Plovdiv is a fantastic base for exploring Bulgaria’s natural beauty. Its proximity to the Central Balkan National Park makes it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re after a guided hike or a mountain adventure, the options are impressive. We especially like the Plovdiv: Central Balkan National Park Guided Hike for its comprehensive experience and impressive reviews. This tour combines a scenic chairlift ride, a challenging yet manageable hike, and the chance to see the tallest mountain peaks in the Balkan range — all with expert guidance. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, active day surrounded by Bulgaria’s rugged landscapes.
Bulgaria’s national parks are full of opportunities to get outside, breathe fresh air, and see some stunning landscapes. The tours on this list offer a variety of experiences — from leisurely scenic hikes to adrenaline-filled paragliding jumps. Both tours feature around 9 hours of adventure, with options to add extra excitement, especially if you’re interested in flying from the mountain. Check out the detailed options below to find the best fit for your trip.
1. Plovdiv: Central Balkan National Park Guided Hike
This guided tour is a full-day adventure that takes you to the highest point of Bulgaria’s Balkan Mountains. Starting with pickup from your hotel in Plovdiv, the trip includes transportation to the town of Sopot, and then a ride on Bulgaria’s biggest chairlift — a highlight by itself. Once at the top, you’ll hike through the Central Balkan National Park, reaching the summit for breathtaking views. The hike is accessible yet offers enough challenge for most fit travelers, with options for a paragliding jump for the truly brave.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic chairlift rides, guided narration about the mountains’ flora, fauna, and mythology, and the chance to climb to the highest peak in the range. Ivo, the guide, receives glowing reviews for his knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and fun. The tour also includes transportation, which simplifies what could otherwise be a complex day of navigation.
Top reviews praise the tour for its “amazing scenery” and “knowledgeable guide,” with visitors particularly noting how personal and engaging Ivo is. The value for money is excellent, considering the included chairlift ride, guide, and transport. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a full day outdoors with guaranteed impressive vistas.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-organized, scenic, and rewarding hike that includes Bulgaria’s highest mountain peaks, this guided tour is hard to beat.
2. Hiking Adventure in the Central Balkan National park
For around $109.97 per person, this hiking adventure offers an immersive day exploring Bulgaria’s most spectacular mountain scenery. The tour begins early, with pickup from your Plovdiv accommodation, then heads toward Sopot. From there, you’ll take the longest chairlift in Bulgaria, which whisks you up to the Dobrila mountain hut at 1804 meters. From the hut, a steady hike takes you to Levski Peak at 2166 meters — the highest point in the Balkan Mountains.
This route offers stunning panoramic views without any dangerous rocky sections, making it accessible for most hikers. Along the way, the group can stop at mountain huts for snacks and rest. The highlight is reaching the peak, where the views span about half of Bulgaria on a clear day, making it a memorable photo opportunity. After descending, there’s an optional paragliding experience, which adds a thrilling flight back from the mountain.
The tour has received rave reviews: one says, “The views are just breathtaking” and praises the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable nature. Even with less-than-ideal weather, many mention how the changing cloud cover added a layer of drama and beauty. The value includes not only the transport, chairlift, and guide but also the chance for a unique flight from the mountain.
Bottom line: This adventure offers a memorable, scenic day that combines hiking, mountain scenery, and optional flying — perfect for active travelers craving a full mountain experience.
How to Choose the Best Mountain Tour in Plovdiv
When deciding between these two, consider your fitness level, time, and what kind of experience you want. The Plovdiv: Central Balkan National Park Guided Hike offers a more traditional guided hike with the chance for a paragliding jump, which appeals to those seeking a balance of scenery and adventure without extensive technical difficulty. It’s ideal if you value local guides and want a more personalized experience.
On the other hand, the Hiking Adventure in the Central Balkan National park emphasizes spectacular views from the mountain peaks and includes a longer chairlift ride that makes reaching the summit easier. Its added option for paragliding makes it a good pick for thrill-seekers.
Both tours are 9 hours long, so check your schedule for a full day outdoors. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times and ensure a spot on these popular trips.
Final Thoughts
Plovdiv offers a range of mountain adventures for outdoor lovers. The guided hike with Ivo combines cultural storytelling and impressive scenery, making it a top option for those wanting a comprehensive experience. The mountain day trip with a chance to fly from Bulgaria’s highest peaks appeals to adventurers craving a bit more adrenaline.
Whether you prefer a relaxed scenic hike or an active mountain expedition, both tours deliver a memorable day in Bulgaria’s Central Balkan National Park. Be sure to book in advance, and pack your camera, sturdy shoes, and a sense of curiosity. These experiences showcase Bulgaria’s natural beauty and are well worth the trip from Plovdiv.