Rila Monastery & Struma River Rafting with V Travel Ltd
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle active rafting and walking tours.
Overview
Combine a heart-pumping rafting run on Bulgaria’s Struma River with a visit to the historic Rila Monastery in an 8-hour adventure with V Travel Ltd. Discover why this mix of nature and culture is a top pick for visitors to this region.
Rila Monastery and Rafting (Group Tour)
10% DISCOUNT! For all ages! • 8.5 hours! • For rafting lovers!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 8-hour adventure that combines thrilling rafting on the Struma River with a visit to the iconic Rila Monastery. Experience 12 kilometers of white-water excitement, followed by a chance to explore Bulgaria's most significant cultural site, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, rich in history and stunning architecture.
How about some rafting in the magical river of Struma and a visit of the most Famous Monastery on the Balkans?
Departure meeting point
08:30h Departure from Serdika Meeting Point on 2, Maria Louisa boulevard across McDonalds. The duration of the tour is 8 hours. Rafting experience ticket not included (30 Eur/60 lev to be paid to the guide cash).
About
Struma river rafting experience Refresh yourself on a wonderful white-water river adventure and see the most visited UNESCO sight in Bulgaria (beautiful Rila Monastery). We are offering day trip to Struma river gorge, where you will have 12 kilometers of rafting and fun.
Rila Monastery The Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, better known as the Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Founded in the 10th century, the Rila Monastery is regarded as one of Bulgaria's most important cultural, historical and architectural monuments and is a must-visit tourist attraction for both Bulgarians and foreign visitors.
The monastery complex, regarded as one of the most impressive masterpieces of Bulgarian National Revival architecture, was declared a national historical monument in 1976 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
More info
Itinerary: we will reach the gorge where after a briefing by your professional instructor you will receive your equipment and final instructions before the action. Approximately hour and a half will take you to finish the river trace. A vehicle will wait for you at the end of it and you will be transported back to the base, where you will return the equipment and dress up. If the appetite has increased after the adrenaline rush you can have lunch nearby, before you start the journey to the most visited UNESCO World heritage site.
You will be at the Monastery of Rila around 15:00 and have 1 full our to explore the complex with our audio-guides in English, Spanish, Italian, Russian and German languages. You will be back in Sofia around 18.00h.
What to bring
No special requirements, women need to have knees and shoulders covered at the Monastery.
Adventure Tips
Wear appropriate footwear
Use sturdy, water-resistant shoes with good grip for both rafting and walking around the monastery grounds.
Cover shoulders and knees at the monastery
Respect the monastery’s dress code by wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to enter sacred areas.
Bring a waterproof bag
Keep phones, cameras, and valuables safe and dry during the rafting section with a reliable waterproof bag or case.
Hydrate before and after rafting
The physical effort of rafting and walking requires staying well-hydrated; carry a refillable water bottle.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian otters along the river
- Peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs
History
Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by Saint Ivan of Rila and has served as a spiritual center for over a millennium.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to protect the Struma River’s water quality and preserve the monastery’s historic structures through sustainable tourism practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Sofia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water-resistant footwear
Keeps feet protected and comfortable during wet river conditions and outdoor walking.
summer specific
Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
Allows for rapid drying after rafting and comfortable wear during the day.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protects skin from sun exposure during the rafting and monastery visit.
summer specific
Waterproof bag or dry sack
Secures valuables against water during rafting sections.