River Hiking in Osumi Canyon, Albania.
It was 8:30 a.m. when our adventure began, departing from the charming Castle Park Hotel in Berat. We were eager to explore the raw, untouched nature in the heart of Albania. With the Albania Rafting Club guiding our journey, we set off toward the spectacular Osumi Canyon—a place we’d only seen in photos.
The ninety-minutes drive into the canyon built our anticipation. Mountains gave way to steep cliffs, and the morning mist slowly lifted, revealing the deep gorge carved over millennia by the Osumi River. When we arrived, we could hear the rushing water before we saw it. The guides were warm, professional, and passionate, setting a fun, adventurous tone from the beginning. They supplied us with all the specialized equipment to live a wonderful and save experience.
The river hiking started gently. Our feet splashed through the water, cold but refreshing under the early summer sun. Soon, the canyon walls began to rise dramatically around us—towering limestone cliffs dripping with moss, where light filtered in only at sharp angles, making it feel like stepping into a secret world.
We passed through narrow corridors where the canyon narrowed to just a few meters wide, the water reaching up to our waists. Laughter echoed as we helped each other balance on slippery rocks, ducked under waterfalls, and swam through deep pools. Each turn in the canyon revealed something new: hidden caves, natural springs, and lush vegetation clinging to every surface.
Emotionally, the experience was transformative. There was awe in the silence of the high canyon walls, joy in playful splashes, and a deep sense of connection—not only with each other but with the earth itself. Time seemed to stand still. Our guide pointed out landmarks along the way—like the “Cathedral”, a towering section where the walls seem to arch like a church ceiling, and the “Love Waterfall”, where tradition says couples should share a kiss for good luck.
By the end of the hike, we had a delicious lunch, with traditional Albanian food and a stunning view from up the canyons. By the end of the day, our bodies were tired but our spirits high. We returned with soaked shoes, sun-kissed skin, and hearts full of gratitude. Berat had surprised us—not only with its wild beauty but also with the kindness of its people and the richness of its landscapes.
Osumi Canyon gave us an unforgettable taste of Albanian adventure, and we left with more than memories—we left with a story we’ll share for the rest of our lives.
