Everything you need for your week at Kala - bookmark this page so you can access it when you need it.*
Albania often falls outside roaming plans, so you may not have internet while you’re there - solution below:
Quick links
WHAT TO DO IN ADVANCE:
Check your passport expiry date
Your passport should be valid for at least three months from the date of entry into Albania.
If your passport expires before the end of September 2026 you need to get a new one asap!
Get travel insurance
We highly advise that you book travel insurance as any healthcare costs abroad can be expensive if you do not have insurance.
Check your roaming plan
If your provider does not cover Albania, grab an eSIM in advance or a local SIM at the airport.
ALOsim offer 10% for Kala guests with the code KALA. Link
Don’t forget to pack
• Passport: We are going abroad!
• Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat: It gets hot during the day - expecting around 25ºC 😎
• Beach towel and swimwear
• Closed toe shoes for dancing!
• A couple of warmer layers for evening and boat trips
• Fitness clothes if you decide to take part in our wellness classes
• EU travel adapter and phone charger. A power bank is never a bad idea.
• Waterproof mac - weather is meant to be good but better to be prepared.
• Mosquito repellent
Spending money
The festival bars are cashless. You will be able to pay with your wristband - prices will be in EUR.
Most local restaurants and shops in town take card payments.
You’ll need some cash to cover the security deposit of your accommodation plus the usual pocket money.
The local currency is LEK, but Euros are widely accepted. You can also exchange EUR or GBP at the local currency exchange office.
There are a couple ATMs on site but they charge a 8-10€ withdrawal fee, so come prepared.
Hotel security deposit
As with any other holiday accommodation, a security deposit of €50–€150 per person may be required at check-in. Please bring this in cash as most hotels don’t take cards.
The deposit will be refunded when you check out, provided the room is left in good condition.
If your transfer leaves early, arrange your refund with the hotel the day before - this is your responsibility, we can't collect it for you.
Booking changes
Please note the following deadlines:
No changes can be made after these dates.
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TRANSFERS VIA TIRANA:
When you land in Tirana, look for team members in pink hi-vis in the arrivals hall. They’ll check you in for your transfer and escort you to the vehicle. The journey takes between 2h30 to 3h30, depending on your transfer type.
Flight delayed?
If you're delayed, speak to the festival team in the arrivals hall.
If you miss the last transfer, call the Travel & Accommodation team at +355 689 407 468 for alternative options.
TRANSFERS VIA CORFU:
When you land in Corfu you’ll need to make your way to the port.
There is a taxi stop at the airport - make sure to ask the driver to take you to the International Port for Albania, not the domestic one for Greece.
We recommend bringing water to the port, as there may be a wait at passport control and temperatures can reach 30–35°C
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The boat ride
Boats go from Corfu (Greece) to Sarande (Albania). The standard ferry takes about 1 hour.
Enjoy the view while you cruise the Riviera. If you are lucky you may see some dolphins! 🐬
The final leg
Once you get to Albania, our festival reps will guide you through passport control and then to the coach. The journey to Dhërmi takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your hotel location.
Fancy seeing what the journey looks like? Check out our instagram stories of the journey here
If the sea is rough, ferry schedules may be delayed or changed. Our team will be at the port to support you and do everything possible to get you back to Corfu in time for your flight.
Flight delayed?
If you're delayed and miss your boat, we’ll try to get you on the next one. If you miss the last boat, you may need to stay overnight in Corfu - check with your travel insurance.
If this happens, notify the Travel & Accommodation team on +355 689 407 468 and come to the port the next day for the first boat.
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Departures begin on Monday 8th June. The closing party runs through Tuesday 9th into the early hours of Wednesday 10th.
If you’ve booked a festival transfer, see below pick up info:
Tirana departures
Corfu departures
Leaving early (e.g. 4:30am)? Arrange checkout and deposit return with your hotel the night before.
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Locate your accommodation
Check the accommodation map below to find your hotel and, if you are staying outside Dhërmi, the nearest shuttle stop.
You may not have data when you arrive so please do this before traveling.
Upon arrival
The transfer will drop you off in Dhërmi. If you are staying in Perivolos or Drymades and have booked a shuttle pass, head to accreditation to pick it up.
Festival reps will be at the shuttle stop to help you locate your accommodation. Don’t hesitate to ask them for help if you need it.
Accommodation check in
If you are traveling with us, your arrival time has been notified and the hotel should be ready to receive you, even if you arrive late.
If you are making your own way, please check in between 15:00 and 23:00.
For check out times speak to the hotel directly upon arrival.
Security deposit
As explained above, a cash security deposit may be required at check-in.
If your transfer leaves early, arrange your refund with the hotel the day before - this is your responsibility, we can't collect it for you.
Can’t find accommodation?
Check with festival reps at the drop off point.
No one at the accommodation or reception is closed?
Contact the Travel and Accommodation Emergency team +355 689 407 468
Any issues with your accommodation?
Speak to the customer service team at info point
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Collecting your wristband
After checking in and dropping off your luggage, head to the main festival entrance (E1 on the map) to collect your wristband. You’ll need a photo ID and your e-ticket.
E-tickets are sent the week of the event. Make sure the emails and phone numbers on your reservation are correct and unique - no duplicates, no spelling mistakes - or you won’t receive it.
Each person needs to come with their ID. Wristbands cannot be collected on anyone’s behalf.
Wristband collection times
If you arrive outside these times you’ll have to wait until the next day.
Your cashless wristband
Your festival wristband has an RFID chip built in - think of it as a prepaid card for the festival.
You’ll be able to use it at festival bars, food stalls, and selected restaurants across the site.
Bar prices will be in euros (€).
Adding credit
You can top up online before arriving at the festival, or at one of the top-up stations on-site. Worth doing in advance, queues can be long in the first couple of days.
You’ll receive an email tomorrow with the unique code you need to create an account linked to your wristband.
Refunds
Any remaining balance on your wristband can be refunded after the event.
Take a photo of the 6-digit code on the back of your RFID chip, as you’ll need it to refund leftover credit.
Reusable cups
To help reduce plastic waste, some drinks, such as spirits and cocktails will require a reusable cup for service.
Your first cup costs €3. You can keep it for future use, or exchange it for a cup token at any bar once you’re finished. The token can then be redeemed for a fresh cup later in the event.
Please note that cups are non-refundable. We kindly ask that you don’t throw them away, help us keep the festival sustainable by reusing them throughout your stay.
Festival site
There are two entrances, one by Grand Boutique Hotel (E1 on the map) and the other by Splendor Hotel (E2 on the map)
Most of the restaurants are located by the main entrance along the water edge.
You will also find a couple shops, an ATM and a currency exchange office in that area.
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STAGES:
There are six stages within the festival site, plus the Gjipe canyon which is a short speedboat ride away.
Club
A new space sitting at the wild, undeveloped end of the beach.
Club reimagines the former Empire stage, more intimate, more connected to the environment. It will have a clubbier feel with a lower DJ booth in an open air setting with an unrestricted view of the sea.
Terrace
A tranquil beach bar with sun beds by day that becomes a lively open air club at night.
Terrace is the reincarnation of the legendary Splendor, home of Kala's iconic sunrises. This space will now host live music in the evening, followed by all night open air clubbing.
Cove
An intimate beach spot a few steps away from the main entrance.
You can swim in crystalline waters during the day, chill to laidback selections, enjoy live bands at sunset, and dance the night away by the sea.
Yacht
A cozy late night club on a raised yacht-like terrace flanked by gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters.
Pool
A daytime spot channeling the eclectic vibes of Cafe Del Mar in the 90s, equipped with a dancefloor and an infinity pool overlooking the sea which makes for the perfect spot to watch the sunset while sipping a cold drink.
Lemon Lounge
Lemon Lounge is home to the crew’s zesty bespoke soundsystem. You can find talks & workshops here during the day, and friends, residents and secret guests at night.
The Market
Here you’ll be able to find some food stalls and vendors, perfect for a quick pit stop.
Gjipe
A stunning natural canyon where we host four very special daytime parties. It really is an incredible experience and a must-do while at Kala.
The canyon is only accessible by boat which requires a separate ticket - very few left!
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BOOK GJIPE TICKETS
Kala is a space built on connection - between people, places and music. We travel far, from different corners of the world, with different backgrounds and life stories to come together, share experiences and make memories on and off the dancefloor.
Everyone is welcome with open arms regardless of race, gender or sexuality. What we ask in return is simple: come with an open mind, look out for each other, and bring the same energy you’d want to find when you arrive.
If you are not familiar with the concept of P.L.U.R. it’s worth a read. It captures the spirit of the early raves that Kala is built on.
ETIQUETTE:
Just be nice
Treat everyone with respect, bring good energy and make the most out of this opportunity to celebrate life together.
Be ready to step out of your comfort zone
We put a lot of care on the programming and the music curation. We encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, your new favourite act may be waiting there.
Give your phone a rest
Kala is an escape from the everyday, make the most out of it.
If you are on the dance floor, put your phone away and lose yourself in it.
Mind your fellow dancers
Don’t walk through the dancefloor, dance through it. Phones away and keep chats brief - ear chewing at the bar.
Respect the locals and the place
Be kind to our hosts, keep the noise down outside the music venues and use the recycling bins.
We are incredibly lucky to spend a week at this stunning location. Be mindful of this.
THE SAFE TEAM:
Kala is a safe space and a place for people to freely be themselves, without judgement. Unwanted attention, racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic or ableist behaviour won’t be tolerated.
If you ever feel uncomfortable, please report to a member of the Safe Team - they will be wearing an orange ‘Safe Team’ armband and will be able to bring the right kind of assistance, whether that is security, welfare or festival management.
Our Welfare Tent is located just outside of the Cove and is open 14:00 until 08:30 each day.
The team is always on hand if you need any help or just someone to talk to.
Shuttle bus
If you are staying in Dhërmi you can walk to and from the site. From Drymades or Perivolos, you’ll need transportation.
We run a shuttle service between Dhërmi and Drymades. You can book a shuttle pass to get unlimited travel all week - book it in advance on the customer portal so you can collect it with your wristband on arrival.
Shuttle times
The shuttle service runs continuously from Wednesday 3rd at 16:00 until Wednesday 10th at 14:00.
Shuttles leave every 20-30 minutes - frequency may increase during peak hours.
There are 4 main stops between Dhërmi and Drymades, plus 3 "on request" stops (drop-off only).
Taxis
Alternatively, you can book a taxi to move between the festival and your accommodation - these will be more expensive than the shuttle.
You can book an official festival taxi over WhatsApp on +355 69 279 3603.
The taxi rank is at the Transport Hub (Stop A). Please use only official branded shuttles or taxis. Don’t walk home alone or take unlicensed taxis.
Sample fares from Dhërmi Beach:
• Drymades: €15
• Dhërmi Town: €15
• Perivolo Street: €10
• Himare: €50
• Green Coast: €30
If you have any trouble finding transportation come to the Info point and we will provide a trusted contact.
Accessibility
Kala is set on a beachfront on the coast of Dhermi, Albania. Due to the location of the event, access for some mobility impairments is not possible in certain areas.
No matter what your needs are, Kala will work with you to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Our customer service team is available on hello@kala.al to discuss plans & further details, please give us a shout anytime!
Restaurants and bars
Albanian cuisine blends Italian, Turkish, and Greek influences, with fresh local ingredients.
Expect delicious seafood, crisp salads, pasta, and stone-oven pizza.
Most restaurants have flexible opening hours, and many stay open until midnight, perfect for late-night bites after the music.
At the festival, you can use your RFID wristband at Sanur, Gjipe, Noahs, Platinum and all on site food traders
Looking to eat out? Try Flow, Azul by Havana (Dhërmi), Yamato (Drymades), and Ulliri & Nazar (Palase).
Gjipe
Gjipe is a natural canyon fenced by impressive 30m cliffs, stunning beach caves and crystal clear waters where we host 4 very special day parties.
Besides the music, there is a sandy beach, tasty beach restaurants and hiking trails, making it the perfect place to spend the day at.
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Gjipe runs Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday between 12:00 - 18:30.
The canyon is only accessible by boat which requires a separate ticket. Boats depart from the pier at the end of the Yacht Club.
Boats start: 12:00
Last departure to Gjipe: 14:30
Last departure from Gjipe 18:30
Long Table Dinners
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Long table dinners The perfect place to connect with your Kala crew and enjoy delicious local dishes whilst watching one of Dhermi’s iconic sunsets.
After dinner, the music turns up, making it the perfect pre-party spot. Seats are limited and nearly sold out.
Wellness & Spa
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There will be a host of wellness activities available ranging from yoga to meditation, sound baths and breathwork to help soothe those aching limbs after a little too much dancing.
Our wellness activities start from £6, and 100% of the profits will be donated to SOS Children's Villages.
Additionally, our team of male & female therapists will offer a range of massage treatments.
Places are limited so make sure to reserve your spot via the link below.
Customer Info
The Customer Info Point is located outside of the main entrance to the festival site, opposite the Grand Boutique Hotel. Head here for:
• Event information
• Accommodation queries
• To purchase a shuttle bus wristband or other events
• Customer service queries
Opening Times
Wednesday: 14:00 - 02:00
Thursday: 10:00 - 01:00
Friday: 10:00 - 01:00
Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 - 12:00
Monday 09:00- 18:00
Tuesday 09:00- 18:00
Contact details
Customer service email: hello@kala.al
Customer service phone: +355 689 913 559
Emergency numbers
Travel and accommodation emergency: +355 689 407 468
General emergency: 112
Emergency at sea: 125
Police: 129
Ambulance: 127
Fire brigade: 128
Road police: 126
Hello (General greeting) – Mirë se vjen (meer-seh v-yen)
Thank you – Faleminderit (fah-leh-meen-DEH-reet)
Yes – Po (poh)
No – Jo (yoh)
Good morning – Mirëmëngjes (meer-muhn-JESS)
Good afternoon – Mirëdita (meer-DEE-tah)
Good evening – Mirëmbrëma (meer-MBRUH-mah)
Good night – Natën e mirë (NAH-tuhn eh meer)
Goodbye – Paçim (PAH-cheem)
See you later – Shihemi më vonë (SHEE-heh-mee muh VOH-nuh)
Cheers! (Toasts used when drinking) – Gëzuar! (guh-ZOO-ar)
Have a nice day – Ditën e mirë! (DEE-tuhn eh meer)
Bon appétit / Have a nice meal – T'bëftë mirë! (tuh-BUHF-tuh meer)
I don't understand – Nuk kuptoj (nook koop-TOY)
Police processes
The laws in Albania are very similar to that of the EU, if you find yourself in any kind of trouble you should contact the relevant embassy for you. You should also check-out the latest advice on do’s and don’ts in Albania. For our British attendees, check out this link to the British Embassy.
Prescription Medications
If you need to bring prescription medication to the festival, please email the customer service team on hello@kala.al, who can make our security team aware.
If you need to keep the medication with you, rather than being able to leave it at your accommodation, it will need to be in the original packaging and you will need to provide proof of prescription (this can be an image on your phone). Without this, we will not allow you to enter the venue with your medication and we will ask you to return it to your accommodation.
If the medication is not in its original packaging and is non-identifiable, it will be confiscated.
Prohibited items
The event is strictly an over 18's event
All admission is subject to search
The promoter reserves the right to refuse admission to any festival area
For promotion, safety & security reasons, customers may be filmed at any time. When entering Mainstage Festival’s venues you are agreeing to this condition of entry
Unauthorised photography, audio and video is strictly prohibited
Mainstage Festivals will not accept any responsibility for damages or loss sustained at the festival
Tickets are sold on the understanding that the event is subject to a licence from the appropriate authorities
Security reserve the right to refuse entry to anyone wearing footwear deemed inappropriate for the environment
Swimming at night and jumping off boats may result in temporary or permanent eviction from the event
Prohibited items or any items that the Event or third parties acting on its behalf (such as security) deem to be either; a risk to the safety, security or enjoyment of others; unsuitable to be taken to the Event; or, may be used in an illegal or offensive manner (regardless of whether or not the item itself is illegal) are not permitted to be taken into any Venue or Stage.
