Sarande: Permet 4×4 Tour, Rafting and Thermal baths

Thinking of exploring Albania beyond the typical tourist trail? This full-day 4×4 tour offers a genuine taste of the country’s natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping activities, and local charm. Designed for those seeking an active yet relaxed day, it combines thrilling river rafting, scenic drives, and soothing thermal baths — all wrapped in friendly guidance and authentic cuisine.

What we love about this experience is how it balances adventure and culture with comfort. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making each stop informative and enjoyable. Plus, the stunning landscapes of the Vjosa River valley and the chance to relax in natural hot springs give this tour a well-rounded appeal.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour involves physical activity, particularly rafting, which requires a basic level of comfort in water. It’s not suitable for travelers over 70 or those with certain health issues. Still, for most active travelers eager to explore the less-traveled parts of Albania, this experience offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Whether you’re an adventure lover, a nature enthusiast, or someone wanting a taste of local life in Albania, this tour is a versatile choice. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy a mix of outdoor fun, scenic views, and cultural experiences all in one day.

Key Points

• Adrenaline and Exploration: Experience rafting on Vjosa, Europe’s last wild river, with guidance from friendly, knowledgeable locals.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic 4×4 journey through the Albanian countryside, with stops at picturesque spots.
• Authentic Cuisine: Savor a traditional Albanian lunch, with local dishes in the clean, charming city of Permet.
• Relaxation: Unwind in Benja thermal waters and watch a colorful sunset – the perfect way to end the day.
• Flexible Schedule: The tour’s timing and activities are adaptable, ensuring a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: From hotel pickup to photos, everything is organized for a smooth day of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Saranda, Ksamil, or Gjirokaster, making it straightforward for travelers staying in these popular spots. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a flexible schedule — so you can choose your start time based on availability. Expect to be picked up around 10 minutes before your scheduled departure, giving you time to settle in and get ready for a day packed with activity.

The transportation is in comfortable 4×4 vehicles, ideal for navigating the scenic but sometimes rugged Albanian countryside. The group size is private, giving you a more personalized experience, and the well-trained drivers and guides prioritize your safety without sacrificing fun.

The Scenic Drive to Permet

Your journey kicks off with a scenic drive through lush landscapes, rolling hills, and charming rural villages. It’s an ideal way to stretch your legs and soak in the countryside’s authentic vibe. The drive lasts around 100 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views and chat with your guides — who are fluent in English, Turkish, and Albanian, and eager to share their insights.

Vjosa River Rafting – An Adventure for All Levels

The highlight for many is the rafting experience on the Vjosa River, which many reviews describe as both exciting and breathtaking. The guides are highly rated for their friendliness, professionalism, and knowledge about the river and the local environment.

As one visitor noted, “The guides spoke good English, told us a lot about the area, and made us feel safe.” This is especially reassuring since rafting involves navigating flowing waters, but the guides ensure everyone is well-equipped and comfortable.

You’ll be provided with neoprene suits, life jackets, thermal sweatshirts, and helmets, making the experience safe and enjoyable — regardless of water conditions, which vary depending on the season and river level. The water level in June was described as level 2-3, suitable for most ages and comfort levels, but it’s worth noting that the difficulty can fluctuate, so check with your guides if you have concerns.

During the two-hour trip, you’ll splash through the rushing currents, feeling the thrill of the river and the stunning surroundings—an experience many reviewers refer to as “something that I have never experienced before.” Truly, rafting on Vjosa offers a taste of Albania’s unspoiled natural beauty, with the river flowing through pristine landscapes that feel untouched and wild.

Lunch in Permet: A Taste of Local Life

Post-rafting, the tour stops in Permet, known as the cleanest city in Albania, for a traditional Albanian lunch. The meal includes a personal plate with steak and potatoes, sides, and water, giving you a hearty taste of local cuisine.

The food is straightforward but authentic, and many visitors rave about how the meal offers a genuine flavor of Albanian hospitality. It’s a valuable opportunity to slow down, meet locals, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming town.

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Exploring Permet and Scenic Highlights

After lunch, the tour includes a guided sightseeing and swimming session, with scenic views along the way. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, often recommending unmissable spots for the remainder of your trip. The focus is on authentic experiences and beautiful landscapes, with stops at notable viewpoints or natural attractions.

Many find this part of the tour particularly rewarding because it’s not just about the activity but about connecting with the environment — from the color-rich sunsets to tranquil river scenes. Reviewers mention making several stops at “beautiful places,” emphasizing how memorable this part of the tour can be.

Relaxing in Benja Thermal Waters

The final highlight involves relaxing in Benja thermal waters. The tour takes you through the river in style — in a spacious 4×4 — to arrive at the thermal springs. The natural hot springs are known for their soothing properties, and many describe the experience as a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

Watching the sunset from these thermal waters adds a magical touch, with vivid colors lighting up the sky. The relaxing dip allows you to reflect on an active day and enjoy some peaceful, warm moments in nature.

Return and Drop-Off

After a leisurely soak, the group is transported back to the original pickup points, with the drivers ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. The tour typically wraps up around sunset, leaving you plenty of time to unwind or explore further in your hotel or nearby areas.

This tour is a great fit for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic drives, and culture. It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with water activities like rafting, though safety gear and guidance are provided for all levels. If you’re looking to experience Albania’s wild side while indulging in local cuisine and thermal wellness, this day trip offers excellent value.

It’s especially ideal if you want a full day of varied activities — from adrenaline to relaxation — without the hassle of planning each step yourself. Families, couples, or friends who appreciate authentic experiences and stunning landscapes will find this tour rewarding.

However, travelers over 70 or with limited mobility should consider the physical demands, particularly the rafting and walking involved during sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Pickup in Ksamil, Sarandë, or Gjirokaster: Flexible, with professional guides ensuring a smooth start.
• Scenic 4×4 Drive: Over 100 minutes exploring rural landscapes, with plenty of photo stops.
• Vjosa River Rafting: Two hours of paddling through Europa’s last wild river, guided by experts praised for their kindness and knowledge.
• Lunch in Permet: Traditional Albanian food in a city known for cleanliness and local charm.
• Sightseeing and Swimming: Follow your guides’ recommendations, often at beautiful spots, adding a relaxed sightseeing element.
• Thermal Waters and Sunset: End the day soaking in warm springs while watching an unforgettable sunset.

Authenticity and Value

The reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the experience is. Desirée mentions, “The guides drove us to some hot springs where we went swimming. Beautiful!” The inclusion of photos during the tour adds an extra layer of value, allowing you to relive special moments.

The price point reflects good value for a full day of varied activities, especially considering the inclusivity of rafting, lunch, transportation, and photos. When you think about the fully guided experience, it’s a hassle-free way to see some of Albania’s most beautiful natural features.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring a towel and quick-dry clothing for the thermal baths and rafting. Since water levels can vary, it’s wise to wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and be prepared for splashes. The tour is not suitable for those over 70 or with mobility issues, but most active travelers will find it very doable.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially since the tour operates on a reserve now, pay later basis — giving you flexibility. There’s a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

This Sarande: Permet 4×4 Tour, featuring rafting and thermal baths, offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. You’ll love the friendly guides, the chance to experience Europe’s last wild river, and the opportunity to unwind in natural hot springs while watching a vivid sunset. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking an active, authentic Albanian day out that goes beyond the usual.

The experience delivers excellent value, especially considering the mix of adrenaline, culture, and peaceful moments. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour provides plenty of memorable highlights in one packed day.

If you’re craving a full immersion in Albania’s natural beauty with a dash of adventure and local flavor, this tour checks all boxes — just be ready for a day of outdoor fun and scenic surprises.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Saranda, Ksamil, or Gjirokaster, making logistics simple.

How long is the rafting experience?
Rafting lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy the river and scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel and quick-dry clothing — suitable for swimming and rafting.

Can I participate if I don’t want to raft?
If someone in your group prefers not to raft, refunds are possible for that part of the experience. Just let the guides know.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children comfortable in water should enjoy rafting, but check the water level and age restrictions for safety.

Are the guides experienced?
Absolutely. The guides are praised for their professionalism, local knowledge, and friendliness, which adds to the safety and enjoyment.

What language is the tour guide?
Guides speak English, Turkish, and Albanian, accommodating international travelers.

What is the duration of the whole tour?
The full experience takes about 8 hours, including transportation, activities, and breaks.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience with your party.

What is the cost like?
While prices vary, the tour offers good value considering all included activities, transportation, and meals.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, especially the river rafting and outdoor swimming. Always check the forecast before booking or expect possible rescheduling.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this adventure-packed day in Albania fits your travel style — full of natural beauty, cultural richness, and just the right amount of adrenaline.

You can check availability for your dates here: