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The Ultimate 9 day Adventure in Albania

Journey through Albania’s best spots as you hike and bike epic trails, paddle wild rivers, explore ancient villages and swim in Riviera seas

  • Albania
  • 8 nights
  • Easy

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • ACTIVITIES & CERTIFIED GUIDES:
    All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides.
  • TRANSFERS:
    A group transfer to and from the airport and everything in between
  • HOTEL:
    6 nights in locally run hotels and 2 nights glamping
  • EQUIPMENT:
    Everything you need for kayaking, e-biking and rafting
  • MEALS:
    All breakfasts, all lunches and 2 dinners, plus a wine tasting
  • SMALL LIKE-MINDED GROUPS:
    Solo-friendly by design,up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
  • Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Roshnik on e-bikes, before sampling local wines and a farm-to-table lunch in the heart of rural Albania
  • Hike through Llogara National Park and along the Albanian Riviera, exploring timeless hamlets and coastal trails, then unwind by the Ionian Sea
  • Kayak and raft the wild Vjosa River, experiencing Albania’s untouched landscapes from the turquoise waters of Europe’s last free-flowing river
  • Soak in Benja’s natural thermal springs, and learn traditional cooking with a local family – immersing yourself in Albania’s rich culinary heritage

Tour Overview & What to Expect

Day 1: To Berat – the 'City of a Thousand Windows'

Driving time: 2hrs
Arrive in Tirana and meet your guide for a scenic drive to the historic town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you travel, take in Albania’s rolling hills, lush valleys, and charming villages. In Berat, you'll have time for a short walk around the ancient Berat Castle, Byzantine churches and Ottoman-era remnants, and a wander through the picturesque Mangalem and Gorica districts with their white-washed Ottoman houses. As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner at the Castle Park Hotel, your home for the next two nights, where you’ll savour local dishes and get to know your fellow travellers.

Day 2: Cycling and wine tasting in Roshnik

E-bike 1hrs · 15km · 420m up · 60m down Hiking 2hrs · 6km · 200m up · 200m down
After a hearty breakfast, hop on electric bikes for a short ride to Roshnik, a charming village at the foot of the sacred Mount Tomorr which is renowned for its exceptional culinary traditions. Pedal at a gentle pace through rolling hills, lush vineyards, olive groves and fig orchards, soaking up the serene beauty of Albania’s countryside. Upon reaching the village centre, leave your bikes behind and embark on a short but picturesque hike to the village of Bogdan, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail then leads to a delicious lunch at Alpeta Winery, featuring traditional dishes crafted from the region’s finest local produce. You'll also enjoy a wine-tasting session, where you’ll savour exquisite local wines made from indigenous grape varieties that have been cultivated in the area for generations. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer back to Berat, where you can enjoy some free time exploring the lovely historic centre. Wander through its cobblestone streets, or relax at one of the many lively cafés or bars filled with both locals and travellers. Dinner is not included tonight, giving you the option to dine at the hotel or stay in town for a taste of the local cuisine.

Day 3: Hiking the heights of Llogara National Park

Hiking 5-6hrs · 15km · 620m up · 620m down Driving 2hrs
Today, leave Berat behind and journey into the breathtaking landscapes of Llogara National Park, a dramatic mountainous region perched high above the Albanian Riviera. Set off on a scenic hike through alpine forests and rolling meadows, with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea, the peaks of Qorre and Cika, and the Gulf of Vlore. The crisp mountain air and untouched wilderness make this an unforgettable trekking experience. Tonight, settle into Te Dreri, a cosy mountain retreat tucked among pine forests at over 1000m above sea level. This rustic yet inviting lodge includes breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere – the perfect setting to unwind after a day on the trails. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure, with the option to relax in the indoor pool, sauna, or Turkish bath, soothing tired muscles before another day of adventure.

Day 4: From the mountains to the coastal gem of Qeparo

Hiking 3hrs · 7.5km · 450m up · 150m down
After breakfast, leave the mountains behind and head towards the stunning Albanian Riviera, where rugged cliffs meet the sparkling Ionian Sea. Your day begins with a short but scenic hike from the village of Kudhes, passing through olive groves and ancient paths leading to the hilltop village of Upper Qeparo. Here, you’ll explore the narrow stone streets of this peaceful village, where time seems to have stood still. After some free time to soak in the tranquil atmosphere, enjoy a traditional lunch featuring fresh fish and local homemade specialities. Next, make your way down to the coast to check in to your seafront hotel, where you'll stay for the next two nights. Once settled in, perhaps take a dip in the crystal-clear Ionian waters, bask in the sun, or try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) along the shoreline. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Dinner is not included tonight, but there are plenty of local restaurants to choose from.

Day 5: Kayak, swim and explore Porto Palermo castle

Kayaking 2hrs · 5km
After a hearty breakfast, start your day with a kayaking trip around Porto Palermo Castle. As you paddle along the breathtaking coastline, enjoy the unbelievably turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The 19th-century castle, once a defensive outpost for Ali Pasha Tepelena, is an architectural gem that blends Ottoman and Venetian styles, all set amid lush greenery making it one of the most picturesque and popular attractions in the region. After exploring the castle, tuck into a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll sample traditional Albanian dishes, all while enjoying wonderful views. Back in Qeparo, unwind with some time at the beach (or you can choose to take an optional boat tour). This is a great chance to discover more hidden beaches, soak up the sun, and further explore the stunning Ionian coastline before your journey continues inland tomorrow.

Day 6: The wild beauty of Nivica Canyon and Vjosa River

Hiking 1hr · 3km · 100m up · 100m down Kayaking 2hrs · 10km Driving 2.5hrs
Rise early for one of the most unforgettable days of your journey as you head north to Nivica Canyon, Albania’s largest and most spectacular gorge. Often called the 'Grand Canyon of Albania' this hidden natural wonder features towering cliffs and crystal-clear streams. Start with a short hike along the canyon’s rim, taking in jaw-dropping views before reaching the multi-tiered Peshtures Waterfall, where you can cool off with a dip in the waters. Afterwards, continue to the nearby village of Peshtan for a traditional lunch featuring local specialities like byrek, slow-cooked lamb, and artisanal cheeses. In the afternoon, set off on an epic kayaking adventure through the Kelcyre Gorge along the Vjosa River – one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Along the way, visit the underground spring of the 'Uji i Zi' (Black Water) River, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and wildlife. Tonight, settle into your glamping site by the Vjosa River, where you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Albania’s untouched wilderness.

Day 7: Cycling, thermal springs and a cooking class

E-bike 2.5hrs · 35km · 300m up · 300m down
Today, trade the thrill of kayaking for a relaxed and immersive experience, exploring the scenic landscapes around Permet on e-bikes before unwinding in the soothing waters of Benja's thermal springs. After a good breakfast at your glamping site, hop on your e-bike and cycle through the picturesque countryside, passing rolling vineyards, centuries-old stone bridges, and traditional villages seemingly untouched by modern life. Following the gentle flow of the Vjosa River, your ride leads to the renowned thermal springs at Benja, where you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters beneath the striking Kati Bridge, which dates back to the Ottoman era. After your soak, continue cycling back to Permet, where you’ll be welcomed into the home of Ariana and her family for an authentic cooking experience. Learn to prepare traditional dishes like byrek or tave kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt sauce) using fresh, seasonal ingredients. This hands-on class offers a personal connection to Permet’s rich culinary traditions before you sit down to enjoy the meal together.

Day 8: Raft the Vjosa River and head for Tirana

Rafting 2hrs · 10km Driving 3hrs
Today, take on a rafting adventure down the untamed Vjosa, Europe’s last free-flowing river. Stretching for 270km, the Vjosa winds through dramatic canyons, serene riverbanks, and untouched landscapes. Navigate its rushing waters and Class 2-3 rapids (dependent on the season, please see FAQ below for more details), striking the perfect balance between adrenaline and awe-inspiring scenery. After lunch, return to Albania’s lively capital of Tirana. With its vibrant streets, colourful buildings and buzzing atmosphere, you’ll have some free time to explore the city centre before coming together for an optional farewell dinner. Raise a glass and celebrate the end of your unforgettable adventure through Albania!

Day 9: Farewell, Albania!

Time permitting, enjoy a few more hours strolling through Tirana's colourful bazaars, parks or museums then head back to the airport in time for your flight home.

Albanian cuisine

Albanian cuisine is a delightful blend of hearty and wholesome dishes, featuring an abundance of locally sourced meats, vegetables, and seasonal ingredients. Popular dishes include tender turkey, lamb, or goat pershesh (a savoury meat stew), served alongside kulac, a traditional local bread. Another favourite is byrek, a savoury pie made with thin pastry and filled with meat and leeks, as well as freshly caught fish prepared in a Mediterranean style. Fish dishes are often seasoned with olive oil and white vinegar sourced from southern Albania, and many meals are complemented with wine from the region’s local vineyards. Throughout your trip, you’ll have the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Albanian culinary traditions, enjoying a range of included meals. These include a farm-to-table lunch with wine tasting at a local winery, a cooking demonstration in a local home, and delicious picnic lunches. Most dinners have not been included in the trip cost, giving you the chance to choose your meal or restaurant based on your preferences and budget. Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for, although options may be more limited – please just request this on your passenger info form.

BERAT

You’ll spend the first two nights in Berat at Hotel Castle Park, a comfortable, locally run hotel nestled in a scenic woodland setting. Located about 1.5 kilometers from the town centre, the hotel offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to Berat’s historic sites. The property features twin-share rooms, a spacious terrace, and an excellent restaurant serving a mix of Mediterranean and traditional Albanian cuisine.

LLOGARA NATIONAL PARK

You’ll spend one night at Te Dreri - Llogora Tourist Village, a cosy mountain retreat located within the National Park. Surrounded by alpine forests and with stunning mountain views, this locally run lodge offers twin-share rooms with seating areas and private bathrooms. The resort features an indoor pool, sauna, and Turkish bath, which can be used free of charge – perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking. There’s also an on-site restaurant and bar, serving delicious traditional Albanian cuisine. Additional facilities include a games room, mini golf, billiards, and table tennis, plus there's free WiFi in the lobby.

QUEPARO

You’ll spend two nights at Hotel Riviera Qeparo, a beachfront hotel offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Just steps from Qeparo Beach, this comfortable hotel provides twin-share rooms, each featuring a private balcony or terrace, a flat-screen TV, and an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower. The hotel’s seafront location makes it an ideal spot to relax – enjoy the peaceful coastal setting, unwind on the hotel’s terrace and garden, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters right on your doorstep.

GLAMPING IN PERMET

In Permet, you'll stay for two nights at a peaceful eco-glamping site tucked beside the Vjosa River, a great base for exploring the area. You’ll sleep in spacious safari tents with two or three rooms in each, plus a private bathroom and shower cabin. The tents are designed to stay cool in summer and cosy in winter, and come with real beds, comfy mattresses and soft pillows. Rooms are twin-share. There's a restaurant and bar on site where you’ll eat breakfast and unwind in the evenings. Depending on the group, you may stay in on-site cabins with similar amenities.

TIRANA

You’ll spend your final night in a centrally located hotel in Tirana, usually the Artistic Tirana Blloku - a characterful 3-star stay in the heart of the buzzing Blloku district, just a short stroll from Skanderbeg Square. Originally built in 1931, it blends old-school charm with modern comforts. Rooms are twin-share and come with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with toiletries. There’s also a terrace, shared lounge and on-site bar. Some departures stay at the Hotel Antigone. Upgrades For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge. Please note that at the glamping site in Permet, you will be expected to share a bathroom.

Optional Extras for the price and request this at the time of booking, as this is subject to limited availability.

What to Bring & Safety

Albania enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures from April to October. During this period, temperatures are generally mild to warm, with daytime highs ranging from 22-26°C in spring (April to late May) and autumn (September to October). These are perfect months for hiking, cycling, and exploring Albania’s stunning landscapes. In the summer months (June to August) temperatures can soar, especially in coastal areas like Qeparo and the valley around Permet, with highs often reaching 30°C or more. However, water-based activities like kayaking, rafting, and wild swimming are the perfect way to stay cool and energised, even if you are visiting during the hotter months. Although Albania enjoys abundant sunshine, occasional rain showers are possible at any time of the year, so it’s always a good idea to pack for all conditions.

Itinerary Activities

  • Guided e-bike ride to Roshnik
  • A wine tasting at a renowned local winery
  • Guided hike to Bogdan
  • Guided hike in Llogara National Park
  • Guided hike to Queparo
  • Guided sea kayaking to Porto Palermo
  • Visit the Peshture Waterfall and Nivica Canyons
  • Guided kayaking on the Vjosa River
  • Guided e-bike ride to Benja thermal baths
  • Guided Rafting through the Vjosa River National Park

Guides

  • Local, expert, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

  • 5 nights in locally-run hotels
  • 1 night in a unique mountain retreat
  • 2 nights glamping in safari tents

Meals

  • All (8) hearty breakfasts
  • 7 tasty lunches, including a farm-to-table experience and a cooking demonstration
  • 2 delicious local dinners

Transfers

  • Group arrival transfer from Tirana Airport on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Tirana Airport on Day 9
  • All transfers during the trip by private vehicle

Equipment

  • All kayaking equipment
  • All rafting equipment
  • E-bikes and helmets

What do I need to bring?

 

BAGS

  • Soft overnight duffel bag or suitcase (ideally a maximum of 20kg)
  • Daypack (20-30 litres)
  • Waterproof liner for rucksack

CLOTHES

  • Light fleece jacket, jumper and some warm layers for the early and late season departures
  • Rainproof jackets
  • Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
  • T-shirts
  • Underwear and socks
  • Swimwear
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Something to sleep in
  • Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in)
  • Sandals and flip flops

OTHER

  • Universal travel plug adapter
  • Power bank or solar charger
  • Passports (and visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Ear plugs
  • Insect repellent
  • Suncream
  • Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
  • Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Alcohol hand-gel
  • Reusable water bottle(s) – at least 1.5 litres
  • Energy bars and snacks – read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
  • Water purification tablets/treatment system
SINGLE OCCUPANCY

Optional Private Room Upgrade

Payable Before Departure

Optional Private Room Upgrade

£291

Private Arrival Transfer Tirana – Berat (1-4 pax car)

Payable Before Departure

Private Arrival Transfer Tirana – Berat (1-4 pax car)

£92

Private Departure Transfer Tirana City -Tirana Airport (1-4 pax)

Payable Before Departure

Private Departure Transfer Tirana City -Tirana Airport (1-4 pax)

£37

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHAT'S PLAN B IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER?

Overall, weather conditions down by the coast should be pretty favourable in the months when this trip is scheduled to run, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures ranging from 18 to 26°C on average. However, as always, Mother Nature is unpredictable so the best you can do is to be prepared for anything and come equipped with sunscreen, a hat and waterproofs. Your host will be monitoring the weather conditions during the course of the trip and may suggest alternative, safer routes or activities should the weather get particularly bad or should the water conditions be unsuitable for the rafting and kayaking. The Llogara National Park sits on alpine heights and forms a weather divide between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas; as such, the park is prone to rapid weather changes and cooler temperatures.

Tap water in Albania is generally not safe to drink. You may find purified water in some of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. To avoid plastic waste where filtered water is not available, we suggest bringing water purification tablets (or an alternative purification system) for extra safety.

Kayaking takes place in the beautiful Këlcyrë Gorge, which is ideal for paddling year-round. Water levels change with the seasons, so the pace and length of the experience can vary: higher water usually means a faster, shorter journey, while lower water allows for a slower, more leisurely one.

Seasonal overview: Spring (March–May): Faster-moving water and a lively paddling experience. Summer (June–September): Calmer flows, with longer time on the water. Autumn (October): Variable conditions depending on recent rainfall. Winter (November–February): Cooler weather and a brisker pace on the river.

Please note that these months are intended as a general guide and may vary depending on weather conditions and rainfall. Whatever the season, your hosts will ensure you enjoy a full day out, with plenty of time to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Water levels on the Vjosa River change throughout the year, affecting both the duration of the activity and the grade of rapids, due to the speed and volume of water flowing. In general, the more rainfall there has been, the higher the grade of the rapids.

Seasonal overview: Spring (March–May): Shorter rafting (1–1.5 hrs) with more challenging rapids (Class III–IV). Summer (June–September): Longer rafting (around 2.5 hrs) with gentler rapids (Class II–III). Autumn (October): Dependent on rainfall – usually moderate rapids (Class III–III½). Winter (November–February): Shorter rafting (1–1.5 hrs) with more challenging rapids (Class III–IV).

Please note that these months are intended as a general guide and may vary depending on weather conditions and rainfall. Whatever time you travel, your host will ensure your day is full and that you have plenty of time to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

You’re always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values – a shared code to make sure that everyone’s experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don’t just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

 

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