River Canoeing is a relaxed 2-3 hour paddle on the calm flatwater stretches of the Vjosa River near Përmet, Albania, within the Vjosa Wild River National Park. For €30 per person, two-person canoes glide past forested banks and pebble beaches — an easy, scenic outing suitable for couples, families, and complete beginners, with no minimum age and no paddling experience required. The price includes a canoe, paddles, life jackets, a local guide, and round-trip transport from Përmet. Many guests pair this gentle outing with a soak afterward at the nearby Bënja Thermal Baths.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Vjosa River. Our River Canoeing tour offers a peaceful, scenic paddle through the calmer sections of the valley. Perfect for couples, birdwatchers, and those seeking a relaxing connection with nature.
You will glide silently past lush forests and pebble beaches, allowing you to observe the diverse wildlife of the ecosystem up close. It's a meditative journey through the 'Blue Heart of Europe.'
Meet at the riverbank for a quick paddling lesson.
We launch the canoes and begin our gentle downstream journey.
Stop at a secluded beach for photos and wildlife observation.
We finish the route and transport you back to Përmet.
River Canoeing departs from a quiet stretch of riverbank a short drive from Përmet town center; our team collects you from our base camp in Përmet — easily reached on foot from any hotel or guesthouse — and transfers you to the put-in point. Përmet itself sits on the SH75 highway within the Vjosa Wild River National Park, about 25 km north of the Këlcyra Gorge and roughly 100 km southeast of Gjirokastër via Tepelenë. Round-trip transport between Përmet and the riverbank is included, so no personal vehicle is needed — just arrive at base camp for your scheduled start time.
The Vjosa's calm sections used for canoeing are paddle-able for most of the year, but conditions vary by season. Spring (April-May) brings higher water and a brisker current, which can make the downstream glide a bit faster. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and the most stable, gentle flow — the most popular and family-friendly time to canoe, with long daylight hours for an unhurried pace. Early autumn (September-October) is also pleasant, with mild temperatures and quieter riverbanks for wildlife watching. We generally pause canoeing trips in winter when water levels and temperatures make the calm stretches less comfortable for an open canoe.
Beyond sunscreen and a hat, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your time on the river, since there's plenty of sun exposure with little shade on the open water. A camera or phone is great for capturing wildlife and scenery — just protect it in a waterproof case or dry bag, since splashes are common even on calm water. Light, quick-dry clothing and shoes that can get wet (sandals or water shoes) are more comfortable than regular sneakers. If you plan to visit the Bënja Thermal Baths afterward, pack a swimsuit and towel so you can go straight from the canoe to the hot springs.
After your paddle, many guests head to the Bënja Thermal Baths, natural hot springs fed by the Lengarica River just a short drive from Përmet — a relaxing way to end a calm morning on the water. Active travelers often combine canoeing with a visit to the nearby Lengarica Canyon, a narrow limestone gorge just minutes from the thermal baths. Back in Përmet, don't miss a stop for local gliko tasting — Përmet's signature whole-fruit preserve, made from produce grown along the Vjosa River valley you've just paddled through.
Canoes are very stable, and the route is calm.
No, the river current does most of the work.
Yes, but we recommend a waterproof case.
Absolutely. Our guide gives a short paddling lesson before launch, and the calm flatwater sections make it ideal for first-timers, couples, and families.
There is no strict minimum age — children are welcome when accompanied by an adult in the same canoe, wearing a properly fitted life jacket.
Canoeing trips meet at our base camp in Përmet town center, then transfer by vehicle to the put-in point on a calm stretch of the Vjosa River. Round-trip transport is included.
Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and most stable, gentle flow, making it the most popular season for canoeing. Spring brings a slightly faster current, while early autumn offers mild temperatures and quiet riverbanks.
Bring a water bottle, a waterproof case or dry bag for your phone or camera, and shoes that can get wet. If you plan to visit the Bënja Thermal Baths afterward, pack a swimsuit and towel too.
Yes — many guests pair this relaxed paddle with a soak at the Bënja Thermal Baths afterward, just a short drive from the river.
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