Wild Bears Safari on Transfgran – Small group max 7 Tourists

The Wild Bears Safari on Transfagarasan is a carefully curated day trip from Bucharest priced at $148.66 per person. This small-group tour, limited to 7 participants, offers an intimate experience of Romania’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, with a focus on spotting wild brown bears in their natural environment. The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure that balances cultural sights, scenic drives, and wildlife encounters. The experience is renowned for its knowledgeable guides, excellent value, and breathtaking scenery, all supported by a 5.0 rating from 44 reviews, with 95% recommending the tour.

While the tour promises an exciting wildlife safari, it also involves cultural stops at notable sites such as Poenari Fortress and Vidraru Dam. Be prepared for a long day that includes multiple stops, some of which are highly photogenic, like the Balea glacial lake. The only notable limitation is that access to Balea lake is only available in summer and early autumn, due to snow in other months, and Poenari Fortress is viewed from the outside only. This tour suits travelers seeking a mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife, especially those who enjoy small-group travel and are comfortable with a full schedule.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 7 participants guarantees personalized attention.
• Price of $148.66 includes transportation, a professional guide, and all scenic stops.
• Highlights include Poenari Fortress, Vidraru Dam, mountain drives on the Transfagarasan Highway, and wild bear sightings.
• The tour runs 12 hours, with flexibility for hiking, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.
• Balea glacial lake is accessible only in summer and early autumn, making the timing important for certain stops.
• Guide expertise is a common praise, with mentions of knowledgeable, attentive guides like Sebastian and Roxana.

Visiting Poenari Fortress from Bucharest

The tour begins with an exterior view of Poenari Fortress, built by Vlad the Impaler in 1456. No interior visit is included, but seeing this historic site from below offers a glance at Romania’s dark history linked to Dracula lore. Climbing the 66 stairs to inside the fortress is not part of this tour, making it suitable for those more interested in the view than the hike.

The photo opportunities here are excellent, with the fortress perched on a hill offering dramatic vistas. Guides often share stories about Vlad the Impaler, adding context to this iconic ruin. The stop’s quick nature means there’s no time for interior exploration, but the exterior view alone provides a memorable photo moment.

Engineering Marvel at Vidraru Dam

Next, the tour takes you to the massive Vidraru Dam, standing at 166 meters tall. This site impresses with its scale and engineering significance, as it plays a key role in Romania’s hydropower system. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of Vidraru Lake and the surrounding mountains, which are truly picture-perfect.

The stop at Vidraru Dam offers more than just scenery—guides explain its importance and construction details. Expect to spend some time here soaking in the views and taking photographs. The dam’s imposing presence makes it a highlight for those interested in infrastructure and natural beauty.

The Scenic Drive on the Transfagarasan Highway (Road to the Sky)

One of the tour’s true highlights is the transit along the Transfagarasan Highway, often called the “Road to the Sky.” This winding mountain road features hairpin turns, steep drops, and spectacular views at every bend. The route crosses the Carpathian Mountains, offering dramatic scenery that changes with every mile.

Guides lead you through this spectacular journey, pointing out notable features such as mountain peaks, lakes, and forested valleys. The drive provides ample photo stops, and the overall experience is considered one of the most scenic road trips in the world. This segment is especially popular in June to October when the road is accessible, and snow doesn’t block the way.

Capra Waterfall and Mountain Scenery

The tour includes a stop at the Capra waterfall, where visitors can marvel at the natural beauty of the mountain streams. This spot is a scenic highlight, perfect for photos and appreciating nature’s power. The waterfall is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Guides often share interesting facts about the local geology and flora. It’s a brief stop but offers a genuine taste of the rugged mountain environment that defines this part of Romania.

Lunch and Free Time at Balea Glacial Lake

The Balea glacier lake at over 2,000 meters altitude marks the final scenic stop. Surrounded by towering peaks, it presents a picture of tranquility and rugged beauty. Visitors have time to enjoy a traditional Romanian meal or explore the area, taking in panoramic views.

The lake is accessible only in summer and early autumn due to heavy snow and avalanche risk during winter. The lunch is included in the tour, providing an opportunity to taste local dishes amid stunning alpine scenery. Visitors may also choose to hike or take photos to capture the awe-inspiring landscape.

Wildlife Encounters: Spotting the Brown Bears

The main attraction for many is the chance to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat. The tour crosses the Fgra National Park, where the guides use their expertise to locate bears, often with remarkable success. Reviews mention seeing up to 33 bears, including baby cubs and adult bears, often in close proximity to the vehicle.

Bears are active between May and September, so timing is key to maximizing sightings. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, making wildlife observation a major highlight of this trip. Sightings of foxes are also possible, adding to the excitement.

Small Group Size and Transport Comfort

The tour departs from Piaa 21 Decembrie 1989 in Bucharest and uses an air-conditioned vehicle suitable for the mountain terrain. The small group maximum of 7 ensures a comfortable, personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photo stops.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at the meeting point, with professional English-speaking guides leading the way. The limited group size and attentive guides contribute significantly to the overall positive experience, as reflected in numerous 5-star reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and friendliness.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Dress warmly, as mountain temperatures are about 20 degrees lower than in Bucharest. The tour involves some walking at scenic stops, but no strenuous hikes are required. The full-day schedule makes it suitable for those comfortable with a long day and a fair amount of driving.

Since access to Balea Lake is season-dependent, check the timing when booking. Also, be aware that Poenari Fortress is viewed from outside only, as entering involves climbing 66 stairs, which is not included in this tour.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Wild Bears Safari combines cultural landmarks, spectacular drives, and wildlife sightings into a single memorable day. The expert guides significantly enhance the experience, sharing stories and facts that deepen understanding of Romania’s natural and historical riches. The tour’s small-group format guarantees comfort and personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who prefer an intimate setting.

While some stops are brief, the overall itinerary offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and scenic drives. The chance to see loads of bears, along with iconic sites like Vlad’s fortress and the Transfagarasan Highway, makes this tour a standout choice for visitors to Bucharest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers comfortable with a full-day schedule and some walking. Dress warmly for mountain conditions.

How many bears are typically seen?
Reviews from previous trips report sightings of up to 33 bears, including cubs, making wildlife observation a highlight.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Poenari Fortress (viewed from outside), Vidraru Dam, the Transfagarasan Highway, Capra Waterfall, and Balea Lake.

Can I see bears outside the May-September window?
Bears are active May to September; sightings outside this period are unlikely due to hibernation.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, as mountain temperatures are roughly 20 degrees lower than in Bucharest. Comfortable shoes are recommended for short walks.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Romanian meal is served at Balea Lake as part of the tour.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day activity.

Are there any restrictions on accessing Balea Lake?
Access is only in summer and early autumn; during winter, heavy snow and avalanche risk prevent access.

What makes this tour different from other wildlife safaris?
Its combination of cultural sites, scenic mountain drives, and the high likelihood of bear sightings in a small-group setting sets it apart.

How do I book this tour?
Advance booking is recommended, with an average lead time of 23 days. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

This Wild Bears Safari on Transfagarasan offers a well-rounded experience, blending Romanian history, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife spotting, all with the comfort of a small-group setting. Whether you’re passionate about nature, history, or scenic drives, this tour presents a compelling way to explore the Romanian mountains.