Danube Delta

The Danube Delta spreads across a wide area in northeastern Romania and Ukraine, where the river meets the Black Sea. Waterways split into hundreds of smaller arms between sandbars, floating reed islands, and shallow lakes.

Sediment shaped the present delta over thousands of years after sea levels rose following the last ice age. In the 19th century, the Danube Commission regulated shipping lanes and opened new connections between main branches.

Fishermen mend nets and sort catches on wooden jetties along narrow channels, while families gather reeds for roofing and weaving. Small homesteads raise geese and ducks in pens beside waterways, where boats remain the only means of transport.

Boat trips from Tulcea navigate larger channels and shallow lagoons, with smaller motorboats reaching deeper areas. Visitors should bring sun protection and insect repellent, as many routes pass through open water and reed zones.

Some channels lie so deep within reed forests that only a few meters of open sky remain visible above the water. Pelicans nest in large colonies on remote islands and fly out at sunrise in long formations.

Location: Tulcea County

Location: Izmail Raion

Inception: 1991

Elevation above the sea: 2 m

GPS coordinates: 45.20000,29.50000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 20:36