09 Jun 2024
We have had so many wonderful experiences in Albania, but this one was a disappointment. On a positive note, the scenery was beautiful and we saw part of the country that we wouldn't have otherwise. The restaurant we stopped at for lunch was also quite nice. The service and food there were great. We also really enjoyed talking to the other travelers. It was an eclectic mix, but that's fun and everyone seemed ready for an adventure.
For the actual tour, the guides pretty much ignored us, both during the very long van ride and during the actual hike. When we first arrived at the rafting company's base, the guides were arguing and all seemed very crowed and chaotic. We were given neoprene suits but then had to wait for a long time (45 minutes?) and were SO hot. We were told there wasn't a car to drive us to the river because there were so many rafters (I booked this tour months in advance however so it was not a last minute booking). Finally, we climbed into someone's car and were dropped off. There were very few explanations and we learned very little about the canyon or the area. There were no safety instructions and often we were hiking in front of the guides and asking where to go. We finished with a one mile hike in the hot sun, along the road back to the start.
In the end, this tour was unprofessional. If you go, load up on water before you start (there is none to drink for a couple hours and it's hot). Enjoy the scenery, which is really beautiful, but expect little in terms of service. Maybe you will be surprised and have a more favorable impression. I hate to leave a negative review but feel others need to know what they're signing up for.