Meeting and departure
The trip starts at 07:00 behind Vasil Levski Monument - IN FRONT OF Embassy of Slovakia, Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 9, 1527 Sofia (GPS coordinates: 130451, 6917877)
Arriving at Panichishte chair lift
Once the group departs from the starting point, you'll reach the Panichiste lift. Here, you'll pay for the chair lift ticket in cash!!!
Hiking tour of the Seven Rila Lakes
On arrival at the Seven Rila Lakes cirque — a chain of deep-blue lakes, each named in accordance to its shape, that lead up toward the Rila Mountains’ highest peaks — set off on foot to explore the scenic sights. With your map in-hand and your guide leading the way, stroll at a leisurely pace along the hiking trails.
Wander amid rugged peaks and deep valleys, stopping along the way to capture photos. Pause by the impressive lower lake, Dolnoto Ezero, where the water that flows out of the higher lakes is gathered. See Ribnoto Ezero (‘Fish Lake’), the shallowest of the lakes, and Bliznaka (‘The Twin’), which is the largest of the cirque. Marvel at the irregular shapes of Trilistnika (‘The Trefoil’) and Babreka (‘The Kidney’). Then, see oval Okoto (‘The Eye’) before ascending to Salzata (‘The Tear’), the highest of the lakes, where awe-inspiring vistas await.
During the hike, there will be frequent rest stops. You’ll also have the opportunity to stop for food at either one of the two huts passed. Choose from the small selection of dishes, such as soup or grilled meat (own expense), or if you’ve brought your own food with you, enjoy lunch al fresco.
Arriving back at the meeting point
Arrive back at the starting point Vasil Levski Monument (Embassy of Slovakia) at approximately 17:30