Small group Bears ‘Safari’ on Transfgran -max 7 tourists

Travelers looking for a way to explore Romania’s stunning natural beauty while enjoying an intimate experience will find this small group Bears Safari a compelling option. Run by Wild Bears Safari, this tour offers a chance to see Romanian wildlife, including the elusive brown bears, along with some of the country’s most iconic sights. With a maximum of 7 travelers, it promises a more personal, laid-back atmosphere compared to the big bus tours that often crowd popular sites.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the small group size, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, and the opportunity to see wild bears in their natural environment—something that many travelers say makes this trip truly special. The only potential downside is that bears are wild animals and sightings, though frequent, are never guaranteed. This tour is best suited for those who love nature, are comfortable with some driving, and want an up-close look at Romania’s rugged landscapes while learning about its history.

Overall, if you’re after a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic driving, and cultural highlights like Poenari Fortress, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers, small groups, and anyone keen to avoid the noise and impersonality of larger tours.

Contents hide

1 An In-Depth Look at the Transfagarasan Bears Safari

2 Final Thoughts

3 FAQs

Key Points

Intimate experience: Small group size ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Wildlife opportunities: Chances to see brown bears in their habitat, with reviews confirming sightings.
Diverse scenery: From ancient fortress ruins to mountain lakes and engineering marvels.
Balanced itinerary: Combines wildlife, history, and natural beauty with manageable stops.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and historical context.
Good value: At $101 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with many highlights.

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An In-Depth Look at the Transfagarasan Bears Safari

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Romania’s wild side while taking in stunning mountain scenery, this transfagarasan adventure might be perfect for you. The tour combines natural wonders, historical sites, and wildlife sightings into a full-day trip, all delivered in a small, friendly group.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bucharest.

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll be picked up from Fântâna de la Universitate, a central location in Bucharest, and transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Since the group is limited to 7 participants, you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the driver-guide can tailor the experience a bit more to your interests or questions. The small group size also means fewer delays or waiting for others, allowing for more flexible and relaxed stops.

The Itinerary Explained

Poenari Fortress kicks things off. While you don’t enter the castle itself, the views from below are impressive, and the history—Vlad the Impaler’s stronghold—adds a dash of dark intrigue. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide went above and beyond,” ensuring we appreciated the fortress’s story even from afar.

Next, you’ll visit the Vidraru Dam, a jaw-dropping engineering feat that’s 166 meters tall. Standing on the dam offers incredible photo opportunities, with the lake reflecting mountain peaks and forests. It’s a chance to stretch your legs and marvel at this man-made marvel that creates one of Europe’s largest artificial lakes.

The famous Transfagarasan Highway is next, offering some of Romania’s most breathtaking vistas. With ample time for photo stops and a scenic drive, you’ll understand why this road is often called “Top Gear’s favorite road.” According to reviews, the scenery here is “spectacular,” and it’s a highlight for many.

Capra Waterfall provides a rugged, picturesque stop. Known for its height and natural beauty, it’s an excellent photo spot. One traveler noted, “The view was absolutely fantastic, and the water cascading down makes for a magical landscape.” The rugged terrain and alpine meadows surrounding the waterfall add to the sense of adventure.

Finally, the highlight for wildlife lovers: Bâlea Lake. Located at 2,034 meters altitude, this glacial lake offers a peaceful, surreal landscape. The road to Bâlea Lake is open only from June to November, making it a seasonal treasure. Visitors can walk around, take photos, and enjoy the crisp mountain air. The lake’s serenity and the mountain backdrop make it a perfect place for a break and some reflection.

Practical Details and Experience

The day is well-paced, with stops ranging from 15 minutes at the waterfall to 1.5 hours at Bâlea Lake. Expert guides, like Sebastian or Roxana, enhance the journey with fascinating stories, local insights, and humor. Many reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly guides make the day memorable, with some noting sightings of up to 20 bears—though, of course, this isn’t guaranteed.

The tour is priced at $101 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and the stops. While lunch isn’t included, the stops provide opportunities to buy local snacks or bring your own. Travelers say the value is high, especially when considering the diversity of sights and the chance to see bears in the wild. Reviewers praised the organization, comfortable vehicle, and the “well thought out stops” that maximize photo and sightseeing opportunities.

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Wildlife and Bear Sightings

This tour’s biggest draw—apart from the scenery—is the chance to spot wild bears. Multiple reviews confirm seeing bears, even up close, and many guests remark on the thrill of watching these animals in their natural setting. The guides’ expertise in spotting wildlife and understanding animal behavior adds a layer of confidence and excitement.

However, it’s worth remembering that bears are wild animals. Some reviews mention seeing a handful of bears, with one traveler noting, “We saw 17 bears and so much beautiful scenery,” while others were less lucky but still enjoyed the experience. The unpredictability is part of the charm, but don’t expect guaranteed sightings.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re an adventure seeker, wildlife enthusiast, or someone who appreciates stunning mountain landscapes, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a more intimate group experience, avoiding the big-bus crowd. History buffs will enjoy the fortress stops, and nature lovers will cherish the lakes and waterfalls.

It’s not ideal for very young children (under 7), given the driving and walking involved, and those particularly wary of wildlife encounters should prepare for a bit of unpredictability. Still, many reviews emphasize how “friendly,” “helpful,” and “knowledgeable” guides ensure everyone feels comfortable and informed.

Final Thoughts

This Bears Safari on the Transfagarasan Highway offers a rare blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight—all wrapped in a small-group setting that emphasizes quality over quantity. At just over a hundred dollars, it represents excellent value for travelers eager to see Romania’s wilderness and history without the chaos of large tours.

The chance to see wild bears, stand on Vidraru Dam, and walk beside Bâlea Lake makes this a memorable journey. The guides’ knowledge, the scenic drives, and the authentic experiences make it a top choice for those who want more than just a sightseeing bus tour.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone craving a day out in stunning mountain scenery, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable adventure. Just remember, while the wildlife sightings are a bonus, the true reward is the chance to experience Romania’s rugged beauty up close and personal.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, mainly due to the travel and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers pick-up and drop-off from Fântâna de la Universitate, a professional English-speaking guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but the stops allow for purchasing local snacks or bringing your own food.

Can I expect to see bears on the tour?
While many reviews confirm sightings of bears, they are wild animals, and sightings can’t be guaranteed. The guides are skilled at spotting wildlife, but nature remains unpredictable.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts about 12 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, water, and cash for souvenirs or snacks are recommended. Drinks and food are not allowed in the vehicle.

In sum, if you’re seeking a small-group, scenic, wildlife-rich adventure that combines Romania’s rugged mountains and historic sites, this Bears Safari hits the mark. It’s a memorable way to experience the country’s wilderness in comfort and style.