About This Tour
The 7 Day Vjosa River Kayak Expedition is a journey into one of the last truly wild landscapes in Europe. From the moment your paddle touches the water, the modern world begins to fade. The Vjosa River flows freely, untouched by dams, carving its way through wide valleys, gravel islands, and dramatic mountain backdrops that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Each day on the river unfolds at its own rhythm. You glide through calm, meandering stretches where the water reflects the sky, then feel the quiet excitement of gentle rapids that remind you this river is alive and powerful. This is not about rushing downstream, but about moving with the current, observing, listening, and becoming part of the landscape.
As evening approaches, the expedition slows even further. Camps are set along the riverbanks, surrounded by forests and open skies. Nights are spent outdoors, sharing stories around the fire, enjoying meals prepared together, and falling asleep to the sound of flowing water. Whether under the stars in the warmer months or sheltered in comfortable tents when conditions call for it, camping along the Vjosa is an essential part of the experience.
The 7 Day Vjosa River Kayak Expedition is designed as a true multi-day adventure, blending exploration with comfort. Using stable, high-quality NRS canoes, you’ll travel deep into the heart of the river. Overnight camps are supported by 4x4 access when needed, allowing for fresh supplies, thoughtful logistics, and well-prepared campfire meals that turn each evening into a moment to slow down and reconnect.
The character of the expedition changes subtly with the seasons. From May to June, nights are often spent under open skies, while July through October offers dry, settled weather ideal for uninterrupted days on the water. Throughout the journey, experienced guides accompany the group, ensuring safety, smooth navigation, and a deep understanding of the river’s moods. A small support raft travels alongside, carrying essential equipment and providing flexibility throughout the route.
Beyond Tepelenë, the Vjosa reveals its diversity, long peaceful sections broken by playful WWI rapids that add just enough challenge to keep the journey engaging. Depending on the chosen route, the expedition can focus entirely on the Vjosa or include additional days exploring nearby rivers such as the Bënçë or the Drinos, expanding the adventure even further.
The 7 Day Vjosa River Kayak Expedition is not just a kayaking trip. It’s an immersion into wild nature, slow travel, and one of Europe’s most precious rivers, experienced day by day, bend by bend, exactly as it has flowed for generations.
Packing well makes the difference between simply getting through the days and truly enjoying life on the river. The goal is to stay light, dry, and comfortable, with essentials always within reach.
Day Access / Deck Bag
(Items you’ll want easy access to while kayaking)
Camera or phone with spare batteries or power bank, stored in a waterproof case
Water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day
Sunscreen and lip balm for sun and wind protection
Small personal first-aid kit (band-aids, blister care, pain relief if needed)
Waterproof headlamp for evenings, early mornings, or emergencies
Compact towel for quick drying
Hand sanitizer
Synthetic underwear and swimwear, quick-drying and comfortable
Light long-sleeve top for sun protection or cooler moments
T-shirt for warmer conditions
Water shoes with good grip
Synthetic socks, fast-drying and breathable
Gloves for paddling comfort and equipment handling
Hat and sunglasses with UV protection
Camp Clothes
(For evenings and downtime at camp)
Comfortable camp shirts
Sandals or camp shoes to rest your feet
Long and short socks for changing conditions
Lightweight zip or trekking pants
Rain jacket, waterproof and breathable
Smart Packing Tips
Choose quick-drying, moisture-wicking fabrics whenever possible
Layering works better than heavy clothing
Keep electronics and documents in a dry bag
Bring personal toiletries, insect repellent, and any prescription medication
Pack light and compact, everything you carry matters over multiple days
This expedition is about freedom, flow, and simplicity. Pack thoughtfully, trust the process, and you’ll be able to focus on what really matters, paddling wild water, sleeping under open skies, and experiencing the river day by day.
A Journey Down Europe’s Last Wild River
Multi-Day Kayaking & Camping on the Vjosa
This expedition follows the natural rhythm of the Vjosa River, moving slowly downstream through open valleys, quiet villages, deep gorges, and untouched landscapes. Days are spent paddling, evenings by the river, and nights under the stars or in carefully chosen accommodation. It’s a journey shaped by water, time, and space.
Day 1 – Arrival in Përmet
Your journey begins in the welcoming town of Përmet. After arrival, you’ll check in at our eco-friendly riverside glamping site, where the Albania Rafting Group team and support crew will welcome you.
The afternoon is dedicated to orientation: meeting the guides, reviewing the route, and preparing equipment for the days ahead. Later, enjoy a guided walk through Përmet, followed by a traditional Albanian dinner to ease into the expedition.
Airport transfers to Përmet can be arranged upon request.
Day 2 – Greek Border to Kaludh Village (≈18 km)
After breakfast, a transfer takes you to the Greek border, where the river journey truly begins. You’ll launch onto one of the most pristine stretches of the Vjosa, paddling through wide channels and peaceful scenery.
A picnic lunch is enjoyed along the river before continuing toward Kaludh village. In the evening, the support team prepares camp, and dinner is served by the riverside as the day winds down.
Day 3 – Kaludh to Përmet (≈17 km)
Wake up to the sound of the river and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast at camp. Today’s paddle takes you through one of the Vjosa’s most scenic sections, blending calm water with gentle movement.
Arrival back near Përmet brings another night of riverside camping, offering time to relax, swim, and enjoy the slower pace of life on the river.
Day 4 – Përmet to Gryka e Këlcyrës (≈23 km)
This day carries you deeper into the landscape as you paddle downstream toward the dramatic Këlcyrë Gorge. Passing through open valleys and narrowing canyon walls, the river reveals a more powerful character.
Camp is set along the riverbanks near the gorge, with dinner served outdoors beneath the evening sky.
Day 5 – Peshtan to Qesarat (≈17 km) & Thermal Baths
The final stretch of the Vjosa kayaking journey flows from Peshtan village to Qesarat. After completing the river section, you’ll be picked up and transferred back to the glamping site in Përmet.
In the afternoon, unwind at the Benja Thermal Baths, soaking in warm mineral waters beneath stone bridges and canyon walls. The day ends with dinner at one of the region’s finest local restaurants.
Day 6 – Osumi Canyon Packrafting & Transfer to Berat
After an early breakfast, a 4x4 transfer takes you to the spectacular Osumi Canyons. Here, the journey continues with a packrafting adventure through narrow gorges and dramatic rock formations, covering approximately 9–12 km depending on conditions.
Following a picnic lunch, you’ll travel onward to the UNESCO-listed city of Berat. After hotel check-in, enjoy dinner in the historic old town.
Day 7 – Berat Exploration & Departure
After breakfast, explore Berat with a guided visit to the castle and the historic neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. Cobblestone streets, white stone houses, and layered history bring the journey to a thoughtful close.
Departure follows, with airport transfers available upon request (not included).
Night 1 – Përmet
Eco-friendly riverside glamping in Përmet (Albania Rafting Group base)
Night 2 – Vjosa River (Kaludh area)
Riverside camping along the Vjosa River
Night 3 – Vjosa River (near Përmet)
Riverside camping near Përmet
Night 4 – Vjosa River (Gryka e Këlcyrës / Peshat area)
Riverside camping along the riverbanks
Night 5 – Përmet
Return to riverside glamping in Përmet
(Evening includes thermal baths visit and dinner in a local restaurant)
Night 6 – Berat
Hotel accommodation in Berat, located in or near the historic old town
In total:
2 nights glamping in Përmet
3 nights riverside camping along the Vjosa River
1 night hotel in Berat
Albania Rafting Group supplies all essential equipment and logistics needed for a safe, comfortable, and well-supported multi-day river journey. The focus is on keeping you light, prepared, and free to enjoy the experience.
Kayaking & Safety Equipment
Self-bailing NRS inflatable canoe
Wetsuit (when required)
Life jacket
Helmet
Professional kayaking guide
4x4 support vehicle with driver
Spare paddle
Tow belt
Pump
Whistle
Pocket knife
Repair kit (duct tape, cables, shackles for rudder repairs)
On-River & Deck Support
First-aid kit
Camera with batteries and memory cards
Lunches and dinners during the expedition
Food packed securely in dry bags
Camping Equipment & Camp Setup
Tent
Sleeping pad and sleeping bag
Compact gas stove
Cookware (pots, pans, pails)
Bowls and dining utensils
Kitchen knife
Dish towel
Salt and pepper
Fire-starting equipment (lighters and waterproof matches)
Water jugs
Trash and ziplock bags for waste and wet clothing
Insect repellent and insect net
Flashlight with spare batteries
Soap for hygiene and cleaning
Logistics & Comfort
Assorted dry bags and storage bags to keep equipment organized and protected
Camp setup and breakdown handled by the support team
Albania Rafting Group ensures a fully supported expedition, combining professional guiding, reliable equipment, and thoughtful camp logistics. Everything is designed to let you focus on the river, the landscapes, and the experience itself, without worrying about the details.
Airport transfers: Transportation from Tirana Airport to Përmet is not included in the package price. This service can be arranged upon request for an additional fee.
Additional visits and excursions: Guided visits to nearby villages, natural sites, or cultural landmarks in the Vjosa region are not included. Optional excursions can be organized in advance for guests who wish to explore more of the area.
These services are available upon request and priced separately, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.
Our guests always come first. Each trip is carefully planned and smoothly organized, while still allowing flexibility to adapt to your needs and schedule whenever possible. Creating the best possible experience is central to everything we do.
Occasionally, adjustments may be necessary due to weather conditions or availability, and any changes are made with your safety and comfort in mind. If you have specific requests, please let us know in advance and complete the form below so we can plan accordingly.
This experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, but participants should feel comfortable with light to moderate physical activity in an outdoor environment.
For safety reasons, the activity may not be suitable for guests with serious heart, breathing, neurological, vision, or significant mobility conditions, or during pregnancy. Participation is also not permitted under the influence of alcohol, recreational substances, or medication that could affect balance, awareness, or reaction time.
If you’re unsure whether this activity is right for you, we’re always happy to answer questions in advance and help you decide.
Please keep all personal belongings packed in one backpack, so they can be easily transported during the trip.
