Albania: The Ultimate Adventure Experience

What to Pack for Your Adventure

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey, please prepare the following essentials. Packing smart will help you move easily between activities and locations.

Luggage

• Soft duffel bag or medium suitcase (recommended weight up to 20 kg)
• Small day backpack (20–30 litres)
• Waterproof cover or dry liner for your backpack

Clothing & Footwear

• Lightweight fleece or warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings
• Waterproof jacket
• Comfortable trousers, shorts, or skirts suitable for outdoor activities
• Breathable T-shirts
• Underwear and socks
• Swimwear
• Sunglasses and sun hat
• Sleepwear
• Well-broken-in hiking shoes or boots
• Sandals or flip-flops for relaxation

Travel Essentials & Personal Items

• Universal plug adapter
• Power bank or solar charger
• Passport and any required visas
• Travel insurance documentation
• Earplugs
• Insect repellent
• High-SPF sunscreen
• Personal first-aid kit (including blister care)
• Biodegradable toiletries and personal hygiene items
• Quick-drying travel towel
• Hand sanitiser
• Reusable water bottle (minimum capacity: 1.5 litres)
• Energy snacks or bars for active days
• Water purification tablets or a portable filtration system

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration of Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows

Upon arrival in Albania, our friendly guide will meet you at the airport for a scenic drive to Berat, one of the country’s most picturesque and historically rich cities. Rolling hills, lush valleys, and quaint villages set the stage for an immersive journey into Albanian culture.

Berat, known as the “City of One Over One Windows,” has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. Its white-washed Ottoman houses, cobbled streets, and Byzantine churches create a timeless atmosphere. Begin your exploration at Berat Castle, a fortress still inhabited by locals, offering panoramic views of the city and Osum River. Stroll through Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, capturing stunning photographs as the sun casts a golden glow over the hills.

The day concludes with an exclusive dinner at the Castle Park Hotel restaurant, where local ingredients meet traditional flavors in a slow-food dining experience.

Overnight: Berat, Hotel Castle Park
Meals: Dinner included
Drive: 1 h 45 min

Day 2: E-Bike & Wine Tasting in Rroshnik Village

Start the day with an e-bike ride through the green hills surrounding Berat. The 16 km route winds past olive groves, vineyards, and fig trees toward the sacred Mount Tomorr. Upon arrival in Rroshnik Village, take a walking tour of the vineyards, famous for producing Albanian wine and raki.

Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local delicacies paired with the fine wines of Alpeta Winery. This moderate activity day is perfect for travelers who want a combination of gentle exercise and authentic cultural immersion.

Activity Level: Moderate
Distance: 16 km
Duration: 2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 212 m
Overnight: Berat
Meals: Lunch included

Day 3: Llogara National Park & Hike to Qorre Peak

Travel from Berat to the breathtaking Llogara National Park, a mountainous region overlooking the Albanian Riviera. Hike approximately 15 km along the scenic Qafa e Llogarasë – Maja e Thanasit – Maja e Gjipalit – Qafa e Thellë – Llogara trail. This ring-shaped route offers spectacular views of the Ionian Sea, Qorre and Çika peaks, and the lush forest that feels like a hidden jungle.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amid alpine meadows and fresh mountain air before returning to your accommodation.

Hike Duration: 6–7 hours
Distance: 15 km
Elevation Gain/Descent: 624 m
Drive Time: 2 hours
Accommodation: Te Dreri
Meals: Dinner not included

Day 4: Hiking & Exploring Qeparo – Coastal Beauty

Drive 1.2 hours along the stunning Albanian Riviera to reach Qeparo, a village where time seems to stand still. Hike from Kudhës to the ancient settlement of Qeparo, known for its hilltop castle. Interact with locals and discover centuries-old traditions as you explore stone alleyways.

Lunch features fresh fish and homemade specialties, highlighting local flavors.

Drive: 70 km
Hike Distance: 7.5 km
Duration: 3 hours
Elevation Gain/Descent: 375 m
Overnight: Hotel Riviera, Qeparo
Meals: Lunch included

Day 5: Kayaking at Porto Palermo Castle

Begin the day with a kayaking adventure from Qeparo to Porto Palermo Castle. Built in the 19th century and influenced by Ottoman and Venetian architecture, the castle is a stunning landmark surrounded by greenery. Paddle through calm waters while soaking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.

Lunch will be served at a local restaurant near the castle.

Kayak Distance: 8 km
Overnight: Hotel Riviera
Meals: Lunch included

Day 6: Nivica Canyon & Vjosa River Kayaking

Today’s adventure begins with a scenic drive to Nivica Canyon, Albania’s dramatic natural wonder. Take a light hike along the canyon rim, witnessing waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and wild herbs. Stop at the stunning Peshturës Waterfall, a hidden gem perfect for photos and relaxation.

Afterward, enjoy a traditional homemade lunch in Peshtan Village before embarking on a thrilling Class 2–3 kayaking experience through the Vjosa River’s Këlcyrë Gorge, Europe’s last wild river. Paddle past hidden waterfalls, dense forests, and the unique “Uji i Zi” underground spring.

Drive: 80 km / 1.5 h
Kayak: 2 hours (plus 45 min preparation)
Overnight: Glamping Safari Tent, Vjosa River
Meals: Dinner included

Day 7: E-Biking to Bënja Thermal Springs & Cooking Class

Cycle through the picturesque Përmet countryside on electric bikes, passing vineyards and traditional villages. Visit the Bënja Thermal Springs, a geothermal oasis rich in minerals known for its healing properties.

In the afternoon, join a hands-on cooking class in Qilarisht Village, learning to prepare traditional Albanian dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Cycling Distance: 34 km
Overnight: Glamping Safari Tent
Meals: Dinner not included

Day 8: Rafting Adventure on Vjosa River & Tirana

Experience the untamed Vjosa River on a 10 km Class 3 rafting adventure. Navigate stunning canyons, oxbows, and islands while enjoying the pristine Albanian wilderness. After rafting, drive 3 hours to Tirana, the vibrant Albanian capital.  With its vibrant streets, colourful buildings and buzzing atmosphere, you’ll have some free time to explore the city centre before coming together for an optional farewell dinner. Raise a glass and celebrate the end of your unforgettable adventure through Albania!

Rafting Duration: 2 hours (plus 1.5 hours preparation)
Drive: 3 hours
Overnight:  Hotel, Tirana
Meals: Lunch included

Day 9: Departure from Tirana

After breakfast, transfer to Tirana Airport for your departure.

Drive: 25 min

Day 1 ,Berat

Hotel · Twin share

Dinner incuded 

Day 2 Berat

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast and Lunch Included 

Day 3 Vlora,Llogara National Park

Mountain Retreat  · Twin share

Breakfast and Lunch Included 

Day 4 – Day 5 Qeparo 

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast &Lunch included 

Day 6 Permet 

Glamping · Twin tent

Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner included

Day 7

Glamping · Twin tent

Breakfast

Lunch

Day 8 Tirana 

Hotel · Twin share

Breakfast & Lunch 

Day 9 

Breakfast included

Food & Dining Experience in Albania

Albanian cuisine reflects the country’s rich landscapes and traditions, offering a comforting yet flavourful mix of rustic and Mediterranean influences. Meals are prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, including locally raised meats, garden vegetables, and regional produce.

Traditional specialities include përshesh, a hearty dish made with slow-cooked turkey, lamb, or goat served with pieces of homemade bread (kulac). Another much-loved dish is byrek, a thin, flaky pastry filled with ingredients such as meat, leeks, or seasonal greens. Along the coast and rivers, freshly caught fish is prepared simply and elegantly, enhanced with olive oil and white vinegar produced in southern Albania.

Throughout the journey, guests are invited to experience Albania’s culinary culture through a selection of included meals. Highlights include a farm-to-table lunch with wine tasting at a local winery, a traditional cooking experience in a family home, and scenic picnic lunches made with regional products. Most evening meals are not included, allowing you the freedom to explore local restaurants and choose dining options that suit your taste and budget.

Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary requirements can be accommodated where possible. As availability may be limited in some areas, we kindly ask guests to inform us of any dietary needs or allergies in advance via the passenger information form.

Trip Overview & Transfers

Start:
Tirana International Airport (TIA)
Day 1 – Arrival by 13:00

End:
Tirana International Airport (TIA)
Day 9 – Departure at any time

Arrival & Transfers – Day 1

On the first day of your adventure, complimentary group transfers are available from Tirana International Airport or Tirana Rinas Bus Station for guests already in the city. To join the scheduled group transfer to Berat, please ensure your flight lands no later than 13:00.

The group transfer typically departs in the early afternoon, once all morning arrivals have landed. Final pickup details will be shared by your local host prior to departure.

If you arrive later in the day, a private transfer to Berat can be arranged upon request for an additional fee (see Optional Extras).

Departure & Transfers – Day 9

On the final day, guests may book flights at any time. A single group transfer to Tirana International Airport is scheduled for approximately 09:30, with arrival at the airport around 10:00, suitable for flights departing from midday onwards.

For early-morning or late-evening departures, you may arrange:

• A private transfer through your host (Optional Extras), or
• The Rinas Express Airport Shuttle, operating daily from 06:00 to 24:00, with hourly departures and a journey time of around 30 minutes.

Extended Stay Options

If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay after the tour, your host will be happy to assist with additional accommodation in Tirana. Please refer to the Optional Extras section for details.

Getting to Albania

Tirana is well connected with frequent direct flights from major European and UK cities. Travelers from the United States or Canada can easily reach Tirana via one-stop connections through hubs such as Munich, Frankfurt, Zurich, or Amsterdam.

Itinerary Activities

• Guided e-bike ride to Roshnik
• A wine tasting at a renowned local winery
• Guided hike to Bogdan
• Guided hike in Llogara National Park
• Guided hike to Queparo
• Guided sea kayaking to Porto Palermo
• Visit the Peshture Waterfall and Nivica Canyons
• Guided kayaking on the Vjosa River
• Guided e-bike ride to Benja thermal baths
• Guided Rafting through the Vjosa River National Park

Guides

• Local, expert, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

• 5 nights in locally-run hotels
• 1 night in a unique mountain retreat
• 2 nights glamping in safari tents

Meals

• All (8) hearty breakfasts
• 7 tasty lunches, including a farm-to-table experience and a cooking demonstration
• 2 delicious local dinners

Transfers

• Group arrival transfer from Tirana Airport on Day 1
• Group departure transfer to Tirana Airport on Day 9
• All transfers during the trip by private vehicle

Equipment

• All kayaking equipment
• All rafting equipment
• E-bikes and helmets

Hassle-Free Adventure
Our journeys are designed to be seamless and stress-free. All activities and necessary equipment are included, along with several meals, allowing you to focus fully on the experience. Simply arrive with your backpack and enjoy the adventure alongside like-minded travellers.

Getting There & Back

International and domestic travel to the trip’s starting point, as well as onward travel from the final destination, are not included. Guests are responsible for arranging flights, trains, or other transport before and after the tour.

Meals Not Included

Six evening meals are intentionally excluded to give you the freedom to explore local restaurants and choose dishes that suit your preferences. We suggest budgeting approximately €100–120 per person for these meals, excluding drinks.

Gratuities

Tips are not included in the tour price and are completely optional. They should reflect your satisfaction with the service received and are never expected. As a guideline, we recommend budgeting around €30 per person for the main guide and €5 per person for the driver.

Personal Spending

Personal expenses such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, optional meals, and additional activities are not included. If you wish to join the optional boat excursion along the Albanian Riviera on Day 5, please note that a minimum of four participants is required. The cost is approximately €50 per person, payable locally. Your guide can provide further details during the trip.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants and must be arranged before departure. Your policy should cover overseas medical care, emergency evacuation or repatriation, personal belongings, and all adventure activities included in the itinerary. We also strongly recommend coverage for trip cancellation or early curtailment due to unforeseen events.

Please ensure your insurance provider covers adventure activities, as standard policies may have limitations. Many travellers choose specialist providers such as True Traveller (UK and Europe) or Rise + Shield, which offer coverage tailored to active travel.

Visas

Visa regulations may change, and it is the traveller’s responsibility to secure any required visas. We advise checking the latest entry requirements with your local embassy or consulate well in advance of travel.

Optional Extras

Requests for optional extras can be made by messaging your host directly through your booking page.

Private Room Upgrade

• Payable before departure
• Price: €350

Private Arrival Transfer Tirana - Berat (1-4 pax car)         100 eur

Private Departure Transfer Tirana City -Tirana Airport (1-4 pax) 40 eur 

What do I need to bring?

BAGS

• Soft overnight duffel bag or suitcase (ideally a maximum of 20kg)
• Daypack (20-30 litres)
• Waterproof liner for rucksack

CLOTHES

• Light fleece jacket, jumper and some warm layers for the early and late season departures
• Rainproof jackets
• Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
• T-shirts
• Underwear and socks
• Swimwear
• Sunglasses
• Sunhat
• Something to sleep in
• Hiking boots or shoes (worn-in)
• Sandals and flip flops

OTHER

• Universal travel plug adapter
• Power bank or solar charger
• Passports (and visas)
• Travel insurance documents
• Ear plugs
• Insect repellent
• Suncream
• Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
• Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
• Quick-dry towel
• Alcohol hand-gel
• Reusable water bottle(s) - at least 1.5 litres
• Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
• Water purification tablets/treatment system