Cukal ( 'Cukali') is a massif situated at the southernmost edge of the Albanian Alps. It is bounded by the river valleys of Kir to the northwest, Lesniqe to the northeast and Drin to the south.
Extending in the shape of a dome with a northeastâÂÂsouthwest orientation, the massif has a length of and a width of and is part of the Krastë-Cukal tectonic zone. Composed primarily of Mesozoic limestone, flysch, Paleogene and less of shale and effusive rocks, it has a wrinkled, blocky and scaly structure, highly fragmented by the powerful tectonic movements of the Pliocene-Quaternary.
The central section of the massif is marked by several prominent peaks, including Mbilqeth , Cukal , Vila and Maja e Bardhë . Fusha e Lqethit, a pit-like formation rising at an elevation of , lies between these peaks. The massif is deeply divided by numerous streams originating from its center and flowing into Kir and Drin, creating a harsh alpine environment.
Cukal is predominantly covered by oak and beech forests, with the presence of maquis shrubland in the southwestern end. On its margins are located the inhabited settlements of Rranxë, Cukal, Shllak, Temaliarë and Duzhman.
Despite being part of the Albanian Alps, it differs from other peaks of this region due to a lower elevation, a relatively milder climate and a lack of alpine pastures in the area.