Top Gjirokaster Outdoor Activities

Vjosa Wild River... First Europe's National Park, is a must do, at least once in life, happiness rafting experience! Offers a unique combination between exciting rapids and majestic mountains views! Our team mission is to transmit the local life experience, gifting a memorable day in one of the last wild rivers remained in Europe, the best adventure and fun! A special tour accompanied by fidelity, professionalism, security and details that you will never forget! With much love and dedication, you will have all the needed suggestions to help you hear all the Vjosa's "voices": her warm hugs, lovely waves, "angry thrusts", finesse and tranquility she transmits, her joyful rapids & much more, that you would want to come back again and again...

Embark on an unforgettable journey with expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventures. Enjoy unique insights, safe and exciting activities, and create lasting memories that stand out from the rest!

With spectacular waves and hollows, strong currents, narrow passages, and wilderness views of Vjosa National Park, rafting the Vjosa River is an experience few travelers forget. Discover it with an instructor/guide and all the safety equipment you need on this half-day adventure from Permet, with time for swimming and diving from the rocks as well.

Rafting Vjosa in Permet Albania is unique because it takes place on Europe’s last wild river, where the Vjosa River flows freely through untouched landscapes. Unlike regulated rivers, rafting Vjosa offers a natural and authentic experience, making rafting in Permet one of the most special outdoor activities in Albania. Operating since 2012, we are the first rafting company in the Vjosa Valley, providing a well-organized and safe rafting Vjosa experience with certified local guides, modern equipment, and a dedicated rafting center in Permet.

This is not just a jeep ride. It is a guided, immersive experience where every stop has meaning and is explained by someone who lives and breathes this territory every day. Duration: approximately 6–7 hours.

Family rafting Vjosa in Permet is a safe and easy way to experience rafting in Albania, specially adapted for children and beginners. Unlike standard rafting trips, it follows calmer sections of the Vjosa River with extra attention from certified guides, making it one of the most family-friendly ways to enjoy rafting Vjosa and a top activity in Permet.

Experience the beauty and adventure of the Vjosa River in Përmet with an unforgettable rafting or kayaking trip through one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Led by professional and experienced local guides, this adventure combines exciting river sections, crystal-clear water, spectacular landscapes, and plenty of fun along the way. During the experience, you’ll have opportunities to swim in the Vjosa, enjoy optional cliff jumps in safe spots, relax on calmer sections of the river, and capture amazing memories surrounded by untouched nature. No previous rafting or kayaking experience is required, making this activity suitable for beginners, families, groups, couples, and adventure lovers. The experience includes all necessary rafting or kayaking equipment, a professional guide, transportation from the meeting point in Përmet to the river and back, bottled water, a small snack, and photos from your adventure.

Paddle your own sit-on-top kayak while a raft with a guide stays alongside for safety and support. Beginner-friendly, scenic, and unique to Përmet. Photos included.

Experience the best Vjosa River rafting in Albania on Europe’s last wild river. Join our professional guides for an unforgettable adventure through crystal-clear waters, fun rapids, deep canyons, and breathtaking scenery near Përmet. This rafting tour is perfect for beginners, families, couples, and adventure lovers looking for excitement and nature together. We provide certified guides, premium safety equipment, helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, and full instructions before the trip. Paddle through the stunning Vjosa National Park, swim in fresh river pools, and enjoy one of the top outdoor activities in Albania. Our Vjosa rafting tours combine safety, adrenaline, and amazing landscapes for a truly unique experience. Easy booking, friendly local team, and memorable moments guaranteed. Choose the best rafting in Vjosa River for your Albania holiday and discover why travelers rate this adventure as a must-do experience near Përmet.

This trip starts in Gjirokaster where we jump into one of our unique off-road vehicles and then head towards the ex communist villages, Valare, Shen Thodher and Erind. We will than climb to the field of Cajupi to make a stop at the spring of Brat and also at a luxurious shepherds hut where we can have a shepherds style breakfast. We will restart the trip now through the region of Zagoria and our next stop will be an abandoned magnificent bridge dating back in 1777. Another great place to rest cool down and then hop in the cars again towards the Holy Apostles church in Hoshteve with breathtaking paintings inside. A must visit! The lunch stop will be at Policani village where we will enjoy the bio products of the region. After lunch head towards the waterfall of Selcka, a miracle of nature, an unbelievable swimming pool, as our last stop for a day to remember. Choose us and spend a unforgettable day in the surroundings of Gjirokaster with a mix of nature history and characteristic food.

Gjirokaster has been a hub for horse-riders for hundreds of years, but navigating local trails requires a guide. Ride through the hills and rocky valleys surrounding the quaint Ottoman-built town during this small-group, half-day horseback trek. Spot Cold War-era bunkers hidden in the ground, little villages, and golden eagles and other endangered birds as you complete a six-mile (10-kilometer) route through the Drino Valley countryside.

Float freely down the crystal-clear waters of the Vjosa River with our self-guided tubing rental in the heart of Vjosa River National Park, Përmet! This relaxing adventure is perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers looking to cool off and enjoy nature at their own pace. You'll get a high-quality river tube, life vest, and dry bag, plus a safety briefing and route guidance. Drift through stunning mountain scenery, stop to swim or sunbathe, and let the river do the work. Optional shuttle service available. Fun, safe, and unforgettable – book your tubing experience today and create your own wild river memory!

Explore the enchanting town of Permet, known for its stunning nature and rich culture, on this unforgettable day trip from Tirana or Durres. Your adventure starts with a convenient pick-up and a scenic drive, showcasing the beauty of the Vjosa River and its national park. Delve into local traditions as you wander the charming town center, then unwind in the therapeutic waters of the Benja Natural Hot Baths. Marvel at the breathtaking Permet Canyon and its picturesque landscapes, including the Grunas and Langarica canyons. With a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the area's history and ecology, this tour promises a memorable journey through Albania's hidden gems. - Convenient pick-up from Tirana or Durres for easy access - Relax in the mineral-rich waters of Benja Natural Hot Baths - Explore the stunning Permet Canyon and its natural beauty - Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable guide throughout the day

Tour 1 – Old Bazaar, Cfaka, Dunavat & Ali Pasha Bridge Step into the heart of Gjirokastër on this enchanting walking tour. Wander through the historic Old Bazaar, explore the ancient houses of Cfaka, and traverse scenic hills to reach the iconic Ali Pasha Bridge. Experience the perfect mix of history, tradition, and natural beauty, and uncover hidden corners of the city that few visitors ever see on this unforgettable 3-hour journey. Tour 2 – UNESCO Castle & Zekate House Discover the magic of Gjirokastër with a local guide on this immersive walking tour. Explore the bustling Old Bazaar, ascend to the UNESCO-listed Castle for breathtaking views, and visit the beautifully preserved Zekate House, an Ottoman-era masterpiece full of stories and legends. This tour offers a truly unforgettable experience, letting you feel the city’s history, charm, and unique atmosphere like a local.

Navigate the stunning waters of Vjosa National Park on a thrilling kayaking adventure from Përmet. This 2.5-hour experience allows you to paddle through Albania's pristine landscapes, surrounded by breathtaking nature. With a guide and support raft by your side, you’ll explore the river's unique ecosystems while utilizing top-notch safety gear and kayaks. Perfect for those with a moderate fitness level, this activity promises an engaging way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

We offer rafting in the VJOSA river, which from March 13, 2023 is a national park, the last remaining wild river in Europe. Rafting is a group adventure sport. A normal tour has a length of 8.7 km with a duration of about 3 hours depending on the water level in the river. Together we will learn the rules of navigation, enjoy the waves of the Vjosa river, swim in the fresh water and jump from the cliffs. We hope that it will be a great experience for you as it has been for many others before.

Explore the breathtaking Vjosa River Valley on a scenic bike ride through one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts, this relaxing experience combines peaceful riverside cycling, mountain views, and authentic local landscapes away from crowded tourist areas. Enjoy fresh air, beautiful photo stops, and a unique connection with the untouched beauty of southern Albania.

Our tour offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty that sets it apart from others. Here’s what makes our tour special: Exclusive 4x4 Off-Road Experience: We provide top-notch 4x4 vehicles that are perfect for tackling the rugged terrain around the Vjora River. This ensures a safe and thrilling adventure for all participants. Scenic Vjora River Route: Our tour includes a picturesque route along the Vjora River, known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. You'll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Expert Guides: Our guides are highly knowledgeable about the area and its history, adding depth to your journey with insights and stories that enhance the experience. Customer Satisfaction: We prioritize your satisfaction and safety throughout the tour, ensuring that every aspect of your adventure is well-planned and enjoyable.

Raft Europe’s last wild river with experienced local guides Small-group experience for a more personal and safe adventure Relax after your trip at a peaceful eco-camp in nature Includes photos to capture your adventure Enjoy authentic Albanian hospitality by a local family

This is not just another rafting tour — it’s a river journey guided by experience. Guided by Rico – Not Just a Guide, a River Insider With years of hands-on experience on the Vjosa Rico knows this river in all seasons and moods. Expect expert navigation, real-time coaching, and stories only a local guide can share. Adventure with Personality From playful rapids to calm, glassy stretches, this route balances excitement and relaxation. You won’t just float downstream — you’ll understand the river, how to read it, and how to enjoy it safely. Moments Worth Remembering Hidden swimming spots, dramatic canyon views, and perfect photo stops are built into the experience — not rushed, not scripted. A Connection Beyond the Paddle This journey is also about slowing down and tuning in — fresh mountain air, untouched nature, and a deep respect for Europe’s last wild river.

Experience the thrill of rafting on Europe’s last wild rivers during this full-day shared excursion in Vjosa National Park. Departing from Gjirokaster, you’ll enjoy an invigorating rafting adventure in a group capped at only 16 people. After free time for a fresh fish lunch (at your own expense), you’ll also get to soak in the thermal pools of Benje or explore Langarica Canyon on foot before returning to Gjirokaster.

Passionate traveler and local guide with years of experience sharing hidden gems and authentic cultural experiences. I love helping visitors discover the stories, flavors, and traditions that make this destination special.

Lazarat is the first neighbor of the ancient city of Gjirokastra and, on the other hand, bordered by the village belt of the Dropull area. The village lies on the slopes of Mali i Gjerë and at the southern end of the province of Labëria, on the right side of the road Gjirokastër - Kakavija, Lazarat has an ancient history, starting from the Illyrian period. According to a legend, there were two brothers; Clay and Color. Argjiri, with his sons, built the castle of Gjirokastra, while Kollori built a smaller castle in the territory of today's Lazarat, where its ruins are still located. In the century. XVI the village resisted the pressure for Islamization and, consequently, a part of the population had moved to Greece, where even today there is a village called Lazarat, whose inhabitants until recently spoke the Albanian language. The Lazarats supported Ali Pasha Tepelena with weapons and fought for the protection of Ioannina from the Ottoman army.