Bear attack near Sofia leaves one man dead in popular hiking area

Monday 18 May 2026 - 10:45

A man has died following a bear attack in the Vitosha mountain range, a popular hiking destination located near the Bulgarian capital, Sofia. Authorities confirmed that the victim suffered fatal injuries attributed to a female bear accompanied by her cub.

The incident occurred in a forested area frequently visited by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. According to police sources, forensic analysis and wildlife experts concluded that the injuries found on the victim were consistent with a bear attack.

The victim is believed to be a man in his thirties, although officials have not released further personal details. His body was discovered near a road connecting two mountain huts in the northwestern part of the Vitosha massif.

The Vitosha mountain range, which rises to more than 2,200 meters and is located just outside Sofia, is one of the most popular natural recreation areas in the country. It is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, wild boar, wolves, and a small population of bears.

Authorities estimate that between 10 and 15 bears live in the Vitosha region. While bear encounters are rare, they can occasionally lead to dangerous situations, particularly in forested or remote areas.

The victim’s death marks a rare but serious wildlife incident in Bulgaria, where the last fatal bear attack was reported in 2010 in another mountainous region in the south of the country.

Officials have urged hikers and visitors to remain cautious and to follow safety guidelines when traveling through forested areas, especially during periods of increased wildlife activity.