Rafting, Kayak & Hiking in Albania

More than 3 days of kayaking to breathtaking beaches, snorkelling in crystal clear waters, and adrenaline filled rides on the Vjosa River, the last wild river in Europe, and hiking plus excursions through the historic cities and villages of Albania.

This adventure includes: Rafting on the Vjosa River, guided excursions, kayaking and snorkelling, guided cultural tours, 2 nights stay, rafting equipment, kayaking, meals during the trip, certified, professional, English/Italian speaking local guides, all transfers in Albania including pick-up from Saranda port, all taxes, travel related insurance and lisences

Perfect for: Those who are looking to explore this emerging hot spot and help support the growing tourism industry

What to expect:

Day 1: Kayak from Butrint to Ali Pasha Castle At 9.45am you will be welcomed by your hosts in Saranda port. The action begins as you sail along the Ionian coast, from the Butrint amphitheater to the historic Ali Pasha Castle. In between visiting these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, you will be in awe of the magnificent views along the way. After lunch, you will be driven to Lukove (1.5 hours by car), a small traditional village with breathtaking beaches and characteristically clear waters. When you arrive, you’ll embark on a relatively easy hike to one of the most beautiful beaches in this area, Krorez Bay. In the afternoon, it’s time to see what this unexplored bay has to offer; get closer to those crystal clear waters and take a swim among its inhabitants. Don’t forget your snorkel and underwater camera. Returning to Saranda for the evening, you will stop at Porto Palermo castle if weather permits; a historic site with a history almost as romantic as the views you saw on your hike today. 1 hour kayaking, 3 hours trekking, 1 hour swimming, 3 hours driving

Day 2: Rafting on the Vjosa RiverAfter breakfast, the minibus will pick you up and take you to the small town of Permet (3 hours drive). After lunch, an adrenaline-filled afternoon awaits you as you raft on the Vjosa River, one of the last free-flowing rivers in Europe. Its entire 270 km route is wild and adorned with beautiful canyons, sections of braided rivers, islands and barns. The Vjosa River is a class III rafting course. Be prepared for waves up to 1 meter high and narrow passages that make the boat shake and water gush over the sides. To cool off in the evening, you will visit the Benja Baths and walk to the Lengarica Canyon where you can relax and enjoy a swim in their natural waters. Then you will go to a local homestay for the evening in Permet, where you will enjoy a barbecue of local food to the sound of traditional music. 2.5 hours of rafting, 3 hours of trekking and swimming, 3 hours of driving.

Day 3: Excursion to the historical sites of Gjirokaster In the morning you will be picked up from the hotel and taken to the beautiful city of Gjirokastra. Hiking around this ancient city there are plenty of stops that are sure to satisfy your appetite for history; including Antigonea archaeological park, Saraqinisht village and Spille monastery. After lunch, it’s time to say goodbye as you return to the port for the onward journey to Corfu Airport. You can decide whether you will spend your last hours on the beach in Saranda or Corfu before returning home. Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Meet your hosts and let them explain their vision.

Accommodation:

You will spend your first night in a comfortable double room at the Star Hotel in Saranda. All rooms come with air conditioning, a TV and a seating area. The hotel also offers free WiFi. On your second night, you will stay with a homestay in Peshtan where you can exchange stories with local residents. Location See the map Saranda is a city on the Albanian coast, in the south of Albania.

Squeezed between the Ionian Sea and hills of olive trees, the city is lined with beaches and a promenade. Nearby, Butrint is an ancient city, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Vjosa River has a special and crucial place in the daily lives of the people who live along its banks. Many small businesses and new emerging ecotourism companies have based their existence on the open waters of the Vjosa.

Furthermore, the Vjosa and its crystal clear waters have had an impact on the hearts of Albanians and their cultural values. Newborn girls often give her the name Vjosa, as the name represents the beauty of the river. The more tourists visit, the more support we are able to provide to the local community to protect the last wild river in Europe.

Start point? You will be welcomed by your guide on Friday at 9.45am at the port of Saranda, which corresponds to the arrival time of the ferry coming from Corfu. Your host suggests booking one of the many flights to Corfu on Thursday to catch the 9am ferry to Saranda.

Ending point? You will return to the port for the ferry departing at 4pm.

Come and go? There are direct flights from Italy to Corfu airport by several airlines. Choose the flight that best suits you (the cheapest flights always with Ryanair). Your host will contact you before you leave to check your arrival and departure plans. For greater financial protection against unforeseen circumstances, we recommend booking your flights using a credit card.

Price: 350 Eur/person

Want to make a booking? Send us a message:

WhatsApp: +355 67 200 66 23

Email: castlepark_2003@yahoo.it