Kayaking & Birdwatching Adventure on the Arda River
We invite you on a memorable kayaking tour along the Arda River — from the town of Madzharovo to the village of Borislavtsi. The price is 60 BGN per person for groups of five or more. For up to four participants, the total price is 300 BGN. Groups of more than 19 people should make a booking at least five days in advance. The price includes full kayaking equipment, a professional lifeguard-guide, and local transport. The tour is conducted during the warm months, at low river levels, and is completely safe for children over 5. Children up to 14 years old receive a 50% discount. The tour starts every day at 09:30 with two-seat kayaks from the parking area of the Nature Conservation Center “Eastern Rhodopi”, located next to the Arda River bridge. The route covers 8 km, taking about 2–3 hours of paddling, while the entire experience — including transport, briefing, and rest stops — lasts around 4 hours. This adventure is suitable for both experienced kayakers and complete beginners. The route passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Bulgaria, known for deposits of semi-precious stones and located next to two protected areas. We begin with a short briefing on the riverside beach, close to a Griffon Vulture colony. After a brief on-water practice in the river’s calm meander, the real journey begins. Throughout the tour, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures, as well as Black Storks, can be seen soaring above or reflected in the clear waters of the Arda. Madzharovo lies within the crater of an ancient volcano, offering stunning geological formations. Each kayak is equipped with binoculars so you can fully enjoy the exceptional birdlife. Our guides have extensive knowledge of the area’s geology and biodiversity. We make several stops along the way to search for semi-precious stones such as jasper, chalcedony, opals, mountain crystals, and amethysts. The journey may end at different points along the Ivaylovgrad Reservoir, depending on your preference and energy level. A vehicle will meet you at the final stop to return you to Madzharovo.
Details
- Country🇧🇬 Bulgaria
Programme
The tour starts every day at 09:30 with two-seat kayaks from the parking area of the Nature Conservation Center “Eastern Rhodopi”, located next to the Arda River bridge. The route covers 8 km, taking about 2–3 hours of paddling, while the entire experience — including transport, briefing, and rest stops — lasts around 4 hours. Throughout the tour, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures, as well as Black Storks, can be seen soaring above or reflected in the clear waters of the Arda. Madzharovo lies within the crater of an ancient volcano, offering stunning geological formations. Each kayak is equipped with binoculars so you can fully enjoy the exceptional birdlife. Our guides have extensive knowledge of the area’s geology and biodiversity. We make several stops along the way to search for semi-precious stones such as jasper, chalcedony, opals, mountain crystals, and amethysts. The journey may end at different points along the Ivaylovgrad Reservoir, depending on your preference and energy level. A vehicle will meet you at the final stop to return you to Madzharovo.
What's Included?
A proffesional guide, equipment and local transport
How your experience helps rewilding efforts
It showcases the unique nature of the Eastern Rhodopes in a very pleasant active way.
Seasonal Availability
- January
- February
- March
- April
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
- November
- December
Languages spoken
- English
Group size
The group can be up to 18 people
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions 1. Do I need previous kayaking experience? No. The tour is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced paddlers. 2. What is included in the price? Full kayaking equipment, a professional lifeguard-guide, and local transport. 3. What is the total duration of the tour? About 4 hours, including briefing, paddling, rest stops, and transport. 4. Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, for children over 5 years old. Kids up to 14 receive a 50% discount. 5. How long is the kayaking route? 8 km, taking around 2–3 hours of paddling. 6. At what time does the tour start? Every day at 09:30 from the Nature Conservation Center “Eastern Rhodopi”. 7. What should I bring with me? Water, sunscreen, swimsuit, spare dry clothes, and footwear that can get wet. 8. Can large groups join the tour? Yes. Groups of more than 18 people must book at least five days in advance.
This experience involves
- Birdwatching
- River or wetland boat trip
- Canoeing or kayaking
- 4x4 experience
Herbivores in this landscape
- Fallow deer
- Roe deer
Carnivores in this landscape
- Goldon jackal
Scavengers and other large birds in this landscape
- Cinereous vulture
- Griffon vulture
- Egyptian vulture
- White-tailed eagle
Location
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Kayaking & Birdwatching Adventure on the Arda River
Kayaking & Birdwatching Adventure on the Arda River
€35.00
Have questions? Feel free to ask!