Day Trip & Bear Watching in the Land of Volcanoes

Exciting Natural Attractions in Romania with a Focus on Wildlife and Geology

This day trip in Brasov, Romania, costs $234.76 per person and offers an 11 to 12-hour experience packed with outdoor adventure. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes hotel pickup and private transportation, making it easy to explore Romania’s extraordinary natural sites without logistical worries. The tour covers Romania’s only volcanic lake, a swamp with carnivorous plants, Puturosu Cave, and a protected bear habitat, providing a well-rounded look at the country’s diverse ecosystems.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on wildlife observation, especially brown bears in their natural environment, along with visits to unique geological formations. It’s perfectly suited for families and nature enthusiasts who want an active yet manageable day of exploration. With positive reviews emphasizing knowledgeable guides and the chance to see bears in the wild, this trip promises both education and memorable sightings.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure from Brasov, lasting approximately 11-12 hours
• Includes hotel pickup and private transport for comfort and convenience
• Visits Romania’s only volcanic crater lake at Saint Anna Lake
• Hiking in the Mohos Peat Bog to see carnivorous plants and volcanic landscapes
• Puturosu Cave features Europe’s largest natural gas bath
• Bears are watched from a specially designed hide, providing safe and close encounters
• Entry tickets to all major sites are included in the price

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Brasov

The tour begins with a meeting point at Outdoor Holidays’ office in the city center of Brasov, or guests can opt for hotel pickup. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The transportation uses air-conditioned private vehicles, offering comfort throughout the long day of exploration.

This setup helps travelers avoid the hassle of coordinating their own transportation, making it suitable for those who prefer a streamlined experience. The pickup time is 9:00 am, giving ample daylight hours to enjoy each stop.

Exploring Saint Anna Lake: Romania’s Only Volcanic Crater Lake

The first major stop is Saint Anna Lake, the only volcanic crater lake in Romania, formed nearly 9,000 years ago. Visitors walk around 220,000 m² of this stunning landscape, taking in views of the lake’s waters and surrounding volcanic terrain. The walk around the lake lasts around 30 minutes and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Adjacent to the lake is the Mohos Peat Bog, which is open from spring through mid-autumn. Here, you encounter hallucinogenic and carnivorous plants, making the site a fascinating spot for plant lovers and those interested in volcanic landscapes. Entry to both Saint Anna Lake and the peat bog is included in the tour fee.

Visiting the Mohos Peat Bog: Carnivorous Plants and Volcanic Landscapes

After a brief drive, the tour takes you to the Mohos Peat Bog, a key highlight for its unique ecosystem. The 30-minute hike up to the Puturosu Cave introduces visitors to Europe’s largest natural gas bath, a natural phenomenon created by volcanic activity.

The peat bog’s scenery showcases a volcanic landscape that is both eerie and beautiful, with carnivorous plants adding to the sense of otherworldliness. Visitors can observe these plants in their natural habitat, gaining insight into Romania’s volcanic history.

Putoșu Cave and the Natural Gas Bath

The Puturosu Cave is notable for its large natural gas deposit, which has earned it the nickname “The Smelly Cave”. The tour involves a short hike and exploration of this geological feature. The cave’s gases have created a natural gas bath, a rare natural occurrence in Europe, and an intriguing stop for geology buffs.

Nearby, there’s opportunity to grab lunch at a local restaurant (lunch not included), where diners can enjoy local cuisine amidst scenic views. The site provides a rest before the afternoon’s exciting bear watching.

The Forest and Brown Bear Habitat Experience

The afternoon focus is on observing brown bears in the wild. The trip drives deep into the forest where an experienced ranger guides visitors into a bear hide. This specially designed shelter allows visitors to see bears just a few meters away, without disturbing their natural behavior.

This two-hour experience is the highlight, blending wildlife observation with the tranquility of the forest. The bears are unaware of the hide’s presence, allowing for unfiltered photos and intimate viewing of these majestic animals.

Tasting Palinka During Bear Watching

While waiting for the bears to appear, visitors are offered a shot of palinka, a traditional Hungarian spirit. This adds a cultural touch to the experience, combining wildlife observation with local traditions. The bear hide’s design ensures safety while providing a close-up view of the bears in their natural habitat.

Practical Details and Tour Highlights

The tour includes all entry tickets for the stops, making it straightforward to enjoy each site without additional costs. Guides are known for their knowledgeable explanations of the local geology, flora, and fauna, enhancing the educational value of the trip.

The tour operates rain or shine, so travelers should dress appropriately and wear comfortable hiking shoes. The physical activity involved is moderate, suitable for most guests with moderate fitness levels.

Why This Tour Works Well for Families and Nature Enthusiasts

The family-friendly nature of this trip means it’s great for kids and adults alike. The short hikes, the chance to see bears in their habitat, and the variety of landscapes keep the experience engaging. The small group size ensures a more intimate encounter with Romania’s wilderness.

The focus on wildlife and geological features makes this trip a compelling choice for those interested in ecology and outdoor adventures. The reviews underscore how guides like Irina and Isti bring knowledge and safety to the experience.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a rich day of exploration, it requires moderate physical fitness. The long hours and walking involved may be tiring for some. Also, the lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Weather can affect the experience, but the tour operates in all conditions. Proper attire and comfortable shoes are recommended to make the most of the day.

The Value of a Well-Organized Romanian Nature Tour

At $234.76, this tour provides a comprehensive package that covers transportation, entry fees, and expert guides. The positive reviews highlight the value for money, especially given the unforgettable bear sightings and the chance to explore Romania’s volcanic landscapes.

The booking window of about 67 days in advance suggests high demand, reflecting its popularity among those seeking a genuine nature experience close to Brasov.

Final Thoughts on the Land of Volcanoes and Bears

This full-day excursion from Brasov offers a blend of geology, wildlife, and scenic landscapes that showcase Romania’s natural diversity. The opportunity to see brown bears in the wild from a safe hide is a rare and memorable experience, complemented by visits to volcanic lakes and peat bogs.

While it requires moderate physical activity and some planning for meals, the overall experience is well-paced and informative. This trip is ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and nature explorers eager to go beyond Romania’s famous castles and explore its natural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation with air conditioning from and back to Brasov.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are restaurants nearby where participants can eat after the peat bog visit.

What is the physical level required?
Participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle walking and hiking involved in the stops.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families, and children will enjoy the wildlife and landscape encounters.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes and suitable outdoor clothing are recommended, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 67 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.