Permet: River Tubing/Rafting at Vjosa National Park

If you’re thinking about adding a splash of adventure to your trip in Albania, a trip on the Vjosa River might just be the highlight. Based on reviews and descriptions from those who’ve done it, this experience offers a fantastic way to connect with Albania’s last wild river — whether you’re after the adrenaline rush of rapids or just want a relaxing float through beautiful scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the professionalism of the guides really shines through — they seem knowledgeable and attentive, making safety a priority while still keeping the atmosphere fun. Second, the stunning views of the river’s turquoise waters and lush surroundings are consistently praised, making it clear this isn’t just about getting wet, but about taking in nature at its best.

A key consideration is the duration and the physical nature of the activity — at around three hours, it’s not a half-day ordeal, but you should be comfortable with water activities and following safety instructions. Also, remember that personal gear like glasses needs to be secured, and proper footwear is essential.

This experience is perfect for anyone who enjoys a bit of adventure, values natural beauty, and appreciates good guides. It’s especially suited for those who want an active, memorable day without the need for advanced skills, as both rafting and tubing are accessible for most.

Key Points

• Scenic and exhilarating: The river offers both peaceful sections and exciting rapids, satisfying a variety of thrill levels.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety-conscious approach.
• Good value: At $55 per person, the experience offers a well-rounded adventure, including gear, photos, and safety instructions.
• Flexible options: Choose between rafting for a more adrenaline-fueled trip or tubing for a relaxed float.
• Beautiful surroundings: Expect stunning turquoise waters framed by lush greenery and mountains.
• Family-friendly: The tour received positive feedback from families with children, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Getting Started at Base Camp in Permet

The day begins at the base camp, where you’ll meet your guides. They provide a safety briefing and all necessary equipment — think life jackets, helmets, and paddles for rafting, or tubes for floating. This initial step is quite important; guides are known for being approachable and informative, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. The safety gear will make you feel secure, but it’s also your responsibility to secure items like glasses with cords, as personal belongings like phones or sunglasses should be kept in a safe spot.

The First Stretch – Gentle Rapids and Scenery

Once on the water, the tour kicks off with calmer stretches, giving everyone a chance to get comfortable. We loved the way the guides ease you into the experience, offering tips and ensuring everyone is at ease. During this part, you’ll float along the vibrant turquoise river, with the steep green mountains towering on either side. Many reviews highlight how gorgeous the surroundings are, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the peaceful vibe.

The Midway Break – Relaxation and Refreshment

Halfway through, you’ll find a serene riverbank spot to pause. Here’s where the tour really wins for me — time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, enjoy a light snack, and chat with fellow explorers. Several travelers commented on how this break provides a great chance to relax, recharge, and appreciate the natural beauty without the rush. It’s also a good chance to take more photos and marvel at the untouched landscape.

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The Rapids and Twists – For the Adventurers

As you move past the break, the tour picks up in excitement. For rafters, this means tackling more challenging rapids — so if you’re into action, you’ll love this part. For tubers, it’s just about floating with the current, enjoying the twists and turns of the river and the stunning scenery. Guides are there to help navigate the more turbulent sections, making sure safety remains paramount. One reviewer shared how jumping off rocks and water fights with the other boat added a fun, spontaneous element that kept everyone engaged.

The Final Calm – Peaceful Float to the Finish

In the last stretch, the river slows down considerably, giving everyone a chance to relax and reflect on the adventure. Floating gently toward the end, you’ll get a final glimpse of the mountains and lush greenery. This peaceful float is a perfect way to wind down and take in the scenery one last time before heading back to the base.

Post-Activity Comfort and Reflection

Back at the base, you can change into dry clothes, relax with some refreshments, and share your stories. The facilities include restrooms and showers, which come in handy after a day on the water. The overall experience, from start to finish, is well-organized, making it easy to focus on the fun part of the trip.

Why the Price Is a Good Deal

At $55 per person, the tour covers quite a bit — gear, safety instructions, the guidance of experienced professionals, photos/videos of your trip, water during the activity, and a scenic adventure that packs a punch. People often mention how guides go above and beyond, sharing insights about the ecosystem and local culture, which adds value beyond just the water fun.

Flexibility and Booking

Another bonus is the booking process — you can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility especially if your plans are still evolving. Plus, there’s a full refund option if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind.

Logistics and Practical Tips

• Duration: The activity lasts about 3 hours, so plan for a half-day of adventure.
• Starting times: Availability varies, so check ahead.
• Group size: The tour seems well-organized and suited for small groups, which helps keep things personal and safe.
• What to wear: Swimsuit with shorts or leggings is recommended. Footwear like sports shoes or river shoes is a must, so avoid flip-flops.
• Personal items: Keep phones and glasses secured, as personal items are at your own risk.
• Language: Guides speak Albanian and English, so communication shouldn’t be an issue.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a fun-filled day with a mix of adventure and scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s great for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike, thanks to the guided support and accessible rapids. Families with children have also enjoyed it, especially because guides are caring and attentive — one reviewer remarked how Emil, their guide, was very accommodating for kids.

Active travelers who love nature will especially appreciate the views and the chance to learn about the Vjosa’s ecosystem. But if you’re someone who prefers dry land or less water-based activities, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a really balanced experience of Albania’s last wild river. It successfully combines adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance, making it a worthwhile choice for a memorable day. The consistently high ratings (4.9 from 29 reviews) reflect how well it’s been received — particularly the praise for the guides and scenery.

The value for money is there, especially considering the photos and video included, the safety measures, and the stunning environment. Whether you want a thrill or just a peaceful float, this experience has enough flexibility to satisfy different tastes.

In the end, it’s a perfect way to step outside typical sightseeing and truly connect with Albania’s unspoiled landscapes. If you love water, nature, and good guides, you’ll likely find this to be one of your standout moments in Albania.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, several reviews mention that children enjoyed the experience, especially with guides like Emil who are attentive and caring. However, it’s important to consider your child’s comfort with water activities and follow safety instructions.

What should I wear?
Wear a swimsuit with shorts or leggings. Appropriate footwear such as sports shoes or river shoes is required. Avoid flip-flops or going barefoot to stay safe on rocky or slippery surfaces.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guides, equipment, photos and videos, water during the activity, and access to facilities like restrooms and showers.

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

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

Is this adventure physically demanding?
Generally, it’s accessible for most people, with gentle stretches and options to relax during the float. More challenging rapids are navigated with guides’ help, making it suitable even for beginners.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring a towel, wear suitable clothing, secure personal items, and be ready for water-based fun. Arrive prepared, listen carefully to your guide, and enjoy the ride!

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic river adventure in Albania that balances excitement with natural beauty, this tour at Vjosa National Park is definitely worth considering. It’s a genuine chance to experience Albania’s pristine environment and have a memorable, fun-filled day.

You can check availability for your dates here: