Applications Open for Training and Certification of Rafting Guides 2026
Special Specialty: Rafting | Year 2026
The Albanian Rafting Federation (ARF) officially announces the opening of applications for the Training and Certification Program for Tourist Guides in the Special Specialty: Rafting, for the 2026 season.
This nationally and internationally recognized qualification program is designed to train, certify, and professionally develop the next generation of rafting guides, ensuring the highest standards of safety, environmental responsibility, technical competence, and guiding excellence in Albania’s rivers and protected natural areas.
Training Schedule & Applications
- Training start date: Saturday, 21 March 2026
- Place:Permet,Vjosa River
- Application deadline: Up to one day before the start of the training program
Interested candidates are invited to submit their application via email to:
📧 info@fshr.al
Each application must include:
- A formal request for participation
- The foreign language(s) spoken
- A copy of a valid identification document (ID)
After submitting the application, candidates will be contacted by the Federation’s staff with detailed information regarding:
- Admission confirmation
- Training structure and calendar
Program content and requirements
Legal Framework & Accreditation
The training and certification program is conducted in full compliance with the legal and institutional framework of the Republic of Albania, including:
- Article 102, Point 4 of the Constitution of the Republic of Albania
- Article 68, Point 2 of Law No. 93/2015 “On Tourism”, as amended
- Order No. 258, dated 15.07.2024
“On the approval of the regulation on qualification programs for tourist guides and the procedure for their accreditation”
The program represents the reaccreditation of the tourist guide qualification program, under the category Special Specialty: Rafting, Canyoning and Climbing, officially offered by the Albanian Rafting Federation.
This accreditation is issued under the regulation:
“On the accreditation of tourist guide qualification programs and the approval of minimum program credits for continuing professional education.”
Certification Authority
The Albanian Rafting Federation is the only authorized entity in Albania that certifies professional guides in the following adventure tourism specialties:
- Rafting
- Kayaking & Canoeing
- Hydrospeed
- Canyoning
- Climbing
All certifications are issued according to international rafting and adventure tourism standards, aligned with best practices applied across Europe and globally.
Training Structure & Methodology
The training program combines:
- Theoretical education
- Practical river-based training
- Safety and rescue techniques
- Environmental protection principles
- Leadership and guiding ethics
Training sessions are delivered by certified guides and instructors from:
- The Albanian Rafting Federation
- The International Rafting Federation (IRF)
This ensures a high-level professional education, combining local expertise with international experience.
Organizing Body
Organizer: Albanian Rafting Federation
Instructors
Zamo Spathara
President – Albanian Rafting Federation
Zamo Spathara is the pioneer of rafting in Albania and the leading figure in the development of rafting and adventure tourism in the country. He has dedicated his life to:
- Exploring Albanian rivers
- Establishing safety and training standards
- Promoting Albania as an international adventure tourism destination
As President of the Albanian Rafting Federation, he has played a fundamental role in building the professional framework for rafting, guide certification, and sustainable river tourism nationwide.
Andrea Gatti
International Instructor | Vice President – Italian Rafting Federation
Andrea Gatti has been active since 1999 as a trainer of rafting instructors. Since 2016, he serves as Vice President of the Italian Rafting Federation, affiliated with the Italian National Olympic Committee.
In July 2018, he directed the World Rafting Championships U23 & U19. His international experience includes organizing and participating in expeditions across some of the world’s most challenging rivers, including:
Nepal, Mongolia, Kamchatka, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Siberia, Dagestan, Mexico, Ecuador, Iran, Lebanon, French Guiana, India, Peru, and Morocco.
Since 1993, Andrea Gatti has explored and mapped all major river itineraries in Albania, and in April 2014 served as an external expert for the professional training of Albanian rafting technicians at the Albanian Rafting Federation.
Roy Gergely Környei
International Kayak & Rafting Instructor
Roy Gergely Környei is a former competitive athlete who grew up in kayaking and has followed the path of water throughout his life. He brings over 30 years of experience in:
- Flatwater kayaking
- Sea kayaking
- Whitewater kayaking
- Canoeing
- Rafting as a guide and guide instructor
His professional journey includes guiding and training on iconic rivers, including the Mighty Zambezi. Safety, professionalism, and creating unforgettable experiences for both guides and clients remain the core values of his work.
Join the Future of Professional Rafting in Albania
This program represents a unique opportunity to become part of a certified, professional, and internationally connected rafting community, contributing to the sustainable development of adventure tourism and the protection of Albania’s rivers.
For further information, applications, or clarification, please contact:
📧 info@fshr.al
