Permet: River Tubing/Rafting at Vjosa National Park

Permet: River Tubing and Rafting at Vjosa National Park

Imagine gliding along Albania’s last wild river, the Vjosa, in a boat or tube, surrounded by towering mountains, lush greenery, and the sound of rushing rapids. For about $55 per person, you can spend 2.5 hours immersed in nature, whether you prefer the adrenaline rush of rafting or the relaxed float of river tubing. Guides like Emil, who gets repeatedly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, lead this trip from a base camp in Permet. It’s an experience that balances fun, scenery, and cultural insights, making it suitable for both seasoned adventurers and first-timers.

What truly makes this experience stand out are the stunning views along the river and the expert guidance that keeps everyone safe while making sure you have a good time. We love how accessible it is—no prior experience needed—and how the guides share fascinating tidbits about the river’s ecosystem. On the downside, you should be aware that personal items like glasses or phones are your responsibility, so packing with care is a good idea. This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a half-day adventure that combines thrills and relaxation, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic experience on Albania’s last remaining wild river, Vjosa
• Flexible options for rafting or tubing, suitable for all skill levels
• Expert guides and safety gear ensure a secure, fun experience
• Stunning scenery with turquoise waters, lush greenery, and mountain views
• Snacks and swimming mid-journey add a relaxing touch
• Affordable price considering the quality of guides, scenery, and adventure

An In-Depth Look at the Vjosa River Tour

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $55, your fee covers guides, high-quality equipment, photos and videos, and convenience features such as water during the activity, secure parking, restrooms, and showers. These details matter because they show the experience is well-organized, allowing you to focus on enjoying the river without worrying about logistics or safety. The inclusion of photos and videos is particularly nice—many reviewers appreciated having quality memories to take home, with one traveler noting, “Emil was a great guy, very caring towards children. The surroundings were beautiful.”

The Itinerary and Experience Breakdown

The adventure kicks off at the base camp in Permet, where guides provide a safety briefing and distribute gear—whether you’re in a raft or tube. We loved the way guides like Emil made everyone feel comfortable, regardless of experience level. The journey begins with gentle rapids designed to help you settle in and find your rhythm, which is especially helpful if you’re new to river activities.

As you float downstream, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of turquoise waters framed by lush greenery and towering mountains. Guides often share fascinating insights about the river’s ecosystem and cultural significance, enriching the experience beyond just fun and adventure. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Emil enhance the trip, with comments such as “Our guide was awesome! Emil is adorable!”

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Midway Stop: Relaxation and Refreshment

Around the midpoint, you’ll pause on a serene riverbank to swim, relax, and snack. This is a favorite part for many, offering a chance to recharge and take photos of the natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters beckon you for a refreshing swim, which many travelers found to be a highlight—one reviewer said, “Swim in the crystal-clear waters and soak in the natural beauty of this untouched paradise.” It’s also a perfect spot for family photos or just taking a breather before the second half of the trip.

The More Exciting Second Half

For rafters, this stretch ramps up with more challenging rapids, adding an adrenaline rush for those seeking thrills. Tubers, on the other hand, continue to enjoy the river’s twists, turns, and scenic views at a more relaxed pace—leaning back and letting the current do the work. The guides help steer and support everyone, making sure even beginners feel confident.

Final Stretch and Reflection

As you near the end, the river calms down, giving you a peaceful float back to the starting point. It’s a quiet moment to reflect on the day’s adventures and share stories with your fellow travelers. Upon returning to camp, you can change into dry clothes, relax with refreshments, and keep your photos as souvenirs.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Attire and Gear

Guides recommend wearing a swimsuit and shorts or leggings. Proper footwear—sports shoes, sports sandals, or river shoes—is required. Avoid flip-flops or slippers, which aren’t suitable for safety reasons. If you wear glasses, be sure to secure them with a cord, as personal responsibility for loss or damage falls on you.

Language and Booking Flexibility

Tours are available in Albanian and English, making communication straightforward. Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later—and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes planning less stressful, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or uncertain about weather conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families with children, as noted in reviews praising Emil’s genuine care for younger participants, will find it accessible. Adventure-seekers will love the rapids and scenic beauty, while those looking for a relaxed float can enjoy the slower sections at their own pace. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a half-day escape into nature that combines adventure, scenery, and learning.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers sing the praises of Emil, the guide, describing him as “adorable,” “great,” and “very caring.” One even mentioned how he made an effort to speak French, which adds a touch of personal care to the experience. Comments highlight the stunning surroundings and the fun, engaging atmosphere, with one traveler noting that water fights and jumping off rocks made the trip especially memorable.

What We Love

The expert guidance ensures safety and enriches the journey with stories and insights. The scenery—crystal-clear waters, lush green walls, and towering mountains—is truly eye-catching. Plus, the group size and flexible options make it accessible and personal, not feeling commercial or crowded.

What Could Be Better

A potential consideration for travelers is the responsibility for personal belongings, especially glasses or mobile phones. If you’re prone to losing small items, bring a secure case or leave valuables behind. Also, while the tour is suitable for many, those with mobility issues might want to check the terrain at the start and end points.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you crave an authentic outdoor adventure that’s both relaxing and exhilarating, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially perfect if you love scenic landscapes and are interested in learning about the natural environment from knowledgeable guides. Families with children or first-time river adventurers will find it approachable and fun, thanks to Emil’s caring leadership. Meanwhile, seasoned rafters wanting a shorter but still exciting trip will appreciate the challenging rapids and beautiful surroundings.

This experience offers a great value, combining professional guides, safety equipment, picturesque scenery, and a chance to swim and relax—all in one package. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a half-day escape into Albania’s wild, unspoiled nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate both first-timers and experienced paddlers, with gentle rapids at the start and careful guidance from knowledgeable guides.

How long does the activity last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, thrills, and relaxation without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Wear a swimsuit and shorts or leggings, and bring appropriate footwear such as sports shoes or river shoes. Avoid flip-flops for safety reasons.

Can I bring my personal items?
Yes, but personal responsibility applies. Items like glasses, sunglasses, or phones should be secured or left behind unless you have waterproof cases.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers guides, equipment, photos/video, water, parking, and bathroom facilities. Optional extras like lunch or thermal baths are available but not included.

Is transportation provided to the start and end points?
Transport is not explicitly detailed, but the tour begins at a base camp in Permet, where parking is secure.

What language are the guides fluent in?
Guides speak Albanian and English, facilitating easy communication and ensuring you get the most out of the experience.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect turquoise waters, lush green banks, towering mountains, and possibly wildlife. The landscape is largely untouched and very scenic.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to spend part of your visit in Permet paddling or floating down the Vjosa is an excellent way to connect with Albania’s natural beauty. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a well-organized trip creates an experience that’s both memorable and worthwhile. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to conquer rapids or someone looking for a peaceful float surrounded by nature, this tour offers a balanced mix.

The affordability of $55, the professional guidance, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters make it a fantastic value. It’s especially attractive for families, first-time adventurers, and anyone who appreciates a mix of scenery and activity. With the positive reviews emphasizing guide quality and stunning views, you can trust this experience to deliver a genuine taste of Albania’s wild side.

If you’re in the Gjirokaster District and craving a half-day adventure, this river tour is an excellent choice to see a side of Albania few other visitors get to experience—and come away with great stories and photos to remember it by.

You can check availability for your dates here: