Komani lake | Prizren

Komani Lake is a man-made reservoir on the Drin River located in northern Albania, approximately 147 km west of Prizren. It is a primary transit and tourism corridor connecting the Shkodër region to the Valbona Valley and the Kosovo border via the town of Fierza.

Visual Characteristics

The reservoir is characterized by narrow, fjord-like corridors flanked by vertical limestone cliffs and jagged mountain peaks rising up to 1,700 meters. The water color ranges from deep emerald to turquoise depending on depth and sediment. Dense forests of oak and beech cover the steep slopes, while the shoreline is mostly inaccessible rock with occasional makeshift wooden jetties.

Location & Access Logistics

From Prizren, access is via the R7 motorway toward Gjakova and the Qafë Prush or Qafë Morinë border crossings into Albania. The nearest ferry terminal is in Fierza, roughly a 2.5-hour drive (110 km) from Prizren. For the full lake transit, travelers continue to Koman via the SH25, a winding mountain road known for significant potholes and narrow passes. Daily ferries and "furgon" minibuses coordinate with boat departure times, typically at 09:00 and 13:00.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The lake was created between 1979 and 1988 as part of a massive hydroelectric project during the communist era. The construction of the 115-meter-high Komani Dam flooded the Drin River canyon, submerging the former valley floor. Geologically, the surrounding landscape is part of the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije), formed by tectonic uplift and river erosion.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is the 2.5-hour ferry transit between Koman and Fierza, often cited as one of the most scenic boat trips in Europe. Secondary boat excursions depart for the Shala River, a shallow, turquoise tributary accessible only by small motorized craft. Kayaking and hiking are possible in the more remote western sections, and swimming occurs in the calmer coves during summer.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities are minimal due to the remote, canyon-locked terrain. The ferry terminals at Koman and Fierza offer basic cafes and parking, but there are no paved roads or villages along the 34 km lake interior. Cell phone signal (4G) is inconsistent and often drops entirely within the narrower gorges. Potable water and food must be carried, as on-board amenities are limited to small snack bars.

Best Time to Visit

The visitor season runs from mid-April to October when the car ferries are in full operation. May and June provide the most vibrant vegetation and highest water levels. Morning departures (09:00) are recommended for photography to avoid the harsh midday sun reflecting off the limestone walls. Winters are harsh with limited passenger boat service.

Facts & Legends

The region is the epicenter of the "Koman Culture," an archaeological designation for the transition period between the Illyrians and early medieval Albanians. Local folklore includes the "Dragon Rock" (Guri i Dragos) myth, which tells of a dragon that fought water monsters (Kucedra) to clear the Drin canyon, with its blood purportedly staining the red-tinted rocks near the Mërturi tributary.

Nearby Landmarks

Prizren Fortress: 147km East

Valbona Valley National Park: 45km Northeast (from Fierza)

Vau i Dejës Dam: 30km West (from Koman)

Shala River Mouth: 15km North (via boat)

Gazi Mehmet Pasha Hamam: 147km East