside views, traditional villages and the surrounding mountains. It is a peaceful, varied and enjoyable birding experience in one of Albania’s most scenic natural environments.

In the given price is included: 

• Guiding fee
• Transport (pick up and dropp off at the desired location)
• Picnic lunch and snacks
• Water
• Optics (on demand)
• Taxes 

This is an easy tour, suitable for everyone and accessible all year round. It involves mostly driving between key birding locations, combined with short and relaxed walks on flat terrain. No special fitness level is required, making the tour ideal for beginners, experienced birders, families, and travellers of all ages.

In the warm season (April to November), it is recommended to bring:

• sun hat,
• sun cream,
• mosquito repellent, 
• light raincoat if the weather forecast indicates rain,
• windproof jacket.

In December and January, mosquito repellent is usually not necessary.

Footwear: Any kind of comfortable sport shoes or sandals is perfectly fine for this tour. Walking boots are not necessary, but fine to wear too if preffered.