"Take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time,  leave nothing but foot prints."

                              -motto, USA National Speleological Society

Over the past 5 years the seeds of ecotourism have been planted as a result of growing interest on behalf of both local and international stakeholder.  As our region becomes a more popular destination for those looking to explore the natural heritage of Kosova, ERA's effort to raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable development among citizens is in high demand.  Among more visible efforts to make the Rugova region more accessible through projects like The Waterfall Trail and GPS trail marking, the central investment over the past few years has been in environmental education programs - both formal and informal- that spread pertinent knowledge about principles such as 'Pack In Pack Out' and LNT (Leave No Trace).  ERA strives to satisfy the delicate balance between the growth of Ecotourism and the observance of good practices that will ensure the sustainablility of the environment we are exploring. 

ERA provides opportunities to explore the mountains in many ways. For the past 4 years ERA has organized winter hikes, for more avid hikers, traveling to places like Mariash, Guri Kuq, and Jezerca (Albania).  Other projects, including our Rugova Youth Summer Camp, the YouthPROTECT Cross Border Training Course on Protected Areas, and Waterfall Trail Project have provided more leisurely adventures for youth and local citizens.

RedRock/Guri Kuq                          Hajla

Over the past few years Fatos Lacqi, Executive Director of ERA Group, has spearheaded the movement to invest in the construction of mountain cabins throughout the Rugova region.  Each cabin, planned and designed by Mr. Lacqi, is constructed by joint efforts between friends, family, local citizens, and ERA volunteers. These projects have become the foundation of ERA’s efforts to promote eco-tourism and to renew interest among local citizens in experiencing Kosova’s natural heritage. With these cabins providing reliable accommodation at various point of interest, it is our hope that the Rugova region can become more accessible to those looking to explore the mountains.

ERA Mountain Cabins are currently available at:

               Hajla               Guri Kuq         Lumbardhi II         Bregu

For more information or to reserve a cabin contact ERA Group via

e mail or at +377 (0)44 337 601; +377 (0)44 161 844

New ERA Cabin @ Hajla . . .

                     To be completed June, 2010