Straddling the divide between Eastern Europe and Western Asia is the Caucasus; an area steeped in history and rich in natural wonders. On this birding and wildlife tour tour we explore Georgia and Armenia to give you comprehensive coverage of this less-visited part of the world. Forests are home to the smart Black and Syrian Woodpeckers and the special Krüper’s Nuthatch, while in the foothills and mountains we hope to see Caucasian Grouse displaying, the stately Bearded Vulture, Great Rosefinch and East Caucasian Turs (a mountain dwelling goat). In Armenia, we traverse endless steppes and high country in search of Bezoar Ibex, a goat species with truly remarkable horns, Caspian Snowcock, and Syrian Brown Bear, and at the famed Armash Fish Ponds we have a chance to see the rare Marbled Duck and White-tailed Lapwing. Cultural highlights include the 14th century Gergeti Trinity Church set in breathtaking mountain scenery, and the incredible rock-hewn David Gareji Monastery. We compliment this adventure with a Central Asian extension into Uzbekistan where we explore historic towns on the famed Silk Road, search for fabulous tulips, and one of Central Asia’s most iconic birds – Turkestan Ground-Jay. Join us on this spring exploration of the natural and historical wonders of the Caucuses and Uzbekistan! 

Discover Eastern Europe's best-preserved natural habitats on this comprehensive 14-day Hungary birding tour. Spring migration transforms Hungary's diverse landscapes into a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, as breeding birds return to defend territories across wetlands, steppes, and ancient woodlands.

UNESCO World Heritage Birding

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage listed Hortobágy National Park, where Asia's westernmost steppes host spectacular species including Great Bustard, Eastern Imperial Eagle, and breeding colonies of Red-footed Falcon. The extensive fishpond systems attract thousands of waterbirds, from Pygmy Cormorant and Ferruginous Duck to rare Moustached Warbler. Visit Kiskunság National Park's alkaline lakes and flooded meadows teeming with herons, spoonbills, and waders.

Woodland Specialties in the Bükk Hills

The deciduous forests and limestone meadows of Bükk National Park reveal an impressive array of woodpeckers—Syrian, Middle Spotted, Black, and elusive White-backed Woodpecker. Search for Collared Flycatcher, Hawfinch, and Lesser Spotted Eagle soaring above century-old oak pastures.

Unique Mammal Encounters

Participate in conservation research projects offering close encounters with dormouse species and bat species during evening mist-netting sessions. Visit facilities showcasing ancient steppe wildlife including Przewalski's Horse and reconstructed Aurochs-like cattle. European Beaver, Red Fox, and Roe Deer frequent the waterways and woodlands.

This Hungary birding tour includes expert local and Inala guides, comfortable en-suite accommodation, all meals, and visits to the Hungarian Meadow Viper Conservation Centre. Experience Europe's hidden natural treasures during peak birding season with intimate small-group sizes of 4-8 participants.

Who is this tour for?

This tour is perfect for birders and naturalists seeking Europe's less-explored wildlife havens, combining excellent spring migration birding with unique mammal conservation experiences.

At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Bulgaria is a country of beautiful landscapes, fantastic birds and ancient history. Our tour visits the best places in the country from the biodiversity hotspots of the Balkans and Rhodope Mountains, across the Upper Thracian Plain to the cliffs, beaches and wetlands of the scenic Black Sea coast. Bulgaria is excellent for raptors, including Levant Sparrowhawk and Imperial Eagle, as well as Egyptian Vulture and the huge and majestic Eurasian Griffon and European Black (Cinereous) Vultures. Many eastern bird species extend into Bulgaria, among them Isabelline and Pied Wheatear, Paddyfield Warbler and the sought-after Rose-coloured Starling, which visits over summer. The country is also known for its plant diversity, especially around the Rhodope Mountains, and its many species of reptiles and butterflies. On top of this, it has a long and rich cultural history, which we will explore at Perperikon, the ruins of an ancient rock city occupied in waves from the Bronze Age until the 14th century, when it was finally abandoned to nature.