Bulgaria

Bulgaria

Use Normal Level of Caution

The Republic of Bulgaria is located in the Balkan Mountains in southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea in the east, and between Turkey and Romania. The population of Bulgaria is about 7.5 million people.

The Bulgarian government is a parliamentary democracy. The chief of state is a president, and the head of government is a prime minister. Since emerging from communist rule, Bulgaria has experienced social, economic, and financial problems and crises. Beginning about 1997, with reforms, Bulgaria began to have some stable economic growth.

Today, the Black Sea Coast is one of the main tourist attractions. Tourists can visit nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums, and the Royal Palace to name a few. There are opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. Transportation is inexpensive and efficient between the cities and rural areas.

Currency BGN: Lev
Language Bulgarian
Capital Sofia
Recent Alerts 3
Latest Alert July 19, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Bulgaria (19 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in Bulgaria. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Bulgaria.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Bulgaria.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral disease that occurs in Bulgaria.

Rabies

Rabies occurs in Bulgaria. Travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis occurs in Bulgaria. Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to Bulgaria.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine

Only travellers who plan to visit this country during the summer months and hike or camp in rural or forested areas that provide a habitat for the ticks that carry the virus should consider obtaining this vaccine. This vaccine is only available in Europe.

Rabies Vaccine

Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) who may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk and should be vaccinated.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to Bulgaria.

None required.

Safety and Security in Bulgaria

Emergency Numbers

112

Personal Safety

Petty crime occurs in Bulgaria and travellers should be vigilant and ensure their personal belongings, valuables, and travel documents are kept secure at all times. Do not accept food or drink from strangers or casual acquaintances. Many foreigners have reported being assaulted and robbed after taking drugged food or drinks.

Do not leave belongings or valuables in vehicles overnight since car theft is common in Bulgaria. If your rental car is stolen, you may be required to pay customs duties based on the vehicle’s make and model before leaving the country.

Violent crime is rare in Bulgaria but does occur in connection with organized crime groups and turf wars between rival gangs.

Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions outside major cities and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved, unlit at night, and animals may roam onto roadways. Roads may be more dangerous during the winter months when they may not be salted or plowed.

Wearing face coverings in public is illegal.

Do not take photos of military buildings.

Although same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bulgaria, it is not socially accepted and same-sex marriage is not permitted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Political Unrest

Sitata reminds travellers to minimize safety risk by avoiding public and political gatherings and demonstrations in any city since even peaceful protests can escalate quickly and unexpectedly. In some countries, it is illegal for foreigners to participate in protests and demonstrations.

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