From Sofia: Struma River Rafting and Rila Monastery Visit

Kyustendil Province, Bulgaria



Experience a wonderful adventure and visit the famous, UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery with an audio guide.

Adventure Rafting and Rila Monastery Tour from Sofia

This full-day tour from Sofia combines a guided rafting experience on the Struma River with a self-guided visit to Rila Monastery, suitable for active travelers interested in nature and culture.

Highlights

  • Rafting adventure on the Struma River
  • Visit to UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery with a personal audio guide
  • Transportation with an English-speaking driver

Description

The tour starts at 08:30 AM from the Serdika meeting point at Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd 2. After a two-hour drive, you will arrive at the gorge where the rafting begins. A professional instructor will provide a safety briefing and distribute equipment before the 90-minute rafting activity starts.

At the end of the rafting, a vehicle will transport you back to base to return your equipment and change clothes. There is an option to have lunch nearby if you wish.

Following lunch, the tour continues with a one-hour drive to Rila Monastery. You will explore the monastery independently using a personal audio guide available in English, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German. The tour concludes with a return transfer to Sofia.

Includes

  • Transportation with an English-speaking driver
  • Visit to UNESCO Rila Monastery
  • Online audio guide for Rila Monastery in English, Spanish, Italian, French, German, and Russian (requires smartphone with internet access)

Excludes

  • Rafting ticket (€35, payable in cash to the driver; includes instructor and wetsuit in cold weather)
  • Lunch
  • Personal expenses
  • Photos and videos of the rafting tour (available on request at the location)
  • Audio-guide device with headphones (€5)

Important Information

  • Recommended to bring sandals, hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and extra clothes during summer for changing after rafting.
  • Rafting ticket must be paid in cash to the driver and is not included in the booking price.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring a waterproof bag and dress for water activities. Book in advance as spots are limited, especially during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes rafting on the Struma River, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery with an audio guide, and transportation with an English-speaking driver.
Rafting takes place in a gorge along the Struma River, about two hours’ drive from Sofia.
The tour lasts most of the day, starting at 08:30 AM and returning to Sofia in the evening.
Yes, the rafting is suitable for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts, with professional guides ensuring safety.
Check the website for details about meal inclusions, as lunch may or may not be provided.
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and water shoes or sturdy sandals suitable for rafting and outdoor activities.
Yes, the tour includes transportation with an English-speaking driver from Sofia to both the Struma River rafting area and Rila Monastery.
You receive a personal audio guide to explore the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery at your own pace.
Availability depends on seasonal river conditions and weather; check the tour provider's website for current schedules.
The meeting point is at Serdika, Knyagina Maria Luisa Blvd 2 in Sofia.

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