Discover Albania’s Vjosa River: A New UNESCO World Heritage Destination for Ecotourism

Published on October 29, 2025

A milestone for both Albania and the world in nature conservation, the Vjosa River, which is the last wild river in Europe, has officially been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The river has been elevated, effective 2025, to an internationally recognised biosphere reserve, which furthers the conservation efforts to maintain the biodiversity and ecosystem of the area. It has also enhanced Albania’s reputation and commitment to preserving its natural treasures, giving a boost to the Vjosa River which is already a popular site for ecotourism in the country.

As a step forward for the country’s tourism, the inclusion of Vjosa River to the UNESCO World Heritage List is also a big win for the country’s conservation efforts. Vjosa National Park, which until now was a hidden gem, will get a boost in international recognition along with it’s surrounding Vjosa River and tributaries; the Drino, Bënça, and Shushica rivers. The area is brimming with eco-friendly tourism as Vjosa National Park is one of Europe’s most untouched and biodiverse landscapes, perfect for travellers trying to immerse themselves in nature.

A Biosphere Reserve of Global Importance

The consideration of the Vjosa River as a World Biosphere Reserve and its inclusion in the UNESCO list signifies its ecologically important status. The Vjosa River and the adjacent valley are occupied and protected by a variety of flora and fauna along with one of a kind ecosystems. The abundant and varied habitats are home to numerous plant species, birds, and other aquatic organisms, many of which are endemic and endangered. The river and wetland systems, along with the surrounding forest, play a key role in the maintenance of biodiversity and the ecological health of the region, as well as the larger landscape.

Conservation of the river and adjacent ecosystems has already engaged local residents, non-governmental organisations, and other concerned citizens. Organised riverbank clean-ups, as well as clean-ups of the tributaries, river branches, and surrounding territories, many created by local residents, beautification projects, and tree plantings, have been designed to illustrate enthusiasm and to help spread the local awareness of the river and its tributaries as important elements of nature, worthy of special protection.

The river and the tributaries and bordering ecosystems have been set aside in the draft of the management plan of Vjosa National Park, along with educational programs, periodic restoration works, and development activities of controlled nature. Such works are essential in the region to retain the pristine nature of the ecosystems, counter new pressures resulting from tourism, and absorb the resultant ecological disturbance and park pride demonstrated by the park users.Ecotourism and Sustainable Travel

It has opened a new door for ecotourism in Albania‘s Vjosa River and UNESCO World Heritage designation because of the Vjosa River ‘s untouched natural beauty. More tourists than ever before are on the hunt for sustainable travel opportunities and the Vjosa River has just that with its biodiversity. Hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, and nature strolls are on the rise, offering visitors untouched natural beauty in the Vjosa National Park.

The Vjosa National Park is a paradise for nature and ecotourism enthusiasts. It is the home to rare wildlife and has a diverse array of flora and fauna. Tourists can learn the role of the Vjosa River in the ecosystem, wildlife, and the untouched pristine beauty of Albania while observing in peace. The local economy is likely to improve since the region is gaining more recognition because the tourists will travel to nearby villages for food, shelter, and hospitality, as well as local guided tours.

Along with nature tourism, the Vjosa river and the surrounding nature provide historical and cultural tourism experiences. Vjosa river offers insider eco-cultural tourism as it is surrounded with ancient ruins and local culture of Albania.

Local and International Effects

Keeping the commitment of sustainable tourism, the Vjosa River UNESCO designation augments not just local, but regional as well. The country is protecting the nature and also creating employment, local business support, and income through tourism by promoting eco tourism and responsible travel. Inclusion of the Vjosa river in the UNESCO World heritage list is likely to increase investment in Albania’s tourism sector. Also, it will promote investment in sustainable infrastructure and eco-friendly tourism services.

As a World Heritage, it will also increase Albania’s exposure on an international scale, especially for the Vjosa river and the surrounding area. This will allow Albania to promote itself as a leader in conservation tourism, also attracting researchers, environmentalists and conservationists to the area.

Travel Information and Visiting the Vjosa River

People who want to see the Vjosa River and the surrounding area can reach the area from Tirana, which is the capital of Albania and is about 2 hours away. Vjosa National Park can be reached by car, and many tour companies have developed and have available for purchase many guided tours of the area which cover the ecology, culture, and history of the area. There are many places to stay in the surrounding area, from eco-lodges to guest houses.

The Ministry of Tourism of Albania has information about sustainable travel, places which are protected, and area businesses that support and practice responsible tourism. Visitors are advised to act within the limits suggested by the administration of the park to make sure that the actions taken to enjoy the natural beauty of Vjosa River will cause the least amount of harm to the unspoiled wilderness.

Conclusion

The inclusion of the Vjosa River on UNESCO’s World Heritage List is transformational for Albania and its tourism development. It allows the country to promote ecotourism while safeguarding another wild river in Europe. It extends the international visibility of Vjosa River and makes it more attractive for those visiting Albania to experience the country’s varied landforms, wildlife, and cultural diversity. With the current measures of conservation, interest in the Vjosa River and its surroundings is expected to grow, making it one of Albania’s natural wonders. Sustainable tourism measures will only further enhance that position in the years to come.