The Danube Delta (Delta Dunării)

The Danube Delta is the second largest river delta in Europe (after the Volga) and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve since 1991. Covering an area of 5,165 km², the Danube flows into the Black Sea through three major branches after a journey of 2,860 km through ten countries. In between: an endless labyrinth of channels, reed islands, fields of water lilies, floating villages, and a biodiversity unmatched in Europe.

Biodiversity

The delta is home to over 360 bird species — including pink pelicans (the largest colony outside Africa), Dalmatian pelicans, sea eagles, cormorants, herons, and spoonbills. In the water: 160 fish species, including sturgeon and pike-perch. On land: wild horses, otters, and a plant world of astonishing diversity. In spring and early summer, millions of water lilies turn the channels into white and yellow carpets.

How to get there?

The starting point is the city of Tulcea (5 hours by car or train from Bucharest). From Tulcea, the only way to continue is by boat — there are no roads leading into the delta. Three main branches: Chilia (north, border with Ukraine), Sulina (middle, the only navigable route to the sea), and Sf. Gheorghe (south, the wildest and most pristine).

What to do in the Delta?

• Boat tours: Day tours from Tulcea (30–60€) or multi-day tours with overnight stays in fishing villages. The deeper you venture into the delta, the wilder it gets.
• Bird watching: Best time: April–June (breeding season) and September–October (migration). Pelicans can be seen from May to September.
• Kayak tours: For the remote channels where motorboats cannot reach. Guided tours from 40€/day.
• Fishing: The delta is a fishing paradise. Catfish, pike, zander, and carp in abundance. Fishing permit (20 RON/day) from the delta administration.
• Fishing villages: Stay overnight in Crisan, Mila 23, Sfântu Gheorghe, or Letea. Simple guesthouses with fresh fish for dinner. Letea is located in the middle of a primeval forest with 400-year-old oaks and wild horses.