Vjosa: The Untamed Heart of Albania

An 8-day curated journey through Europe’s First Wild River National Park

No prior experience required. A reasonable level of fitness and the ability to participate in 4–8 hours of soft to moderate activity per day is expected.

Through immersive experiences, cultural exchanges, and curated adventures, guests will discover the profound interdependence of nature, heritage, and community resilience.
Each moment of the itinerary has been intentionally crafted to offer ecological insight, cultural meaning, and moments of inspirations and tranquility, with ample time to reflect, connect, and indulge in Albania’s rising slow travel scene.

Exploration of Europe’s First Wild River National Park guided by environmental experts
Private cultural cooking session with Albania’s pioneering food activist
Whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and alpine hiking through biodiverse valleys and sacred landscapes
Dialogue with local changemakers including shepherds, scientists, and historians
UNESCO and archaeological site visits enriched with storytelling, music, and curated culinary experiences

Each property is selected for its location, ethos, and guest experience:

Tirana: Elegant boutique hotel within walking distance of galleries, cafés, and architectural heritage
Tepelena: Restored manor-style agrotourism estate with organic garden and traditional decor
Përmet: Family-run small hotel with panoramic valley views and homemade breakfast
Gjirokastër: Boutique stay inside a preserved Ottoman-era house
Tirana: Quiet Boutique hotel for rest before departure

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Depositi trasferibili

Cancella fino a 31 giorni prima della partenza e trasferiremo il tuo deposito in credito per una prenotazione futura.

Un'azienda di cui ti puoi fidare

GIORNO 1 Arrival in Tirana | A Warm Welcome to Albania

After arriving at Tirana International Airport, you will be welcomed by your local guide and transferred to your boutique hotel. In the evening, meet your tour leader and Vjosa activits—during an intimate welcome dinner at a family-owned restaurant that celebrates Albania’s seasonal cuisine. Enjoy introductions and orientation for the journey ahead.
Overnight in Tirana

GIORNO 2Culinary Traditions & Sunset at Bylis

In the morning, take part in a private cooking masterclass led by Dhurata Thanasi, a leading figure in Albania’s slow food movement. Learn how local ingredients—wild herbs, sheep cheese, fresh vegetables—tell the story of Albania’s identity and resilience. After lunch, journey south to the ruins of Bylis, one of the region’s most significant Illyrian archaeological sites. Watch the sun dip below the horizon with panoramic views over the Vjosa River Valley. End the day with fine dining and poetry at an agrotourism, named in tribute to the poet who chronicled this region’s beauty.

Overnight in Tepelena

GIORNO 3 Ecology, Advocacy & Rural Wisdom

Begin the day at the Vjosa Research Center, hosted by EcoAlbania, where you’ll learn about the campaign that led to the river’s legal protection. Then explore the Kardhiq tributary and visit Zhulat, a village rich in oral history and tradition. Lunch is served by a local women’s cooperative, showcasing slow recipes and hospitality. Afternoon transfer to Përmet, gateway to the outdoor adventures at Vjosa Wild River National Park.
Overnight in Përmet

GIORNO 4Exploring by Horseback & Hot Springs

Experience the Vjosa Valley in its most intimate form—on horseback. Led by local guides, ride through Fir of Hotova National Park, past riverside trails and over Ottoman-era bridges, to reach the Lengarica Canyon. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Delvina, and soak in the natural thermal baths of Benja, set within a fairytale landscape of stone arches and pine forests.
Overnight in Përmet

GIORNO 5 Rafting the Wild River

Embark on a full-day rafting journey through the heart of the Vjosa. Under the guidance of certified river professionals, navigate Class III rapids and calm stretches that showcase the valley’s untouched beauty. Break for a locally prepared riverside lunch and swim beneath canyon cliffs. As dusk approaches, celebrate the day with a candle-lit dinner beneath the stars by the riverbank.
Overnight in Përmet

GIORNO 6 Shepherding Traditions in the Nemerçka Mountains

Travel by foot into the remote Nemerçka range, where Albania’s shepherding traditions continue undisturbed. Visit highland summer pastures where shepherd families still live seasonally. Share their midday meal, hear stories passed down through generations, and gain insight into a lifestyle rooted in seasonal rhythms. Evening transfer to Gjirokastër.
Overnight in Gjirokastër

GIORNO 7 Gjirokastër: Stone City & Sacred Harmony

Walk through the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastër, home to fortress walls, cobbled lanes, and Ottoman mansions. In the afternoon, visit the Tekke of Melani, a spiritual Bektashi Sufi site, and the Church of the Holy Cross of Labova, one of the oldest Christian buildings in Albania. Dine at Antigonea Archaeological Park, serenaded by a live ensemble performing Albanian isopolyphony, an oral tradition protected by UNESCO.
Overnight in Gjirokastër

GIORNO 8 Wetlands & Wine | Farewell in Vlora or Tirana

Begin the day in the Narta Lagoon, a key habitat for flamingos, herons, and pelicans. Guided by experts from the Albanian Ornithological Society, enjoy an immersive birdwatching walk with ecological interpretation. Then, travel to a loca lwinery, a family-run organic estate, for a farewell lunch paired with signature vintages. Late afternoon return to Tirana for your final overnight stay.
Overnight in Tirana

GIORNO 9 Departure

Private transfer to Tirana International Airport for your onward journey.

NEED TO KNOW

What is the food like and can my dietary requirements be catered to?

Albanian food is hearty and healthy, usually based around meat and vegetables much of which is seasonal and sourced locally. Popular dishes include turkey, lamb or goat Pershesh, served with a local bread known as kulac, a meat and leek pie made with thin pastry called Byrek and freshly caught fish served in a Mediterranean style. Fish dishes are often flavored with white vinegar and olive oil grown in Southern Albania and many dishes are served with wine from one the local vineyards. If you’ve got specific dietary needs, contact us before you book and we’ll take care of to accomplish them.

Com'è il tempo?

The best months to explore Albania are from February to July and from September to November when the weather is warm and sunny, reaching temperatures of around 30 degrees. August can be hotter, however this is usually broken up by cool coastal breezes.

Cosa devo mettere in valigia?

Recommended packing includes: – Comfortable boots – Lightweight, breathable clothing that’s suitable for walking/ hiking/biking – Wind/waterproof jacket – Hat – Water bottle – Sunglasses – Sunscreen – Swimwear in case of water activities – Towel in case of water activities- A small backpack in case of outdoor activities.

2025 Scheduled Departures

12 – 20 July 2025

13 – 21 September 2025

PRICE

€5,700 per person (4–8 participants)

€6,700 per person (1–3 participants)

Custom rates available for NGO delegations, academic groups, and women-led organizations.

✓ Rented Vehicle
All ground transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver
✓ Accommodation
8 nights’ accommodation in carefully selected boutique hotels and authentic agrotourism guesthouses (double occupancy)
✓ Meals
All meals (8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners), including wine tastings and curated local dining experiences
✓ Equipment & Activities
All guided outdoor activities, including rafting, horseback riding, hiking, and birdwatching .
✓ 24-hour emergency service
Support throughout the trip from Active Albania’s dedicated team