Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Reach Përmet by bus or rental car. Prepare for the water with dry bags and water shoes, and follow local conservation rules.
Getting there
Driving and bus routes to the park.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive from Tirana to Përmet via the SH4 and SH75 highways. | 3.5-4 hours | Varies (fuel/rental) | Roads have improved significantly, but the SH75 near Përmet can be winding. A rental car offers the best flexibility for exploring different gorge sections. |
| Bus: Take a minibus (furgon) from the Tirana Regional Bus Terminal directed to Përmet or Tepelenë. | 4-5 hours | €10-€15 | Buses leave a few times a day, mostly in the morning. Check schedules locally as they can change based on demand. |
| Tour: Book a multi-day guided adventure tour departing from Tirana or Saranda. | 2-4 days | €150-€300+ | Often packages include transport, rafting on the Vjosa, and visits to nearby Gjirokastër and the Bënja Thermal Baths. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The park is open year-round, but April to October is the primary season for outdoor activities. Spring (April-June) brings the highest water levels, creating the best rapids for rafting. Summer and early autumn offer lower water levels ideal for swimming and kayaking.
What to bring
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Pack smart for the river
Bring water shoes, a dry bag, and eco-friendly sunscreen.
How the day runs
How to structure your time.
Combine a morning rafting trip with an afternoon at the hot springs.
- Rafting the Vjosa
Meet your operator in Përmet for a classic river run.
- Lunch in Përmet Town
Try slow-cooked local dishes in the town center.
- Bënja Thermal Baths
Drive out to the natural sulfur springs to relax.
- Lengarica Canyon
Wade through the narrow gorge feeding into the Vjosa.
Focus on the Middle River region and local culture.
- Tepelenë Castle
Explore the historic ruins overlooking the river valley.
- Uji i Ftohtë
Stop at the cold water springs south of Tepelenë.
- Këlcyrë Gorge
Drive the scenic route where the river cuts through the mountains.
- Peshtan Village
Enjoy authentic local lamb at a traditional guesthouse.
Rules and Conservation
The Vjosa is a highly sensitive ecosystem. Visitors must follow a strict 'Leave No Trace' policy. Do not drive vehicles onto the gravel banks or shallow waters. Camping is allowed only in designated areas to protect nesting birds.
If you plan to raft or kayak, you must wear a life jacket and a helmet. Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the water quality. Avoid single-use plastics and carry a reusable water bottle.
Easiest way to do it
Vjosa River Rafting Albania – Est. 2012 Permet
2 h 30 min 5.0 (132)
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- All nesecary equipment for rafting and kayaking
From$28per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do I get to Përmet from Tirana?
You can drive via the SH4 and SH75 highways in about 3.5 to 4 hours. Alternatively, take a morning minibus (furgon) from the Tirana Regional Bus Terminal for €10-€15. Check our Tirana to Përmet guide for details.
What is the best time of year to raft the Vjosa River?
Spring (April to June) is the best time for high-adrenaline rafting due to peak water levels from melting snow. See our full guide on the Best visiting seasons.
Can you camp along the Vjosa River?
Yes, but camping is restricted to designated areas or existing campsites. This rule protects the fragile riverbanks and nesting bird habitats.