From Sofia: The Cave Eyes of God and the lazy trail gorges

Sofia , Bulgaria

From Sofia: The Cave Eyes of God and the lazy trail gorges

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10h

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Departure point: Your hotel in Sofia

Departure time: 09:00 am

Duration: 10hours (approx.)

Return details: Return to the initial departure point or wherever you would want to go in Sofia

Tour highlights:
• The cave “God’s eyes”
• Iskar gorge
• The river Zlatna panega trail

How would a pilot of a group of Indians explain what it is like to fly on an airplane when they have not seen such a thing? And if they see, will they know? How will you feel something done for heaven by judging it from the earth? How will you imagine the speed … the Earth’s landscape … or the air that will cut that machine? Some things have no explanation, just feelings. Like “Prohodna”, one of the most impressive caves with the longest tunnel in Bulgaria.

Available options

The cave 'God's eyes'

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pick up and drop off

Professional guide/driver

Detailed itinerary

Tour highlights:
*The cave "God's eyes"
*Iskar gorge
*The river Zlatna panega

After 2 hours transfer from Sofia, we will reach the town Lukovit, famous with the Thracian treasuries. The town is located in the Balkan mountain, which has plenty of caves. By some researchers, their numbers are more than 300.

After a short break, the van will bring us to the parking of the first geopark of Bulgaria - "Zlatna panega", called "The lazy trail" by the locals. Because of the name - yes, the trail is good for novice hikers and for people love nature. This river is famous with the biggest carst stream in Bulgaria. We'll see two carst caves during the walking and we'll cross the river a few times. We'll make a girth and approximately we can make the walking for less than 3 hours. Return to the parking where is the van.

Less than 20 minutes we'll stop at the front of the cave Prohodna, called by the tourists "The God's eyes". The cave was formed at the end of the Cretaceous period when dinosaurs ruled the world. The limestones are full of fossils of sea creatures like ammonites. There are pieces of evidence, that the people from the Neolithic and Copper age used the cave like a big sanctuary.

After the cave, we'll walk in one picturesque short trail to see the cave chapel, called "St. Marina". Later we'll stop in a cavehouse, from where you can buy some lunch and drinks. Ice cream, of course. There is a point of view and you can see the Iskar river and the rock landmark "Provurtenik". This phenomenon has a big hole, maybe manmade from the Copper Age. The ancient people used that rock like an observatory. During the winter and the summer sun-standing, the lights move through the hole. Return to Sofia. (Transfer 2 hours)

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 18 years

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

About Sofia

Sofia is the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era landmarks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings.

Top Attractions

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is one of Sofia's most famous landmarks. It was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum and bell tower)

Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain offers a stunning backdrop to Sofia and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature.

Nature Half day to full day Free (lift tickets for skiing cost around €10-€20)

National History Museum

This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bulgaria's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours €5

Boyana Church

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church is known for its stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century.

Historical 1 hour €4

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

This historic building was once a public bathhouse and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough, cheese, and eggs. It's often served for breakfast with a side of yogurt.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It's a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and is often served as a side dish.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Kebapche

A grilled minced meat sausage made with a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It's often served with french fries or lyutenitsa (a spicy pepper and tomato spread).

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It's a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with plant-based yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Vitosha Mountain Skiing in Bansko or nearby resorts Mountain biking and other outdoor activities Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying a meal or drink at a rooftop bar Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Sofia for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian, Romanian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sofia is generally a safe city for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. It's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys

Getting there

By air

Sofia Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By train

Central Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station, South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around Sofia.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Lozenets Studentski Grad Orlov Most

Day trips

Rila Monastery

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.

Plovdiv

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Bansko

160 km (100 miles) • Full day or overnight

Bansko is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer. It's known for its stunning mountain scenery and traditional Bulgarian charm.

Festivals

Sofia Film Fest • March Sofia Pride • June Sofia International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light.
Try traditional Bulgarian rakia and meze at a local bar for an authentic experience.
Explore the underground caves and tunnels of Sofia for a unique and fascinating look at the city's history.
Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery or Plovdiv for a taste of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
Visit the National Palace of Culture for concerts, performances, and other cultural events.