AAFS International Educational Outreach Program 2026

Destination Bulgaria
Itinerary Excursion Summary

AAFS President James Caruso and Past President Joanna Collins invite you to join them for the IEOP to coincide with IAFS in Sofia, Bulgaria. AAFS members will have opportunities to meet with forensic science colleagues in Bulgaria and take advantage of the cultural and historical riches of the wonderful cities to be visited. This package covers the excursions which give AAFS members the opportunity to spend some time touring before the IAFS Conference begins on Monday, May 25.

21 May–Arrive Sofia (remainder of day to rest)

22 May–Sofia City Tour

The Bulgarian capital can be described as piece of ancient history applied in the modern times. A lot of historians claim that Sofia is the oldest capital in Europe, where signs of life date back as early as 7000 BC. Inhabited by Thracians and later incorporated into the Roman Empire, after the 6th century AD, Sofia became home to Slavs, ruled by the Byzantium before becoming part of the Bulgarian Kingdom. All of the city's history has left a visible mark that turns Sofia today into a unique and beautiful mélange of architectural masterpieces, antique buildings, museums, churches, ancient ruins and modern buildings. Rightfully the motto of the city is "Ever Growing, Never Aging."                          

23 May–Seven Rila Lakes Tour

Seven Rila Lakes (~1.5 hrs south + cable car) For those who want light alpine scenery without a tough hike, take the cable car up and walk the relatively flat loop between the glacial lakes. It is one of Bulgaria's most spectacular natural settings. The actual lake circuit is easy; just bring good shoes and a layer.                        

24 May–Plovdiv Old Town Tour

Plovdiv Old Town (~1.5 hrs east) One of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. The Old Town sits on three hills with Roman ruins, colorful Revival-era mansions, galleries, and great café terraces. There's some uphill walking on cobblestones, but it is very manageable and extremely rewarding.                

25 May–IAFS Conference Begins, The National Palace of Culture

• Workshops, Welcome Cocktail

26 May–IAFS Conference, The National Palace of Culture 

• Plenary Sessions, Poster Session, Workshops, Exhibition

27 May–IAFS Conference, The National Palace of Culture 

• Plenary Sessions, Poster Session, Workshops, Exhibition

28 May–IAFS Conference, The National Palace of Culture 

• Plenary Sessions, Poster Session, Workshops, Exhibition, Gala Dinner

29 May–IAFS Conference, The National Palace of Culture                            

• Plenary Sessions, Poster Session, Workshops, Exhibition

30 May–IAFS Conference, The National Palace of Culture 

• Plenary Sessions, Exhibition, Closing Ceremony

31 May–Depart

PRICE:  Price will be determined when we have RSVPs for the excursions.

Tour Price includes:

• Admission fees to all sightseeing locations
• Daily lunch on tours
• Private air-conditioned first-class coach
• English-speaking tour leader 
• Basic tips for drivers and guides 

Items not included:

• Meeting Registration
• Gala
• Hotel accommodations
• Round-trip airfare to Sofia, Bulgaria
• Meals not specified on the itinerary
• Personal expenses (laundry, fax, phone, internet, etc.)
• Personal & travel insurance
• Optional excursions and Entrance fees when on your own
• Room service

Some things to know:

• You don't need a visa for Bulgaria if you have a United States passport. As of January 2026, the currency in Bulgaria is the Euro.
• In late May, Bulgaria experiences pleasant spring weather as it transitions into summer. You can generally expect daytime highs between 20°C and 25°C (68°F–77°F).
• Rain: May is one of the wetter months in Bulgaria, so brief afternoon thunderstorms or rain showers are common.
• Packing: Bring light clothing for the day but keep a light jacket or sweater handy for the cooler evenings. 

PLEASE RSVP TO DONNA GROGAN (dgrogan@aafs.org) by FRIDAY, APRIL 10.