Our exploration of Romania takes us through a remarkable range of habitats, from the forested slopes of the Carpathian Mountains around Sinaia and Zetea, to the vast wetlands of the Danube Delta, and the steppes and lagoons of the Black Sea coast around Histria, Sinoe and Vadu. This diversity supports an exceptional variety of birdlife and makes Romania one of Europe’s most rewarding and underrated birding destinations. Along the way, we also experience elements of the country’s rich cultural heritage, with visits to sites such as Bran Castle, associated with the legend of Dracula, the UNESCO-listed fortified church at Prejmer, and the elegant Peleș Castle.

We begin in Transylvania, exploring the Eastern Carpathians around Zetea, a region of rolling hills, traditional villages and extensive forests. These mountains represent some of Europe’s last great wilderness areas. Here, we search for species such as Black Woodpecker, Three-toed Woodpecker, Red-breasted Flycatcher and Ring Ouzel, while Cheile Bicazului (Bicaz Gorge) offers opportunities for Wallcreeper and Alpine Swift. The region also holds Europe’s largest population of Brown Bear, with excellent chances from a dedicated hide.

Moving south into the Southern Carpathians, based around Măgura and Zărnești, we explore alpine meadows, limestone gorges and forested valleys. These habitats support species such as Eurasian Crag Martin and Rock Bunting, along with more elusive birds including Ural Owl and White-backed Woodpecker. Traditional farmland provides relaxed birding with European Roller, Common Hoopoe and Red-backed Shrike.

From the mountains we descend to the Black Sea coast, where steppe, wetlands and coastal lagoons support a wealth of birdlife. Around Histria, Sinoe and Vadu, we encounter large numbers of waterbirds alongside species such as Paddyfield Warbler, Moustached Warbler and Bluethroat. The surrounding steppes, including Cheile Dobrogei, hold Calandra Lark, Isabelline Wheatear, Pied Wheatear and Levant Sparrowhawk, with raptors such as Long-legged Buzzard and Short-toed Snake Eagle regularly seen.

The tour concludes in the Danube Delta, where we explore an intricate network of channels, lakes and reedbeds by small boat. Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans dominate the wetlands, alongside Pygmy Cormorants, herons and ibis. Reedbeds hold Common Reed Warbler, Great Reed Warbler and River Warbler, while alluvial forests support Thrush Nightingale. The sheer abundance of birdlife provides a fitting finale to the tour.