Transbalkan Trek (Bulgaria)

Transbalkan Trek (Bulgaria) 680 , 9 Days

Join an unforgettable hiking trek in the Balkan Mountains that takes you across the longest and most majestic mountain range, which also gave its name to the entire Balkan Peninsula.

This 9-day Trans Balkan trek takes place roughly in the middle of the mountain range, starting on the northern side in the picturesque small town of Apriltsi, reaching the highest peak, Mount Botev (2376 m), and crossing the ridge down the southern side to the village of Rozina. From there, you'll continue by train to the charming Renaissance town of Koprivshtitsa, rich in Bulgaria's history, beautiful architecture, and a unique atmosphere found in its narrow cobbled streets.

Several days are spent hiking far above the tree line, offering the most breathtaking views of both Northern and Southern Bulgaria. Endless meadows, natural springs, spectacular cliffs, and isolated huts are connected by a network of trails, providing daily challenges and experiences in a world teeming with birds, mountain flowers, grazing sheep, and possibly mountain goats and the tracks of elusive brown bears.

Highlights:
Botev Peak - conquer the highest peak of Stara Planina with breathtaking views from the summit, surrounded by the beauty of the Severen Jendem reserve
Central Balkan National Park – a vast protected area (716 km2) with several reserves. You might catch a glimpse of the rare edelweiss and soaring golden eagles
Koprivshtitsa – an authentic Bulgarian village with a special historic atmosphere and well-preserved houses in the colorful Balkan style.


Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrive Sofia
Arrival in Sofia. After settling into your accommodation, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city's historical landmarks, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. (-/-/-)

Day 2. Sofia - Troyan Monastery Apriltsi - Pleven Hut (1504 m)
The adventure begins as we depart from Sofia and head to the Vidima district of Apriltsi visiting Bulgarias third biggest monastery en route - Troyan Monastery. Continue to our starting point for the Transbalkan Trek. Following the green markings and signs, we ascend along a steep path, surrounded by the rocky slopes of Northern Dzendem and the imposing Botev peak. After a short walk, we reach the Pleven Hut, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. (B/-/D)
Walking: 1.5 hrs; ascent: +550 m

Day 3. Pleven Hut to Botev Peak (2376 m)
Today's highlight is the ascent to the renowned Botev Peak, the highest summit of Stara Planina. The trail is technically easy but physically demanding, taking us through the lush forests, along the ridge, and finally, the challenging final climb. Reaching the summit rewards us with awe-inspiring panoramas of the Severen Jendem reserve. The round trip takes about 6 hours, allowing for ample time to soak in the natural beauty. (B/L/D)
Walking: 6 hrs.; ascent/decent: +872/-872m

Day 4. Pleven Hut - Ambaritsa Hut
Prepare for a rewarding journey as we traverse several peaks, including the high Kupen, offering wire ropes to guide us through the steepest sections. The 7-hour trek showcases incredible views of Mount Botev, making the effort entirely worth it for any nature lover with a moderate fitness level. (B/-/D)
Walking: 7 hrs.; ascent/decent: +665/-649m

Day 5. Ambaritsa Hut - Dobrila Hut
On this day, we venture on a standard mountain hike devoid of forest cover, following dirt paths with no water sources along the way. The mesmerizing views from the Levski peak (also known as Ambaritsa) and the alpine ridge of the mountain will make this 4-hour trek unforgettable. (B/-/D)
Walking: 4 hrs.; ascent/decent: +646/-362m

Day 6. Dobrila Hut - Beklemeto
With a relatively easy and pleasant hike, we enjoy walking along the mountain ridge, passing through open and wooded areas. The trail leads us to the Dermenka hut, where we can take a well-deserved break. We then descend to the Arch of Liberty, an iconic landmark, before continuing our journey towards Beklemeto for a hotel overnight. (B/-/D).
Walking: 6 hrs.; ascent/decent: +22/-300m

Day 7. Beklemeto - Echo Hut
Central Balkan National Park awaits, revealing the most captivating part of Stara Planina. As we walk mainly along the ridge, we are rewarded with spectacular views, and if we're lucky, we might even spot the elusive edelweiss. This 5-hour hike involves some elevation gain, so be prepared for a thrilling adventure. (B/-/D).
Walking: 4 hrs.; ascent/decent: +55m/-120 m

Day 8. Echo Hut - Rozino Village - Train to Koprivshtitsa
On our final day of trekking, we descend through the forest and meadows of Yumruka Peak. Along the route, we can replenish our energy with cold mountain water from taps. The day concludes with a train journey from Rozino Village to Koprivshtitsa, a picturesque town steeped in history and architectural charm. (B/-/-).
Walking: 4 hrs.; ascent/decent: +0/-1145m

Day 9. Koprivshtitsa - Sofia and departure
Our journey comes to a close as we travel back to Sofia from Koprivshtitsa, cherishing the memories of the Transbalkan Trek. With hearts full of appreciation for Bulgaria's natural wonders, we bid farewell to this enchanting land. (B/-/-)

Travel Insurance Made Easy with Penguin Travel and IATI


Price Includes:
3 nights standard hotels with en-suite facilities and 5 nights in mountain huts w/shared facilities
Meals according to the itinerary (B-breakfast/ L-lunch/D-dinner)
Private airport transfer from Sofia airport on day 1; group transfer from Koprivshtitsa to Sofia Airport on day 9 at set time
All transport acc. itinerary and train tickets
Luggage transport on days 2,6,7
English speaking guide

Not Included:
Transport to/from Sofia
Eventual private transfer if your flight is early day 9
Entrance fees
Water,drinking and meals not mentioned
Insurance
Personal expenses

Additional Services:
Supplement per person at 2-3 participants: 100 EUR


Gallery


Transbalkan Trek (Bulgaria) (Rated 4.66 / 5 Based on 442 Reviews.)
Price
680 EUR
Duration
9 Days
Single Supplement
100 EUR
Status
Open for booking
Price
680 EUR
Duration
8 Days
Single Supplement
100 EUR
Status
Open for booking
Price
680 EUR
Duration
8 Days
Single Supplement
100 EUR
Status
Open for booking

Currency fluctuations might cause correction of price at any time.

These tours include trekking which is a little harder, normally on a challenging terrain. We take it for granted that you are in good condition and fit. You should be physically prepared at home to get the maximum of the tour. Most of the trekking is done at a greater height (max 3000m).

Group Size
4-12
Reservation System Code
BGTRBLKTREK

Mt.Triglav Ascent - Guided Climbing Tour

Mount Triglav, towering over Slovenia's Julian Alps, stands as a symbol of natural beauty and...

Snowshoeing in Vitosha and Rila Mountains (Bulgaria)

Snow powder, stunning lansdcapes and total tranquility. Snowshoeing is another way of...

Kalaw Hill Tribe Trek, Shan State, Myanmar

Boasting an almost Himalayan atmosphere Kalaw is an ideal starting point for exploring the...

View all» What people say about us

Great
Penguin Travel on Trust Pilot
Based on 86 reviews
Trust Pilot
Binky's Review Verified review Verified
Great caucus Explorer trip
Caucus Explorer( Armenia, Georgia and Azerbaijan ) was a great trip . Even though our Van is fully...
Beth, 5 May
Daniel's review Verified review Verified
8 day Caucasus trip
5/5 for the Caucasus trip in apr/may 2024. Everything was well planned and executed.
Haris, 3 May
Maribeth's review Verified review Verified
Excellent and Amazing Tour
Excellent tour. My highlight of the tour is Sarajevo, Mostar, Ohrid and more places. I like the itinerary...
Arnold, 6 April
View all»

Blog

14.02.2025 11:50

Everything you need to know about travelling to Cameroon and Central African Republic: Essential travel information (Q&A with our tour leader)

We just got back from an unforgettable journey through Cameroon and the Central African Republic, and we’re still buzzing from the experience. It was an adventure in the truest sense - bouncing along remote dirt roads in sturdy 4x4s, deep in the Central African rainforest, where every turn reveals something incredible—lush green landscapes, curious children running out to greet us,...


12.02.2025 07:47

Into the Heart of Africa: A Journey Through the Central African Republic

Some places pull you in with their beauty, others with their mystery. The Central African Republic (CAR) does both. It’s not a country you stumble into—it’s a place you choose, a place that challenges and rewards in equal measure. Our journey took us through its bustling capital, deep into the jungle, across colonial relics, and to breathtaking waterfalls, but more than...


24.01.2025 06:56

Îles du Salut, French Guiana: Paradise with a Past (What You Need to Know About Visitng the Islands)

Just off the coast of French Guiana, the Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands) shimmer like emerald jewels in the Atlantic, enticing travelers with their beauty and enigmatic past. The name might suggest refuge, but for most who came here, salvation was the furthest thing from reality. The islands were so named because they offered a safe haven from the deadly diseases that ravaged French Guiana's...


22.01.2025 08:09

Kaieteur Falls: Exploring Guyana’s Majestic Wonder (Facts, Legends and Practical Information for Visiting the Falls)

Nestled deep in the pristine rainforest of Guyana, Kaieteur Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Cascading 741 feet (226 meters) from the Potaro River into a gorge below, it’s not only one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls globally but also one of the most mesmerizing. Whether you're drawn by its sheer scale, lush surroundings, or the sense of untouched...