Mr. John Panitza was the inspiration for establishing it here. He began his Outward Bound® experience by passing an Outward Bound® course in New York and he firmly believed in the idea behind the program.

In September 1993 representatives of the Bulgarian - American Enterprise Fund, the Free and Democratic Bulgaria Foundation and "Maljovitza" school created a committee to establish Outward Bound® in Bulgaria.

The school, "Maljovitza", was decided to be the center of Outward Bound® located in the Rila Mountains. Providing courses for students from 10-80 years old as well as children with unequal social status, companies and other participants.

Thanks to help of The Free and Democratic Bulgaria Foundation and the Bulgarian American Enterprise Fund financial assistance was provided for some of the initial expenses and helped promote Outward Bound® Bulgaria.

In November 1993, The Free and Democratic Bulgaria Foundation and the Bulgarian American Enterprise Fund sponsored the first instructors course. Which had 15 participants, 2 of them are still working for us today.

In January 1994, the International Secretariat of Outward Bound® in England admitted Bulgaria to become a member of Outward Bound® International.

In 1999 Outward Bound® Bulgaria became an independent Foundation. Prior to 1999 we were partnered with FFDB.

Currently Outward Bound® Bulgaria has over 13 years of experience training and educating over 8500 participants from all walks of life. From corporate training courses with Bulgarian and international companies, as well as courses for children, youth, families, and private parties.

Outward Bound® – Bulgaria has trained over 100 instructors.

Come join the Outward Bound® family and experience what so many in Bulgaria and throughout the world have experienced.

“The passion of rescue reveals the highest dynamic of the human soul.”

“I regard it as the foremost task of education to insure the survival of these qualities: an enterprising curiosity, an undefeatable spirit, tenacity in pursuit, readiness for sensible self denial, and above all, compassion.”

“It is the sin of the soul to force young people into opinions - indoctrination is of the devil - but it is culpable neglect not to impel young people into experiences.”