Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery Trekking Tour
The Seven Rila Lakes, formed by glacial activity, are situated at altitudes between 2,100 and 2,500 meters, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. As one of Bulgaria’s 100 National Tourist Sites, they captivate visitors with their serene beauty and unique names, such as the Eye, the Tear, and the Kidney. The hike to these mesmerizing lakes is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views that make every step worthwhile. However, reaching the viewpoints requires at least two hours of trekking each way, making it a rewarding yet challenging adventure. Ultimately, this journey through the Rila Mountains promises fresh air, stunning scenery, and a deep connection with nature.
Quick information
Duration:
- Start: 7:30 h
- End: 19:30 h
Accessibility
- Not accessible
Driving time:
- 5 h approximately
Important:
- Comfortable shoes, warm clothes, snacks and sandwiches, bottle of water.
Difficulty:
- Easy-moderate mountain trekking with +/-500m. elevation gain.
Recommended period:
- June – September
Overview
Itinerary for Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery Trekking Tour
The Seven Rila Lakes area is a very popular and easy option for the most scenic day trek in Bulgaria. The lakes are located in Rila Mountain, about 90 km south of the capital Sofia.
- 7:30 Departure from Sofia.
- 9:00 Arrival at Panichishte chair lift paring. An open chair lift takes you up directly for about 30 min from the parking lot to the starting point of your trek- Seven Rila lakes hut. The place is fairly modern, it offers a good food variety.
- 11:00 The loop trekking takes about 5 hours including time for breaks and does not require previous trekking experience. However, you have to be prepared for some moderate mountain trekking with comfortable shoes, warm clothes, sunscreen and bottle of water (1.5l).
- 16:00 Return to parking lot.
- 17:00 Arrival at Rila Monastery
- 19:30 Return to Sofia.
Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery Trekking Tour Overview
The lakes have a glacial origin and they are located on different terraces from 2100 m to about 2500m above sea level. The Seven Rila Lakes are one of the Bulgaria’s 100 National tourist sites. The breath-taking views of Lower lake (Dolno ezero), The Eye (the deepest high-altitude lake), The Tear (Salzata), The Kidney (Bubreka) etc. make this hike an unforgettable feast for the eyes and senses. Please note that getting to the view points takes at least 2 hours trekking each way.
- Departure point every day from your hotel or accommodation.
Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery Trekking Tour
Every day (June – September): the price is based on the number of people in your party and includes hotel pick-up.
Included:
- Transfer to/from your hotel/accommodation in Sofia
- Mountain guide in English
- Parking fees
- Entrance fees
- Chair lift ticket
- Mountain insurance
Not included:
- Personal expenses
- Meals
Private option +30%. Children (1-16yrs) 20% discount.
Prices:
1 person
199 €
2 persons
99 € Per person
3 persons
89 € Per person
4 – 8 persons
79 € Per person
9 – 18 persons
69 € Per person
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Highlights
Top scenic day trek in Bulgaria
One hour self-guided visit of Rila Monastery with audio guide
Experienced English-speaking mountain guides
Comfortable A/C van
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