One-day Birding Along the Northern Black Sea Coast

Varna , Bulgaria

One-day Birding Along the Northern Black Sea Coast

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This birding tour is intended for more or less experienced birders or nature enthusiasts. It will bring you to a region with great variety of birds throughout the year.
• Key species of birds to be seen during the tour in spring and summer: all the European herons and egrets, Little Bittern, Ferruginous Duck, Whiskered Tern, Black Tern, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Red-footed Falcon, Collared Pratincole, Stone Curlew, Eagle Owl, Alpine Swift, Syrian Woodpecker, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Middle Spotted Woodpecker, Greater Short-toed Lark, Calandra Lark, Tawny Pipit, Isabelline Wheatear, Pied Wheatear, Paddyfield Warbler, Barred Warbler, Semi-collared Flycatcher;
• The numerous flocks of Red-breasted Goose are the focus of this tour in winter.

Available options

One-day Birding Along the Northern Black Sea Coast

Pickup included

What's included

Use of binoculars (on request)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at 8 a.m. from Varna or any of the nearby resorts. We drive north to Coastal Dobroudzha - the northernmost part of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, locked between the Romanian – Bulgarian border and cape Kaliakra. Here the green plain gradually rolls on towards the coastal sand dunes and beaches. Two old riverbeds cut the lowland. Their former estuaries are occupied by the lakes of Durankulak and Shabla. In winter hundreds of thousands of wild geese, among which almost the whole population of the globally threatened Red-breasted Goose, choose this area as their wintering grounds.

Next we visit the second firth lake in the area - Shabla Lake and the Shabla-Tuzla salty lagoon.
Over 80 bird species breed in the region of the lakes, the most interesting of them being the Western Marsh Harrier, the Collared Pratincole, the Ferruginous Duck, the Red-footed Falcon. The two lakes are one of the few places in Europe where the Paddyfield Warbler, a typical Asian species, can be seen.

To the south the plain flows more and more steeply towards the expanse of the sea and at Cape Kaliakra the sea cliff towers up to 70 m. Here are the last remnants of the Great Steppe, formerly occupying the bigger part of Dobr0udzha. The kaleidoscopic hues of the wild peonies, irises and adonises in spring, the silver-greentints of the absinthe and thristles in summer and the light movements of the feather-grass in autumn, gracefully sweeping among the remnants of the ancient fortress of Kaliakra, create the special appeal of this area. Cape Kaliakra is one of the few places in Europe hosting the Rose-colored Starling, the Pied Wheatear and all five lark species, typical for the Balkan Peninsula.

The Stone Curlew, the Lesser Grey Shrike and the Isabelline Wheatear find refuge in steppe vegetation, while the coastal cliffs are animated by the European Shags (ssp. desmarestii).

What's not included

Food and drinks

Lunch

Entrance fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

About Varna

Varna is a vibrant coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene. Often called the 'Marine Capital of Bulgaria,' it offers a mix of ancient landmarks, modern attractions, and a dynamic seaside atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Varna Sea Garden

A beautiful seaside park with walking paths, fountains, and recreational areas. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (attractions may have fees)

Aladzha Monastery

A medieval cave monastery nestled in a forested area. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating glimpse into Bulgaria's religious history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate

Varna Archaeological Museum

One of the oldest museums in the Balkans, housing a vast collection of artifacts from the region's rich history.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin

A stunning Orthodox cathedral with beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes. It's a significant religious site in Varna.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Varna Beach

A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free (rentals and services may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Banitsa

A flaky pastry filled with cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach or meat.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless filled with meat)

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat rolls, typically made with a mix of pork and beef.

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold yogurt-based soup with cucumbers, garlic, and dill, perfect for hot summer days.

Drink Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with vegan yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Golden Sands Nature Park Water sports at Varna Beach Sunbathing at Varna Beach Strolling through the Sea Garden Visiting the Varna Archaeological Museum Exploring the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Holy Virgin Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, sunny days, and the best beach conditions. The city is bustling with events, festivals, and tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Varna is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of distractions and scams

Getting there

By air

Varna Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Varna Central Railway Station

By bus

Varna Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a cost-effective way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Odesos Centrul Varni Chiflik Primorsko

Day trips

Golden Sands Nature Park

15 km from Varna • Half day to full day

A beautiful nature park with dense forests, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Black Sea.

Balchik

40 km from Varna • Full day

A charming coastal town known for its beautiful palaces, gardens, and beaches.

Provadia

30 km from Varna • Half day to full day

A town with a rich history, featuring ancient ruins, a medieval fortress, and a salt lake.

Festivals

Varna Summer International Music Festival • August Varna International Film Festival • September Varna Jazz Fest • July

Pro tips

Visit the Sea Garden early in the morning for a peaceful experience and beautiful photos.
Try the local seafood, particularly the fresh fish and shellfish from the Black Sea.
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and local charm.
Use public transport or rent a bike to get around the city and avoid traffic.
Check out the local markets for fresh produce, cheese, and handmade crafts.