Zliya Zab (The Evil Tooth) Peak, standing at 2,678 meters, is one of the most striking and recognizable landmarks in the Malyovitsa region of the Rila Mountains. With its jagged shape resembling a sharp canine tooth, the peak commands the skyline, rising proudly above the mountain’s deep abysses. This is a place where raw alpine beauty meets the legendary history of Bulgarian mountaineering. Geographical Grandeur and Panoramas - Strategic Location: Situated on the main Malyovitsa ridge, the peak is nestled between Lovnitsa and Orlovets peaks. It is separated from them by the rocky saddles of "Zliya Prelez" and "Prozoretsa" (The Window) – spots that reveal breathtaking views toward the southern slopes of the range. - The "Halkata" Phenomenon: To the south, a rocky ridge descends from the summit, featuring a unique natural stone opening known as "Halkata" (The Ring). This natural wonder is among the most intriguing and photographed landmarks in the area. The Realm of Couloirs and Alpine Walls - The Devil’s Couloir (Dyavolski Uley): One of the most fearsome and majestic sites in Bulgaria. Located between the southern ridges, this couloir is incredibly steep, featuring near-vertical drops that command immense respect. - The White and Blue Couloirs: These steep stone rivers plunge from the ridges near the summit down to the Rilska River, covering a dramatic vertical drop of nearly 1,200 meters. - The Alpine Group: Together with Dvuglav Peak and The Needle (Iglata), Zliya Zab forms the most significant alpine zone in Bulgaria, serving as the backdrop for countless legendary climbing achievements. Shelters and Curious Facts - BAK Shelter: Located in the arid cirque north of the peak, the Bulgarian Alpine Club (BAK) shelter is a vital resting point and a base for many climbing expeditions. - The Biscuit Lake: Near the shelter lies a tiny pond that climbers humorously call "The Biscuit Lake" (Biskvitenoto ezerce). The name stems from a tradition where climbers would dip their dry biscuits in the small pool of water while resting. - Nature’s Changing Face: When viewed from the north, the peak’s appearance shifts significantly, resembling a massive molar tooth dominating the rugged high-mountain landscape.
Kyustendil
0.2 km away
Kyustendil
0.4 km away
Kyustendil
1.3 km away
Kyustendil
1.6 km away
Zliya zab is located in Kyustendil, Bulgaria.
Zliya zab is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Late spring through early autumn (May–September) is best for Zliya zab, when trails are clear of snow and weather is most stable. Higher peaks may hold snow into June and see fresh snow as early as October. Winter visits are for experienced mountaineers with proper gear.
Zliya zab reaches an elevation of 2,678 metres above sea level.
Hiking boots, layered clothing, water (1.5–2 L per person), sun protection, and a windproof jacket — mountain weather changes quickly. For longer routes also bring a map (paper or offline), a head torch, and emergency rations. Tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
