Ultimate Guide to Visiting Osumi Canyon in Albania

Osumi Canyon is often called the “Grand Canyon of Albania” — and for good reason. This 26-kilometer-long gorge is carved by the Osum River through the mountains of southern Albania, creating dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and lush greenery that look like something out of a fantasy film.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to go rafting, a photographer in search of epic landscapes, or simply someone wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path Albania, Osumi Canyon should be high on your list.

This ultimate guide covers how to get there, when to visit, what to do, where to stay, and how to photograph this incredible place.

What to Know Before You Go

Osumi Canyon is located near the town of Çorovodë, in the Skrapar region of southern Albania. The canyon is accessible by car, and you can explore it on foot from several viewpoints or by joining a rafting tour.

You should know:

There are no big hotels or shops inside the canyon – bring water and snacks.
There are no entry fees to visit the viewpoints.
Cell service can be patchy, so download offline maps before going.
Summers can be very hot – start early in the morning for cooler temps.

Orientation

Osumi Canyon stretches for about 26 km and is up to 80 meters deep in places. The main starting point is the town of Çorovodë, which acts as the base for most tours and rafting trips.

The canyon has several well-known viewpoints:

Gradec Bridge Viewpoint – one of the most iconic spots.
Varishta Viewpoint – panoramic views perfect for photos.
Bogovë Waterfall detour – worth combining with your trip.

Language

Albanian is the main language, but in tourist spots and with rafting operators, you’ll find people who speak some English or Italian. A few phrases of Albanian go a long way — “faleminderit” (thank you) always earns a smile.

Currency and Payment

Albania uses the lek (ALL). Bring cash — most rural shops, small restaurants, and guides will not accept cards. ATMs are available in Berat and Çorovodë.

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes (or river sandals if rafting)
Light jacket or layers – weather can change quickly
Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Camera gear – tripod, ND filter for long exposures of waterfalls
Waterproof bag if you plan to go rafting
Snacks and water – limited shops near the canyon

When to Go

The best time to visit Osumi Canyon depends on what you want to do:

Spring (March – May): Best for rafting — the water level is highest, waterfalls are spectacular, and the canyon is lush green.
Summer (June – August): Good for hiking and photography, but hot (30°C+). Go early in the day.
Autumn (September – October): Pleasant temperatures, lower water levels, fewer tourists.
Winter: Can be rainy and muddy. Rafting is usually not possible due to dangerous currents.

How Long to Stay

You can see the main viewpoints on a day trip from Berat, but staying one night in Çorovodë allows you to catch sunset and sunrise over the canyon (magical for photographers!) and do rafting early in the morning.

How to Get There

By Car: From Berat, it’s about 1.5 hours (70 km) via SH72 road. The drive is beautiful, winding through hills and villages.
By Tour: Many agencies in Berat offer day trips with a guide.
By Bus: Minibuses run from Berat to Çorovodë, but you’ll need a taxi to reach viewpoints.

What to Do

Explore the Viewpoints

There are several marked viewpoints along the canyon road. Stop frequently — each bend offers a new perspective.

Go Rafting

Osumi Canyon is one of Albania’s best rafting spots. Tours last 2–4 hours and take you through narrow passages, under waterfalls, and past caves.

Hike the Trails

Some parts of the canyon can be explored on foot, especially near bridges. Wear good shoes and watch for slippery rocks.

Visit Bogovë Waterfall

Just 20 minutes away — a turquoise waterfall perfect for swimming in summer.

Best Tours

Skrapar Rafting – Professional local guides, good equipment.
Albania Rafting Group – Popular with international travelers, English-speaking guides.
Hiking Tours from Berat – Combine canyon viewpoints with Bogovë waterfall.

What to Eat and Drink

This is a great place to try traditional Albanian mountain food. Look for:

Byrek – flaky pastry with cheese or spinach
Grilled lamb or goat – local specialty
Rakija – strong homemade fruit brandy (offered everywhere!)

Where to Eat

Hotel Kanione Restaurant (Çorovodë) – classic Albanian dishes, river view
Small tavernas along the road to the canyon — simple, home-cooked meals

Where to Stay

Hotel Kanione (Çorovodë): Best option with basic but clean rooms, great location.
Guesthouses in Çorovodë: Stay with locals for authentic experience and home-cooked meals.

How to Get Around

Walking: Limited to short hikes near viewpoints.
Car: Best way to explore all viewpoints.
Taxi: Possible but expensive from Berat.
Bike: Challenging — the road is hilly.

What to Buy

Local honey and rakija
Handwoven carpets and textiles from the Skrapar region
Small bottles of mountain herbs for tea

Best Photo Spots

Gradec Bridge Viewpoint – Iconic shot with bridge and river curve.
Varishta Viewpoint – Wide panorama, best at golden hour.
Inside the canyon by raft – Unique perspective of cliffs towering above.
Bogovë Waterfall – Long exposure shots with tripod.
Sunset shot from road pull-offs – Warm glow on canyon walls.

Photography tip: Bring an ND filter for long exposures, and arrive for sunrise for soft mist in the valley.

Types of Trip

Adventure Seekers: Rafting, hiking, exploring caves.
Couples: Scenic drives, sunset views.
Families: Safe viewpoints, swimming at Bogovë in summer.
Photographers: Epic landscapes and unique light at dawn/dusk.

How Much Does It Cost?

Getting There: Fuel or shared tour from Berat €20–50 per person
Sleeping: Guesthouses €20–30 per night
Activities: Rafting €30–40 per person
Eating & Drinking: €5–10 per meal

What a Trip Here Will Give You

A deep connection to Albania’s wild landscapes
A sense of discovery — still relatively unknown to mass tourism
Incredible photos and stories to share

Should You Go? Why Go?

Yes — Osumi Canyon is a must-visit if you love nature, adventure, and authentic Balkan experiences. It’s one of the most photogenic places in Albania and pairs perfectly with a trip to Berat.

FAQs About Visiting Osumi Canyon

1. Is Osumi Canyon safe for kids?
Yes, if you stick to marked viewpoints and supervise children near cliffs.

2. Can you swim in the river?
Yes, in summer at calmer spots, but be careful of currents.

3. Do I need a guide to visit?
No for viewpoints, yes if you want to raft or hike inside the canyon.

4. Is rafting beginner-friendly?
Yes — spring rafting is suitable for most people, guides provide safety gear.

5. Can I visit as a day trip from Tirana?
Yes, but it’s a long day (3.5 hours each way). Better from Berat.