From Sofia: The Seven Rila Lakes Full-Day Hiking Tour

Enjoy a full-day trek into the Rila Mountains to explore the most picturesque area near Sofia and one of Bulgaria's most beautiful natural sites, the Seven Rila Lakes.

IMPORTANT: This is a rigorous winter expedition where you will likely encounter knee-deep snow; therefore, high-quality waterproof clothing and robust hiking boots are strictly required. Because mountain weather is highly volatile, your guide has absolute authority over the itinerary to guarantee the group's safety. If high winds disrupt the lift service, the tour may be restricted to the lower lakes or the warm mountain hut, where you can rest and eat.

Please be advised that the lakes themselves are hidden beneath a thick layer of ice and snow, offering a stunning white panorama rather than views of the water. We ask that you respect the mountain's power by arriving fully equipped and understanding that safety is our primary concern.

IMPORTANT: This tour has variations which depend on the season and whether the lift is operating or not. Please read carefully the description of the option that you are selecting. When the lift is closed for maintenance, the hiking tour is prolonged with 2 hours and the difficulty is high, requiring a good fitness level! During the winter and springtime, the lakes are NOT visible and will NOT be experienced as they are covered in snow.

Take your chance to explore the Blue Pearls of the Rila Mountains, and the Seven Rila Lakes, with the local tour operator, Traventuria, which was awarded a “Business Which Supports Biodiversity” certification by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation for its “Tours with a Cause” initiative.

About the lakes: This group of glacial lakes lies between 6,900 and 8,200 feet (2,100 and 2,500 meters) above sea level, surrounded by rugged peaks and deep valleys.

Leaving Sofia, you will drive for 90 minutes to reach the Panichishte resort area, where you board the chairlift to the Rila Lakes mountain hut.

From here, continue on foot to explore the landscape and its majestic blue pearls – the Eye, the Tear, the Kidney, the Twins, the Trefoil, the Fish Lake, and the Lower Lake.