This page contains essential info to help you make the most out of your week at Kala.
Read through and bookmark it so you can access the info when needed.
Reminder: Albania often isn't included in EU roaming, so you may not have mobile internet there - more on this below:
✈ TRAVEL ✈
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 December 2025 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
Albania may not be included in your provider's free roaming, and data charges can be high.
To avoid this, buy a local SIM at the airport or get an eSIM from companies like Nomad before your trip.
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 and you will be able to pay with your wristband.
Bring your cards for restaurants and shops in town and 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 local currency exchange office.
There are a couple ATMs on site but they charge a 8-10€ fee to withdraw money.
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.
It will be refunded if the accommodation is left in good condition.
If your transfer leaves early, arrange your refund with the hotel the day before - this is your responsibility, and we can't collect it for you.
Booking changes
Please note the following deadlines:
14th May – Last day for date changes
30th May – Last day for name changes
No changes can be made after these dates.
🚐 TRANSFERS 🚐
Traveling 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 about 3.5 hours.
You'll get an e-ticket the week before the event with your closest transfer stop - check it so you know where to get off.
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 +355 069 813 8658 for alternative options.
Traveling 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.
The boat ride
Boats go from Corfu (Greece) to Saranda (Albania). The standard ferry takes about 1h15
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 +355 069 813 8658 and come to the port the next day for the first boat.
🏨 ACCOMMODATION 🏨
Locate your accommodation
Check the accommodation map below to find your hotel and nearest transfer drop-off point. You may not have data when you arrive so please do this before traveling
Your accommodation name is on your booking confirmation email - if you cannot find, re send it via manage booking.
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, check in between 15:00 and 23:00.
For check out times, please speak to the hotel directly upon arrival.
Hotel 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, and we can't collect it for you.
Accommodation FAQ
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 +355 069 813 8658
Any issues with your accommodation?
Speak to the customer service team at info point
🎟️ ACCREDITATION 🎟️
Collecting your wristband
After checking in and dropping off your luggage, collect your wristband outside the main festival entrance (E1 on the map).
Have your photo ID, e-ticket, and any cashless top-up vouchers ready to be scanned.
Each person needs to come with their ID, you cannot collect accreditation on anyone's behalf.
Wristband collection times:
Wed 4 June: 14:00–02:00
Thu 5 June: 09:00–01:00
Fri 6 June: 10:00–22:00
Sat 7 & Sun 8 June: 10:00–22:00
If you arrive outside these times you'll have to wait until the next day.
🏧 CASHLESS 🏧
Your cashless wristband
Your festival wristband has an RFID chip which functions like a prepaid bank card.
You'll be able to add credit to use across festival bars, food stalls, and selected restaurants around the site. All prices are in Euros.
How to top up
You'll be able to top up your wristband online before the festival or in person at one of our top-up stations. These stations operate daily from 11:00 to 5:00 and accept card payments only.
Top up stations will be busy during the first few days. We advise topping up in advance to avoid queuing
Any unspent amounts can be refunded after the event.
Take a photo of the 6-digit code on the back of your RFID chip—you'll need it to claim your refund.
🥤 REUSABLE CUPS 🥤
To reduce plastic waste, certain drinks such as spirits require you to buy a reusable cup on your first order.
Your first cup will cost 3€. Keep it or swap it for a cup token at any bar when you are done. You can use the token to get a fresh cup later.
Cups are not refundable - please don't throw them away.
🎪 FESTIVAL INFO 🎪
The 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.
The stages
There are five stages within the festival site, plus the Gjipe canyon which is a short speedboat ride away.
Empire
Our main stage is a sprawling throwback to vintage open-air clubbing with several bars, food, a chill out area with day beds and its own private beach.
The live acts kick off the night here before the DJs take over.
Splendor
A tranquil beach bar with sun beds by day that becomes an iconic open air club at night.
This is the place to catch Kala's iconic sunrises.
Yacht Club
A cozy late night club on a raised yacht-like terrace flanked by gorgeous beaches and turquoise waters. It also hosts our Wellness programme by day.
The Pool
A daytime spot channeling the chill out vibes of Cafe Del Mar in the 90s, equipped with a dancefloor and an infinity pool - the perfect spot to watch the sunset while sipping a cold drink.
Lemon Lounge
A brand new space for 2025 that will host the Talks & Workshops programme during the day, and laidback selections during the evening - maybe some secret sets too 👀
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. The canyon is only accessible by boat thus needing an extra ticket. If you haven't booked yours yet, we really advise to do so before they sell out. It really is an incredible experience and a must-do while at Kala. Don't miss out!
House rules
Kala is a space for people to connect through music and shared experiences overseas.
We welcome people from far and wide with open arms, regardless of races, genders or sexualities, as long as they come with a positive attitude.
Kala is a safe space 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 speak to a member of the Safe Team - they will be wearing an orange 'Safe Team' armband and will be able to get you 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 13:00 until 07:30 each day.
The lovely team is always on hand if you need any help or just someone to talk to.
Here are a few but essential house rules:
Be inclusive:
Treat everyone with respect, embrace the openness and celebrate together.
Be open:
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.
Be present:
Kala is an escape from the everyday, make the best out of it.
If you are on the dance floor, put your phone away. Dance, interact with the people around you, let loose and enjoy the moment.
Respect the locals
Be kind to our hosts, keep the noise down outside the music venues, and leave the place in the same or better condition as it was when you arrived.
Respect the environment
Use the recycling bins and help keep beaches clean. Let's have fun sustainably.
We are incredibly lucky that we have the opportunity to spend a week at this stunning location. Don't take it for granted.
🗺️ GETTING AROUND 🗺️
Shuttle bus
If you're staying outside the main festival area, you'll need transport to get to and from the site.
We run a shuttle service between Dhërmi and Drymades.
You can book a shuttle pass to get unlimited travel all week.
Not sure if you need one? Check the accommodation map—Dhërmi is walkable. Perivolos and Drymades need a shuttle pass.
Pro tip: Book your pass in advance so you can collect it with your wristband
Shuttle times
Shuttles run every 20–30 minutes from Wednesday 4th at 16:00 until Wednesday 11th at 12:00.
Times may vary during peak hours.
There are 4 main stops between Dhërmi and Drymades, plus 4 "on request" stops (drop-off only).
Remember to collect your shuttle pass in advance or book one at the Help Desk—no boarding without it.
Taxis
Alternatively, you can book a taxi to move between the festival and your accommodation—these will be more expensive than the shuttle.
Please use only official branded shuttles or taxis. Don't walk home alone or take unlicensed taxis.
You can book an official festival taxi over WhatsApp on +355 69 279 3603.
Taxi ranks are at Empire Hotel and Pirates Car Park (Stop A).
Sample fares from Dhërmi Beach:
• Drymades – €15
• Dhërmi Town – €15
• Perivolo Street – €10
• Himare – €40
• Green Coast – €30
If you have any trouble finding transportation contact us 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 [email protected] to discuss plans & further details, please give us a shout anytime!
🥗 FOOD AND DRINK 🥗
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 RFID at some local restaurants and all onsite traders.
Looking to eat out? Try Azul by Havana (Dhërmi), Yamato (Drymades), and Ulliri & Nazar (Palase).
🚤 THINGS TO DO 🚤
Gjipe canyon
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.
You've probably heard loads about this hidden gem but it's got to be experienced to be believed!
Besides the music, there is a sandy beach, tasty beach restaurants and hiking trails, making it the perfect place to spend the day at.
Gjipe runs Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday between 12:00 - 18:30.
Gjipe is only accessible by boat, therefore requiring an extra ticket.
Boats start: 12:00
Last departure to Gjipe: 14:30
Last departure from Gjipe 18:30
If you haven't got a ticket yet, we encourage you to book one while they are still available. It is an unmissable experience you will remember for years to come.
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.
This year we're teaming up with Hackney Wick's All My Friends, who'll be bringing their stellar team of resident DJs.
Seats are limited and nearly sold out. Book yours now if you don't want to miss out!
Talks & workshops
These are an opportunity to take some time off the dancefloor, and dive into inspiring talks from key voices in music, culture, wellness, and more.
These are held daily at the Lemon Lounge, and are completely free to attend.
Wellness & spa
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 we offer a range of massage and spa treatments.
These start from £35 for a 30 minute treatment to £55 for 1 hour.
Places are limited so make sure to reserve your spot via the link below.
🆘 HELP DESK 🆘
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
Email: [email protected]
Customer service: +355 069 813 8660
Travel and accommodation emergency: +355 069 813 8658
Emergency numbers
General emergency: 112
Emergency at sea: 125
Police: 129
Ambulance: 127
Fire brigade: 128
Road police: 126
The laws in Albania are 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.
🗣️ BASIC ALBANIAN WORDS 🗣️
Hello – Mirë se vjen (meer-seh v-yen)
Thank you – Faleminderit (fah-leh-meen-DEH-reet)
Cheers! (Toasts used when drinking) – Gëzuar! (guh-ZOO-ar)
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)
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)
🤝️ CONDITIONS OF ENTRY 🤝️
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.
Prescription Medications
If you need to bring prescription medication to the festival, please email the customer service team on [email protected], 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
- Illegal drugs, New Psychoactive Substances and Nitrous Oxide
- Glass
- Spray paints and pens
- Drones
- Items that may be used in a dangerous manner including sharps/blades, tasers and CS gas
- Animals (with the exception of approved assistance dogs)
- Alcohol & Food Items
- Private sound systems
- Flares, bangers, fireworks, sparklers, Chinese lanterns and naked flames Inc. tea lights
- No unauthorised professional commercial photography
