Korab

Korab refers to a mountain range in the western Balkans that straddles the border between Albania and North Macedonia. It includes Mount Korab, the range’s high point, which rises to 2,764 metres (9,068 feet) and is the highest peak in both countries. The range runs roughly north–south along the border and forms the western culmination of the Korab massif, commonly linked with the Dinaric Alps system.

The landscape features rugged summits, glacially formed valleys, alpine meadows, and mixed forests at lower elevations. The hydrology includes several rivers and streams that drain into regional basins. The area supports a variety of montane flora and fauna suited to high-altitude Balkan environments.

Protected status: In Albania, parts of the Korab massif are included in the Korab-Koritnik Nature Reserve, established to conserve its representative alpine ecosystems and biodiversity. The region is also managed through other protected areas and buffer zones in both countries.

Human use: The Korab range is a destination for hikers and mountaineers, with routes on both sides of the border. The peak is typically climbed in late spring through autumn, and crossing the border for trekking is possible via established border crossings subject to regional regulations.