Tour and Guide Përmet Bënjë

Imagine stepping into a place where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly — that’s exactly what you get with this day trip to Përmet, a small town in Albania’s Korçë County, just a stone’s throw from Greece and North Macedonia. For $129 per person, you’ll spend a day exploring a city known for its roses, vibrant river canyon, and nearby thermal baths of Benja. Your guide, Andrea, receives glowing praise for his friendliness and helpfulness, making the experience feel personal and engaging.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances scenic beauty with cultural richness. The walk through the canyon offers breathtaking views, while the thermal baths provide a relaxing retreat. Plus, the entire itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize your time, ensuring you get a true taste of Përmet’s essence. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day excursion, so it demands some energy and an appreciation for natural beauty.

A possible consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for everyone — it excludes those with mobility issues, respiratory conditions, or certain health concerns. But if you’re in good shape and eager for an authentic Albanian experience, this trip is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy picturesque landscapes, local culture, and natural spa experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Albanian Experience: Combines scenic nature, local culture, and therapeutic baths in one day.
• Comfortable Organization: Includes entry tickets, with a well-structured itinerary starting early in the morning.
• Personalized Guides: Friendly and helpful guides like Andrea enhance the experience.
• Natural & Cultural Highlights: From the “city of roses” to canyon views and thermal baths, each stop offers something unique.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility or certain health issues.
• Great value: For a full-day guided tour, the price reflects a comprehensive experience with excellent personal attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Brief Overview of Përmet

Përmet, often called the “City of Roses” and the “River City,” offers much more than just poetic nicknames. Located in southeastern Albania, its landscape is dominated by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and an impressive canyon carved by the second-largest river in the country. The town exudes a sense of peacefulness, with colorful houses, friendly locals, and the soothing sounds of flowing water. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and soak in the natural beauty.

The tour begins early, with a 08:30 departure from Saranda. That means you’ll be on the road for about two hours, giving you a glimpse of Albania’s less-traveled countryside. The drive itself is a scenic journey, setting the tone for the day ahead.

What Makes Përmet Special?

The highlight for many visitors is the breathtaking canyon, where the river cuts deep into the terrain, revealing layers of history and geology. The views are stunning and offer excellent photo opportunities. You’ll also enjoy wandering around the town, taking in the scent of roses and the buzz of local life.

But the real treat is the nearby thermal baths of Benja. Just a quick 15-minute drive from the town, these natural pools serve as a spa-like retreat. The waters are believed to have curative properties, making this stop a perfect blend of relaxation and health benefits. You’ll get about three hours here, allowing enough time to soak, unwind, and maybe even indulge in some local therapies.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning: Departure and Arrival in Përmet

The day kicks off with your bus leaving Saranda early in the morning. The roughly 2-hour drive promises scenic views of Albanian countryside — expect rolling hills, small villages, and a sense of anticipation as you approach the “city of roses.” By around 10:15-11:00, you’ll arrive, ready to explore.

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Mid-Morning: Exploring Përmet

Once in Përmet, the guide will introduce you to the town’s culture and natural beauty. The town’s nickname, “city of roses,” comes from the abundance of flowers and the fragrant scent that permeates the air. You’ll likely have some free time to wander, take photos, and enjoy the relaxed pace.

Late Morning: Thermal Baths of Benja

At around 11:00, the group departs for Benja’s thermal baths. The natural hot springs are a highlight, offering a variety of curative waters in a peaceful natural setting. You’ll spend about three hours here, which allows for a leisurely soak, some light snacks, and a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air. It’s a perfect break from the more active parts of the tour.

Early Afternoon: Gyrka e Këlcyrës & Canyon Views

After leaving Benja around 14:20, your next stop is the Gryka e Këlcyrës — a famous gorge with impressive views. You’ll stay here for about 1.5 hours (15:10-16:40), taking in the dramatic cliffs, lush surroundings, and perhaps some light hiking if you’re up for it. This is a highlight for lovers of dramatic landscapes and wildlife.

Late Afternoon: Return to Saranda

The return journey begins at 16:40, with an estimated arrival back in Saranda around 17:50. The whole day is a well-paced balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.

The Guide: Andrea

From the few reviews available, Andrea stands out as a friendly and attentive guide. He’s noted for answering questions thoroughly and making every participant feel cared for. One reviewer mentioned how Andrea spent extra time beyond the planned itinerary, which shows a commitment to guest experience. Expect a guide who is not just informative but also warm and engaging.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $129 per person, the tour offers an all-inclusive day packed with diverse experiences. Entry tickets are included, removing any surprises on the day. For what you get — scenic canyon views, thermal baths, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation — it’s a fair deal, especially considering the convenience of a guided trip that covers transportation and logistics.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, small towns with authentic local flavor, and relaxing thermal baths. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and don’t have mobility issues. If you’re curious about Albania’s natural landscapes and want a guided, organized way to see them without the hassle of planning, this tour fits the bill.

This day trip to Përmet and Benja strikes a balance that many travelers seek: a blend of nature, culture, and relaxation, all within one full day. The scenic canyon, fragrant roses, and therapeutic thermal waters create a memorable experience that’s both invigorating and calming. The guide’s friendly approach and well-organized itinerary make it easy to relax and enjoy each stop.

While it’s not suitable for everyone — particularly those with mobility or health restrictions — for active, curious travelers eager to experience Albania’s lesser-known treasures, this tour offers genuine value. It’s a chance to step away from the more crowded tourist sites and enjoy a peaceful corner of the Balkans.

If you’re looking for a thoughtfully curated day that combines natural beauty with a touch of local life, this experience will leave you with stories and photos to cherish long after your trip ends.

Is transportation provided? Yes, transportation is included, with a bus leaving Saranda at 08:30 and returning around 17:50.

How long is the tour? The entire tour lasts roughly 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are entry tickets included? Yes, all tickets for the stops are included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is generally best suited for travelers in good health and capable of a full day of activity. Not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a swimwear if you plan to enjoy the thermal baths.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour follows a set schedule, but guides may be flexible if you have specific interests or questions.

Is there free time? Yes, around three hours at the thermal baths and some free time in Përmet for photos and exploration.

What is the guide like? From reviews, guides like Andrea are friendly, helpful, and eager to answer questions, making the experience more personal.

Are there food options? The tour doesn’t specify lunch, but you may find local snacks or bring your own. The thermal baths have some facilities, but plan accordingly.

Is it wheelchair accessible? No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with certain mobility restrictions.

This detailed review hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the Tour and Guide Përmet Bënjë experience. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, therapeutic waters, or a taste of Albanian hospitality, it’s a well-rounded adventure worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: