If you’re planning a trip to Albania and want more than just city sights, this tour of the Osumi Canyons and Bogova Waterfall from Berat offers a real taste of the country’s wild side. While we haven’t personally done this tour, the impressive reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a solid choice for those craving outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone who appreciates stunning water features.
Two things we really like about this experience are the knowledgeable guides—who seem to bring the landscape alive with stories and facts—and the variety of scenery, from the dramatic canyon walls to the lush waterfalls. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some walking and swimming, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and water-based activities. The price is quite reasonable given the length and richness of the experience, making it a value-packed day out.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an active day immersed in nature, with a dash of local culture and history thrown in. If you’re visiting Berat and looking for a memorable outdoor experience that isn’t just sightseeing but involves getting your hands wet and your camera ready, this could be just the thing.
- Key Points
- Why This Tour Stands Out
- The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do
- Osumi Canyon
- Bogova Waterfall
- Additional Spots
- What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Logistics
- What’s Included and What’s Not
- The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying
- Osumi Canyons and Bogova Waterfall from Berat – Tour by 1001 Albanian Adventures
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- More Tours in Tirana
- More Tour Reviews in Tirana
- More Tirana experiences we've covered
Key Points
- Stunning Water Features: The tour covers two highlights: Bogova Waterfall and Osumi Canyon, both offering excellent photo ops.
- Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to share interesting facts about geology, flora, and local legends.
- Physical Activity: Expect hikes, some walking in the canyon, and swimming opportunities, so it’s best suited for active travelers.
- Convenient Logistics: Includes private transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off (if arranged), making for a hassle-free experience.
- Affordable Value: At just over $79 per person, this tour offers a full day of adventure and scenery for a fair price.
- Good for Weather: The tour is weather-dependent, so good weather is needed for the best experience.
Why This Tour Stands Out
What makes this tour appealing is its combination of nature, adventure, and cultural stories. The Osumi River and canyon are parts of the National Park Tomorri Mountain, giving you access to some of Albania’s most striking landscapes. The Bogova Waterfall, towering over 20 meters, is not only a great photo spot but also a refreshing place to cool off after a walk. Most reviews highlight how the scenery leaves a lasting impression—something that really sticks with visitors long after they leave.
The value is another plus: for around $79, you get transport, a guide, water jackets, and a variety of stops offering swimming, hiking, and sightseeing—all in one day. Many reviews point out the personalized experience, with just a few travelers on some days, making it more intimate.
Planning more time in Tirana? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do
Osumi Canyon
The tour starts with a walk into the Osumu Canyon, which spans about 26 km. Expect to spend around two hours exploring, walking along the canyon floor, crossing streams, and taking in the dramatic cliffs. The experience of walking through and sometimes swimming in the canyon is frequently praised, with many reviews describing it as a “beautiful landscape” and “adventure-filled day.”
Some of the notable spots include:
- Kasabashi bridge, offering panoramic views and perfect for photos
- “The bride’s hole”, a unique natural feature with a fascinating name
- The Footprint of Abaz Aliu, a local legend and intriguing geological feature
Bogova Waterfall
Next, the group heads to Bogova Village, part of the Tomorri Mountain National Park. The waterfall itself is over 20 meters tall and surrounded by lush greenery. The climb and walk here are gentle enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, but keep in mind that swimming in the cold water (around 14°C) is also popular. Several reviews mention how clean and inviting the water is—if you’re up for a dip, you’ll love the refreshing break.
Additional Spots
Between stops, you’ll enjoy panoramic viewpoints like the Kasabashi bridge and “The bride’s hole”, which offer sweeping views over the landscape. Some reviewers have noted the storytelling aspect of the guides, who share local legends and geological insights, making the experience more engaging.
What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Logistics
The private transportation makes the trip smooth, and pickup options from Berat’s hotels mean you won’t have to worry about logistics. The guided aspect means you’ll learn about the area’s geology, flora, and legends, which adds depth to the experience.
The tour lasts about 5 to 8 hours, allowing ample time for stops, swimming, and photos. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, preserving an intimate atmosphere and personalized attention.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price are transport, a guide, swimming jackets, and bottled water. If you’re planning to swim, bringing a towel, spare clothes, or water shoes can enhance comfort, though these aren’t included. Lunch can be arranged in nearby restaurants if you wish, which is a good way to refuel after the morning’s exertions.
The Real Deal: What Travelers Are Saying
The reviews are glowing—most give 5 stars and emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of guides, especially Genti. “The walk in the canyon, sometimes swimming, is very nice,” says one reviewer, pointing out how the experience is active but not overly strenuous. Another highlights how the scenery and the guide’s storytelling made for more than just a walk, but an “experience.”
Many travelers appreciate the variety of spots and the chance to relax in nature, with some mentioning that the water is cold but invigorating. The value for money is also highlighted, with reviews noting that the price reflects a full day of adventure and scenic beauty.
On the downside, some mention that weather affects the experience, especially for swimming. If it’s rainy or cold, the water might be less inviting, but the views and walks still make it worthwhile. Also, the physical nature of the tour means it’s not suited to travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, less active outing.
Osumi Canyons and Bogova Waterfall from Berat – Tour by 1001 Albanian Adventures
“Awesome experience with our guide guide Genti! The pick up location was a 3 min walk from our hotel in the center of old town berat which made it e…”
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts who don’t mind a bit of walking, splashing, and exploring in nature. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable with water activities, and those looking for an authentic, less commercialized outdoor experience.
If you’re traveling with children, consider their comfort with swimming and hiking, but overall, this tour offers a family-friendly taste of Albania’s stunning landscapes.
The Osumi Canyons and Bogova Waterfall tour from Berat delivers an impressive dose of natural beauty paired with expert storytelling. It’s a great pick for travelers who want an active day out, away from the crowds, where they can truly connect with Albania’s wild side. With excellent reviews, a fair price, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a memorable way to add adventure to your Albanian journey.
If you’re looking for an experience that combines scenery, exercise, and a knowledgeable guide, look no further. This trip offers a meaningful break from city life, packed with photo-worthy moments and stories worth retelling.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 8 hours, depending on the weather and how much time you spend at each stop.
What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, an accompanying guide, swimming jackets, and bottled water.
Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming is possible at both Bogova Waterfall and Osumi Canyon, though the water can be quite cold—around 14°C at the waterfall.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but it can be arranged at local restaurants nearby upon request.
What should I bring?
Water shoes, a towel, and spare clothes are recommended for swimming and changing afterward. Bringing a camera and sun protection is also a good idea.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While the experience involves walking and swimming, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with water activities. Children who enjoy outdoor adventures may enjoy it.
What is the group size?
The tour has a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at the 1001 Albanian Adventures office in Berat, with pickup available from your hotel if arranged in advance.
If you’re craving an authentic taste of Albania’s natural beauty, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and storytelling—perfect for those who want to see the country’s wild side up close.
