The Danube Delta

The Danube Delta, where Europe's second-longest river finally reaches the Black Sea in the far east of Romania, is the second-largest delta in Europe after the Volga and the best-preserved on the continent, a vast, remote UNESCO biosphere reserve of an ever-shifting labyrinth of channels, reed beds, lakes, marshes and forests. One of the greatest wetlands in the world, it is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to hundreds of species including great colonies of pelicans, explored by boat through its tranquil, wildlife-rich waterways from the gateway town of Tulcea.

What you actually see

• The waterways - the labyrinth of channels, reeds and lakes.
• The pelicans and birdlife - the great pelican colonies and hundreds of species.
• A boat safari - the tours by fast boat or quiet rowing boat.
• The fishing villages - the remote, traditional delta communities.

When to go

April to June for the peak of the bird migration and nesting, when the birdlife is at its most spectacular, and September for autumn; summer is hot and can be buggy. It is explored only by boat, so a stay of a couple of days and a good guide are best.

Honest expectations

It is remote, reached via the town of Tulcea and then only by boat, so it takes time and planning, best over a couple of days with a local guide who knows where the wildlife is. Fast motorboat tours can disturb the birds, so quieter boats are better for wildlife. It is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers rather than a place of dramatic sights, and mosquitoes can be fierce.

Nearby

The town of Tulcea and the Black Sea coast are the gateway.