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

Introducing the Permet 4×4 Tour: An Adventure with a Side of Natural Beauty

If you’re after a day that mixes adrenaline, relaxation, and genuine local charm, the Permet 4×4 Tour from Saranda offers exactly that. This well-reviewed experience takes you along the rugged Vjora River, then dips into soothing thermal waters, capped off with a taste of traditional Albanian life in Permet. What stands out most—according to those who’ve tried it—is the expert guidance, particularly from guides like Rajan, whose professionalism consistently earns praise. Plus, the stunning scenery along the river and at the thermal baths is hard to beat.

Two things I really appreciate about this tour are the careful organization—from the comfortable pick-up service to the well-maintained 4×4 vehicles—and the chance to enjoy authentic local cuisine during lunch. However, it’s worth noting that with a physical activity level of moderate, this tour might require a bit of stamina, especially if you’re not used to outdoor adventures.

A potential consideration? The tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for a full day out. But if you’re craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture, this comprehensive experience offers excellent value, especially when you compare the cost with the variety of activities packed into one day.

Key points / Takeaways

Authentic Albanian Experience: This tour provides a genuine taste of local culture in Permet, including meeting friendly locals and trying regional cuisine.
Expert Guides Make a Difference: Guides like Rajan are known for their professionalism and attentiveness, which enhances the overall experience.
Stunning Scenic Routes: The journey along the Vjora River offers picture-perfect landscapes, perfect for photography and appreciating nature.
Well-Crafted Itinerary: From exhilarating rafting to relaxing thermal baths, each stop is thoughtfully scheduled to maximize your enjoyment.
Comfortable Transportation: The use of air-conditioned vehicles with WiFi makes the long day comfortable and convenient.
Value for Price: At around $165, including all activities, transportation, lunch, and photos, this tour offers solid value given the variety of experiences.

The Details of the Journey: What to Expect

Starting Point: Rafting Vjosa in Albania’s Last Wild River

Your adventure kicks off with rafting on the Vjosa River, often called Europe’s last unspoiled river. Expect about two hours of splashing and paddling, guided by the best-rated guides in Albania. From the reviews, you’ll find the organization to be professional—Suzanne, for example, called it “brilliant” and felt totally at ease as a beginner. You’ll be provided with all the gear you need—neoprene suits, thermal shirts, helmets—and the guides ensure safety at every turn.

The river’s flowing waters and surrounding greenery make for a memorable start. You’ll love the feeling of riding the current and the chance to see wildlife and lush landscapes from a different perspective. This part of the trip is perfect if you’re a bit adventurous, but it’s also accessible to beginners thanks to the guides’ professionalism and safety measures.

Scenic Drive in a 4×4: From Rafting to Thermal Baths

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll hop into a comfortable 4×4 vehicle for the drive through the countryside. The vehicle itself is a highlight—big, sturdy, and stylish—and the ride offers a chance to enjoy the Albanian landscape in style. The drive takes you to the Benja Thermal Baths, where you can relax in naturally warm waters. This stop provides a peaceful contrast to the river adventure, with beautiful sunset views that are frequently praised by visitors.

Relaxing in Benja Thermal Waters

The thermal baths are a calming spot—perfect for unwinding after rafting and the drive. The waters are reputed for their soothing qualities, and many travelers enjoy the chance to soak in nature’s spa. It’s an unmissable part of the day, especially as you wait for the spectacular sunset seen from this quiet retreat. Since admission is free, it’s a great value addition to your day.

Exploring Permet: Local Culture and Cuisine

After the thermal baths, the tour continues to Permet, a city renowned for its cleanliness and local charm. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch—often featuring a personal plate with steak, potatoes, and sides, with flexibility to accommodate dietary preferences. The time in Permet allows you to soak in the relaxed atmosphere, meet locals, and experience authentic Albanian hospitality.

The reviews mention the “amazing local culture,” which you’ll get a taste of through interactions and the chance to wander through town. It’s a good opportunity to buy local crafts or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The Full-Day Experience

This tour is designed to be a full-day adventure, roughly 8 to 9 hours long. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Albania’s natural splendors and rural life, without feeling rushed. The combination of activities—rafting, thermal waters, scenic driving, and culture—means you get great value for the price, especially considering everything included: transportation, gear, lunch, photos, and WiFi.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of adventure and relaxation, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for active travelers who don’t mind moderate physical activity and are curious about local culture. Those traveling with friends or family will appreciate the private setting, personalized attention, and the chance to bond over shared experiences. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning river scenery, while foodies might appreciate the regional lunch.

However, if you prefer very relaxed or purely cultural experiences, this might be a bit too physically demanding or action-packed for your taste. Given the moderate physical requirement, it suits those with at least decent mobility and no serious health issues.

Price and Logistics: Good Value for a Full Day

At $165.54 per person, this tour offers impressive value considering the activities included—rafting, thermal baths, lunch, and photos—and the private, door-to-door service. The reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Rajan, who is praised for being attentive and well-organized, making the day flow smoothly.

Booking approximately 15 days in advance is recommended, which shows the tour’s popularity. The option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before means you can plan with confidence, a plus if your schedule changes unexpectedly.

Transportation is in air-conditioned vehicles, with WiFi onboard, meaning you can share your experiences or plan the next part of your trip. The small group size or private focus ensures personalized attention, making it a better experience than large group tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you’re craving an active day filled with stunning scenery, authentic local encounters, and a little adrenaline. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy outdoor adventure but want the comfort of professional guides and reliable transport. The combination of rafting and thermal baths offers a well-rounded taste of outdoor Albania, with enough flexibility and comfort to satisfy most travelers.

Travelers who prioritize the genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience will find this tour rewarding. It’s a thoughtful, fun, and memorable way to see a different side of Albania, away from the busy coastlines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making logistics straightforward.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are highly professional, and the rafting is well-organized. Many guests, including total beginners, felt at ease during the activity.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day outing.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for getting wet and warm layers, especially for rafting and thermal baths.

Are meals included?
Yes, a flexible lunch with regional dishes is included, with options to suit different tastes.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for your trip.

What activities are included?
Rafting on the Vjosa River, relaxing in Benja thermal waters, scenic 4×4 drive, and lunch in Permet are all part of the tour.

Is WiFi available during the trip?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the vehicle, so you can share your adventures or look up more local tips.

This Permet 4×4 tour from Saranda combines the thrill of river rafting with the serenity of hot springs and culture, making it a well-rounded adventure worth considering if you want a day packed with authentic Albanian experiences.