Osumi Canyon & Bogove Waterfall: Swim, Float & Cliff Jumps

Summary

Swim in wild canyons float under waterfalls lunch by locals

You’ll start your day near Berat with a swim beneath Bogove Waterfall’s cold spray before floating through Osumi Canyon’s soaring cliffs—sometimes jumping in if you feel brave. Local guides handle everything: gear, safety tips, even lunch by the water. You’ll leave with wet shoes and a real sense of Albania’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left Berat when the road started twisting through green hills, windows down and that dusty summer smell everywhere. Our guide, Erion, kept pointing out tiny villages I’d never spot alone—he even slowed down once so we could watch a goat herder wave at us (I waved back, probably too enthusiastically). First stop was Bogove Waterfall. The walk there is easy but you still hear your own breath in the trees. When we reached the pool, it was cold enough to shock my feet but after a minute I just went for it—icy water, sunlight flickering through leaves, everyone laughing at their own yelps. There’s something about swimming under a waterfall that makes you feel like a kid again.

After drying off in the sun (my towel smelled faintly of river mud), we drove on toward Osumi Canyon. The canyon walls close in fast—suddenly you’re tiny between these huge rocks, water echoing around you. Erion handed out helmets and life jackets with this little speech about safety (“even if you think you’re brave!” he joked). Floating along the river was quieter than I expected; sometimes just the sound of our splashing or birds above. There were spots where you could jump from low ledges—I hesitated but did it anyway, heart thumping. Not everyone jumped, and that felt fine too. Lunch came after—a simple spread by the riverbank, bread still warm and tomatoes that actually tasted like tomatoes.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm by the end of it all. My shoes were soaked and my hair was full of sand but I couldn’t stop grinning on the ride back to Berat. Something about being out there with people who know every bend in the river (Erion grew up nearby) made me trust the whole day more than I usually do on group tours. If I close my eyes now I can still hear the water hitting stone—and honestly, I wish I’d brought a second dry shirt.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Swim Bogove Waterfall and explore Osumi Canyon

• Walk forest path to Bogove Waterfall
• Swim in clear pool under waterfall
• Follow riverside paths in Osumi Canyon
• Step through shallow river sections
• Swim and float 3.8 km in canyon
• Optional cliff jumps at safe spots
• Enjoy included lunch

Top questions

How long does the Osumi Canyon & Bogove Waterfall tour take?

The full tour lasts most of the day—expect several hours including pickup from Berat, both activities, lunch, and return transport.

Is lunch included on this Osumi Canyon day trip?

Yes, lunch is included for all guests—vegetarian options are available.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer for Osumi Canyon?

No expert skills needed—just moderate fitness; guides provide life jackets and supervise swimming sections.

Where does the tour start if I choose 'Canyon Only'?

You meet at Flow Albania’s Osumi Canyon base camp in Corovode for that option.

Are cliff jumps mandatory during Osumi Canyon swimming?

No—they’re totally optional; some people skip them without any pressure.

Is transport from Berat included?

Yes—but only on the Full Tour option; otherwise meet at base camp yourself.

What gear is provided for canyon swimming?

You get helmet, life jacket, water shoes and neoprene suit (seasonal)—all included in your booking.

Can public transport reach Flow Albania base camp?

Yes; public transportation options are available nearby if you don’t have a car.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Berat if booked as a Full Tour or meeting at Flow Albania’s base camp for canyon-only trips; entry fees where needed; all safety equipment like helmet, life jacket and water shoes; guidance from local experts who know every corner of Osumi Canyon; plus a riverside lunch—with vegetarian options—before heading back home soggy but happy.