Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we set off for one of the most emblematic summits of the Balkan Range - Maragidik (also known as Rusalka), above Apriltsi. Its unusual position north of the main Balkan ridge gives the peak striking panoramic views towards the Northern Dzhendem, Botev peak and the valleys of the Vidima and Otreshka rivers. We climb early in the morning to catch the magic of sunrise, wrapped in nature's autumn palette.
Price Includes / Excludes
Price Includes
- Complete organization and coordination of the program
Tour Itinerary
The transfer to the town of Apriltsi takes around 3 hours. On arrival we have lunch, then sort our packs, run through what lies ahead and set off along the route.
Stage 1: the Otrets quarter - Tazha hut ~ 3:30-4:00 h / ~ +900 m / ~ 8 km
After lunch we have around 8 km to cover to Tazha hut, passing through the picturesque autumn valley of the Otreshka river and enjoying nature's bright colours. We arrive at the hut and settle in, after which comes dinner and a briefing for the following day.
We rise early while it is still dark, to begin the climb up the gentle southern slope towards Maragidik.
Stage 1: Tazha hut - Maragidik peak ~ 1:00 h / ~ +350 m / ~ 2 km
The walk to the summit takes about an hour, the aim being to arrive in time for sunrise. On top we enjoy an extraordinary autumn panorama bathed in the golden light of the rising sun. The view takes in the Northern Dzhendem, Botev peak and the valleys of the Otreshka and Ribna rivers.
Stage 2: Maragidik peak - the Otrets quarter ~ 3:30 h / ~ -1,250 m / ~ 7 km
Once we have taken our time over photographs and breakfast on the summit, we begin the descent along the beautiful North ridge. On the way we pay our respects to Tsanko Dyustabanov's band, stopping at their monument. We then continue down into the valley of the river Ribna and the Otrets quarter, followed by lunch and the journey back to Sofia.
Important:
Three seasons trekking equipment
Shoes
Suitable shoes for the mountain, according to the weather forecast. High ankle or low shoes. You may wear sneakers to change into at the end of the program
Spare socks
Lighting
Headlamp - An absolute must-have accessory for every mountaineer. It may be necessary for the group to start a trek very early or finish the trek in the dark (force majeure). In these situations, each participant must have a headlamp. We recommend going with a proven brand like Petzl or BlackDiamond
Spare batteries
Backpack
About 40 liters backpack - Quite enough for one or two day hikes.
Backpack cover - in case of rain
Clothing top
Depending on the season and weather conditions
T-shirt or thin thermal base layer - from merino or synthetic. In no case cotton material
Fleece
A down jacket or other jacket with synthetic insulation - a thin down jacket is recommended. Evenings and mornings in the mountains, temperatures are low. No expensive down jacket needed
Wind and water proof jacket
Thin hat and gloves
Buff
Clothing bottom
Depending on the season and weather conditions
Comfortable long pants - in the perfect case with zippers for ventilation
Sun protection
Sunglasses
Summer hat
Sun cream with high protection
Buff with UPF protection
Rain protection
Raincoat
-or-
Waterproof top and bottom
Water and food
Water (1.5 liters)
Food for the trek
Money and documents
Money
ID or passport
Other
First aid kit
Trekking poles
Cancellation Policy:
Чл. 89. (Изм. – ДВ, бр. 37 от 2018 г., в сила от 01.07.2018 г.) (1) Пътуващият има право да прекрати договора за туристически пакет по всяко време преди започването на изпълнението на туристическия пакет. The tourist owes a penalty as follows: