DAY 2
A trip to a rocky area - the crater of an ancient volcano. The surrounding hills are stark, almost without vegetation, a few shrubs but no trees, a landscape of basalt rocks and stones, and high cliffs which are home to rare predators including vultures, eagles and falcons (please refer to species list to the right). Migratory birds of prey such as Booted Eagles may also be observed.

DAY 3
A rather long but necessary and hopefully, very interesting transfer awaits us. On the way we will stop at many places to watch local and migrating birds. In the late afternoon we arrive at the Black Sea coast.
Accommodation at a local hotel for three nights.

DAY 4
A trip to a lake and its surroundings. This is one of the best places in Europe for watching large migrating birds: Raptors, Pelicans and Storks, and is excellent for watching song birds and waders. The area is well-known for the huge flocks of migrants: tens of thousands of Pipits, Wagtails, Larks, thousands of Pelicans and very large numbers of Eagles and Falcons, including rarities for example.

DAY 5
All day long we will be in similar area, lakes with extensive reed-beds on their lakesides. There are flooded meadows, marshes, low hills, and oak forests in surrounding countryside. These diverse habitats make this region one of the best in Europe for wetland and other species of birds. Species of birds likely to be seen there: same as on day 4.

DAY 6
A transfer to the next main stop for the trip. Well have a break for a lunch at forest restaurant. On the hills on the upper side of the road there are beautiful oak forests, home to many species of woodpeckers. Arccommodation at the local hotel for 3 nights. This hotel is on the outskirts of a small town, perched on a hill overlooking the sea.

DAY 7
Today we visit the sea shore, skirted here by the southernmost outreach of the East-European steppe. As far as the eye can see there is only steppe interspersed here and there with shrubs and small stunted trees. The steppe is cut by unexpectedly deep valleys, whilst he coast is rocky, with abrupt 200m white and reddish-orange cliffs. Several rare species and large numbers of migrants.

DAY 8
A trip to the local lake and the surrounding area. A large sandy beach separates the lake from the sea. The lake with its extensive reed-beds and open water is one of the most important wetlands for migrating and breeding birds. Many interesting bird species to watch out for.

DAY 9
Today we travel up into the Balkan range, staying at a hotel built in the Bulgarian national architectural tradition of the 19th century, and surrounded by old broad-leaved forests. Besides watching local birds you can also get acquainted with traditional Bulgarian architecture, crafts and folklore and buy some typical Bulgarian souvenirs.

DAY 10
After breakfast we take a trip to the nearby monastery which is at approximately 1000 m above sea level. Beautiful deciduous forests offer our last chancefor birdwatching on this trip. Transfer to Sofia for flight home.

Itinerary can be adjusted if required. Some parts may be curtailed if using Air Bulgaria flights due to late arrival and earlier departure times.

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