Discover the beauty of Bulgaria! Mountain trek to Vejen Peak, Benkovski Hut and Bratanishki Ushi Peaks

Upcoming dates: October 11–12

Two days immersed in the wild beauty and endless panoramas of the “Tsarichina” Reserve. A climb to the highest peak of the Zlatitsa-Teteven Balkan – Vejen Peak (2198 m), an overnight stay in the cozy Benkovski Hut, and a scenic hike to the panoramic summit of Bratanishki Ushi.
The experience includes: participation in the program, a licensed mountain guide, mountain insurance for the duration of the program with coverage of 2000 BGN, and one overnight stay in a high-mountain hut.

Program:

Day 1: Route: village of Ribaritsa – Benkovski Hut – Bratanishki Ushi Peak

Group meeting point is at the entrance to Central Balkan National Park, in the valley of the Zavodna River above the village of Ribaritsa. Here you leave your cars and begin hiking upstream through ancient beech forests. Today’s hike is relatively light and allows for a gradual warm-up before the main challenge! Once you emerge from the forest, you’ll be rewarded with your first view of the majestic dome of Vejen – a preview of tomorrow’s goal.
By early afternoon, you arrive at Benkovski Hut, where you settle in, enjoy a meal, and take a break. The hut was built back in 1932 and was originally named “Bratanitsa.” In the afternoon, you’ll head out for a short hike to nearby Bratanishki Ushi Peak, located north of the main ridge. It rises to 1767 meters, and its central position offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view! The round-trip hike takes about two hours, but those who prefer can rest at the hut instead.

Day 2: Route: Benkovski Hut – Vejen Peak – Vejen Hut – village of Ribaritsa
Today’s goal is to conquer Vejen Peak, whose name is of Old Slavic origin – something your guide will tell you more about. Towering at 2198 meters, the summit dominates the entire region. The route takes you past Bratanitsa Peak and along what is known as the “Balkan saddle.” From here on, you’re walking along the main ridge, following part of the Kom–Emine trail.
You’ll take frequent breaks to catch your breath and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks: Bratanitsa, Buluvanya, Tetevenska Baba, Kositsa – and in the distance, you may even glimpse Vitosha and Rila! Looking northward, the entire Fore-Balkan lies at your feet. Before long, you’ll find yourself at the summit. Around midday, you’ll reach the top, congratulate one another, and take memorable photos.
As always, the descent is no easier than the climb, so you tighten your packs and begin the long way down. A short stop at Vejen Hut along the way allows for a quick lunch break. The final section of the route follows a steep and direct path that brings you swiftly back to the starting point, closing the loop and marking the end of this unforgettable and thrilling hike.

Mandatory personal equipment:

• Backpack (approximately 30–40 liters)
• High three-season hiking boots
• 2 pairs of spare socks
• Appropriate clothing: comfortable long pants, quick-drying T-shirt or top, thermal underwear (top and bottom), fleece, rain jacket, windbreaker, down or synthetic insulated jacket with hood, spare dry clothes for changing
• Winter hat
• Summer hat
• Gloves
• Buff or other head/neck scarf
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal first aid kit (as needed)
• Trekking poles (recommended)

The hike is suitable for advanced hikers with good physical fitness. All hikes are conducted under the guidance of a licensed mountain guide and comply with necessary safety measures.

Group hikes with fixed dates require a minimum of 4 participants. If you purchase a voucher for a group hike and the group does not form for your chosen date, or if weather conditions prevent the hike, the organizers will offer you an alternative date and your voucher will remain valid.