Your adventure begins as you touch down in Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, where history and modern energy intertwine beneath the gaze of Vitosha Mountain. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel, giving you time to unwind before the journey ahead.

Spend the rest of the day at your own pace—stroll through Sofia’s charming streets, where Roman ruins stand beside golden-domed cathedrals, or relax at a cozy café and soak in the atmosphere of this dynamic city. A visit to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the lively Vitosha Boulevard offers a perfect introduction to Bulgaria’s rich heritage.

Travel Details: Airport transfer to hotel; Overnight in Sofia (-/-/-)

Morning transfer to Borovets, Bulgaria’s oldest mountain resort, once a royal hunting retreat and now the gateway to the Rila Mountains. A scenic cable car ride to Yastrebetz (2,300 m) brings you to the trailhead, where your ascent toward Musala, the highest peak in the Balkans, begins.

The trek unfolds through alpine terrain, passing the serene Musala Lakes, whose crystal-clear waters reflect the towering peaks above. As the landscape becomes more rugged, you reach the Ledenoto Ezero (Icy Lake) Shelter (2,709 m), standing beside the highest glacial lake in the Balkans. Following Bulgaria’s 1984 Everest expedition, the government intended to donate a shelter to Nepal. However, when the offer was declined, the structure was placed near Musala’s peak as a refuge for future adventurers.

With the summit in sight, the final push rewards you with an unrivaled 360° panorama from the top of Musala (2,925 m). The dramatic ridgelines of Pirin, the distant silhouette of Vitosha, and the rolling green slopes of the Rhodopes stretch endlessly into the horizon.

After soaking in the views, descend along the same route before transferring to the peaceful mountain village of Govedartsi (1,150 m), where a warm meal and well-deserved rest await.

Highlights of the Day:

• Reach the summit of Musala (2,925 m), the highest peak in the Balkans, with breathtaking 360° views.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~95 km; Trekking distance: ~12 km; Time: 6:00 h; Up: +650 m / Down: -650 m; Overnight in Govedartsi (B / - / D)

Morning begins in the quiet mountain village of Govedartsi, where the fresh alpine air fills you with anticipation for the day's adventure. A short transfer takes you to Maliovitsa resort, the legendary starting point for some of Rila’s most challenging and scenic routes.

The trail ascends gradually, winding through a valley flanked by rugged rock faces and towering ridgelines, leading into the breathtaking Prekorechki Lakes circus. Nestled between dramatic slopes and sheer cliffs, these hidden glacial gems feel untouched by time. The largest and highest among them, the Scary Lake (Strashnoto Ezero, 2,465 m), sits beneath the imposing shadows of peaks soaring beyond 2,700 m. A place of raw beauty and solitude, the lake is wrapped in legends, its name reflecting the awe-inspiring power of this remote alpine basin.

From here, the descent takes a new path, leading past the tranquil Yonchevo Lake (2,015 m), where the surrounding pine forests and meadows offer a striking contrast to the dramatic, rocky terrain of the higher altitudes. The final stretch brings you back to Maliovitsa resort, where a short transfer returns you to Govedartsi.

Alternative Route: Summit Maliovitsa Peak (2,729 m)

Depending on snow and weather conditions around Strashnoto Ezero (Scary Lake), today's trek is possible to be rerouted to an ascent of Maliovitsa Peak (2,729 m). Known as the cradle of Bulgarian alpinism, this iconic summit offers one of the most spectacular high-mountain experiences in Rila.

The trek begins at Maliovitsa resort, following a scenic yet demanding trail that ascends through alpine meadows and rocky slopes. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms into a dramatic world of jagged ridgelines and glacial cirques, unveiling some of the most striking panoramas in the region. The final push to the summit rewards you with an unforgettable panoramic view stretching across the wildest and most Alpine part of the Rila Mountains.

After taking in the breathtaking scenery, descend along the same path back to Maliovitsa resort, where a short transfer returns you to Govedartsi.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike through the dramatic valley leading to the hidden Prekorechki Lakes.

Scary Lake (2,465 m) - A place of raw beauty and untamed wilderness, the lake is wrapped in myths, its eerie name a reflection of the stormy, unpredictable nature of this isolated alpine basin.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~30 km; Trekking distance: ~12 km; Time: 6 h; Up: +850 m / Down: -850 m; Overnight in Govedartsi (B / - / D)

Alternative trek: Maliovitsa Peak (2,729 m); Trekking distance: ~13 km; Time: 7 h; Up: +965 m / Down: -965 m

Morning begins with an early transfer to Pionerska Hut, where a scenic route takes you high into the Rila Mountains, revealing one of Bulgaria’s most breathtaking landscapes—the Seven Rila Lakes. Sitting above 2,200 m, these glacial lakes are a place of legend and wonder, each bearing a name that reflects its unique shape or mystical folklore. As you hike through this alpine paradise, the crystal-clear waters mirror the vast sky, while the surrounding peaks create an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

The trail leads to Ezeren Vrah (Lake peak 2,569 m), a stunning panoramic viewpoint that offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of all Seven Rila Lakes, laid out like shimmering mirrors amid the rugged mountain landscape. This vantage point is among the best in the Rila Mountains, allowing you to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of this glacial wonderland. After taking in the spectacular scenery, descend back to the starting point to complete the trek.

A short transfer takes you to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and most revered monastic complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tucked deep within the mountains, this spiritual sanctuary is a masterpiece of Orthodox architecture, with vibrant frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and centuries-old traditions creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Take time to soak in the serenity, explore the monastery’s treasures, and reflect on its rich history before continuing the journey.

The adventure then shifts southward into the Pirin Mountains, arriving in Bansko.

Highlights of the Day:

• Hike among pristine glacial lakes, each with its own legend and breathtaking alpine backdrop.
• Ascend Ezeren Vrah (2,569 m) for a spectacular panoramic view of all Seven Rila Lakes.
• Visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery- Bulgaria’s most iconic spiritual and architectural treasure.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~234 km; Trekking distance: ~9 km; Time: 4:30 h; Up: +490 m / Down: -490 m; Overnight in Bansko (B / - / D)

Morning begins with a picturesque transfer to Vihren Hut, the gateway to the breathtaking Pirin Mountains. Nestled within Pirin National Park, this rugged alpine landscape features soaring peaks, glacial valleys, and some of Bulgaria’s most stunning mountain scenery.

The trek takes you deep into the Cirque of the Banderishki Lakes, a collection of pristine glacial lakes nestled among jagged peaks and alpine meadows. Each step through this high-altitude paradise unveils a new perspective of Pirin’s untamed beauty, with vibrant wildflowers, rugged granite formations, and sweeping mountain vistas.

On the way back, make a brief stop to see Baikusheva Mura, the oldest tree in Bulgaria and one of the oldest in the Balkans. This ancient Bosnian pine, estimated to be over 1,300 years old, stands majestically by the roadside, serving as a living monument to the pristine wilderness of Pirin.

Optional Activity: Relax in the Hot Springs of Banya

Late in the afternoon, there is an optional visit to the mineral-rich hot springs of Banya, a small village famous for its more than 75 geothermal springs. Relax in the outdoor mineral pools and indulge in a wellness experience amidst a tranquil alpine setting, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Visiting these natural thermal pools is the ideal way to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of trekking.

Highlights of the Day:

• Trek through the Cirque of the Banderishki Lakes, surrounded by alpine meadows and towering peaks.
• Experience the wild and untouched beauty of Pirin National Park, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder.
• (Optional) Unwind in the mineral-rich hot springs of Banya, soaking in the healing warmth of outdoor thermal pools.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~30 km; Trekking distance: ~9 km; Time: 5 h; Up: +500 m / Down: -500 m; Overnight in Bansko (B / - / D)

Morning begins with a transfer to Dobrinishte, followed by a scenic chairlift ride to Bezbog Hut, which serves as the starting point for one of the most spectacular treks in the Pirin Mountains.

The trail ascends gradually, weaving through alpine meadows and rocky ridges, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn. As you gain elevation, the views become increasingly rewarding, revealing the rugged beauty of the Pirin Mountains. Reaching the summit of Mount Polezhan (2,851 m) is an unforgettable experience, as you are greeted with an extraordinary 360-degree panorama. From this vantage point, you can admire no fewer than 17 glacial lakes, including the stunning Popovo Lake, the largest and deepest glacial lake in the Pirin range.

The serene beauty of these shimmering lakes, nestled among jagged peaks and lush valleys, creates a scene that feels almost otherworldly. After soaking in the awe-inspiring views and capturing the moment, descend back to Bezbog Hut, where a brief transfer will return you to Bansko for a well-deserved rest.

Highlights of the Day:

• ‍Summit Mount Polezhan (2,851 m)-one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Pirin.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~24 km; Trekking distance: ~7 km; Time: 5 h; Up: +770 m / Down: -770 m; Overnight in Bansko (B / - / D)

Today’s adventure takes you to the summit of Mount Vihren (2,914 m), the highest peak in the Pirin Mountains and one of Bulgaria’s most iconic climbs. This challenging ascent rewards hikers with breathtaking views, diverse alpine landscapes, and a true sense of achievement.

The trail winds through limestone cliffs and alpine meadows, providing breathtaking views of Pirin’s rugged peaks at every turn. Along the way, you'll pass the Vlahini and Bunderishki glacial lakes, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering summits above. This route also presents an opportunity to observe rare flora and fauna, including the Edelweiss flower, a symbol of high-altitude purity, and the elusive chamois, a species of mountain goat-antelope that gracefully navigates the rocky terrain.

Standing atop Vihren is an awe-inspiring experience, where the vast expanse of the Pirin Range unfolds beneath your feet. The jagged peaks and deep valleys stretch endlessly toward the horizon, creating a breathtaking alpine panorama that captures the raw beauty of the mountain wilderness. This majestic peak also marks the end of the marble section of Pirin’s main ridge, with its upper slopes and sheer cliffs sculpted from dazzling white marble.

In the late afternoon, a transfer takes you back to Sofia, where you can enjoy a relaxing evening in Bulgaria’s vibrant capital after an exhilarating final day in the mountains.

Highlights of the Day:

• Summit Mount Vihren (2,914 m)- the highest peak in Pirin and one of Bulgaria’s most challenging ascents.
• Encounter rare alpine flora- including Edelweiss, and possibly spot chamois in their natural habitat.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~160 km; Trekking distance: ~8 km; Time: 6-7 h; Up: +960 m / Down: -960 m; Overnight in Sofia (B / - / -)

As your adventure through Bulgaria’s majestic mountains comes to an end, take a final morning to soak in the atmosphere of Sofia. This is a moment to reflect on the memories created—the towering peaks of Rila and Pirin, the shimmering glacial lakes, the breathtaking ascents to Musala, Vihren, and Polezhan, and the warmth of the mountain hospitality that made this journey truly special.

At the designated time, you will be transferred to Sofia Airport, carrying not only souvenirs but also the spirit of Bulgaria—its wild landscapes, ancient legends, and the echoes of adventure. As your journey home begins, the rugged beauty of the Balkans fades into the distance, but the stories and experiences will remain with you, forever etched in your memories.

Until we meet again—сбогом и до нови срещи! (Goodbye and see you again!)

Travel Details: Transfer to Sofia Airport; Expected travel distance: ~10 km; (B / - / -)