Climb Maja Jezerce (Maja e Jezercës) the undisputed crown jewel of the Accursed Mountains (Prokletije). Standing at a majestic 2,694 meters, it is the highest peak in the range, Highest in The Accursed Mountain and the second-highest mountain in Albania, and the fifth-highest in the entire Balkan Peninsula.
Steeped in mountaineering history, the peak was first conquered by a team of British mountaineers: Sleeman, Elmalie, and Ellwood. Their expedition was famously documented in Sleeman’s book, which features a dedicated chapter titled Mountains of Albania.
Today, this iconic summit attracts adventurers from all over the world. Whether you are trekking the famous Peaks of the Balkans trail or looking for a standalone challenge, Maja Jezerce can be approached via three spectacular routes across two countries.
The mountain can be climbed from three main valleys across Montenegro and Albania. Each route offers a unique experience, varying in length and difficulty.
If you are looking for the most direct path to the summit, starting from Vusanje in Montenegro is your best option.
The Route: While the baseline hiking distance is roughly the same as the Valbona route, it can be significantly shortened.
The Shortcut: By utilizing a 4WD transfer for the first section of the trail, this becomes the absolute shortest and easiest route to the top.
Climbing from the Albanian side via the Valbona Valley is the second longest of the three routes, offering stunning scenery of the national park.
The Route: The trek begins deep in the picturesque Valbona Valley.
The Shortcut: You can cut approximately 6 kilometers off your total hiking distance by booking a 4WD transfer to the Rragam settlement before beginning your ascent.
For those seeking the ultimate endurance challenge, the approach from Theth is the longest and most demanding way to reach the summit.
The Route: Starting at an elevation of 800 meters, this massive trek takes you up and over the Qafa e Valbonës mountain pass (1,965 meters) and winds through the beautiful Lugu i Valit valley before making the final push to the peak.
Maja Jezerc is one of the most difficult peaks in the range. Most of the accidents in these mountains happen there. The terrain is very steep, rocky and sometimes with gravel which makes the trip difficult. In winter it is very difficult and it is not reccomended without expert guide and equipment.
Are you an experienced alpinist looking for an extra challenge? For professional climbers, our company offers dedicated support for technical climbs upon request. We can also seamlessly integrate a Maja Jezerce summit day into your larger Peaks of the Balkans hiking itinerary.
How high is Maja Jezerce?
Maja Jezerce stands at an elevation of 2,694 meters (8,839 feet). It is the highest peak in the Accursed Mountains, the second-highest in Albania, and the fifth-highest in the Balkans.
Which is the easiest route to climb Maja Jezerce?
The easiest and shortest route is from Vusanje, Montenegro, provided you use a 4WD vehicle transfer for the first leg of the journey.
Can I include Maja Jezerce in the Peaks of the Balkans trail?
Yes, but this is an expert peak which is not an usual add to the trip. Maja Jezerce is not a popular detour or addition for hikers completing the classic Peaks of the Balkans circuit.
Who was the first person to climb Maja Jezerce?
The first recorded ascent was completed by British mountaineers Sleeman, Elmalie, and Ellwood.
Balkan Natural Aventure is leading tour oprator in the region. We were featured to major newspapers and hold a partner status with travelife certifier.
Destinations
Locations
Balkan Natural Adventure Sh.P.K
Edit Durham, nr 7
30000 Peje, Republic of Kosovo
Balkan Natural Adventure Albania
Rr. Milto Tutulani nr 26/8
1010 Tirana, Albania
