Spend a day exploring the idyllic Seven Rila Lakes on this small-group hiking tour from Sofia. With an expert guide, travel from the Bulgarian capital to the Rila Mountains, the country’s highest range. Be wowed by sweeping mountain panoramas during a 30-minute chairlift ride, and then set off on foot to explore the lakes. During your 4- to 5-hour hike, you’ll see all seven lakes and enjoy frequent stops to capture photos and rest your legs. Enjoy personalized attention from the guide on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people.
Hiking Adventure at the Stunning Seven Rila Lakes in Bulgaria
$68
Reviews
About This Tour
Inclusions
Professional guide
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Exclusions
Chairlift ticket (Approx. 10 Euro per person)
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Tip or gratuity
Tour Plan
The trip starts at 07:00 from the parking behind Alexander Nevski Cathedral, in front of LaCattedrale Restaurant
Arriving at Panichishte chair lift
Once the group departs from the starting point, you'll reach the Panichiste lift. Here, you'll pay for the chair lift ticket - 20 BGN.
On arrival at the Seven Rila Lakes cirque — a chain of deep-blue lakes, each named in accordance to its shape, that lead up toward the Rila Mountains’ highest peaks — set off on foot to explore the scenic sights. With your map in-hand and your guide leading the way, stroll at a leisurely pace along the hiking trails.
Wander amid rugged peaks and deep valleys, stopping along the way to capture photos. Pause by the impressive lower lake, Dolnoto Ezero, where the water that flows out of the higher lakes is gathered. See Ribnoto Ezero (‘Fish Lake’), the shallowest of the lakes, and Bliznaka (‘The Twin’), which is the largest of the cirque. Marvel at the irregular shapes of Trilistnika (‘The Trefoil’) and Babreka (‘The Kidney’). Then, see oval Okoto (‘The Eye’) before ascending to Salzata (‘The Tear’), the highest of the lakes, where awe-inspiring vistas await.
During the hike, there will be frequent rest stops. You’ll also have the opportunity to stop for food at either one of the two huts passed. Choose from the small selection of dishes, such as soup or grilled meat (own expense), or if you’ve brought your own food with you, enjoy lunch al fresco.
Arrive back at the starting point at approximately 17:30
Meeting / Pickup
Meet on location or pick-up: Customers can come to our location or we can pick them up on request.
Know Before You Go
- Public transportation nearby
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking shoes. Warm clothes (at least one jacket even in the summertime). Drinks, food.
Please Note
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Please wear hiking boots; sandals and flips-flops are not permitted on this tour
- It is advised you wear warm clothing and bring a rain jacket, sunglasses and sunscreen with you
- Minimum age is 9 years
- A moderate amount of walking is involved (4 to 5 hours)
- Not stroller accessible
- Not suitable for pets
- Infants must not sit on laps
- Infant seats unavailable
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- FOR MAY DEPARTURES! Kindly note, that availability of the tour depends on the weather conditions and the operation of the chairlift. The terrain will be very wet and slippery and there will still be snow in the area. Walking in such conditions requires adequate equipment (good trekking boots, waterproof clothes and a warm layer beneath the jacket). The hike is demanding, so a good fitness level is also required. Keep in mind that some of the lakes may be covered in snow.
- Important! As with all lifts the one, used for the hike to The Seven Rila Lakes, may stop anytime (due to strong wind, power cut etc.). In the rare case, this happens, an alternative hike will be offered on spot by the guide. Mind that such a situation does not make you eligible for a refund.
- Opening hours are: 09:00 - 18:00 Monday to Friday
- Tour with ONLINE (cloud-based) Audio-guide in different languages (EN, ES, IT, FR, DE, RU). INTERNET required to download and use.
Cancellation Policy
- Refund if cancelled at least 1 day before the event
Reviews
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3 Comments
4.8
The trek to the shimmering lakes was a highlight of my solo journey, offering a perfect blend of solitude and natural beauty. I especially loved the moment when I reached the highest viewpoint; gazing down at the azure waters was a sight I won’t soon forget. My only suggestion would be to include a bit more time for breaks, as I found myself wanting to linger longer in some of the stunning spots.
5
Exploring the Seven Rila Lakes was an unforgettable experience for us; the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking, especially when we reached the crystal-clear waters of the highest lake. The drive from Sapareva Banya provided stunning views of the surrounding mountains, which set the perfect tone for our hike. One of our favorite moments was sitting by the fourth lake, enjoying a packed lunch while soaking in the tranquility and beauty. The only suggestion we have would be to possibly include a few more breaks during the hike, as some stretches were a bit challenging. All in all, it was a day filled with adventure and connection to nature that we’ll cherish for a long time.
4.6
Hiking through the stunning landscapes of Bulgaria was an absolute thrill for our group. The moment we reached the breathtaking views of the lakes, with their vivid colors reflecting the sky, we were all in awe. One small improvement could be made with the timing at the last lake; we wished we had a bit more time to soak in the scenery before heading back.