Lake Shkodra and River Buna, Ramsar site in Albania
Lake Shkodra and River Buna form a large water system along the border between Albania and Montenegro, featuring extensive water surfaces and wetland zones. The area includes marshy shorelines, river deltas, and open water that spreads across a broad landscape with varied habitats.
The area has served as an important administrative and trade center since ancient times, used by various cultures across different periods. The lake and river formed a natural boundary and connection between regions throughout the centuries.
The lake and river have shaped how people in this area live and work for generations, with fishing and water-based activities woven into daily routines. The shores serve as gathering points where boats moor and the community's connection to the water remains visible in everyday life.
Access to the shores is possible from several points, particularly from Shkodër, where you can reach the water easily. The best time to visit is during mild weather when paths are dry and walking is more comfortable.
The area is home to over 250 bird species, many using it as a resting point during migration, making it excellent for spotting rare water birds. This draws birders and nature watchers who come hoping to observe unusual species they cannot find elsewhere.
Location: Malësi e Madhe District
Location: Shkodër District
Inception: February 2, 2006
Elevation above the sea: 0 m
GPS coordinates: 42.05000,19.48306
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:05
Montenegro features medieval fortified towns, Orthodox monasteries carved into rock, national parks with primeval forests and glacial lakes. The Adriatic coast holds bays, beaches, and historic islands, while the country's interior reveals deep canyons, mountain ranges, and traditional villages. The architectural heritage combines Venetian, Ottoman, and Orthodox religious influences.
Rozafa Fortress
918 m
Mes Bridge
10.5 km
Lead Mosque, Shkodër
1.4 km
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Mosque
922 m
Shkodër Cathedral
3.5 km
Ebu Beker Mosque
3.2 km
Monument aux cinq héros nationaux
4.8 km
Fototeka Marubi
3.4 km
Shirgj Monastery
7.5 km
Franciscan Church of Shkodër
3.3 km
Old bridge over the Buna river in Shkodër
680 m
Parruca Mosque
2.7 km
Historical Museum of Skodër
3.1 km
Kisha e Shën Marisë Vau i Dejes
12.2 km
Lake Vau i Dejës
12 km
Shkodër Orthodox Cathedral
3.4 km
New swing bridge over the Buna river in Shkodër
604 m
Gjadër River
13 km
Kravari
10.3 km
Museum of Rozafa Castle
926 m
Royal villa in Shiroka
2.5 km
Spathara Reservoir
11.3 km
Museum zone and protected area of Shkodër
3.5 km
Site of Witness and Memory
3.3 km
Kulla of Gjon Marka Gjoni
3.1 km
House of Ismet Halili
2.9 km
House of Pashko Vasa
3.1 km
House where Migjeni used to live
3.3 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes