3-Day Adventure Guide to Vjosa River National Park, Albania

Vjosa River National Park, Albania

3 days

The crystal clear, turquoise river winds its way through fields against a backdrop of majestic mountains.
Dragoti Bridge crossing the Vjosa river near the village Dragot.
Construction site for the hydro power dam on the Vjose River.
Vjosa wild river, national park, in blue sky sunrise.
Vjosa River

About Vjosa River National Park, Albania

Explore the untouched beauty of Vjosa River National Park, Albania. This pristine park offers a unique blend of rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Europe's last wild river, the Vjosa, as it meanders through lush valleys and rugged mountains. The park is a haven for nature lovers, boasting a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. Adventure seekers can indulge in exhilarating activities such as rafting, hiking, and bird watching. Experience the authentic Albanian culture in the nearby traditional villages. Vjosa River National Park is not just a trip, it's a journey into the heart of nature's untouched beauty.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Vjosa River

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour of the Vjosa River, one of Europe's last wild rivers. Enjoy the scenic beauty and learn about the unique ecosystem of the river.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river, with local delicacies from the nearby villages. This is a great opportunity to taste traditional Albanian cuisine.

Afternoon

After lunch, embark on a rafting adventure down the Vjosa River. This thrilling experience will give you a different perspective of the river and its surroundings.

Dinner

Have dinner in a local guesthouse, where you will be served traditional Albanian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing evening by the river, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature and the starry night sky.

Morning

Start your second day with a hike to the Nemercka Mountains. The trail offers stunning views of the Vjosa River and the surrounding landscape.

Lunch

Have lunch at a scenic spot in the mountains, enjoying the breathtaking views and the fresh mountain air.

Afternoon

Continue your hike to the summit of the Nemercka Mountains. The peak offers panoramic views of the Vjosa River National Park and beyond.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local guesthouse, where you can taste more traditional Albanian dishes.

Evening

Spend the evening sharing stories and experiences with other travelers at the guesthouse. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the local culture and traditions.

Morning

On your last day, visit the Ancient city of Byllis, which offers a glimpse into Albania's rich history. Explore the archaeological site and admire the ancient ruins.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in Byllis, where you can try some regional specialties.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Byllis Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts found in the ancient city. This will give you a deeper understanding of the history of the region.

Dinner

Have your last dinner in a local guesthouse, enjoying the warm hospitality and delicious food of the Albanian people.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing evening at the guesthouse, reflecting on your experiences and the beautiful memories you have made.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Vjosa River

1
Vjosa River

The Vjosa River is one of Europe's last wild rivers, offering stunning views and a rich biodiversity.

Attractions
Landmarks
Nemercka Mountains

2
Nemercka Mountains

Nemercka Mountains, located in the Vjosa River National Park, are a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The mountains offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Ancient city of Byllis

3
Ancient city of Byllis

The ancient city of Byllis, located near the Vjosa River National Park, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Albania. It offers a unique insight into the country's rich history and culture.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Byllis Archaeological Museum

4
Byllis Archaeological Museum

The Byllis Archaeological Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Byllis, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

Attractions
Museums
Hiking in the Nemercka Mountains

5
Hiking in the Nemercka Mountains

Hiking in the Nemercka Mountains is a popular activity for tourists visiting the Vjosa River National Park in Albania. The mountains offer breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to explore Albania's natural beauty.

Attractions
Tours
Sports
Rafting on the Vjosa River

6
Rafting on the Vjosa River

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the wild Vjosa River. Suitable for beginners and experienced rafters.

Tours
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fërgesë

Fërgesë

A traditional Albanian dish made with peppers, tomatoes and cottage cheese. It's a popular dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Tavë Kosi

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian dish made with lamb and rice, baked in a mixture of yogurt and eggs. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Byrek

Byrek

A traditional Albanian pastry made with a variety of fillings, but most commonly cheese, spinach or meat. It's a popular snack in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Qofte të fërguara

Qofte të fërguara

Albanian fried meatballs made from minced meat, herbs and spices. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Trileçe

Trileçe

A popular Albanian dessert made from three types of milk. It's a sweet treat often enjoyed in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Raki

A traditional Albanian alcoholic beverage made from distilled fermented fruit. It's a popular drink in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Pilaf

Pilaf

A traditional Albanian rice dish cooked in a seasoned broth. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Kadaif

Kadaif

A traditional Albanian dessert made with shredded filo pastry, nuts and syrup. It's a sweet treat often enjoyed in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Petulla

A traditional Albanian fried dough pastry. It's a popular snack in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Çaj Mali

A traditional Albanian herbal tea made from the leaves of the Sideritis plant. It's a popular drink in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Speca me Glizë

A traditional Albanian dish made with bell peppers stuffed with cheese and sour cream. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Boza

Boza

A traditional Albanian drink made from fermented grains. It's a popular non-alcoholic beverage in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Vjosa River National Park in Albania is from late spring to early autumn, specifically between May and October. During these months, the weather is typically warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and river rafting. The park is particularly beautiful in the spring when wildflowers are in bloom, and in the autumn when the leaves change color. However, it's important to note that the summer months (July and August) can be quite hot, so if you prefer milder temperatures, May, June, September, and October would be ideal.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year's Day (Day 2)

March 14

Thu

Summer Day

March 22

Fri

Nevruz Day

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Day off for Easter Sunday

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

May 1

Wed

International Worker’s Day

May 5

Sun

Easter Sunday (Orthodox)

May 6

Mon

Day off for Easter Sunday (Orthodox)

June 17

Mon

Feast of the Sacrifice

September 5

Thu

Mother Teresa Beatification Day

November 28

Thu

Flag and Independence Day

November 29

Fri

Liberation Day

December 8

Sun

National Youth Day

December 9

Mon

Day off for National Youth Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

The most convenient way to get around Vjosa River National Park is by car. The park is quite large and the attractions are spread out, so having a car will allow you to explore at your own pace. There are several car rental companies in nearby cities like Tirana and Saranda.

There are local buses that run from nearby cities to the park. However, the bus service is not very frequent and may not stop at all the attractions within the park. This option is best for those who are on a tight budget and have plenty of time.

For the more adventurous, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore the park. There are several trails suitable for biking, and it's a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery. However, keep in mind that some areas of the park are quite hilly and may require a good level of fitness.

Hiking is another popular way to get around Vjosa River National Park. There are numerous hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to challenging. This is a great way to experience the park's natural beauty up close.

Taxis are available from nearby cities to the park. This can be a convenient option if you don't want to drive or if you're planning a one-day visit. However, it can be more expensive than other options.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are not widely available in Albania. However, there are local ridesharing apps like MerrTaxi that you can use. This can be a convenient and affordable option, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Boating is a popular way to explore the Vjosa River within the park. There are several companies that offer boat tours, which can be a great way to see the park's wildlife and scenery from a different perspective.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyLek ALL

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 17; Fire: 18; Police: 19

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Vjosa River National Park, Albania as a first time visitor

1

Vjosa River National Park is located in southern Albania, near the Greek border.

2

The park is home to the Vjosa River, one of Europe's last wild rivers.

3

The park is relatively new, having been established in 2021.

4

The park covers an area of approximately 1,000 square kilometers.

5

The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and various species of birds.

6

The park is also home to a number of endemic and endangered species.

7

The park is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and fishing.

8

The park is also popular for water sports, including rafting and kayaking.

9

The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and October.

10

The park does not have any entrance fees, but some activities may require a fee.

11

There are no accommodations within the park, but there are a number of hotels and guesthouses in nearby towns.

12

There are no restaurants within the park, so it's recommended to bring your own food and water.

13

The park does not have any public transportation, so it's recommended to rent a car or hire a taxi.

14

The park is not wheelchair accessible due to its rugged terrain.

15

The park does not have any medical facilities, so it's recommended to bring a first aid kit.

16

The park is located in a remote area, so cell phone service may be limited.

17

The park does not have any ATMs, so it's recommended to bring cash.

18

The park is located in a Mediterranean climate zone, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C), while winter temperatures can drop to 32°F (0°C).

19

The park is home to a number of archaeological sites, including the ancient city of Byllis.

20

The park is committed to sustainable tourism, so visitors are asked to respect the environment and local communities.

Basic Albanian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Përshëndetje

Per-shen-det-ye

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Mirupafshim

Mee-roo-paf-shim

Leaving someone

Please

Ju lutem

Yoo loo-tem

Making a request

Thank you

Faleminderit

Fah-leh-meen-deh-reet

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Po

Poh

Agreeing with someone

No

Jo

Yoh

Disagreeing with someone

Excuse me

Më falni

Muh fal-nee

Getting someone's attention

I don't understand

Nuk kuptoj

Nook koopt-oy

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

A flisni anglisht?

Ah flees-nee ang-leesht?

Trying to find someone who speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Ku është banjo?

Koo esht-eh ban-yo?

Looking for a bathroom

How much does this cost?

Sa kushton kjo?

Sah kooshton kyo?

Asking for the price of something

I need help

Më duhet ndihmë

Muh doo-het ndeeh-muh

When you need assistance

Call the police

Thirrni policinë

Theer-nee polee-chee-neh

In case of an emergency

I am lost

Jam i humbur

Yam ee hoom-boor

When you can't find your way

Can I have the menu?

A mund të kem menunë?

Ah moon-duh kem meh-noo-neh?

At a restaurant

Water

Ujë

Oo-yeh

Ordering water

Food

Ushqim

Oosh-cheem

Talking about food

River

Lumë

Loo-meh

Talking about the river

Nature

Natyrë

Nah-tyr-eh

Talking about nature

Beautiful

E bukur

Eh boo-kur

Complimenting something

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Long-sleeve shirts

  • Pants/Shorts

  • Sweater or fleece jacket

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Swimsuit

  • Hiking boots or comfortable walking shoes

  • Sandals or flip-flops

  • Hat or cap

  • Sunglasses

  • Gloves

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit cards and cash

  • Emergency contact information

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards for camera

  • Headphones

  • Adapter plug

  • Flashlight or headlamp

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Notebook and pen

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Binoculars

  • Backpack or daypack

  • Travel laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes or wet items

Weather Conditions

Visiting the Vjosa River National Park in Albania can be a thrilling experience. However, the weather can greatly influence your visit, so it's important to plan accordingly. The park experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 86°F (30°C), perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and river rafting. However, it's advisable to wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related issues. In contrast, winter temperatures can drop to around 32°F (0°C), and the park can receive occasional snowfall. If you're planning a winter visit, pack warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures, usually ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 68°F (20°C). These seasons are ideal for exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna without the summer crowds or winter chill. Remember, the weather can change rapidly in mountainous areas, so it's always a good idea to pack layers and rain gear, regardless of the season. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast during your visit. Sudden storms can cause the river to rise rapidly, making certain activities unsafe. Enjoy your visit to the Vjosa River National Park, and remember to respect the natural environment.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

10° / -1°

January is the coldest month in Vjosa River National Park, with temperatures ranging from -1 to 10 degrees Celsius. It's a quiet time to visit, but be prepared for cold weather.

February

11° / 0°

February is still quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 0 to 11 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for those who enjoy peaceful, less crowded visits.

March

15° / 3°

March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 3 to 15 degrees Celsius. The park starts to come alive with the onset of spring.

April

20° / 7°

April is a pleasant month to visit with temperatures ranging from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius. The park is in full bloom and it's a great time for hiking and bird watching.

May

24° / 11°

May offers warm temperatures ranging from 11 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like rafting and fishing.

June

28° / 15°

June is the start of the summer season with temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. The park is bustling with activities and it's a popular time for tourists.

July

31° / 18°

July is the hottest month with temperatures ranging from 18 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for swimming and sunbathing, but it can get quite crowded.

August

31° / 18°

August is equally hot as July, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's a busy month, so book your accommodations in advance.

September

26° / 14°

September sees a decrease in temperature, ranging from 14 to 26 degrees Celsius. The park is less crowded and it's a great time for hiking and photography.

October

21° / 10°

October offers cooler temperatures ranging from 10 to 21 degrees Celsius. The autumn colors make the park especially beautiful during this month.

November

15° / 5°

November is a quiet month with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded conditions.

December

10° / 1°

December is a cold month with temperatures ranging from 1 to 10 degrees Celsius. It's a peaceful time to visit, but pack warm clothes.

Did you know?

Did you know that Vjosa River National Park in Albania is Europe's first wild river national park?

1 of 10

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