From Bucharest: Bears Sanctuary&Rasnov Fortress Private tour

Key Points

• Private Tour from Bucharest: Enjoy exclusive transportation and personalized guidance.
• Two Major Stops: Visit Rasnov Fortress, a medieval refuge, and Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary, Europe’s largest rescue center.
• Duration & Price: This 10-hour experience costs $301 per person.
• Flexible Transport: Travel in a car, minivan, minibus, or bus, tailored to your group size.
• Inclusions & Extras: Guided tour, pickup/drop-off at your hotel, and entrance fees for both attractions.
• Limited for Young Children: Not suitable for children under 5 or people with back problems.

This private day tour from Bucharest offers a compelling combination of medieval history and animal rescue that appeals to both history enthusiasts and animal lovers alike. For $301 per person, travelers spend 10 hours discovering two of Romania’s most captivating sites, with the convenience of private transport that begins right at your hotel doorstep. The flexibility of the vehicle type ensures a comfortable ride for groups of any size, making it especially appealing for families, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized experience.

Unlike crowded bus tours, this private journey allows for a relaxed pace and tailored attention from the licensed guide, who provides live commentary in English or Romanian. With all transportation costs included and the ability to customize your pick-up and drop-off locations, this tour offers value and comfort for a full Transylvania experience in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience from Bucharest to two major sights in Sibiu County.
• Visit Rasnov Fortress, a historic medieval refuge built between 1211 and 1225.
• Meet dozens of rescued brown bears at Europe’s largest bear sanctuary.
• Flexible transport options accommodate small or larger groups comfortably.
• All entrance fees included in the price (Bears Sanctuary 90 Lei/Adult, Rasnov Fortress 50 Lei/Adult).
• Tour duration is approximately 10 hours, suitable for those with full-day availability.

Transportation from Bucharest to Sibiu County

This tour starts with a convenient hotel pickup in Bucharest, saving the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded buses. Depending on your group size, you are transported in a car, minivan, minibus, or bus, ensuring ample comfort. The journey to Sibiu County typically lasts several hours, but the private arrangement means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without the rush or noise of large tour buses.

The private transportation not only enhances comfort but allows flexibility for stops or breaks along the way. This setup particularly benefits families or groups with young children, who might find long bus rides less tiring. Plus, the driver and guide coordinate to keep the day flowing smoothly, keeping your experience stress-free.

Rasnov Fortress: A Medieval Defense in Transylvania

The highlight of the fortress stop is the Rasnov Fortress, a strategic Fliehburg-type fortress built as part of a defense system for local villages. Its location was selected for its strategic route, which invaders from the Bran Pass had to pass through en route to Braov and the Burzenland region. The fortress was designed to offer refuge during times of war, and for decades, the local population used it as a long-term residence.

Constructed between 1211 and 1225 during the Kingdom of Hungary, this fortress was garrisoned by both Romanian and Saxon communities. Its architecture and archaeological traces reveal that the site has been fortified since prehistoric and Dacian times. Visitors can explore the ramparts, battlements, and historic walls, gaining insight into medieval military architecture and local history.

The guided tour inside Rasnov Fortress provides a detailed account of its role in regional defense and its importance in local history, making it a meaningful stop for history buffs. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photos.

The Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti

The second major highlight is the Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti, Europe’s largest rescue center for rescued bears. Here, dozens of brown bears that were previously kept in zoos or circuses find refuge in spacious enclosures designed to mimic natural habitats.

The sanctuary aims to promote animal welfare and educate visitors on the plight of bears kept in captivity. Visitors are led by guides who explain the bears’ histories, rescue stories, and the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. The admission fee of 90 Lei per adult is included in the tour price.

The sanctuary’s layout allows for close-up observation of the bears from designated viewing areas, offering a chance to see these majestic animals in a humane environment. The experience is both inspiring and educational, emphasizing the importance of animal rescue and protection.

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Visiting Details: Duration, Inclusions, and Practical Tips

This 10-hour tour balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The tour includes professional driver and guide, transportation, entry fees for Rasnov Fortress and the Bears Sanctuary, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The guide’s live commentary enriches the experience with historical insights and rescue stories.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking, snacks, water, and a charged smartphone for photos. The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years or individuals with back problems or who use wheelchairs. Weather conditions can affect the experience, so checking the forecast before departure is recommended.

The entrance fees are paid separately at each site: 50 Lei per adult for Rasnov Fortress and 90 Lei per adult for the Bears Sanctuary. These are not included in the main price but are straightforward to pay on-site.

The Experience of a Private Guided Tour in Transylvania

Having a licensed tour guide makes a significant difference, as they bring history and rescue stories to life with engaging explanations. The guides are known for their knowledge and ability to tailor the experience, making the day both educational and enjoyable. The live guiding aspect ensures a personal touch, suitable for those who want to deepen their understanding of the sites.

The private aspect of this tour means you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules typical of group tours. This setup allows for more flexibility—whether you want more time at Rasnov Fortress or a closer look at a particular bear enclosure, the guide can accommodate your interests.

Cultural and Historical Context of Rasnov Fortress

The fortress played a key role in defending Transylvanian villages from invasions. Built during the early 13th century under the rule of the Kingdom of Hungary, it was a crucial refuge during times of war. Its garrison was equally staffed by Romanian and Saxon communities, reflecting the region’s diverse population.

The fortress’s strategic position was chosen based on the route of invading armies coming through the Bran Pass. The local inhabitants, facing decades of threat, relied on Rasnov as their last defensive stronghold. Archaeological finds suggest the site has been fortified since prehistoric and Dacian times, adding layers of historical significance.

Visitors will appreciate walking through ancient stone walls, towers, and corridors, understanding the importance of this medieval structure in regional history.

Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Info

This private tour is offered by Discover & Enjoy Traveling S.R.L., with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. The experience is available in English and Romanian, with pick-up and drop-off included at your hotel in Bucharest.

The tour requires comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Make sure to provide a contact phone or email for the driver, and specify your pick-up and drop-off location during booking. The experience is not suitable for children under 5, or for those with certain mobility issues.

The total length, 10 hours, makes it an ideal full-day activity, especially for those interested in Romania’s history, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Bucharest to Sibiu County Private Tour

This combination of medieval and wildlife sites offers a well-rounded glimpse into Transylvania’s cultural and natural heritage. The private setup ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention, making it a strong choice for those who prefer a tailored experience over crowded group tours.

The value lies in the guided insights, private transportation, and the two key attractions—the historic Rasnov Fortress and the compassionate Libearty Bear Sanctuary. While the entry fees are extra, they are straightforward and included in the overall experience.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, animal advocates, and families who want an engaging, full-day trip from Bucharest. If you’re looking to explore Sibiu County’s highlights comfortably and efficiently, this private tour delivers a memorable taste of Transylvania’s past and present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

What is included in the price?
The guided tour, private transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees for Rasnov Fortress and the Bears Sanctuary are included.

How long does the tour take?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day activity.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, snacks, water, and a charged smartphone. Check the weather forecast, and provide your contact details during booking for smooth coordination.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby