Përmet travel tips: money, language, safety

Përmet is a small town in a mountain valley, and a little planning makes a visit smoother: carry some cash in Albanian lek, learn a few words of Albanian, check conditions before going to the river, the canyon or the high ground, and save the emergency numbers. This guide collects the practical answers visitors ask about, and links to the detailed guides for each topic.

Money

• Currency. Albania uses the Albanian lek (ALL). Prices on this site are shown in euros.
• Cash. Carry some lek for small purchases, local products, taxis and the occasional parking charge, for example near the Benja thermal baths, where some guides mention a small fee. Villages and natural sites may not take cards.
• Prices. Operators, hotels and guesthouses set their own prices. Check the listing or ask your host before you book or buy.

Language

Albanian is the official language. In the tourism sector, English is commonly used, and a few words of Albanian are warmly received:

Safety outdoors

• The river. Currents are stronger in spring and after heavy rain. Rafting and kayaking should be done with an operator that supplies helmets, life jackets and a trained guide. Listen to the briefing.
• The canyon. Do not enter the Langarica gorge after heavy rain or at high water. The rocks at Benja are slippery, there are no lifeguards, and children need close supervision.
• The mountains. Weather can change quickly. Snow covers the Nemërçkë ridge from about November to April and avalanches are frequent on its western slope, so stay off the high ground in winter unless you are experienced.
• Heat. Summer is hot and dry, with average highs of about 29 °C in July and August. Walk early, carry plenty of water and use sun protection.
• Wildlife. Bears and wolves live in the Hotova–Dangëlli forest but most visitors will not see them. Keep your distance and never leave food behind.
• Roads. Mountain roads, including the road to Frashër, can be rough and slow. Allow extra time and ask locally about conditions.

Emergency numbers

According to the UK government's travel advice for Albania, the emergency numbers are:

Save them in your phone, and tell your accommodation where you are going when you head into the mountains. For travel insurance, check that it covers outdoor activities such as rafting and hiking.

What to pack

• All year: sturdy shoes with grip, a refillable water bottle, a charged phone with an offline map, a small first-aid kit and a bag for rubbish.
• Summer: sun hat, sunscreen, a swimsuit, a towel and water shoes.
• Spring and autumn: layers and a waterproof jacket.
• Winter: warm clothes, waterproofs and boots. See the best time to visit guide.

Etiquette and local customs

• Hospitality. If you are offered gliko, a coffee or a glass of raki, accept it. It is a welcome gesture.
• Religious sites. Dress modestly, and ask before taking photographs inside a church, mosque or tekke. The Tekke of Frashër is an active place of worship.
• Swimwear. Wear a swimsuit at the Benja pools, and change discreetly, since there are no changing rooms.
• Photographing people. Ask first.

Responsible travel

• Take your rubbish with you and keep to existing paths.
• Choose operators who treat the river and the mountains with care. The Vjosa is a national park.
• Buy gliko, honey and other local products from small producers when you can.
• Keep your distance from wildlife and never feed animals.

Related guides

• Getting to Përmet
• Things to do in Përmet
• Where to stay in Përmet

Sources

• GOV.UK: Albania travel advice, getting help
• Weather and Climate: Përmet climate
• Nemërçka (Wikipedia)
• Hot Springs Guides: Benja thermal baths
• Albania Visit: Bënja thermal baths
• Fir of Hotovë–Dangëlli National Park (Wikipedia)
• Tekke of Frashër (Wikipedia)

Facts checked in October 2026. Emergency numbers and local rules can change, so confirm them before you travel.