The Pilgrimage
A full-day journey to Krujë: the castle and Old Bazaar, the hike to the Temple of Sari Salltik, and a victory meal at a traditional Albanian Zgarë.
Albania · Tirana Day Trips
He's not your tour guide.
He's your Funcle.
Small-group hiking adventures through Albania's mountains, castles and villages — with history, culture and a proper Albanian meal along the way.
Your guide
Meet your Funcle
Funcle David was born in Canada, but his heart lives in the Albanian mountains. What started as sharing his favourite trails, hilltop castles and family-style meals with friends turned into Funcle Hikes — small-group tours where you leave with sore legs, a full stomach and new friends.
No buses, no flag-waving, no script. Just you, a small group, and someone who treats you like family — because that's what a Funcle does.
My mission
Travel that goes deeper
I'm a traveler myself, and I know that when you're exploring a new country you want to experience as much as possible without spending more than you have to. That's exactly why I created The Pilgrimage.
Instead of relying on expensive tourist buses and commercial restaurants, I've partnered with a traditional Albanian Zgarë and use a combination of public taxis and a trusted local driver for the journey. By thinking differently, I can keep my price comparable to many other tours while offering more — more experiences, authentic Albanian food and genuine local connections.
I believe great travel isn't about luxury — it's about authentic experiences, local connections and unforgettable memories.
Experience Albania beyond the guidebooks.
Day trips from Tirana
The tours
Cape of Rodon
Cliffside bunkers, a 14th-century church, Skanderbeg's coastal castle and a secluded Adriatic beach. Funcle is still scouting this one — follow along for the launch.
What sets us apart
Why hike with Funcle?
Small groups — max 7, never a crowd
Local & personal — you're not just a number
Hidden gems — off the tourist track
Food & culture — history you can taste
Budget-friendly — with customizable options
Straight from the camera roll
From the trail
Real travellers, real experiences
Hikers say it best
"The highlight of my time in Albania. If you're visiting Tirana — or Albania in general — this is the tour I'd recommend before anything else."
"It honestly felt like hiking with a friend instead of a tour guide. David took us off the beaten path and showed us places we never would have found ourselves."
"Found the tour last minute and so glad we came. Recommend 10 out of 10 — would do it again in a heartbeat."