5-Day Adventure and Outdoor Activities at Vjosa River National Park

Vjosa River National Park, Albania

5 days

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

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Vjosa River National Park and White-Water Rafting

Morning

Start your adventure with a guided tour of the Vjosa River National Park. Learn about the unique ecosystem and biodiversity of the park, and enjoy the stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river. Sample traditional Albanian cuisine, including byrek (a savory pie) and fërgesë (a type of cheese and pepper dish).

Afternoon

Embark on a thrilling white-water rafting experience on the Vjosa River. The river's rapids are suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

Dinner

Have a relaxing dinner at a local eatery. Try some of the local seafood dishes, such as grilled trout or carp.

Evening

End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the river, enjoying the tranquility and the sound of the flowing water.

Morning

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

Lunch

Have a packed lunch at the peak of the Nemercka Mountains. Enjoy the panoramic views while you eat.

Afternoon

Descend from the mountains and visit the ancient city of Antigonea. Explore the archaeological site and learn about its rich history.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like qofte (meatballs) and tave kosi (baked lamb with rice).

Evening

Spend the evening stargazing. The clear skies of the Vjosa River National Park offer an excellent opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts.

Morning

Begin your day with a bird-watching tour. The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers.

Lunch

Enjoy a riverside lunch. Try local dishes like pite (a type of pie) and tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt).

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon fishing in the Vjosa River. The river is rich in different species of fish, providing a fun challenge for anglers.

Dinner

Have a relaxing dinner at a local eatery. Try some of the local seafood dishes, such as grilled trout or carp.

Evening

End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the river, enjoying the tranquility and the sound of the flowing water.

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour of the thermal baths of Benja. Learn about their history and enjoy a relaxing soak.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch by the thermal baths. Enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine, including byrek (a savory pie) and fërgesë (a type of cheese and pepper dish).

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Lengarica Canyon. The canyon offers stunning views and is a great spot for photography.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant. Try dishes like qofte (meatballs) and tave kosi (baked lamb with rice).

Evening

Spend the evening stargazing. The clear skies of the Vjosa River National Park offer an excellent opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts.

Morning

Begin your last day with a visit to the Blue Eye Spring. This natural phenomenon is a must-see, with its stunning blue water and surrounding greenery.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Blue Eye Spring. Sample traditional Albanian cuisine, including byrek (a savory pie) and fërgesë (a type of cheese and pepper dish).

Afternoon

Spend your last afternoon in the park with a leisurely boat ride on the Vjosa River. Take in the beautiful scenery one last time.

Dinner

Have your farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try some of the local seafood dishes, such as grilled trout or carp.

Evening

End your adventure with a peaceful evening walk along the river, enjoying the tranquility and the sound of the flowing water.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Vjosa River National Park

1
Vjosa River National Park

A national park that is home to a variety of flora and fauna, offering stunning views of the Vjosa River.

Parks
Cultural Experiences
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
Antigonea

3
Antigonea

Antigonea was an ancient Greek city in Epirus, located near the modern village of Saraqinishtë. It was founded in the 3rd century BC by Pyrrhus of Epirus, who named it after his wife Antigone. Today, it's a popular archaeological site with ruins of ancient walls, buildings, and streets.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Landmarks
Lengarica Canyon

4
Lengarica Canyon

Lengarica Canyon, located in the Vjosa River National Park, is a natural wonder that offers stunning views and hiking opportunities. The canyon's unique geological formations make it a must-visit attraction.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Blue Eye Spring

5
Blue Eye Spring

Blue Eye Spring, located in the Vjosa River National Park, is a natural phenomenon known for its stunning turquoise waters. The spring's crystal-clear waters and unique color make it a must-visit attraction.

Attractions
Landmarks
Benja Thermal Baths

6
Benja Thermal Baths

Benja Thermal Baths are a natural hot spring located near the Vjosa River. The thermal waters are known for their healing properties, and the surrounding area offers stunning views of the river and mountains.

Attractions
Parks
Cultural Experiences
Bird-Watching in Vjosa River National Park

7
Bird-Watching in Vjosa River National Park

Join a bird-watching tour in Vjosa River National Park. The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird lovers.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Boat Ride on Vjosa River

8
Boat Ride on Vjosa River

A boat ride on Vjosa River is a popular activity for visitors to the Vjosa River National Park. The ride offers a unique way to explore the park's stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Attractions
Tours
Fishing in Vjosa River

9
Fishing in Vjosa River

Fishing in Vjosa River is a popular activity for locals and tourists alike. The river is home to a variety of fish species, making it a great spot for both novice and experienced anglers.

Attractions
Sports
Tours
White-Water Rafting on Vjosa River

10
White-Water Rafting on Vjosa River

An adrenaline-pumping activity that allows visitors to navigate the rapids of the Vjosa River.

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

  • 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.

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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