Bulgaria is blessed to be among the countries with one of the most diverse ecosystems in Europe. Moreover, Bulgaria is among the European countries with a well-preserved and large population of large carnivores. There are 400-700 brown bears in the country and their densest populations are in the Central Balkans and, the Central and Western Rhodope Mountains. Research of the region of Trigrad, Devin and Shiroka Luka shows that around 40-70 bears inhabit it. The forests near the Rhodope town of Devin offer you the unique opportunity to observe brown bears in their natural habitat! Read on to learn more about the rental of a brown bear observation hide near Devin.
There are several Brown bear observation hides in the area of Devin that can be used from late April until the end of September. Each hide can accommodate up to 4 persons and the chances of spotting a bear are above 70%! Note that the hides are not specifically designed for photographing bears, but for wildlife observation. In addition to brown bears, you can also observe wild boar, red deer, and roe deer. Taking pictures is possible, however, the resulting image may not meet the expected high quality. All hides are equipped with benches, beds and toilets. They are soundproof and safe.
> Group size: maximum 4 persons per observation hide (there are 3 observation hides in the area)
> With the booking we do not provide food or drinks. Please bring enough food and water to last you for the evening.
> Please consider the wildlife and the environment, and behave responsibly! Do not leave any litter in or out of the hide!
Transportation to the hides
Pick-ups from Devin are in the afternoon (usually about 4 pm). You will receive the precise pick-up hour after your booking is confirmed. The hides are reached by 4×4 vehicles. Some hides may require an additional 10-15 minute walk to be reached. Your local guide will accompany you to the exact location of the hide. The stay in the hide could last until you wish but usually people leave the hide around 10 PM. If you need transfers from Sofia to Devin, you can either contact us at info@traventuria.com (we can only offer such service upon availability) OR book our 5-day Brown Bear Viewing tour HERE.
For recent news and photos from the hides follow our Facebook page.
The brown bear photo hides near Devin can be rented after the 25th of April until the end of September.
Price for rent of the hide (per day): 150 euro
Group size: maximum 4 persons
Included in the price:
> Wildlife observation hide rental.
> Local guide throughout the trip.
> Transportation with 4×4 vehicle including pick-up and drop-off from/to your accommodation in Devin.
Interested in wildlife photography? Check out our dedicated to photography of birds and mammals website: https://www.wildlifephototrips.com/
Disclaimer:
> Traventuria is not liable for any personal accident and or injury during the photography tour.
> Traventuria is not liable for any loss and/or damage to personal items/equipment during the photography tour.
> Whilst every effort is made to ensure a visit by the bears, they are completely wild so we can never guarantee this. Weather conditions may influence bear-watching to a great extent too.
Thank you!
By choosing to visit the Devin region, you contribute to developing sustainable tourism in the Western Rhodope region. The delicate balance between the local community and the presence of animals, such as brown bears and grey wolves benefits from ecotourism revenue, making a positive eco-social impact!
