We present a real high-mountain adventure in the heart of Rila! A route that brings together the highest peak in the Balkans — Musala (2925 m) — with the beautiful lakes of Rila, rugged high-mountain ridges, and the calm of Rila's wild forests.
We'll cross some of the most striking spots in the mountains — Musala, Bliznatsite, Marishki Chal, and Mancho — look down over the Marichini Lakes, the source of the Maritsa River, and spend the evening at the cozy Zavrachitsa Hut.
Day 1: Borovets – Musala – Bliznatsite – Marishki Chal – Mancho – Zavrachitsa Hut. We meet in the morning at the gondola lift car park in Borovets and ride the lift up to Yastrebets, where the adventure begins. We head toward Musala Hut, continue past the high-mountain lakes and the 'Everest' shelter, and stand on Musala peak — 2925 m, the highest point not only in Bulgaria but on the entire Balkan Peninsula. We continue along the high Rila ridge to Golyam and Malak Bliznak, then reach Marishki Chal (2776 m), from where an incredible panorama opens toward the Marichini Lakes. We continue to Mancho peak, from where our descent to Zavrachitsa Hut begins for the night. Distance: around 16 km, elevation: +1233 m / -1340 m.
Day 2: Zavrachitsa Hut – Chakar Voyvoda Hut – Borovets. We leave Zavrachitsa Hut and head back toward Borovets. The second day trades the rugged high-mountain scenery for the cool calm of ancient Rila forests, touching along the way on the area's history and the old royal hunting lodges. The route takes us to Chakar Voyvoda Hut, from where we gradually descend to Borovets, completing our two-day Rila adventure. Distance: around 16 km, elevation: +760 m / -1600 m.
Price: 120 € per person.
Not included in the price: transport, overnight stay at Zavrachitsa, food, drinks and personal consumables, expenses of a personal nature.
In two days you'll experience Rila in its full variety — the highest peak in the Balkans, high wild ridges, glacial lakes, striking panoramas, ancient forests, and genuine hut atmosphere. In total, around 32 km of mountain hiking and two days full of views, challenges, and moments that stay with you long after you're back home. Rila isn't just told. Rila is experienced.
Mandatory Equipment
- Backpack (up to 40 liters)
- Windproof and waterproof jacket
- High hiking boots with ankle support and water resistance
- Trekking poles
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sun hat or cap
- Long hiking trousers
- Warm fleece layer
- Insulated down or synthetic jacket
- Flip-flops or lightweight sandals for the hut
- Sleeping sheet / travel sheet
- Lightweight gloves
- Warm hat or beanie
- Water bottle (minimum 1.5 liter)
- Additional underwear, t-shirts, and socks (depending on trek duration)
- Compact high-energy food (nuts, bars, etc.)
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Power bank for charging your phone