A Wildlife Sanctuary Like No Other
The Delta is world-renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise. Over 300 species of birds call this place home or use it as a vital stopover during migration.
- The Kings of the Sky: You’ll see the majestic Great White Pelicans (see more), which form the largest breeding colony in Europe here. Alongside them, the rare Dalmatian Pelicans and elegant White Herons glide over the water.
- Beneath the Surface: The waters are teeming with life, from the massive Beluga Sturgeon (a prehistoric survivor) to pike, carp, and catfish.
- The Wild Horses of Letea (see more): In the heart of the Delta lies the Letea Forest (see more), the northernmost subtropical forest in Europe. Here, wild horses roam free among sand dunes and centuries-old oaks draped in Greek silk vines. It is a sight that feels plucked from a fairy tale.
A breathtaking aerial view of the Danube Delta (Delta Dunarii - Romania) at sunrise.
The true beauty of the Delta lies in its serenity.
- Golden Hour on the Canals: There is nothing quite like a sunrise in the Delta, when the mist rises from the water and the only sound is the rhythmic splash of a fisherman's oar.
- Lotus Carpets: Thousands of white and yellow water lilies cover the lakes in summer, creating a vibrant floral carpet that stretches as far as the eye can see.
- Cultural Heritage: The lipovan fishing villages, with their blue-trimmed houses and thatched roofs, offer a glimpse into a traditional way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.
The Delta is more than a landscape; it’s an experience. Whether you are an adrenaline seeker, a photography enthusiast, or someone looking for absolute peace, there is something here for every soul.
1. Birdwatching Safaris
With over 300 species of birds, the Delta is Europe’s premier birdwatching destination.
- What to expect: Rent a slow boat with a local guide to spot the majestic Great White Pelicans, the elusive Kingfisher, or the rare Dalmatian Pelican.
- Best time: Dawn or dusk, when the birds are most active and the light is perfect for photos.
Step back in time in the northernmost subtropical forest in Europe.
- The Experience: Take a 4x4 excursion from Sulina or Periprava to see the wild horses of Letea roaming among sand dunes and 500-year-old oak trees. It’s a landscape that feels like a desert meeting a jungle.
You cannot visit the Delta without tasting its world-famous Storceag (sturgeon soup) or Fish Brine (Saramură).
- Activity: Join a local fisherman for a morning session to learn ancient fishing techniques. Later, enjoy a "Fisherman's Lunch" prepared directly in a traditional Lipovan household.
For those who want to feel the pulse of the river, nothing beats the silence of a kayak.
- Why do it: Rowing allows you to enter narrow, shallow canals where motorboats cannot go. It’s the most eco-friendly way to get up close to the water lilies without disturbing the wildlife.
Visit the town where the Danube finally meets the Black Sea.
- Highlights: Explore the Old Lighthouse, the multicultural cemetery (telling tales of pirates and royalty), and relax on the most pristine, fine-sand beach in Romania.
The Delta is a "golden hour" paradise.
- Tip: Many photographers come here specifically for the "misty mornings" on the lakes or the silhouette of the fishermen against the setting sun.
Travel Tip:
- To truly protect this UNESCO site, we encourage "Slow Tourism." Opt for electric boats or rowing whenever possible, and always remember that wild animals are unpredictable—observe them with fascination, but always from a safe and respectful distance.
- While exploring this wild beauty, remember that wild animals are unpredictable. Whether you are watching a colony of pelicans or spotting a wild boar on the shore, always maintain a respectful distance to preserve the peace of this fragile ecosystem.
The Danube Delta is not just a natural paradise of biodiversity; it is a land where water and myth collide. For centuries, the locals have passed down stories that explain the unique shapes of the trees and the secrets hidden beneath the waves.
1. The Legend of the Caraorman Forest (The Black Forest)
On the Caraorman sandbank stands the "Kneeling Oak," a massive tree with branches that touch the ground. Legend tells of a beautiful Romanian girl kidnapped by a Tatar warrior. They were pursued by Cossacks and caught at this very spot. During the fierce battle, the warrior was defeated under the oak tree.
The Myth: It is said that the oak’s twisted, gnarled branches are the "frozen" arms of those who fought there, forever searching for peace in the sandy soil.
2. The Sunken Village of Lake Razim
Local elders say that Lake Razim was once a fertile plain filled with wealthy villages. However, the inhabitants grew greedy and forgot to respect the waters. As a divine punishment, the earth collapsed, and the area was swallowed by the sea and the Danube.
The Myth: On stormy nights, fishermen claim they can still hear the faint sound of church bells ringing from the depths, serving as a warning that the forces of nature are far more powerful than man.
3. The Lost City of Musura Bay
Near the Chilia branch, where the river meets the Black Sea, legends speak of an ancient, opulent city. The inhabitants were so proud of their wealth that they refused to help a starving old man—who was actually an angel in disguise. In a single night, the city vanished beneath the waves.
The Myth: When the water is crystal clear, sailors claim they can glimpse the marble ruins of the city shimmering on the seabed.
4. The Spirit of the Marshes
Life in the Delta has always required a deep respect for the environment. Ancient tales warn travelers about spirits that protect the core of the reserve. These stories serve as a reminder that wild animals are unpredictable and that the Delta remains a wilderness where humans are merely guests.
A stunning aerial video wich present The Danube Delta (Dunarii):
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Planning Your Danube Delta Adventure
1. How do I get to the Danube Delta? The main gateway is the city of Tulcea. From there, you can take the public ferry (Navrom) or private fast boats to the main villages: Sulina, Sfântu Gheorghe, or Crișan. Most of the Delta is only accessible by water!
2. Do I need a permit to visit the Delta? Yes. Since it is a Biosphere Reserve, every visitor must have a tourist permit. You can easily buy it online from the ARBDD website or at kiosks in Tulcea. Also, if you plan to fish, you'll need a specific fishing permit.
3. Is it better to stay in Tulcea or inside the Delta? To truly experience the magic, we recommend staying inside the Delta (in villages like Mila 23, Crișan, or Sulina). This allows you to witness the spectacular sunrises and be closer to the wildlife without the long daily boat commute from Tulcea.
4. What should I pack for a Delta trip?
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen (the sun reflects strongly off the water).
- Bug spray: Essential for evenings.
- Binoculars: A must-have for birdwatching.
- Light clothing: Long-sleeved shirts are great for both sun and mosquito protection.
6. Can I visit the Delta in a single day? While day trips from Tulcea exist, we don't recommend them. The Delta is vast, and a few hours only scratch the surface. To see the birds, the Letea Forest, and the traditional villages, you need at least 3 days.
7. Is the water in the Delta safe to drink? No. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Even if the locals might use it for certain tasks, tourists should stick to bottled water to avoid any stomach issues.
