Tags









Trips


Mapping Sustainable Holidays in Bulgaria: A Spotlight on Atanasovsko Lake



working volunteers
My shot of the main activities at the Atanasovsko Lake Camp - a reconstruction of an artificial island for pelicans. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Thinking of authentic wildlife holidays in Bulgaria? Consider the Conservation Camp at Atanasovsko Lake – a fresh mix of volunteering, education, and birdwatching.


Table of Contents


1 What is the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake?


2 A legacy of conservation and community in Bulgaria


3 Highlights of the Atanasovsko Lake Camp Experience


- Birding in Burgas: a migratory marvel


- Hands-on conservation activities


- Learning through collaboration


4 The power of citizen science at Burgas Lakes


5 Why choose conservation birding holidays in Bulgaria?


6 Plan your birding tour with a free guide to Bulgaria’s conservation vacations!



What is the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake?


people mooving wooden bars
My team carry wooden bars preparing a wooden construction for artificial islands for birds. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Nestled along the Via Pontica — Europe's second-largest bird migration route — the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake has been the heart of Bulgaria’s eco-tourism movement for over 30 years.


Whether you’re passionate about original birdwatching tours in Bulgaria, sustainable tourism, or simply curious about eco-friendly vacations, Atanasovsko Lake is a destination that provides unforgettable experiences and opportunities for personal growth.


Managed by the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB), it offers participants the chance to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Burgas.


I've participated in the project since 2021.


This year's camp has become particularly rewarding for me. My long-term interest and regular participation in activities by the BSPB have brought me a victory in the national contest in green journalism for my book devoted to birdwatching volunteer vacations across Bulgaria. It's called The Insights into Conservation Volunteer Bird Watching Holidays in Bulgaria. It's Not Only About Birds. Download it at the end of the article.


a group of people at an award ceremony
Receiving the award at the Bulgarian National Contest in Green Journalism, Kotel, 2022. I am in the centre. © Green Balkans

For me, the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake has been the most utopian eco holiday I've ever had. Yet it's always very inspirational to be part of a great tradition. And I'm glad to repeat that experience annually!


A legacy of conservation and community in Bulgaria


a man carrying a soup
Serving dinner for volunteers is one of the obligatory tasks at the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Launched in 1988, the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake began as a scientific field project focused on documenting bird species during the autumn migration.


Over time, it evolved into a citizen science initiative where volunteers of all ages and backgrounds come together to preserve one of Bulgaria’s most important natural habitats.


The lake itself hosts impressive colonies of pelicans, flamingos, and seagulls, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.


Volunteers participate in various hands-on activities such as building artificial islands for birds, monitoring bird species, and maintaining the reserve. These efforts not only support biodiversity but also foster collaboration and learning among participants, with some returning year after year.


“This camp isn’t just about conservation,” says one of the founders, Petar Yankov. “It’s an incubator for eco-activists, environmental professionals, and like-minded nature lovers.”


Highlights of the Atanasovsko Lake Camp Experience


Birding in Burgas: a migratory marvel


young people with binoculars
At a birwatching session with Irina Mateeva, European Policy Officer of BSPB. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Atanasovsko Lake sits at the crossroads of the Via Pontica, making it a prime location for observing migratory birds.


Each day offers the chance to spot rare species, from majestic eagles to flocks of storks gracefully riding the air currents.


Birdwatching sessions led by professional ornithologists are a major draw for participants. These four-hour expeditions teach volunteers how to observe and record birds using scientific methodologies.


As volunteer Vyara Marinova explains, “We’re united by our love for birds, and these sessions deepen our understanding of nature.”


Hands-on conservation activities


young people at a workshop
At a workshop: preparing containers for seaweeds. © Tatyana Garkavaya

From constructing wooden platforms for nesting birds to restoring the lake’s artificial islands, every volunteer contribution plays a vital role in supporting the ecosystem.


Tasks vary daily, ensuring participants gain diverse skills while contributing to the greater cause.


One memorable highlight is the group effort required to prepare the lake for migratory birds.


“There’s a unique magic in working together for a shared purpose,” says volunteer Teodor Trifonov. “It’s not just about the work; it’s about the camaraderie and the feeling of making a real impact.”


Learning through collaboration


people repairing the roof
Repairing the roof of the kitchen at the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake - 2021. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Education lies at the core of the camp’s mission.


Daily workshops and lectures cover topics such as bird identification, conservation strategies, and habitat restoration.


Participants not only gain knowledge but also share their insights, creating a dynamic environment of peer learning.


For those new to conservation or camping, the camp offers a supportive environment.


“It’s an adventure that pushes you out of your comfort zone,” notes Adriana Todorova, a regular participant. “I’ve learned so much here—about birds, people, and myself.”


The power of citizen science at Burgas Lakes


a group of people with a plastic pelican
I am a certified birder: Together with our instructor for ID Bird course Vladimir Mladenov, fellow birdwatcher Tsonka Zelyazkova and the coordinator of citizen science projects, Irina Mateeva, European Policy Officer of BSPB. © Tatyana Garkavaya

The Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake exemplifies how volunteering in Bulgaria can blend recreation and responsibility.


The camp’s citizen science projects demonstrate the value of collaboration between professionals and the public, proving that conservation efforts can be both impactful and inclusive.


The recently launched initiative a Bird Identification course by BSPB is another brilliant opportunity for amateur birders to hone their skills according to different 'specialisations' together with environmentalists. I managed to complete the Burgas edition of the course whose specialisation is water birds.


Accordibg to Irina Mateeva, BSPB’s European Policy Officer: “This camp is about showing how ordinary people can contribute to extraordinary results in nature conservation.”


Why choose conservation birding holidays in Bulgaria?


a group of people with binoculars
Observing leaving storks over the Atanasovsko Lake Camp - 2023. © Tatyana Garkavaya

Beyond the camp’s activities, birding in Burgas offers a deeper connection to nature – from observing storks at sunrise to contributing to habitat restoration.


The surrounding region boasts rich biodiversity, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers.


Participants of the Conservation Camp Atanasovsko Lake always leave with a renewed sense of purpose and appreciation for Bulgaria’s natural heritage.


Plan your birding tour with a free guide to Bulgaria’s conservation vacations!


a sunrise at a camp
The last sunrise at the Atanasovsko Lake Camp - 2023.© Tatyana Garkavaya

Download my award-winning book, Cultural Insights into Conservation Volunteer Bird Watching Holidays in Bulgaria.


Based on my two-year ethnographic study, the guide highlights over 10 conservation projects across the country, providing practical advice and inspiration for combining volunteering with sustainable travel.


This collaborative award-winning guide features insights from 30 interviews with volunteers, capturing their experiences in regions like Pomorie, Durankulak, and Stara Zagora.


Regardless of your birding experience, the book offers a roadmap for meaningful, eco-friendly vacations.



Enjoy the reading of the Cultural Insights into Conservation Volunteer Bird Watching Holidays in Bulgaria and choose the best eco ideas for your vacations!


Tags

Inspiring examples Self-help tips Ecotherapy Art therapy