The Eye (Okoto) lake is the deepest of the seven, measuring 37.5 meters at its deepest point.
The lakes are connected by a series of small, naturally occurring waterfalls.
The entire group of lakes is situated within the Rila National Park, which is the largest national park in Bulgaria.
The lakes are considered a site of spiritual significance by the White Brotherhood, who hold annual rituals there every August.
Each lake is named based on its shape: 'Okoto' (The Eye) is oval, while 'Babreka' (The Kidney) is shaped like a kidney.
The lakes are entirely frozen from late autumn until early summer, usually thawing only by June or July.
The Seven Rila Lakes are a group of glacial lakes situated in the Rila Mountains of southwestern Bulgaria at altitudes between 2,100 and 2,500 meters. Each lake is named according to its characteristic shape or physical feature, including The Tear, The Eye, The Kidney, The Twin, The Trefoil, The Fish Lake, and The Lower Lake. They are interconnected by small streams that form waterfalls as they flow downward through the cirque. The highest lake, The Eye, reaches a depth of 37.5 meters, making it the deepest glacial lake in the country. The formation is of glacial origin, sculpted during the last ice age, and occupies a stepped cirque landscape. The ecosystem supports rare alpine flora and fauna, including the Balkan chamois. Access to the upper reaches typically involves a significant hike from the chairlift terminus located at the Pionerska hut area.
The elevated ridge trail overlooking The Kidney (Babreka) and The Eye (Okoto) for a panoramic view of the entire chain.
Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with good ankle support as the trails consist of loose scree and rocky paths.
Check mountain weather forecasts immediately before ascending, as conditions can shift from sun to heavy fog or thunderstorms in minutes.
Bring layers, including a windproof shell and a thermal layer, even in the middle of summer.
Attempting the full circuit in sneakers or sandals, which results in frequent injuries and slips on granite rock.
The chairlift and trails are often inaccessible due to deep snow and avalanche risk from November through late June.
Stay strictly on marked paths to prevent erosion of the fragile alpine soil; do not swim in or pollute the lake waters.
