Simitli: Rope garden, zipline and rafting on Struma

Exploring Bulgaria often means visiting historic towns or scenic mountains, but for those craving adrenaline-filled outdoor activities, the Simitli adventure package offers an exhilarating mix of rafting, ziplining, and a rope park all in one spot. Located just a short drive from Sofia and Bansko, this experience combines natural beauty, safety, and fun in a way that appeals to adventure lovers and families alike.

What truly sets this outing apart is the carefully organized setup—from private parking to professional guides—making it not just a rush, but a smooth, worry-free experience. We love that the activities are designed to cater to different confidence levels, with options for safe or extreme rafting, and that the entire site is equipped with modern amenities like hot showers and free WiFi.

A word of caution: The tour is primarily designed for those over 4 ft 3 in (130 cm), under 243 lbs (110 kg), and under 70 years of age, which is worth considering if traveling with very young kids or older adults. This tour is perfect for thrill-seekers, families, or anyone wanting to add some action to their Bulgaria trip without traveling far from main hubs.

Key Points

• All-in-One Adventure: Combines rafting, ziplining, and a rope park in a single location.
• Flexible Duration: About 3.5 to 4 hours, ideal for a half-day activity.
• Professional Guides: Guides speak multiple languages and prioritize safety.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private parking, changing rooms, hot showers, lockers, and free WiFi.
• Authentic Thrills: Long river track with options for safe or extreme experiences.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those over 4 ft 3 in, but not recommended for very young children or seniors over 70.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Location and Setting

Located in the Blagoevgrad Province, the rafting center is right on the riverbank of the famous Struma River, a spot renowned for Bulgaria’s best white water rafting. The site itself is easily accessible, with clear GPS coordinates (41.847986, 23.141863) and a dedicated private parking lot that keeps your vehicle secure throughout your adventure. The surrounding scenery of the Kresna Gorge is striking, with rugged cliffs and lush greenery that make the whole experience visually stunning.

What’s Included and How It Works

This tour offers a well-rounded package: full rafting equipment—including neoprene suits, shoes, jackets, helmets, and PFDs—are all provided, so you’re ready to go from the moment you arrive. The guides, who speak English, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew, are experienced and prioritize safety, beginning with a thorough briefing that covers everything from river safety to the options available, whether you want a safe trip or something more daring like flipping the raft and swimming.

The rafting itself spans between 8 to 13 km depending on river water levels, with deep spots perfect for swimming and rocks suitable for jumps—if you’re feeling brave. During reviews, travelers mention that guides inform you about the best spots for swimming and jumping, which adds an extra thrill or a refreshing break.

The Rope Park and Zipline

The rope park offers 24 elements spread across two levels—the higher at 5 meters above ground. Visitors can enjoy unlimited time here, giving plenty of opportunity to challenge yourself on different elements, from balance beams to climbing nets. Many reviewers mention that the ropes are well-maintained, and the safety equipment is reliable, giving confidence even to first-timers.

The zipline ride is a quick but exhilarating flight above the Struma River, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the gorge. It’s a highlight for many, especially since the equipment, including helmets and climbing seats, is provided, and guides make sure everyone is secure before launching.

The Overall Experience

The entire itinerary lasts about 3.5 to 4 hours, which includes everything from equipment fitting, safety briefing, activity execution, to relaxing showers afterward. The organized transfer back to the starting point is a thoughtful touch, especially if you’re staying nearby or heading onward to other Bulgarian destinations.

Some reviews mention that the staff are very attentive—“our guide, Ivan, was fantastic, making sure everyone felt safe and had fun,” while others highlight the great value—combining three activities with all gear, safety, and amenities included makes it a good deal.

Safety and Suitability

Safety is clearly a priority here, with detailed briefings and high-quality gear. There are options for different comfort levels on rafting, and guides are prepared to handle all situations. That said, the activity isn’t suitable for very young children, seniors over 70, or anyone over the weight or height limits.

Practical Tips

• Bring a towel, flip-flops, swimsuit or shorts, and a t-shirt or thermal shirt for cooler weather.
• Don’t forget biodegradable sunscreen—protecting the environment is part of the experience.
• Prepare for water activities with appropriate footwear, like sandals or sport shoes.
• The site has changing rooms, hot showers, lockers, and free WiFi, making your post-activity cleanup straightforward.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is perfect for adventure-loving families, groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking a memorable outdoor day. It’s also great for those wanting to combine physical activity with Bulgaria’s stunning natural scenery. You don’t need prior experience—just a sense of adventure and a willingness to get wet and wild.

The Sum Up

This combination of rafting, a rope park, and ziplining in Simitli offers a well-balanced mix of adrenaline, nature, and safety. The tour’s organization ensures you get a fun, hassle-free experience, with guides who are both professional and friendly. The activities are tailored to varied comfort levels, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo thrill-seekers alike.

If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that provides an authentic outdoor experience without the hassle of planning each element yourself, this tour is a smart choice. The inclusion of amenities like changing rooms, hot showers, and private parking adds real value, especially when you’re eager to refresh after a splashy day.

While not suited for the very young or those with mobility concerns, it offers a safe, exciting way to explore Bulgaria’s natural beauty from a different perspective—on the water, on the trees, and soaring through the air.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Transport to the rafting center is not included, but there is organized transfer after the trip back to the starting point, making logistics easier if you’re staying nearby.

What should I bring?
Pack swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, shorts or a bathing suit, and a t-shirt or thermal shirt if cooler. Bring sandals or appropriate shoes for the rope park.

Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for children under 4 ft 3 in (130 cm), people over 243 lbs (110 kg), or those over 70 years old.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
While swimming is optional, those who don’t swim should inform guides. The guides offer safe options, but some water activities may involve swimming.

Can I do the activities if I’m afraid of heights?
The rope park and zipline are at heights, but the activity is designed with safety in mind. If heights are a concern, you might prefer just rafting.

How physically demanding is the experience?
The activities involve some physical effort—climbing, balancing, paddling—so a moderate level of fitness is recommended, but no advanced skills are required.

Is the experience safe?
Yes, safety is a priority. The guides provide comprehensive briefings, and all equipment is high quality and maintained. You can choose safe or more extreme options based on your comfort.

What is the best time to book?
Check availability to see the current starting times. It’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season.

This multi-activity day in Simitli offers genuine adventure wrapped in Bulgaria’s stunning landscape, with plenty of opportunities for fun and memorable moments—whether you’re flying down a zipline or paddling through rapids.