Tongo Island near Ksamil: A Travel Guide to Albania's Southern Tip

Updated 2026-11-02 · 4 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.

How to reach Tongo Island

  1. Travel to your boat operator's departure point in Ksamil.
  2. Hire a private boat, speedboat, or join a coastal tour departing from Ksamil beach.
  3. Navigate approximately 10-12 kilometres south along the coastline toward the Greek border.
  4. Let your skipper choose a suitable stopping point according to local depths and sea conditions.

Where exactly is Tongo Island located?

Tongo Island sits near the southernmost tip of the Albanian Riviera, very close to the border with Greece.

The island is situated in the Ionian Sea, approximately 300 metres from the Greek mainland coast, near Cape Stillo. It is a rugged, low-lying island covered in Mediterranean scrub and is geographically closer to the Greek island of Corfu than to the city of Saranda.

Can you stay overnight on Tongo Island?

There is no established overnight accommodation on Tongo Island, which is uninhabited and has no tourist facilities.

Because the island lacks tourist infrastructure, visitors usually come for day trips only. There are no shops or freshwater sources on the island, so you must bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and sun protection.

What are the best things to do on the island?

The primary activities are snorkelling, swimming, and exploring the rocky shoreline.

The waters surrounding the island are known for their clarity. It is an ideal spot for divers and snorkellers to see local marine life. Boat tours may combine a trip to Tongo with stops near Cape Stillo, at Blue Pool, and at secluded Ftele Beach.

FeatureDescription
Beach TypeRocky and pebbly
FacilitiesNone (Wild island)
Best ForSnorkelling and privacy

How much does a boat trip to Tongo Island cost?

Prices vary by departure point and boat, with advertised private Tongo trips costing around 500–650 Euro per boat.

Rather than a scheduled ferry, book an organised excursion or request a private-boat quote from an operator in Ksamil. Group tours that include multiple stops along the coast are often a more budget-friendly way to see the island. Always confirm the duration of the stay with the captain before departing.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is warm, although boat trips depend on sea conditions.

During the peak summer months of July and August, the main beaches in Ksamil can be very crowded, making Tongo a quieter alternative. Visiting in late May or September offers a balance of pleasant temperatures and even fewer visitors.

Sources

Keep reading