Albania was confronted with the corona virus relatively late. The first confirmed cases in March raised negative expectations for this year’s tourism development. Some tens of thousands of Swiss and another four million tourists visited Albania last year. Many of them came from Kosovo. The Albanian travel industry was hit hard by this positive trend this year. Despite many loyal visitors from neighboring countries, the travel year 2020 was very difficult. Not only travel companies and hotels were directly burdened, but also many suppliers such as regional farmers and service providers.
This report from us at THROUGH ALBANIA complements our previous report on travel safety in Albania. The Corona Virus in Albania and the effects will be with us until at least the end of 2021. Since August 20, returnees from Albania have been in a ten-day quarantine in Switzerland. It is important to us to give our guests a direct insight into the Corona Virus situation in Albania. Please note that the information provided by the respective state representatives is constantly being adapted and our information is only to be viewed as a supplement. A current WHO overview of the current situation can be found here.
Current situation – Corona Virus in Albania
The current case numbers in Albania are at a high level. For about 2 months, the new infections have been in the range of 120 to 160 new infections per day. Many patients in Albania have recovered, but the new infections are only slowly leveling off. However, this is only a snapshot and is subject to change at any time. Travel is basically possible, but must always be coordinated individually. So far, the Albanian government has not required any proof of entry – nor is there a quarantine for foreign tourists. There is no public mask requirement.
Medical catering is below Western European standards and, despite the positive management of the pandemic, is not designed for a high number of foreign patients. This is especially true for high risk patients. For those, trips abroad and thus also Albania are not recommended.
Today the Corona Virus in Albania is contained through extensive hygiene concepts. The Albanian government is in constant contact with all regions of the country and has played an active role in containment.
Significance for the travel destination Albania
The Corona Virus in Albania has far-reaching consequences. The result is not just a sharp slump in the economy for 2020, but a long-term recovery. Albania has been able to build up ever more qualitative and sustainable tourism in recent years. Due to the Corona Virus in Albania, The Corona Virus in Albania has a strong impact on everyday life and society. Many companies have not found their way back as usual after a total curfew.
We recommend planning individual group trips for this year. Self-guided or with a guide! This makes it possible to have a low risk through sole contact with a guide and still travel the country. We only advise against hiking trips on your own.
The whole development, mainly in Europe, raises hopes for tourist opportunities in the coming winter and next year!
We look forward to your questions and feedback!
