Rila Mountains Attractions & Things to do

This self-guided, shared shuttle tour will take you to both the 7 Rila Lakes area in the morning and then in the afternoon to the UNESCO Rila Monastery in the Rila National park - Bulgaria's most famous natural and cultural sites. In the morning the shuttle bus tour bus will take you to the start of the hiking routes ar the Rila Lakes area and base station of the chair lift from where you can take the chair-lift up in the mountain. You have more than 5 hours for your self-guided tour of the Rila Lakes area. After that in the afternoon the shared shuttle will take you to the Rila Monastery - Bulgaria's most visited cultural and historical site. You have more than 1 hour to explore the monastery site on your own.
Duration: 13 hours.

Take the unforgettable adventure through the forest of Borovets with experienced snowmobile guides! Snowmobiles are running every day, every hour from 10:00 am. to 7 pm. The customers are following the instructor throughout the whole tour on a custom-made itinerary in the deep forests with wonderful views and several stops on the way.
It's a magnificent experience, lots of fun, adrenaline and adventure but keeping everybody safe.
Choose among the tour options as you have the opportunity to book just a time and date by paying the deposit only and the rest on the spot.
Duration: 1 hour.

Dramatic landscapes and breathtaking alpine sceneries, centuries old pine forests and rugged mountain peaks make the Seven Rila Lakes cirque one of the most beautiful areas in the Rila Mountains National Park. Enjoy a gentle snowshoe walk in the picturesque Seven Rila Lakes area followed by relaxation in the thermal water pools of Sapareva Banya spa resort, fed by one of the hottest springs in Europe. All this within a day tour from Sofia!
Duration: 1 day.

See the best of Bulgaria in 1 day. This self-guided, shared shuttle tour will take you to both the UNESCO Rila Monastery in the Rila National park in the morning and then in the afternoon to the city of Plovdiv - the cultural capital of Bulgaria. In the morning the shuttle bus will take you to the Rila Monastery where you have more than 1 hour to explore the site at your own pace. The complex is compact in size so the time allows to see the most important parts of it. After that in the afternoon the shared shuttle will take you on a 3.5 hours journey through the scenic mountains of Bulgaria to the city of Plovdiv - one of Bulgaria's most visited cultural and historical sites. You have more than 4.5 hours to explore the historical city center on your own. Driver will provide you with a tourist map and tips for what to see.
Duration: 12 hours 30 minutes.

We will be able to visit one of the most beautiful Orthodox monasteries in the Balkans. Rila Monastery is a remarkable structure in the middle of nature. Situated in the center of the Rila mountain, the monastery is a hidden gem. We will also visit the city of Blagoevgrad, a student city that features a pedestrian downtown with preserved 19th-century architecture and numerous restaurants, cafés, coffee shops, and boutiques.
Duration: 12 hours.

Adventure with an open jeep among century-old rocks in the highest mountain in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula - Rila! For those who cannot think about their lives without movement and bright emotions, we guarantee a great experience amongst the beauty of breathtaking mountain views!

Wonderful views, impressive photos, will make your trip memorable!

With extreme experiences and fun in nature, you relax the most and reborn in the fastest way - this is a proven fact!

You can hike to the 7 Rila lakes if you would like.
Duration: 2 hours.

Explore the Seven Rila Lakes, the jewel of the Rila Mountains National Park and admire breathtaking alpine scenery! Escape the summer heat in Sofia and enjoy the refreshing mountain climate of the highest mountain of the Balkans! Come join us for a pleasant, easy to moderate walk and relax deeply at the end of the day in thermal pools fed by hot spring waters! All this within a day tour from Sofia!
Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Rila Monastery private tour will take you to Bulgaria's most important and visited historical site and even more -  Bulgaria's most visited UNESCO place, the 14th century defensive tower and a local wine cellar. Enjoy the wonderful frescoes from 19th century, representing the achievement of the Bulgarian Revival painting school, feel the amazing spirit of the largest monastery in the country, surrounded by the indescribable beauty of Rila mountain. In the afternoon we will visit a special winery where you will try 3-5 different wines.
Duration: 8 hours.

Unveiling the Rila Monastery: A Personalized Journey

Experience the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a truly unique experience.

Your Personal Guide: Navigate effortlessly with an engaging audio guide and a comprehensive electronic guide filled with insightful notes, expert tips, and exclusive information.

Flexibility at Your Fingertips: Explore at your own pace, linger at captivating spots, and delve deeper into the aspects that intrigue you most.

Immersive Storytelling: Uncover the monastery's rich history and profound spirituality through captivating narratives that bring its past to life.

This isn't just a visit; it's a personalized pilgrimage. Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery.
Duration: 2 to 7 hours.

During the 8-9 hours trip, you will see really amazing places and landmarks, starting from our meeting point St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then going by luxury SUV to the popular UNESCO heritage - about 900 years old - Boyana Church, situated in the heart of Vitosha mountain. After the visit we will bring you to a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the middle of Rila mountain. When we finish our lunch we will go to the most popular UNESCO Heritage - Rila Monastery. You will have the opportunity to touch the spiritual life of this sacred place and discover its hidden treasures! Our next stop will be another amazing place in the nature - Sapareva Banya village and the hot spring mineral pools there :)! Regardless of the weather you will have the pleasure to dip yourself in the hot mineral waters in an outdoor swimming pools with a magnificent views! We will spend 2 hours there and then we will bring you back to the starting point in Sofia - St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral :)!
Duration: 9 hours.

Embark on an unforgettable horseback riding adventure! Explore breathtaking scenery on gentle trails, perfect for riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced equestrians. Create memories that will last a lifetime with our bespoke horse riding tours.
Duration: 5 hours.

Our Quad and Buggy safaris depart all year in all seasons every round hour daily from Borovets. The beauty of the Rila mountains is explored on a picturesque route which adds to the total fun and adrenaline. The duration of the activity is 1 hour, which includes a 5-minute briefing.
The customer drives the vehicle along a certain route following a guide who determines the speed and distance, also observes and controls the conduct of the activity. The customer is given a helmet to use.

There is no required minimum number of tourists to run the safari.

Our quad and buggy safaris are the best way to explore the mountains and the slopes in a fun, adrenaline and safe way.
Duration: 1 hour.

Mousala is the highest peak (at 2925 m) not only in Rila Mountains, but on the whole Balkan Peninsula. Join this trekking experience and lose yourself in breathtaking views.
Duration: 7 hours.

Exciting one day bike trip in Rila Monastery valley. Enjoy a bike ride on village roads with great views to Rila mountains, have a fresh trout for lunch and visit the holiest place in Bulgaria - Rila monastery!
Duration: 8 hours.

You will have the pleasure to get to the highest of all lakes - the Eye, the Tear, the Kidney, the Twins, the Trefoil, the Fish Lake and the Lower Lake and enjoy the super scenery revealed from there. It's superb!
Duration: 9 hours.

Adventure with an open jeep among century-old rocks in the highest mountain in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula - Rila! For those who cannot think about their lives without movement and bright emotions, we guarantee a great experience amongst the beauty of breathtaking mountain views!

The journey begins in Sapareva Banya, the city is famous for its hot mineral springs. On the way we will pass through St. Stephen's Monastery, the "Silver" area and the "Pariloto" where excavation works in 1915 revealed an ancient Roman artifact which testifies the Roman presence in this area, which was also one of the stops on the nearby main military road - the so-called "Dalmatian Road". We will see an interesting rock formation called "Evangelous Stone", which resembles the pyramid facing upside down.The legend says that people with sins, if they can get through this triangle, their sins will be forgiven.

Wonderful views, impressive photos, will make your trip memorable!
Duration: 2 hours.

This tour of the Seven Rila Lakes provides a great experience and unforgettable natural views. See one of the Bulgaria’s 100 National tourist sites in this day tour. Hike through the natural landscape and get acquainted with Bulgaria's picturesque scenery.
Duration: 9 hours.

We made this tour for people, who love touching nature in their comfort zone.
Prepare for this trip in South and Southwest Bulgaria to touch the beauty, carved by nature, and places, where traditions are still alive!
Jump in the van and listen to the legends of love, passion, and mountains. Pass the near villages and fell like a local tasting the Kapama and other Bulgarian dishes. With our tour, you can see the rich wildlife from millions of years ago till nowadays.
You will be in three different mountains with their spirit – Rila, Pirin and Rhodopi mountains. These three mountains are Wisdom, Beaty, and Love.
One phenomenon can’t be seen in the picture, you have to see and feel it! We wait for the adventure to call you!
Duration: 5 days.

Trail2extreme offers the best in off road motorcycle tours. From steady flowing tracks and trails to the hardest of extreme terrain. We take you to your limits. All our bikes are well maintained latest model KTMs.
Our expert guides are fluent in English and will adapt the routes to provide a bespoke experience that’s suits the groups requirements. We will take you to places of spectacular natural beauty, massive lakes, cascading waterfalls and rivers and the highest mountain peaks.
You will experience traditional mountain life. Eating with hunters in secluded mountain huts or drinking with the locals in traditional villages.
But most of all you will ride some of the most awesome terrain available anywhere and come to know the Bulgarian wilderness.
Duration: 4 days.

Our mountain guides are the most experienced ones and you will be completely safe and secure with them walking around the 7 Rila Lakes. You will have the pleasure to get to the highest of all lakes - the Eye, the Tear, the Kidney, the Twins, the Trefoil, the Fish Lake and the Lower Lake and enjoy the super scenery revealed from there.

Book this superb experience and text or call us for your preferred starting time. Then meet our mountain guide at the bottom lift station to the Seven Rila Lakes.

We allow maximum 15 people in a single booking with 1 private guide. We operate the activity all year in all seasons.

It's an experience of a lifetime worth taking!
Duration: 5 hours.

Departure point: At your hotel or Sofia airport

Departure time:07:00 am

Duration:3 days

Return details:Return to initial departure point or wherever you would want to go in Sofia

Tour highlights:
• The Scary lake
• Yonchevo lake
• Seven Rila lakes
• Rila monastery
• Stob's pyramids

Rila has more than 120 lakes and in that trip we’ll see it’s most famous – Scary lake and Prekorechki lakes, Yonchevo and Pig ones, Seven Rila and a part of Urdini lakes.  We call it the mountain of wisdom – because of Rila monastery, which is the biggest monastery in Bulgaria, and the peaceful White brotherhood – people, that dance barefoot to take the spirit of the mountain and the force of Jesus.
Duration: 3 days.

ATV safaris are not a new way to entertain and experience the mountains. This ATV safari is perfectly designed to show you the best and to enjoy the nature and the Rila mountains. It's an experience everybody must take while in Borovets.
There is no minimum participants.
Duration: 1 hour.

During the 9 hours trip, you will see really amazing places and landmarks, including a unique flight with a plane above the remarkable Rila Monastery and 7 lakes. Starting from our meeting point St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, then going by car/van to a very nice traditional Bulgarian restaurant in the middle of Rila mountain. When we finish our lunch we will go to the most popular UNESCO Heritage - Rila Monastery. You will have the opportunity to touch the spiritual life of this sacred place and discover its hidden treasures! Next stop will be Panicharevo airport where you will be transferred to a airplane and perform a breathtaking flight above Rila Monastery and 7 lakes. Our final destination will be Sapareva Banya village and the hot spring mineral pools there :)! Regardless of the weather you will have the pleasure to dip yourself in the hot mineral waters in an outdoor swimming pools! We will spend an hour there and then we will bring you back to the starting point in Sofia!
Duration: 9 hours 30 minutes.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you traverse the snow-covered terrain of the Rila Mountains on a powerful snowmobile. Soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and crystal-clear lakes as you glide through the winter wonderland. Each night, retreat to the comfort of a cozy mountain villa where you can recharge and prepare for the next day's adventures. With each passing day, immerse yourself deeper in the beauty of the Rila Mountains, experiencing the thrill of snowmobiling and creating memories that will last a lifetime. This is more than just a tour, it's a true adventure for the thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts.

The 3-day package includes 2 full days of snowmobiling with professional instructor and full equipment, 2 nights accommodation at Villa Ema on full board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) and lots of fun which is guaranteed.
Duration: 3 days.

Local Expertise: Our team comprises true enduro enthusiasts deeply rooted in Bulgaria's terrain. We'll take you off the beaten path to uncover hidden gems only the locals know.

Tailored Adventures: Your tour, your way. We personalize each journey to match your skill level and preferences, ensuring an adventure perfectly suited to you.

Authentic Connections: We're more than just guides; we're your fellow riders, forging genuine connections and sharing the camaraderie that makes enduro special.

Stunning Routes: Prepare to be awed. Our meticulously crafted routes lead you through awe-inspiring landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene valleys.

Top-Notch Equipment: Your safety matters. Our modern, well-maintained bikes and gear provide peace of mind, letting you focus solely on the thrill of the ride.
Duration: 4 days.

You are going to enjoy a traditional Bulgarian 3-course menu with a glass of wine, tea/coffee and a non-alcoholic drink right at the Seven Rila Lakes hut.
Duration: 1 hour.

The highest mountain in Balkan peninsula - Rila. Join the adventure. This is a combined tour in the area of Rila monastery – the biggest one of Bulgaria, the spring of knowledge, hope and faith. We’ll see the phenomena Stob’s pyramids, Bohemia waterfalls and the panoramic peak “The Cross”.
Duration: 8 hours.

Unique two days tour, visiting some of the "must see" UNESCO Heritage sites in Bulgaria - Boyana Church and Rila Monastery, including an unforgettable overnight stay in the Monastery itself! ***Ultra fast 1Gbps Wi-Fi available***

You will see of course much more :):

1. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
2. Beautiful Vitosha mountain
3. UNESCO Heritage - Boyana Church
4. Rila mountain - highest mountain range of Bulgaria
5. UNESCO Heritage - Rila Monastery (including overnight stay inside :))
6. The Cave of St. Ivan Rilski
7. Kirilova Polyana Meadow
8. Devil's Waters waterfall
9. Sapareva Banya - an ancient small city with hot springs
10. Aqua Club Kotvata - unique outdoor thermal spa in the mountain

You will see and learn a lot about the Bulgarian history and culture - great time guaranteed :)!
Duration: 2 days.

The highest mountain in the Balkan peninsula – Rila. Join the adventure.
Hike to see the incredible landscape, to reach peaks - Belmeken, Sivri chal, Kameniti chal, and Soufan.
Join in that extreme trip to find the harmony, to discover some legends and tales, to taste a piece of beautiful Bulgaria.
Duration: 12 hours.

Rila mountain offers the ideal conditions for horse riding featuring slight ascents & descents, roads suitable for trotting and galloping and incredible views. Combined with the fresh, clean air of the Rila mountains this tour is a must for every horse rider.

Round-trip transfers, 1 night accommodation, two meals (dinner and breakfast), saddle and guide are all included. All with your own pace and timing.
Duration: 2 days.

Rila- the highest mountain in Bulgaria and Balkan peninsula. Rila is a very old name with the meaning "The water mountain". It has more than 120 lakes and on that tour, we'll see it's the most famous Seven Rila lakes and the mystic Urdini lakes. We'll be over 2661 meters over sea level and we'll see Rila monastery from an eagle eye. The hiking is long and hard, but you'll find the miraculous legends and harmony.
Join us on that tour to touch the virgin nature of Bulgaria.
Duration: 14 hours.

Unveiling the Rila Monastery: Your Private Journey

Experience the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a truly unique and personal journey.

Your Private Guide & Driver:
Effortless Navigation: Relax and enjoy the scenic drive.

Personalized Insights: Benefit from the private guide's in-depth knowledge of the monastery, shared through engaging conversation and insightful commentary.

Flexibility: Explore at your own pace. Your private guide is going to adapt to your interests and linger at the spots that captivate you most.

Immersive Storytelling: Uncover the monastery's rich history and profound spirituality through captivating narratives that bring its past to life.

This is more than a visit; it's your private pilgrimage.

Book your tour today and embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery with us.
Duration: 4 to 8 hours.