Veliko Tarnovo: Jeep Tour to Monasteries & Waterfalls with Guide

Summary

Guided jeep adventure to waterfalls and monasteries near Veliko Tarnovo

You’ll ride through forests outside Veliko Tarnovo in a jeep with a local guide, hear stories along bumpy roads, feel cool mist at Hotnitsa or Kapinovski Waterfall, and step quietly inside ancient monasteries. Expect laughter, muddy shoes, and moments of real calm — not just another day trip.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the forest to smell so sharp — almost peppery, like crushed pine needles underfoot. We’d barely left Veliko Tarnovo when our guide, Ivan, grinned and cranked up some old Bulgarian pop on the radio. The jeep rattled over a patch of gravel, and I caught myself laughing at how quickly city thoughts get shaken out of your head out here. It’s not just about the sights; it’s the way the air feels different, heavier with green.

We stopped first at Hotnitsa Waterfall (I think Ivan called it “Kaya Bunar” — I probably pronounced it wrong). The water was louder than I expected, echoing off limestone cliffs. There were wildflowers everywhere, and a couple of locals picnicking nearby waved us over for homemade bread. I still think about that view: sunlight flickering through leaves, spray cooling my face. If you’re after a day trip from Veliko Tarnovo that actually feels like an escape, this is it.

The monastery part surprised me most. Preobrazhenski Monastery sits above the Yantra River gorge — you can see for miles if you squint past the frescoes (which are wild, by the way; Ivan pointed out one painted by Zahari Zograf). It was quiet except for birds and someone sweeping in the courtyard. There’s something grounding about old stone walls and chipped paint that’s seen centuries go by. We lingered longer than planned because nobody wanted to rush.

If you want more adrenaline, there’s even an option to drive yourself (I chickened out — maybe next time). Either way, having a local guide makes all the difference; Ivan knew every shortcut and had stories for every bend in the road. So yeah, not everything went smoothly (my shoes got muddy), but honestly? That made it better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit waterfalls and monasteries near Veliko Tarnovo

• Travel to Hotnishki Waterfall
• Explore Hotnishki Waterfall area
• Visit Preobrazhenski Monastery
• Travel to Kapinovski Waterfall
• Relax at Kapinovski Waterfall
• Visit Kapinovo Monastery

Top questions

How long does the Veliko Tarnovo jeep tour last?

You can choose between a 3-hour guided jeep tour or a 2-hour self-driving option.

Which waterfalls are included in the tour?

You can visit either Hotnitsa Waterfall (“Kaya Bunar”) or Kapinovski Waterfall during your tour.

Are monastery visits part of this day trip from Veliko Tarnovo?

Yes, you’ll visit either Preobrazhenski Monastery or Kapinovski Monastery depending on your chosen route.

Is hotel pickup included in this jeep tour?

The tour includes use of a jeep with driver; public transportation options are nearby but hotel pickup isn’t specified.

Can I drive the jeep myself during this experience?

Yes, there is a 2-hour self-driving option available for travelers who prefer to drive themselves.

Is lunch provided on this monastery and waterfall tour?

No lunch is included; however, you may encounter locals picnicking near waterfalls.

Are there any health restrictions for joining this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a 4x4 jeep with fuel and a professional driver as your local guide; if you choose the self-drive option instead, you’ll still have fuel covered. No meals are provided but stops allow time for snacks or picnics along the way before returning to Veliko Tarnovo.