Overview
The Rhodope Mountains is one of Europe’s wildest regions and sits at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, a unique meeting point of habitats and species. With low human population density, the area remains a stronghold for wildlife such as bears, wolves, golden jackals and wildcats. You may also spot lynx, marten, otter, wild boar, chamois, mouflon and three species of deer. Overhead, griffon vultures wheel above the cliffs, joined in summer by Egyptian vultures, golden and booted eagles, and a host of other spectacular birds. There is even a chance of seeing the rare Black vulture. Reptiles and amphibians are also well represented, including lizards, snakes, and tortoises.
This is an immersive, hands-on tracking adventure led by senior tracker John Rhyder. Our focus during this trip is to get to know animals using their tracks and signs — and, where possible, to encounter them in person! The number of participants is limited to ten, allowing us to travel as a small group and maximise opportunities for learning and wildlife encounters.
Course Content
You will learn to identify and interpret the clues that wildlife leaves behind: tracks, gaits, feeding signs, droppings, and other subtle traces. We combine this skill-building with wildlife watching, seeking out species that call the Rhodopes home.
A ‘typical’ day may start early, heading out on foot into the forest to look for fresh sign when animals are most active. Some days we may depart before breakfast for a couple of hours of tracking, returning for a meal and a relaxed mid-morning break. Afternoons may involve exploring new habitats, travelling by vehicle to reach promising areas, or focusing on birds and other smaller wildlife.
Accommodation
We will stay in comfortable, local (award winning) accommodation enjoying warm hospitality and traditional Bulgarian cuisine. You will not go hungry! Breakfast, packed lunches and evening meals are provided.
We have planned to visit two slightly different venues- the first is close to a beautiful river valley and the second is a lodge set in a private hunting reserve and is home to both bears and wolves:
- The first venue has only 4 options for single rooms so please let us know at booking if you would like one. There will be an additional charge for this.
- The second venue has more scope for rooms and it is possible for everyone to have a single room at no extra charge.
Itinerary
- April 21 arrive and travel to our first venue in the Eastern Rhodope mountains or first location.
- April 24 travel to our second venue in the Western Rhodope mountains via the Devils River Canyon
- April 27 travel to Plovdiv for our final evening before departing for the airport on 28 April.
NB we have arranged for a hotel for the last night but the evening meal on the 27th and breakfast on the 28th is not included. There is much to choose from in the old roman town of Plovdiv and its a wonderful place to explore.
Dates
21–28 April 2026
Getting There
We provide pick-up and drop-off from Plovdiv. For UK travellers, there is a weekly direct flight from Luton to Plovdiv that fits our schedule. Travel days are 21st April (arrival) and 28th April (departure).
More detailed travel advice will be provided after booking. Please do not book flights until you have written confirmation from us.
Price per Person
- Early Bird Price: £1540 – valid up to the 15th January 2026
- Regular Price: £1640
- Single Room Supplement: +£30 per night – there are only 4 single rooms available at the first venue which we will be our location for 3 nights. After this all the other accommodation has a single rooms.
Price includes:
- Accommodation in single and twin rooms
- Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner
- Expert guiding and tuition
- Transfers from/to Plovdiv
- All in-country travel during the course
Price excludes:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Any accommodation or meals outside the trip dates.
Course Dates 2026
An 7 day tour of the Rhodope Mountains Bulgaria focusing on wildlife tracking and natural history.
- Course: Wildlife Tracking Bulgaria
- Location: Rhodope Mountains
- Dates: 21-28 April 2026
- Course leader: John Rhyder
- Course size: 10 maximum
- Price per person: £1540
