5-Day Adventure in Albania's Hidden Gem: Vjosa River National Park
Vjosa River National Park, Albania
5 days
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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Bird-Watching and Hiking in Vjosa River National Park
Morning
Wake up early for a Guided bird-watching tour. The Vjosa River is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the rare and endangered Dalmatian Pelican.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the national park. Sample local cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal fruits.
Afternoon
Embark on a Guided Hike through the park, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves and brown bears.
Dinner
Return to your campsite for a hearty dinner. Enjoy traditional Albanian dishes, such as tave kosi and qofte.
Evening
Relax by the campfire, reflecting on the day's adventures. Listen to the sounds of the river and the nocturnal wildlife.
Day 3
Kayaking Adventure on the Vjosa River
Morning
Start your day with a Guided kayak tour of the Vjosa River. Experience the tranquility of the river in the early morning.
Lunch
Enjoy a riverside lunch, featuring traditional Albanian dishes such as byrek and fergese.
Afternoon
Continue your kayak tour, exploring the river's diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and otters.
Dinner
Return to your campsite for a Traditional Albanian barbecue. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the river at dusk.
Evening
Spend the evening around the campfire, sharing stories and stargazing. Listen to the sounds of the river and the nocturnal wildlife.
Day 4
Exploring the Flora and Fauna of Vjosa River National Park
Morning
Wake up early for a Guided Hike through the national park. Explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, including its unique butterfly species.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the national park. Sample local cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal fruits.
Afternoon
Continue your hike, exploring the park's diverse ecosystems. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including wolves and brown bears.
Dinner
Return to your campsite for a hearty dinner. Enjoy traditional Albanian dishes, such as tave kosi and qofte.
Evening
Relax by the campfire, reflecting on the day's adventures. Listen to the sounds of the river and the nocturnal wildlife.
Day 5
Final Day of Bird-Watching and Relaxation by the Vjosa River
Morning
Start your final day with a Guided bird-watching tour. The Vjosa River is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the rare and endangered Dalmatian Pelican.
Lunch
Enjoy a riverside lunch, featuring traditional Albanian dishes such as byrek and fergese.
Afternoon
Spend your final afternoon relaxing by the river, reflecting on your adventures. Take a final swim in the river or simply enjoy the serene river views.
Dinner
Enjoy a farewell dinner at your campsite, featuring traditional Albanian dishes. Reflect on your adventures and share your favorite moments.
Evening
Spend your final evening around the campfire, sharing stories and stargazing. Listen to the sounds of the river and the nocturnal wildlife.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Guided rafting trip
Embark on a guided rafting trip on the Vjosa River, one of Europe's last wild rivers. This tour offers an adrenaline-pumping experience as you navigate the river's rapids under the guidance of experienced instructors.
2Traditional Albanian Cuisine
Savor the flavors of traditional Albanian cuisine. Experience the rich culinary heritage of Albania with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
3Traditional Albanian barbecue
Experience the flavors of Albania with a traditional barbecue in the Vjosa River National Park. This culinary experience offers a taste of local cuisine in a stunning natural setting.
4Guided bird-watching tour
Join a guided bird-watching tour to spot and learn about the many species of birds that inhabit Vjosa River National Park.
5Guided Hike
Explore the stunning landscapes of Vjosa River National Park on a guided hike. This tour includes a professional guide who will share interesting facts about the flora and fauna of the park.
6Guided kayak tour
Take a guided kayak tour on the Vjosa River and explore the natural beauty of one of Europe's last wild rivers. This tour is suitable for all skill levels and offers a unique way to experience the Vjosa River National Park.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
Albanian fried meatballs made from minced meat, herbs and spices. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.
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
A traditional Albanian rice dish cooked in a seasoned broth. It's a common dish in the region surrounding Vjosa River National Park.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Car
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.
Bus
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.
Bicycle
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
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.
Taxi
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
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.
Boat
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.
Important information
CurrencyLek ALL
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 17; Fire: 18; Police: 19
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
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
Swimwear
Hiking boots
Sandals or flip-flops
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Gloves
Scarf
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer
Towels
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Visa documents
Travel insurance documents
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmations
Maps and guidebooks
Emergency contacts and addresses
Cash and credit cards
Travel pillow and eye mask
Electronics and gadgets
Mobile phone and charger
Camera and charger
Memory cards
Portable power bank
Headphones
Travel adapter
Flashlight
Miscellaneous items
Snacks and water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel games
Notebook and pen
Binoculars
Swiss army knife
Plastic bags for trash
Reusable shopping bag
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
Places near by Vjosa River National Park, Albania
Butrint National Park
An archaeological site and national park, home to many ancient ruins.
Gjirokastër Castle
A well-preserved medieval fortress with a museum inside.
Blue Eye Spring
A natural water spring known for its clear blue water.
Syri i Kalter
A beautiful natural spring with crystal clear, cold water.
Llogara National Park
A national park known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Berat Castle
A large fortress overlooking the town of Berat, with many Byzantine-era churches.
Apollonia Archaeological Park
An archaeological site with ruins from the ancient city of Apollonia.
Porto Palermo Castle
A castle located on a small peninsula in the bay of Porto Palermo.
Ksamil Islands
A group of four small islands located in the Ionian Sea.
Rozafa Castle
A castle offering panoramic views of Shkodër and the Buna and Drin rivers.
