Wild Bears Safari on Transfgran – Small group max 7 Tourists

Wild Bears Safari on Transfagarasan – Small group max 7 Tourists offers an incredible day in the Romanian mountains, blending natural wildlife encounters with cultural and scenic highlights. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from 44 reviews, this tour is clearly a favorite among travelers eager to see Romania’s iconic bears and rugged landscapes without the crowds. Priced at $148.66 per person, it’s designed for small groups capped at seven, ensuring a more intimate, personalized experience.

What I love most about this tour is how it balances the thrill of spotting wild bears with the beauty of Romania’s celebrated mountain roads and historic sights. A big plus is the knowledgeable guides, like Sebastian, who keep the day engaging with entertaining stories and insightful facts. The stop at Balea Lake and the views along the Transfagarasan Highway are nothing short of spectacular. The only consideration? Given the nature of mountain weather, dress warmly—temperatures are about 20 degrees lower than Bucharest, and weather conditions like snow can affect access to some sites.

Key Points
– Wildlife encounters: A rare chance to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat, with some reviews noting up to 33 bears spotted in a day.
– Scenic drives: Transfagarasan Highway is often called one of the world’s most spectacular roads, offering hairpin turns, mountain views, and photo ops at every bend.
– Expert guides: Guides like Sebastian and Roxana are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the day both informative and fun.
– Cultural highlights: Outside the natural beauty, you’ll see Vlad the Impaler’s Poenari Fortress from outside and visit impressive engineering feats like Vidraru Dam.
– Timing and accessibility: The tour is mostly available May through October when bears are active and Balea Lake is accessible, with some stops dependent on weather conditions.
– Value for money: The price includes pick-up, transportation, and a small intimate group, making it a good deal for such a full-day adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Starting early from Bucharest, the journey kicks off with a view of Poenari Fortress, built by Vlad the Impaler—yes, Dracula’s real-life inspiration. While you won’t get inside (climbing 66 stairs might not be everyone’s cup of tea), seeing it from below makes for a good photo and lets you soak up the atmosphere without the effort.

Next, the massive Vidraru Dam makes an appearance. Standing at 166 meters tall, this engineering marvel is a highlight for anyone interested in large-scale infrastructure. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of Vidraru Lake and the surrounding mountains, with guides sharing insights into how the dam powers Romania’s hydroelectric system. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas here and comment on how well the guides manage to balance technical info with storytelling.

The drive along the Transfagarasan Highway—often called the “Road to the Sky”—is a highlight in itself. Winding through the Carpathians with dramatic hairpin turns, this road offers some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find anywhere. Your guide will point out key features like the Capra waterfall and times for photo stops. Several reviews mention how the guides like Sebastian or Roxana are excellent at highlighting the geography and history, making the ride as educational as it is beautiful.

The belvedere point with the winding road is accessible only between June and October, thanks to heavy mountain snow outside those months. Here, you’ll snap photos of craggy peaks and rugged landscapes—perfect for a mountain panorama. The weather can be 20 degrees cooler than Bucharest, so packing layers is a smart move.

A highlight for many is the visit to Balea Lake at over 2000 meters altitude. This glacial lake, often covered in snow outside summer months, offers a peaceful, postcard-perfect setting for a lunch break and some free time for a quick hike or just soaking in the scenery. Some reviews mention the possibility of taking a dip in the cool waters or simply enjoying the mountain air. It’s a great spot to unwind after the mountain drive and wildlife sightings.

Finally, the tour concludes with a return to Bucharest, often around sunset, leaving travelers with a full day of memorable sights and stories.

Wildlife Experiences: Bears and More

The main attraction here is the chance to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat. Reviews enthusiastically recount sightings of dozens of bears, with some lucky travelers witnessing as many as 33 bears, including cubs. Guides like Sebastian and Roxana are praised for their ability to locate bears and respect their environment.

One reviewer described her experience: “We saw 18 bears, baby bears, mummies, and even foxes,” highlighting how close and interactive this safari can be. Another noted that although bears are most active from May to September, sightings happen even outside peak months, and the guides’ expertise really adds value. Be aware, though, that bears are wild animals—they’re unpredictable and sighting isn’t guaranteed. Still, with the guides’ experience, your chances of a memorable encounter are high.

The safari also features stops to appreciate the goat waterfall—a beautiful mountain cascade—and opportunities to buy local products like cheeses, jams, and traditional pastrami, adding a culinary element to the adventure.

Transportation and Group Size: Comfort in Small Groups

Traveling in a small group of no more than 7 travelers means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions without feeling lost in a crowd. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is much appreciated on warm days, especially given the mountain altitude.

Your guide acts as both chauffeur and storyteller, making the long drive enjoyable and informative. Many reviews note how guides like Sebastian and Roxana go out of their way to keep everyone comfortable, sharing historical tidbits and local lore along the way.

The start point is conveniently located at Piața 21 Decembrie 1989 in Bucharest, offering good access via public transit. The excursion ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

Balancing Price and Value

At $148.66 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It includes pick-up, transportation, and a small, intimate group that enhances the experience. Access to many of these sites—Poenari Fortress from outside, Vidraru Dam, Balea Lake—is included or optional, depending on the weather and season.

Some reviews compare this tour favorably to more expensive options, noting guides’ expertise and the variety of sights packed into one day. The opportunity to see bears in the wild, combined with scenic drives and cultural landmarks, makes this a well-rounded experience worth the price, particularly for nature lovers and those short on time but eager for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day—about 12 hours—on the road. If you’re interested in seeing wild bears, exploring the Carpathian Mountains, and experiencing Romania’s natural beauty and history in a small group, this tour is a smart pick.

It’s also ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives and want a more personal experience with knowledgeable guides like Sebastian or Roxana. If you’re traveling with children comfortable with long drives, or are a wildlife enthusiast eager to photograph these elusive creatures, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re hoping to go inside attractions like Poenari Fortress or prefer a leisurely pace, note that tours only see the fortress from the outside, and some stops are weather-dependent or limited in scope. Still, for the pure thrill of spotting bears and taking in mountain vistas, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Can I see bears on this tour? Certainly, many travelers rave about sightings of dozens of bears, including cubs. Bear activity is highest from May to September, but sightings have been reported outside these months too. Guides are skilled at locating them.

What is included in the price? The tour price covers pick-up from Bucharest, a small group experience with up to 7 people, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional English-speaking guide.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included. There are opportunities to taste local products like cheeses, pastrami, jams, and drinks at certain stops.

What is the best time of year to go? The tour runs best from May to October when bears are active, and Balea Lake is accessible. Visiting outside these months might limit some activities or views due to snow and weather conditions.

How long does the tour last? The experience is approximately 12 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a full day of driving and outdoor exploration. Dress warmly, especially in mountain weather.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day combining wildlife, striking mountain scenery, and a taste of Romania’s historic sites, this small-group safari ticks all the boxes. With guides like Sebastian and Roxana earning high praise, you’re bound to feel well-informed and cared for. Sightings of wild bears are a genuine highlight, making this a rare, authentic adventure into the heart of the Carpathian wilderness. Plus, the scenic drive along the Transfagarasan Highway is worth every penny on its own—just hold on tight for those hairpin turns.

This tour suits travelers who value intimate experiences, stunning vistas, and the thrill of spotting wild animals in their habitat. It’s also a good pick for those who want a full-day, hassle-free trip planned with safety, comfort, and authentic encounters in mind. While weather and season can impact some activities, the consistent praise for the guides and the scenery makes this safari one of the most memorable ways to explore Romania’s natural treasures.

Ready to see Romania’s bears and mountains? Pack your layers, bring your camera, and prepare for a day full of surprises and stunning views.