September 22 - 29 Sat - Sat
Group Size: 7
Starting Point: Varna
Based: Durankulak (Branta Lodge) 5 nights, Sarafovo 2 nights
Walking: Easy
Guides: David Kent and Pavel Simeonov
Description: This exciting tour to the west coast of the Black Sea features one of the greatest movements of migratory birds in Europe.
Our tour catches bird passage at its height, when countless thousands of raptors, storks, pelicans, waders and small passerines ensure a day to day action-filled experience. Located at the crossroads of east and west the species list is the longest for any European tour – 180 species in the norm!
Just imagine looking up at a rain cloud and seeing over 50 Steppe Buzzards or Honey Buzzards suddenly emerge as though by magic, perhaps accompanied by 20 Lesser Spotted Eagles, or discovering at least 400 Red-footed Falcons perched along an electricity cable – these were among the many fabulous experiences of past visits.
We also enjoyed encounters with White and Dalmatian Pelicans, Pygmy Cormorant, Ruddy Shelduck, Ferruginous Duck, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Great Snipe, Caspian Tern, Syrian and White-backed Woodpeckers, Alpine Swift, Red-backed Shrike, Isabelline & Pied Wheatears, Sombre Tit, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Citrine Wagtail, Red-throated Pipit, Little Crake, Eagle Owl … the list goes on! And, on the mammal scene, there are several high-profile items including Raccoon Dog, Jackal, Wildcat, Marbled and Steppe Polecats, Romanian Hamster, Lesser Mole-rat and Eastern Hedgehog – mainly pursued at night using a powerful spotlight. Our base in the north is in the heart of typical habitat for most of these species.
We are privileged to be co-led by Pavel Simeonov, whose immense knowledge of local wildlife, dedication to conservation and general enthusiasm, ensures a hugely fulfilling tour experience. If you are a raptor aficionado – this event is not to be missed!
Itinerary:Days 1 - 5 Sat - Wed: Morning flight from London Heathrow to Varna, followed by transfer to Branta Lodge by Lake Durankulak. Exploration of steppes and coastal wetlands of the north.
Days 6 & 7 Thu & Fri: Transfer to Sarafovo in the south to explore saltpans, lakes and deciduous forests, with visit to the ancient town of Nessebar.
Day 8 Sat: Return to Varna for afternoon flight to London
Deposit: £150
Single Room Supplement: £85
Flight cost from London to Varna about £220.
See 'About Us' for statement about flights.
