RILA MOUNTAINS (CENTRE-BASED TOUR)

Day 1: Sofia – Govedartsi
We meet you at Sofia Airport and take you to the village of Govedartsi, where we shall have four overnight stays (1,15hrs drive).
Day 2: Govedartsi – The Seven Rila Lakes – Govedartsi (6-7hrs; 16-18km; +1100-1300m/-1100-1300m)
Today, we tour the famous Cirque of the Seven Rila Lakes. A shady path takes us through an enchanted spruce forest to the alpine part of the mountain whеre the Lakes are. In good weather, the views from the highest part of the route to the Lakes, which fall below us, are impressive.
Day 3: Govedartsi – Malyovitsa – Scary Lake/Yonchevo Lake or Mount Malyovitsa – Govedartsi (5,30-6hrs; 12-14km; +880-1040m/-880-1040m)
The Malyovishka River valley is the starting point for our climb to the Strashno Ezero (The Scary) Lake or else to the summit of Malyovitsa (depending on group’s fitness). Either trek is particularly beautiful and picturesque, opening up unexpected surprises from the alpine area of the Rila. The trek to the Scary Lake and Yonchevo Lake is circular; while the for climb to Malyovitsa summit you will retunr along the same trail.
Day 4: Govedartsi – Borovets – Mount Musala – Borovets – Govedartsi (6hrs; 14,50km; +690m/-690m)
Today’s adventure is dominated by Musala, the Balkans’ highest peak at 2925m. The entire route passes Cirques, lakes and mountain shelter huts, with the rocky face of Musala in view the whole time. Once there, the view over a sea of jagged ridges, peaks, and valleys is truly something you will never forget.
Day 5: Govedartsi – Sofia
Transfer from Govedartsi to Sofia Airport.

Hiking time: hiking time only is mentioned on each day (not including stops for pictures, picnics, breaks etc.); these are based on an average hiker’s speed of 4-5km/hr on flat terrain, additional 30min for each 300m elevation gain, and a backpack weighing not more than 10-15% of your body weight. Still this varies a lot on the terrain and hiking experience of each client.