Hunting in Bulgaria

Visas

A visa is not required for citizens of the USA, EU, and many other countries for a tourist visit to Bulgaria. Hunters may bring their own firearms, but it’s crucial to arrange all details with your outfitter in advance. You must be able to provide all rifle and ammunition details as well as a valid hunting license from your home country.

Most hunters arrive in Sofia, Barna, or Burgas via connecting flights from other large European airports. Discuss arrival options with your outfitter; it is best to be met by an interpreter who can take you through the arrival and customs formalities, especially if you are bringing your own firearm. From the airport, expect a two- to three-hour transfer by car to your hunting area.

Hunting difficulty varies widely. For hunters seeking a mountain experience, there are high rugged peaks where chamois are stalked, and there are also many hilly regions and plains areas where deer and other game are abundant. Most hunting is done by spot-and-stalk or by glassing from a high seat. Bulgaria is also one of the few European countries that allows bow hunting.

Trophies are measured by a state commission. This usually happens in the hunting lodge and in the presence of the hunter, who then completes and signs the protocol for evaluation. Typically, trophies of red deer, fallow deer and roe deer are measured 24 hours after boiling and cleaning. The price for trophy of red deer and fallow deer is calculated based on the weight of antlers with skull, including the lower jaw. For roe deer, a 90-gram discount is deducted.

Export documents and veterinary certificates (including CITES permits, if necessary) for are usually prepared by the management of the hunting area immediately after the evaluation of the trophy and, if possible, are issued prior to the hunter’s departure.