Danube Delta Birdwatching Tour - Mila 23 & Letea - 4 Days

Day-by-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 – Arrival in Tulcea and transfer to the Danube Delta

  Meet the group at Tulcea Harbour – “Ivan Patzaichin” Promenade at 3:00 PM. We then start the boat transfer from Tulcea to Maliuc / Mila 23, one of the most authentic areas of the Danube Delta.

  The transfer is not just transport. We move at a relaxed pace through one of the most beautiful parts of the Delta, searching for birds along the way. Depending on the season, light and bird activity, we may already see pelicans, herons, egrets, cormorants, kingfishers, raptors and other wetland species.

  On the way, you will get your first taste of the Delta: quiet channels, reedbeds, open water, fishermen, birds in flight and the warm evening light over the water.

  During the transfer, we will also discuss the program for the following days, boat rules, safety details and the particularities of birdwatching in the Danube Delta.

  Arrival in the evening, check-in at the guesthouse, dinner and overnight.

• Day 2 - Lakes, channels and reedbeds around Mila 23

  This day is dedicated to the classic habitats of the Danube Delta: lakes, channels, reedbeds, floating vegetation and feeding areas used by many bird species.

  We start early, close to sunrise, when the Delta is at its most alive. The light is soft, the water is often calm, and the first birds begin to move between feeding and resting areas.

  The exact route will be chosen according to weather, wind, water level and fresh information about bird activity. In the Delta, flexibility is very important, because the best moments often depend on what nature offers that day.

  We may explore open lakes, narrow channels, reed edges and quiet corners where we can observe species such as:
  • Dalmatian Pelican
  • Great White Pelican
  • Pygmy Cormorant
  • Great Cormorant
  • Squacco Heron
  • Purple Heron
  • Grey Heron
  • Night Heron
  • Little Egret
  • Great Egret
  • Glossy Ibis
  • Spoonbill
  • White-tailed Eagle
  • Marsh Harrier
  • Kingfisher
  • terns, gulls and many other wetland species

  For photographers, the boat offers excellent opportunities for birds in habitat, reflections, flight shots and natural behaviour. We always move quietly and respectfully, without disturbing the birds.

  Breakfast and dinner are served at the guesthouse. Lunch is optional and can be arranged during the day, depending on the route. Overnight in Maliuc/Mila 23.

• Day 3 - Letea Forest, traditional village, sandy habitats and wild horses

  Today we discover a completely different side of the Danube Delta: Letea.

  Letea is not only about water and reeds. It is a special mix of sandy landscapes, old forest, saltmarsh areas, traditional houses, open habitats and wild horses. This makes it one of the most interesting areas in the Delta for both birdwatching and photography.

  We travel by boat toward the Letea area, birdwatching along the route. Depending on the season, we may see pelicans, herons, egrets, cormorants, terns, raptors and other species using the waterways between Mila 23 and Letea.

  In Letea, we continue by safari-style vehicle, which allows us to explore the sandy habitats, village surroundings, forest edges and saltmarsh areas.

  Spring and early summer can be very productive here. Depending on water levels and migration, the Letea area may offer good chances for:
  • Collared Pratincole
  • Kentish Plover
  • Avocet
  • Black-winged Stilt
  • various waders during migration
  • Red-footed Falcon
  • Hoopoe
  • Bee-eater
  • Roller
  • Red-backed Shrike
  • Lesser Grey Shrike
  • other birds of open sandy habitats

  We will also explore the surroundings of Letea Forest, a strictly protected area known for old oak trees, sand dunes and unusual vegetation, including Greek liana and other special plants. In April and May, some orchid species may also be present.

  Besides birds, Letea offers beautiful opportunities to observe and photograph traditional village life: sandy streets, reed-roofed houses, horses, local details and the quiet atmosphere of one of the most isolated villages in the Delta.

  If conditions allow, we will also look for the famous wild horses of Letea and observe them responsibly, without disturbing their natural behaviour. Return to Maliuc/Mila 23 for dinner and overnight.

• Day 4 - Breakfast and transfer back to Tulcea

  We enjoy a last morning photo session in the Danube Delta, often in beautiful soft light on the way back to Tulcea. Keep your camera ready — some of the best encounters happen when you least expect them.

  Around midday, we arrive in Tulcea, where our tour ends.

  You leave with memory cards full of images — and, more importantly, with a deeper connection to the Danube Delta and its wild inhabitants.

• Optional drone photography

  During this tour, we visit several areas that look incredible from above: labyrinths of channels, patchwork lakes, reedbeds, dunes, and dry hills. These landscapes of the Danube Delta offer exceptional opportunities for drone photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.

  If you fly a drone, you are welcome to bring it. There will be suitable windows for safe and legal flying, away from sensitive species and busy airspace, always respecting ethical guidelines and wildlife behaviour.

  Please mention your drone in the booking form so we can advise you on the best moments and locations.

  Note: You need a valid European permit to use a drone, but it is easy to obtain if you don’t already have one.