Permet is one of those places that surprises you without much fuss. Located between the wild Vjosa River and forest-covered mountains, this small town in southern Albania offers a rich experience for anyone who loves nature. Whether you want a day of easy rafting for the whole family, a leisurely hike through a canyon or simply soaking in warm thermal waters, Përmet has activities for every pace and age. And the best part? They’re all close to each other, in a landscape that seems like it was created to share experiences together.
Rafting on the Vjosa River: emotions in the heart of a wild river
The Vjosa River is not just a waterway, but one of the last wild rivers in Europe and the heart of adventure in Permet. Rafting here is for everyone, from curious beginners, families with children, to those looking for a little more adrenaline. Tours are run under the care of certified guides, such as
- Rafting Vjosa Explorer
- Albania Rafting Group
- GoRaft Vjosa
- Albturist Ecocamping
- Jeep 4X4
- Vjosa Experience
- Rafting Nemërçka
- South Adventure
- Rafting Vjosa Albania Center
- Rafting Vjosa No Limit
- Rafting in Vjosa River National Park
- Funky Guest House
- ATV Tour
- Rafting Mulliri I Benjes
, who provide safe equipment and personalized experiences.
The rafting season lasts from May to October, when the river is at its friendliest. Often include options such as tubing, a gentler way of descending the river, perfect for the little ones. Caring for nature is part of the experience, no littering or noise that disturbs wildlife is allowed. Rafting on the Vjosa is more than a sport, a way to feel the pulse of a living river, in an environment you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.
Hiking in the Lengarica Canyon and relaxing in Benja Thermal Baths
Just a few minutes from Permet, the Lengarica Canyon invites you on a hike that looks like it was taken from a nature documentary. With cliffs rising over 100 meters high and narrow paths with crystal clear water running between them, this is the ideal place for an unforgettable hike. The trails are suitable for beginners and for families with children over 5 years old, especially in summer when the water level is lower.
At the end of the trail, a real reward: Benja Thermal Baths, natural thermal springs with warm sulfur waters that are known for their relaxing and therapeutic effects. With temperatures between 22–28°C and wells naturally located above the river, this is the perfect stop to soothe your feet after a hike. Many local operators, such as Albania Rafting Group, offer combined hiking + bath guides. Don’t forget your hiking boots, a swimsuit, and a long photo stop!
Mountain biking in the heart of wild nature
For lovers of two wheels, Permet is a hidden paradise. The roads connecting the town with the surrounding villages, such as Benja or Leusa, pass through green landscapes and along the foothills of mountains that offer fresh air and extraordinary views. Operators like , GoRaft Vjosa organize mountain bike (MTB) tours, tailored to the level of experience of the participants, from easy tours for beginners and families, to more challenging routes for those looking for a serious adrenaline rush.
The tours usually take place in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the roads are dry. In addition to rental bikes, the services often include professional guides and picnic stops at special locations. Cycling in Permet is not only a sporting activity, but a way to feel the rhythm of nature and see an authentic part of Albania up close.
Climbing to the peaks: mountaineering on the peaks of Dhembeli and Nemercka
If you want to climb high and feel like you’re on top of everything, the mountain ranges surrounding Permet are your calling. Mount Dhembel (2,050m) and Nemercka (2,475m) offer hiking and climbing trails that range from easy to technical. The mountains are part of the Bredhi i Hotoves–Dangelli National Park and are preserved as one of the most untouched areas in the south of the country.
Tours to these peaks are usually organized by structures like Albturist Ecocamping, which offer specialized guides for climbing in safe conditions. The ideal season for mountaineering is mid-summer to early autumn, when the weather is more stable. It is necessary to be well equipped (strong shoes, layered clothing, a hat, water and sunscreen), and above all. to follow a guide who knows the terrain. The views at the top? Such that you will remember for a lifetime.
Camping and picnic in the pure nature of Permet
For those who want to sleep under the stars or enjoy a lunch in the fresh air, Përmet offers wonderful places for camping and picnicking. One of the most popular options is Albturist Ecocamping, an ecological camp near the city that offers incredible views of the Dhembel and Nemercke mountains. This camp not only offers tents and cabins for accommodation, but also organized activities such as hiking, canoeing, and horse riding.
For those who prefer free camping, there are also other places near the river or in the mountains where you can pitch your tent – always respecting the rules of the protected areas. It is recommended not to light fires outside the permitted areas, to collect all garbage, and to leave nature as it was found. For a simple picnic, a blanket and some local food from the Përmet market are enough and you have the perfect experience of a peaceful day in nature.
Jeep and ATV tour: different exploration through wild roads
For those who want to explore the nature around Përmet more deeply, without getting too physically tired, 4×4 Jeep and ATV tours are the ideal way. These tours offer the opportunity to visit isolated villages, hilltops, hidden springs and panoramic points that are not easily reached on foot. Local operators like Permet Adventure provide structured guides and terrain-appropriate vehicles, including photo stops, picnics and a surprise stop to dip in a fresh water spring.
The tours are suitable for adults and young people, while for young children it is recommended to participate only in jeeps and with safety measures. ATVs usually require a basic level of experience or short training before departure. The most popular are the routes that pass through the Hotova Fir National Park or towards the Viroi Waters and the Trebeshine Mountain, where nature offers a true spectacle of colors and tranquility.
Family activities: experiences that bring generations together
Përmet is perfect for families looking to connect with nature in a fun and safe way. One of the most popular activities is light rafting or tubing on the Vjosa River, experiences designed especially for adults and children, under the care of professional guides.
For those who want something more peaceful, horseback riding is an ideal choice. Funky Guest House & Adventures, a well-known agrotourism near Përmet, offers horseback riding tours in nature for all ages. Itineraries include areas such as the Langarica Canyon, Banja e Bënjës, and fields with spectacular views, perfect for photos and shared memories.
Also, mountain bike tours for beginners, easy hikes to water sources, or a night in a tent in one of the ecological camps, turn the experience into something that the whole family can enjoy. And don’t forget, a dip in the warm waters of Bënjës is always a great end to the day.
Safety and respect for nature: what you need to know before you go
When exploring Përmet and the surrounding areas, keep in mind a few basic rules that will make the experience safer and more enjoyable for everyone:
- Choose licensed operators: For rafting, hiking, or any organized activity, use only certified guides and companies approved by the relevant authorities.
- Use safety equipment: When rafting and tubing, always wear a certified life jacket and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Proper clothing: Wear sturdy, slip-resistant shoes, especially when hiking in canyons or climbing steep terrain.
- Check the weather before setting off: Sudden rainfall can raise water levels and make canyons dangerous.
- Don’t leave litter: Take everything with you after a picnic or camping trip, including food, plastic wrap, or bottles.
- Respect nature and tranquility: Avoid loud noises that disturb wildlife, nature is to be enjoyed, not invaded.
- No open fires allowed: Lighting fires is prohibited outside of designated areas for safety and environmental protection.
With these simple measures, you will contribute to the protection of one of the most virgin areas of Albania and ensure a peaceful and beautiful trip for yourself and others.
📣 Now it’s your turn to share Përmet with your friends!
If this guide has inspired you to explore the incredible beauty that Përmet has to offer, whether for a weekend with the family or a quiet adventure in nature, then don’t keep it to yourself.
👉 Share this article with your friends, family or followers on social media and help more people discover why Permet is a destination that should be visited at least once in a lifetime. For more ideas on what to see and experience during a visit, check out our article Visiting Permet in Albania 2025. Nature will thank you and so will your friends.
