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Enjoy a full-day trip that brings together lively river rafting and a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. This outing suits anyone who wants an active day out while still having time to unwind in a beautiful part of southern Albania. You’ll travel through varied landscapes, try a fun water activity, and round off the day in warm, mineral-rich pools.
Your day starts with a pickup from Durrës or Golem before setting off on a drive through the quieter regions of southern Albania. Roads wind through mountains and valleys, giving you glimpses of remote villages and wide, open scenery along the way. By the time you reach the Vjosa River, you’ll have a good sense of how untouched this area still feels, and the river’s clear water makes a great setting for your rafting session.
Rafting guides will get everyone prepared with equipment and a short safety briefing before heading onto the rapids. The river offers a mix of steady flows and livelier sections, making it enjoyable for those who are new to rafting as well as those who’ve done it before. You’ll have time to enjoy the surroundings as you move downstream, with mountain views, pebble banks, and wide bends in the river creating a memorable backdrop.
Afterwards, you’ll travel to the Benja Thermal Baths, known for their warm, mineral waters and stone pools tucked inside a striking canyon. You can relax in the natural hot springs, explore the surrounding paths, or enjoy quiet time in the warm water. Once you’ve finished at the baths, you’ll make your way back toward Durrës or Golem, rounding off a well-balanced day outdoors.
You’ll begin your day with a pickup from either Durrës or Golem, two coastal areas known for their long beaches and easy access to Albania’s inland landscapes. Leaving the coast behind gives you the chance to watch the scenery shift from busy seaside towns to open countryside.
The Vjosa River and Benja Thermal Baths are located deeper into the south, in a region known for its wild rivers, mountain ridges, and gorges. The area around Përmet offers views across farmland and rock formations, and the hot springs sit at the edge of a narrow canyon that adds character to the pools.
Anyone joining should feel comfortable in moving water, although no previous rafting background is required. Normal fitness levels are generally enough for the rafting section, which is guided and supported throughout.
Bringing swimwear, suncream, and a towel will help you make the most of both the rafting and the thermal baths. It’s also useful to be ready for a full day outdoors with changes in temperature between the river, canyon, and return journey.
This trip is run by a team that focuses on creating days out that are both active and relaxed, giving guests enough time to enjoy each part of the journey without feeling rushed. Guides know the area well and make sure everyone feels supported, whether on the water or exploring the thermal pools.
The group aims to offer days that feel personal, with friendly guidance, local insight, and a straightforward approach to planning. Their goal is to help visitors enjoy southern Albania in a way that’s fun, welcoming, and designed for a smooth and enjoyable day.
Rafting on the Vjosa River is designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering excitement. Guides provide a full safety briefing and demonstration before you enter the water, and you’ll be given all the necessary equipment, including helmet, life jacket, and wetsuit. The pace is adapted to the group, and instructors remain close to support you throughout the journey.
Even if you have never rafted before, the river’s course for this trip is carefully selected for safety and enjoyment. The rapids are manageable, and there are calmer stretches where you can focus on enjoying the scenery. Guides also provide clear instructions on paddling and steering, making it a comfortable experience for all skill levels.
Time at the Benja Thermal Baths usually feels unhurried, with enough space in the schedule for a proper soak in several pools. Most visitors spend time relaxing in the warm water, taking photos of the canyon setting, and walking between the different springs.
The guide will let you know how long you have based on the day’s timings, but it’s planned so that you can settle in and enjoy the natural hot springs without feeling you have to rush back to the vehicle. You should have plenty of opportunity to unwind before beginning the return trip.
You don’t need to be a highly confident swimmer to join, but being comfortable in water is important since rafting takes place on a natural river. Everyone will wear a buoyancy aid, helmet, and protective gear provided by the rafting team, and the guides stay near the raft at all times to help if needed.
If you’re unsure about anything, the guides can explain what to expect before you get on the water. They’re used to supporting guests with different comfort levels, and the group will move at a pace that suits the whole boat.
Meals are not included, so it’s recommended to bring snacks or something light to eat before or after rafting. There are usually small shops or stops along the route where you can pick up something, and your guide will let you know when breaks are coming up.
Since the day is quite active and includes a thermal bath visit, having some water and light food with you makes the experience easier and more enjoyable. You’ll have breaks during transfers where you can rest and refuel if needed.
Swimwear is essential for both rafting and soaking in the thermal pools. Layered clothing suitable for active water sports is recommended, and a light, quick-drying top or jacket can be useful for cooler moments during the day. Footwear that stays secure on your feet is advised for entering and exiting the raft.
It’s also wise to bring a towel and sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. After rafting, you can change into your swimwear for the thermal baths, where you may want to wear flip-flops or water shoes to move comfortably around the stone pools.
The rafting section involves paddling and holding onto the raft for stability, which provides moderate physical exercise. The remainder of the day is much lighter, with driving and soaking in the thermal baths giving time to rest and enjoy the surroundings.
Overall, the trip is designed for people with average fitness levels. Even those new to rafting should find it manageable, as guides adjust the pace and support each participant throughout the activity.
About the centre
Durrës
Operated by Bliss Albania, a partner of adventuro.
Quito & Avenue of Volcanoes, Ecuador
From £118.90
