I was looking into things to do in Sofia when I stumbled upon Eternal Arrival’s post on day trips from Sofia. The minute I read about the Seven Rila Lakes I just knew I had to go.
The weather was great and Traventuria had tours in November. I booked a tour, my second ever tour as an adult (this was my first one), through Get your Guide and paid roughly $47 for a full-day tour to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia.
The Seven Rila Lakes
The Rila Mountains are one of the most picturesque areas near Sofia and one of Bulgaria’s most beautiful natural sites. The lakes are all roughly between 2,100 and 2,500 meters above sea level and absolutely stunning!
The landscapes and lakes are beyond beautiful and on this tour we got to explore the following ones: the Eye, the Tear, the Kidney, the Twins, the Trefoil, the Fish Lake and the Lower Lake.
The route, while definitely a bit challenging for parts of it, isn’t overly difficult and suitable for all sorts of fitness and strength levels.
The tour
The price of the tour included an English speaking guide and transportation to and from the mountain. What’s not included? Food, drinks and a return chairlift ticket (18 leva). I packed plenty of food and water. They only take cash so make sure to have 18 leva on you.
The tour group consisted of 8 people (10 including both of our guides), we hiked at a pretty good pace and got to see a lot. My guide Petar, former banker turned ski instructor and tour guide, was super knowledgeable about the area and such a joy to be around with!
The Scenery
At the base, we took the chairlift up to the top and boy were the views beautiful! We spent the rest of the day exploring the Seven Rila Lakes and had a lunch break at the very top.
We got back to the Rila Lakes mountain hut at roughly 3 PM and took the chairlift back down. Within 30 or so minutes we were on our way back to Sofia and despite a bit of traffic, it didn’t take us too long.
If you are thinking of taking a day trip from Sofia then I highly recommend visiting the Seven Rila Lakes. Whether you arrange a tour by yourself or go with Traventuria – it’s absolutely worth it.
If you’ve got any questions, shoot them my way! ✨
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