Seven Rila Lakes to Rila Monastery Guided Trek

Set out on a captivating two-day trek through Bulgaria’s breathtaking Rila Mountains. Led by a seasoned, UIMLA-certified guide, this intimate journey takes you from the stunning Seven Rila Lakes to the historic Rila Monastery. Enjoy the region’s glacier-carved landscapes, savor provided meals, and enjoy comfortable accommodations along the way. With a focus on safety and personalized attention, this trek promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure. But what makes this experience truly exceptional? The answer lies in the extraordinary sights and encounters that await you on this remarkable journey.

This experience made our list of the Best Guided Tours In Bulgaria.

Key Points

• A 2-day guided trek covering approximately 9.5 miles each day from Malka Yurta Hut to the Rila Monastery, offering scenic views of the Seven Rila Lakes.
• The trek is led by a UIMLA certified mountain guide, with a maximum group size of 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
• Accommodation, breakfast, dinner, and entrance fees to the Rila Monastery are included, while participants are responsible for their own lunches and personal expenses.
• Participants must have a moderate level of fitness and bring suitable hiking gear, including sturdy boots, backpacks, and weather-appropriate clothing.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours before the start without penalty.

Overview of the Trek

The trek takes hikers on an exhilarating 2-day journey, covering approximately 9.5 miles each day.

It begins at the Malka Yurta Hut in Dupnitsa, Bulgaria and ends at the Rila Monastery, a stunning 14th-century Orthodox monastery.

Along the way, trekkers will be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery of the Seven Rila Lakes, a series of glacier-carved lakes in the Rila Mountain range.

This private tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants and is led by a professional UIMLA certified mountain guide, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.

Hikers will enjoy breakfast, dinner, and comfortable accommodation as they enjoy the natural beauty of Bulgaria’s wilderness.

Itinerary and Inclusions

This 2-day trek covers approximately 9.5 miles each day, beginning at the Malka Yurta Hut in Dupnitsa, Bulgaria and ending at the Rila Monastery, a stunning 14th-century Orthodox monastery. The tour includes breakfast and dinner, accommodation, a professional UIMLA certified mountain guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees to the Monastery. Lunch is also provided on both days. While gratuities and personal expenses are excluded, Wi-Fi is available throughout the trek.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Breakfast, Dinner	Food and drinks unless specified
Accommodation	Gratuities
Professional Mountain Guide
Hotel Pickup/Drop-off
Wi-Fi
Lunch (2)
Monastery Entrance Fees

Pickup and Meeting Details

Pickup is available from your accommodation in Sofia or at the meeting point, the Malka Yurta Hut in Dupnitsa, Bulgaria.

The tour starts at 8:00 AM sharp, so be sure to arrive on time. You’ll have the option to select your preferred pickup location when booking the tour.

The hike concludes at the Rila Monastery, located at 2643 Rilski manastir, Bulgaria.

Throughout the trek, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi, ensuring you can stay connected if needed.

The private tour is limited to a maximum of 6 people, providing an intimate and personalized experience.

Physical Fitness Requirements

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this guided trek through the Seven Rila Lakes. Participants should be able to hike approximately 9.5 miles each day on uneven terrain.

The tour isn’t recommended for those with significant mobility issues or cardiovascular problems. Infants must be carried, as the hike isn’t suitable for young children. Service animals are allowed.

Prospective trekkers should ensure they’ve proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots, a backpack, trekking poles, and weather-appropriate clothing.

It’s crucial to stay hydrated and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Guests with special dietary needs should advise the tour operator at the time of booking.

Necessary Equipment and Gear

For this guided trek through the Seven Rila Lakes, you will need to bring along several essential items of equipment and gear.

A sturdy pair of hiking boots is a must, as the terrain can be rugged. A backpack with a capacity of 35-45 liters will be needed to carry supplies. Trekking poles can provide valuable support on the ascents and descents.

Weatherproof clothing, including a waterproof jacket, rain cover, and warm hat and gloves, is essential for the changeable mountain conditions. Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is also recommended.

Dietary Considerations

Travelers with specific dietary requirements should advise the tour operator at the time of booking.

The tour includes breakfast and dinner, but participants are responsible for their own lunches. The tour guides are accommodating to different diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

However, it’s essential to communicate any dietary needs in advance to ensure the proper meals are provided. During the trek, there may be limited food options, so having some personal snacks on hand is recommended.

The tour company will do their best to cater to individual needs, but advance notice is required for a seamless experience.

Ratings and Reviews

Frequently, travelers praise the Seven Rila Lakes Guided Trek for its breathtaking scenery and well-organized execution.

With an impressive average rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, this trek consistently delights adventurers.

One reviewer remarked, "Beautiful 2-day hike with great guides Pavel and Nikolay! Overnight stay in the Ivan Vazov hut was comfortable. Would definitely recommend!"

The tour’s free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start further demonstrates its commitment to customer satisfaction.

Cancellation Policy and Pricing

The Seven Rila Lakes Guided Trek offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts without penalty. This provides ample time for travelers to adjust their plans if needed.

The price for the 2-day trek starts from $292.17 and varies depending on the group size. With the Lowest Price Guarantee, customers can be confident they’re getting the best deal.

The comprehensive tour package includes breakfast, dinner, accommodations, a professional mountain guide, and all necessary entrance fees, making it a great value for the experience.

Travelers just need to bring their own lunch, snacks, and personal gear to ensure a comfortable and memorable hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

Service animals are allowed on the trek, but pets are not permitted. Participants must advise of any dietary requirements at the time of booking to ensure accommodations can be made.

Is There a Discount for Larger Groups?

The tour operator offers discounts for larger groups. For groups of 4 or more, the price per person is lower than the published rate for smaller groups of 1-3 people. The discount encourages booking with friends or family.

Can I Leave My Luggage Somewhere During the Trek?

Yes, you can leave your luggage at the meeting point, Malka Yurta Hut. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so your main luggage won’t be needed during the trek.

What Is the Cell Phone Coverage Along the Trail?

The cell phone coverage along the trail is generally good, with occasional spotty areas. Hikers can expect to have connectivity for most of the trek, allowing them to stay connected during their journey.

Can I Rent Any Equipment From the Organizers?

The organizers do not offer equipment rentals. Hikers must bring their own hiking boots, backpack, trekking poles, and other necessary gear. If you need any items, it’s best to prepare and bring them from home.

Sum Up

The Seven Rila Lakes to Rila Monastery guided trek offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Bulgaria’s stunning Rila Mountains. Led by a certified mountain guide, this intimate journey provides personalized attention and covers breathtaking glacier-carved landscapes. With comfortable accommodations, provided meals, and a flexible cancellation policy, the trek promises a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas or a connection with history, this trek is not to be missed.