Hiking to the scenic Seven Rila lakes with Waterfall and SPA

Key Points

• Price: $319 per person for a full-day guided experience
• Highlights: Seven Rila Lakes, Kidney Lake, the highest waterfall in the region, and thermal springs at Sapareva Banya
• Duration: Approximately 9 hours, with a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation
• Includes: Guided hike, visit to the highest waterfall, mineral spring relaxation, and a natural geyser view
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention
• Physical Level: Moderate walking involved, suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level

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Scenic Journey to the Seven Rila Lakes

This tour takes you from Sofia, Bulgaria, on a 9-hour adventure into the heart of Rila National Park. Starting with a comfortable transfer, the journey leads to some of the most stunning natural sights Bulgaria offers. The experience is perfect for nature lovers who want an active day combined with relaxation and breathtaking views. The guided hike covers approximately 2 hours in the park, ascending from an altitude of 1800 meters to 2200 meters at Kidney Lake.

The tour’s highlight is the chance to see five lakes from a scenic vantage point—a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the area’s glacial origins. The scenery features crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain terrain, and the chance to learn about the lakes’ names and shapes from the knowledgeable guide. The overall pace is moderate, making it accessible for most travelers with decent mobility.

Exploring the Seven Rila Lakes and Kidney Lake

The Seven Rila Lakes are famously picturesque, each with unique names and shapes, formed by glaciers. The guided hike leads you through this natural display, offering plenty of opportunities to admire the scenery. Kidney Lake, the highest among them, sits at 2200 meters and provides a dramatic view of the surrounding peaks.

You’ll learn about the lakes’ glacial origins and how their names relate to their shapes. This part of the tour lasts around 3 hours, allowing ample time for photos, sightseeing, and soaking in the mountain atmosphere. The guide ensures you understand the significance of each lake and shares interesting facts about their formation and history.

Waterfall “Goritsa” and the Region’s Highest Waterfall

A short 20-minute walk brings you to the Waterfall “Goritsa” in Ovchartsi. This waterfall is known as the highest waterfall in the region, offering a stunning cascade amid lush greenery. The walk to the waterfall is easy, and it presents a different perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

The waterfall is an excellent spot for nature photography and a peaceful break from hiking. The guide points out notable features and shares insights into the area’s geological activity, making this stop both scenic and educational.

Relaxing in Sapareva Banya’s Mineral Waters

After the hiking and sightseeing, the tour offers a much-appreciated relaxation period in Sapareva Banya. Here, visitors can enjoy the warm mineral waters of the Aqua club “Kotvata,” which features thermal pools and saunas. While spa tickets are not included, the mineral springs are accessible for those wishing to unwind after the outdoor activities.

This thermal spring area is known for its warm mineral waters, believed to have therapeutic benefits. The visit is an ideal way to soothe tired muscles and enhance the overall experience of the day. It’s a flexible part of the tour, allowing personal choice on whether to soak or simply enjoy the surroundings.

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Viewing Bulgaria’s Natural Geyser in Germanea

A brief 15-minute stop at the natural geyser in Germanea 35, Sapareva Banya offers an additional natural wonder. This geyser provides a glimpse into Bulgaria’s geothermal activity, with steaming water and bubbling mineral-rich springs. The guide explains the geothermal processes behind this phenomenon, enhancing the educational value of this stop.

This viewing point is easily accessible and adds a unique geological aspect to the day, rounding out the tour’s focus on Bulgaria’s natural thermal and volcanic activity.

Logistics and Group Experience

This tour is conducted by CampFire BG and features a live English-speaking guide. The group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience. The pick-up and transfer from Sofia are included, making logistics straightforward and comfortable.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, bring hat, gloves, swimwear, towel, snacks, water, and flip-flops for the thermal pools. The physical activity involves moderate walking, so travelers should be prepared for some exertion. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, heart problems, or high blood pressure.

Practical Tips and Considerations

It’s recommended to bring winter jackets, especially if visiting in colder months, as the altitude can be chilly. Since tickets for the SPA and chairlifts are not included, those interested should plan for additional expenses if they wish to enjoy these amenities. Travelers should also prepare snacks and water for the hike and be ready for a full day of outdoor activity.

This experience is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, and the reserve now, pay later option offers added convenience for planning.

Comparing Similar Tours

This tour stands out for its combination of mountain hiking, natural waterfalls, and thermal relaxation, offering a well-rounded day in Bulgaria’s mountains. Similar experiences include full-day visits to Rila Monastery or extended trips with mountain hikes, but this tour emphasizes both active exploration and relaxation.

Other tours may focus solely on cultural visits or longer hiking routes, but this experience balances guided walking, sightseeing, and wellness activities effectively.

The Sum Up: A Balanced Day in Bulgaria’s Natural Highlights

This Hiking to the scenic Seven Rila lakes with Waterfall and SPA tour offers an engaging way to discover Bulgaria’s natural beauty. The guided hike provides insight into the glacial lakes, while the Waterfall “Goritsa” and thermal springs in Sapareva Banya give a mix of adventure and relaxation.

While the physical activity is moderate and suitable for most, travelers should be prepared for some walking and altitude changes. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the included sights make this a comprehensive day trip for nature enthusiasts.

Overall, this tour provides a well-organized, scenic experience that combines Bulgaria’s mountain landscapes, thermal waters, and geological wonders in a single day—ideal for those looking for an active yet relaxing outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a comfortable transfer from Sofia to the Rila Lakes area.

Are tickets for the SPA included?
No, spa tickets are not included, but visitors can choose to enjoy the thermal pools and saunas at their own expense.

What should I bring on the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, water, gloves, and flip-flops for the pools and thermal springs.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves moderate walking and is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, or high blood pressure.

How long is the hike in the Rila National Park?
The guided hike lasts about 2 hours within the park, covering the lakes and scenic viewpoints.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

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