What better way to discover rewilding than by living it directly?

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.

Program

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.

Rewilding landscape

Rewilding vision

Rhodope Mountains | Bulgaria

Located at the crossroads between Europe and Asia, the Rhodope Mountains in southwestern Bulgaria are a true biodiversity hotspot. Boasting rugged peaks, sweeping forests, lush meadows, and steep gorges, the area is a stronghold for vultures and other raptors. Carnivores such as wolves and golden jackals roam the landscape, brown bears are recolonising the area, and an array of reptiles, amphibians, and rare plants also thrive here

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Seasonal Availability

This experience involves

• Birdwatching
• River or wetland boat trip
• Canoeing or kayaking
• 4x4 experience

Wildlife in this landscapePlease note that the presence of wildlife doesn’t guarantee sightings — these animals live freely and may remain out of view.

Location