TIRANA, March 29 – Albania is expanding its tourism offerings beyond coastal destinations, with rafting consolidating as a major adventure segment. The 10th National Rafting Championship took place in the Vjosa River National Park, attracting both domestic and international participants and energizing the river corridor.

The event marked the culmination of annual training for rafting guides, strengthening safety and quality standards. Teams from Europe, including Hungary and the United Kingdom, competed, highlighting Albania’s growing profile in international adventure sports. Female participation also tripled compared with previous editions.

The championship extends its impact beyond sport, stimulating local economies through accommodation, gastronomy, supportive services, and artisanal businesses. The model established on the Vjosa River is planned for replication on other rivers such as the Drini i Zi, aiming to distribute tourism benefits more widely across regions.

With its national park status, the Vjosa River is positioning itself as a strategic asset for adventure tourism in Albania. The championship acts as both a sporting event and a showcase for an emerging industry that leverages the country’s natural landscapes while supporting sustainable local development.

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