As of July 2026, the announced chairlift prices are:
Chairlift tickets are not included in the Rila Lakes Bus transfer price. Prices and operating hours may change, so please check the official chairlift information before your trip.
Card payments may not always be available at the chairlift due to unreliable mobile network coverage in the mountains. We recommend bringing enough cash to cover your chairlift ticket and any other expenses.
We recommend bringing the exact cash amount.
On-site or in-office payment is not possible.
Tickets can only be purchased with prior online card payment.
Without a prepaid ticket, we cannot guarantee availability.
No. The Rila Lakes Bus ticket covers transportation only. Chairlift tickets, food, and guided hiking services are not included. You will need to purchase your chairlift ticket separately at the lift station
The bus departs from Vasil Levski Monument (Embassy of Slovakia).
We recommend being at the departure point at least 5 minutes before the announced departure time to ensure you don’t miss the bus.
The entire circuit around all seven lakes typically takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on your pace and how many breaks you take.
If you only visit a few of them (e.g., The Kidney or The Eye) and return, the hike will take approximately 2–3 hours.
Plan your hike carefully around the return bus departure time, and allow enough time to descend to the meeting point.
Weather in the Rila Mountains can change quickly, and conditions at higher elevations may differ significantly from those in Sofia. Check the latest mountain weather forecast and the live webcam at the upper chairlift station before setting off.
Even on sunny days, bring warm layers and a windproof or waterproof jacket.
For a comfortable and safer hike, we recommend bringing:
Adjust your clothing and equipment to the latest forecast and the length of your planned hike.
Bring a light snack and a bottle of water for your hike! There are two mountain huts along the route where you can stop for lunch. We recommend bringing cash in EUR to make paying at the huts easier. Availability of food and services may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
The Seven Rila Lakes hike can be challenging for young children, particularly those under 12 who are not accustomed to mountain walking. Trails include steep and uneven sections, and the full circuit can take several hours.
If you are hiking with younger children, it is advisable to:
Yes, you can hike from the Seven Rila Lakes to Rila Monastery. You will need to book a separate bus ticket for the journey from Sofia to the Seven Rila Lakes and another ticket for the return journey from Rila Monastery to Sofia. For route details, visit our [Seven Rila Lakes to Rila Monastery hiking page] (add link).
Yes, the bus stops in Sapareva Banya at the Municipal Bath. The stop is located at 42.287872, 23.253829. For more information about the stop and your journey, visit our [Sapareva Banya page] (add link).
You can contact us by phone or email. Our office is open Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.