Tour and Guide Përmet Bënjë

A full-day tour from Sarandë to Përmet offers an engaging experience that combines Albania’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Priced at $130 per person and lasting about 9 hours, this trip is perfect for those looking to explore the lesser-known side of Albania, with highlights like the city of roses, a dramatic canyon, and therapeutic thermal baths in Benja. The tour is accessible with pickup from your accommodation in Përmet, making logistics straightforward, though it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

The guided nature of the tour ensures you’ll learn about the area’s history and natural features, while the included entry tickets mean no extra costs. The experience is well-paced, with stops at key locations like Gryka e Këlcyrës for scenic views. This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural insight—ideal for curious visitors eager to experience Albania beyond its popular coastal spots.

Key Points

• Full-day trip from Sarandë to Përmet, lasting about 9 hours.
• Price of $130 per person, including entry tickets and pickup.
• Highlights include Përmet’s roses and canyon, along with Benja thermal baths.
• Guided tour with an emphasis on natural scenery and local culture.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, respiratory or health concerns, or those over 220 lbs.
• Tour includes a break at Gryka e Këlcyrës for stunning views and photo opportunities.

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From Sarandë to Përmet: Starting the Journey

The tour begins early morning at 08:30 with a pickup from your Sarandë accommodation. Traveling by van, the journey takes roughly 2 hours, giving you a comfortable start while soaking in the scenic landscapes along the way. This transfer sets the tone for a relaxed day, and the driver or guide provides insights into what awaits in Përmet.

Upon arriving in Përmet around 10:15-11:00, the day’s activities kick into gear. The city’s reputation as the “city of roses” and “river city” highlights its natural beauty and cultural significance. Expect a break for photos and a guided tour through the town, where you’ll learn about Përmet’s heritage and enjoy its vibrant floral surroundings.

Exploring Përmet: Culture and Nature in One Place

Përmet is known for its abundant roses and flowers, which give the city a fragrant, colorful atmosphere. The city’s setting, with the second-largest river flowing through it and carving out a massive canyon, makes it a captivating destination for nature lovers. The guided tour explores key sights, offering insights into local traditions and the significance of the landscape.

This part of the trip lasts approximately 4 hours, giving enough time to appreciate the town’s charm without feeling rushed. You’ll get the chance to take plenty of photos and enjoy the tranquil ambiance created by its natural environment and blooming gardens.

Scenic Stop at Gryka e Këlcyrës for Picture-Perfect Views

After leaving Përmet, the tour includes a scenic 30-minute drive to Gryka e Këlcyrës. Known for its breathtaking vistas, this gorge provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to admire Albania’s rugged terrain. The stop here is brief but impactful, offering a peaceful moment amidst the landscape for photos and reflection.

This stop is ideal for those who appreciate dramatic scenery and want to capture Albania’s untouched wilderness, making it a memorable part of the journey.

Relaxing at Benja’s Thermal Baths: Therapeutic Waters and Natural Surroundings

A key highlight of this tour is the visit to Benja, just 15 minutes from Përmet. Here, visitors can indulge in soothing thermal baths filled with curative waters. The baths are set amid peaceful natural surroundings, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Spending around 3 hours at Benja, the group can enjoy different types of thermal waters known for their therapeutic qualities. The experience offers a chance to unwind in nature, making it a popular stop for relaxation and health benefits in a serene setting.

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Exploring Gryka e Këlcyrës in Detail

After the thermal baths, the tour takes a short drive lasting about 50 minutes to Gryka e Këlcyrës. This canyon offers another spectacular natural landscape, with the opportunity to admire the rugged cliffs and river views. The stay here lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing time for photos, a walk, or simply enjoying the tranquility of this scenic spot.

This stop complements the earlier canyon experience in Përmet, adding more depth to the natural exploration of the region.

Return Journey to Sarandë

The tour begins its return at 16:40, with a van ride back to Sarandë. Expect to arrive around 17:50, ending a day filled with natural beauty, cultural sights, and relaxation. The schedule is designed to maximize your time at each location without feeling rushed, balancing sightseeing with restful moments.

This organized return ensures you can comfortably conclude your day after a full exploration of this Albanian region.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour includes entry tickets to all locations, simplifying planning and costs. It is suitable for most travelers except those with mobility issues, respiratory problems, epilepsy, recent surgeries, or altitude sickness. The tour is not ideal for travelers over 220 lbs (100 kg) or over 70 years old.

Pickup is included from your accommodation in Përmet, making the logistics straightforward. The total duration spans roughly 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip for those prepared for a varied schedule.

The Guide and Customer Experience

The tour is led by a professional guide, with at least one review highlighting Andrea’s friendliness and helpfulness. The guide provides helpful answers and makes the experience more engaging. The tour is praised for its interesting stops and comfortable pacing, making it accessible and enjoyable.

Comparing Similar Tours and Activities

This tour fits well among options that explore thermal baths, canyon exploration, and cultural sites in Albania. Similar experiences include rafting adventures in Vjosa River, ATV tours to Benja thermal baths, and canyon hiking. The comprehensive nature of this trip, coupled with the guided approach, makes it stand out for travelers seeking a combination of nature, relaxation, and local culture.

Final Thoughts on the Përmet Bënjë Tour

This day trip offers a balanced mix of natural scenery, cultural insights, and therapeutic experiences at a reasonable $130. The guided format and inclusion of entry tickets add convenience, while stops at Përmet, Gryka e Këlcyrës, and Benja thermal baths provide a diverse and memorable experience.

It is especially suitable for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, enjoy relaxation in thermal waters, and prefer organized tours with clear schedules. The trip’s pacing and highlights make it an excellent way to discover a less-visited part of Albania, with enough flexibility for a full and fulfilling day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation by van is included from Sarandë and between the stops, making logistics simple and comfortable.

What is the duration of this tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from pickup in Sarandë to return.

Are entry tickets included?
Yes, all entry tickets to the sites visited are included in the $130 price.

Who should avoid this tour?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with respiratory issues, epilepsy, altitude sickness, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg) and over 70 years old.

What are the main highlights?
The key highlights are Përmet’s roses and canyon, the thermal baths of Benja, and Gryka e Këlcyrës for scenic views.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with flexibility by booking now and paying later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby