Albania, a country where over 70% of the territory is covered by mountains, has taken a major step toward improving its mountain rescue services and safety infrastructure. The Albanian Federation of Mountaineering and Mountain Tourism (Federata Shqiptare e Alpinizmit dhe Turizmit Malor) has officially announced the completion of a project that will transform the future of Albania’s mountain rescue system.
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| Roundtable with relevant stakeholders |
A Strategic Move for a Mountainous Nation
Albania’s geography makes this project not just beneficial—but absolutely essential. With its Albanian Alps in the north, the Tomorr and Shpirag ranges in the south, and rugged hills stretching across the central region, mountain travel and tourism have become both a national pride and a logistical challenge.
According to the Federation, this new facility in Elbasan will serve not just the region but the entire country, as it will be the first and only fully equipped mountain rescue and training center in Albania. The building will operate as a national headquarters, hosting regular training programs, emergency coordination, and simulations for real-life mountain rescue missions.
This initiative is expected to elevate Albania’s safety standards, particularly as eco-tourism and adventure tourism are rapidly growing industries in the country. In recent years, hiking routes like Valbona–Theth, Mount Dajti, and Llogara Pass have attracted thousands of tourists, increasing the demand for qualified and well-equipped rescue teams.
Direct Impact on the Elbasan Region
While the project has national significance, its immediate benefits will be felt most strongly in the Elbasan region. The Federation reports that the local search-and-rescue team will now be equipped with modern gear and vehicles, as well as access to intensive professional training.
Between 10 and 20 new members of the Elbasan mountain rescue service will undergo certified training focused on first aid, navigation, rope techniques, survival, and disaster coordination. This investment ensures that Albania’s mountainous central region—which often experiences severe weather and road blockages—will be better prepared for emergencies involving both locals and tourists.
The establishment of this center also represents a step toward European integration, aligning Albania’s rescue standards with EU norms, particularly those practiced in countries with strong alpine traditions such as Austria, Italy, and Slovenia.
A Model of Cross-Border Cooperation
The project’s collaborative nature highlights Albania’s growing role in regional partnerships for environmental safety and sustainable tourism. The IPA-funded initiative not only connects Albania with North Macedonia’s Galicica National Park and the Macedonian Red Cross, but also fosters a shared Balkan strategy for handling natural emergencies and promoting safe mountain tourism.
This collaboration underlines the importance of knowledge transfer—experienced rescuers and trainers from partner organizations will share best practices and modern rescue methodologies with their Albanian counterparts. The project thus builds long-term resilience and promotes mutual assistance during cross-border emergencies.
Strengthening Tourism and Environmental Responsibility
The creation of Albania’s first mountain rescue center goes beyond safety—it supports the country’s sustainable tourism vision. The Albanian Federation of Mountaineering and Mountain Tourism has long advocated for responsible and eco-friendly exploration of Albania’s natural landscapes.
This new center will also function as a hub for environmental education, organizing awareness campaigns on mountain safety, waste management, and climate adaptation. Visitors, tour guides, and students will have the chance to participate in training sessions and workshops, reinforcing a culture of prevention and respect for nature.
With more travelers exploring the Albanian Alps, Korab-Koritnik National Park, and the mountain trails near Elbasan, the ability to respond swiftly to accidents or natural disasters becomes a vital element of Albania’s tourism competitiveness.
Looking Ahead
The Federation’s announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Albania’s mountain community. Once fully operational, the Elbasan facility will serve as a national beacon of preparedness and cooperation—a sign that Albania is investing not only in tourism, but in the safety and wellbeing of all who explore its breathtaking landscapes.
As the Federation stated, “This center is not only for Elbasan, but for all of Albania. It represents a commitment to building a safer, stronger, and more connected mountain community.”
Through this visionary project, Albania reinforces its identity as a land of mountains, courage, and collaboration, ready to protect both its people and its natural heritage.