Wild Bears Safari on Transfgran – Small group max 7 Tourists

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking mountain scenery, a chance to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat, and a mix of cultural and scenic stops, this Wild Bears Safari on the Transfagarasan Highway might be just what you’re looking for. With a maximum of only 7 travelers, this tour promises a personalized, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of wildlife spotting.

What really caught our eye is the way this tour balances adventure with comfort. From exploring historical sites like Poenari Fortress (Vlad the Impaler’s stronghold) to crossing the famous “Road to the Sky” with its hairpin bends, it offers a genuine taste of Romania’s mountains and lore. A highlight for many is the chance to see up to 33 bears, including cubs, which makes this experience genuinely unique.

On the flip side, a key consideration is that bears are active from May to September, so timing is crucial if you want to maximize wildlife sightings. Also, access to Balea Lake is only possible in summer and early autumn due to snow restrictions. This means the tour is best planned between late spring and early autumn.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, scenic adventure that combines cultural insights with wildlife encounters, this tour is perfect—especially for curious travelers who appreciate small groups, insider knowledge, and incredible mountain vistas.

Key Points

• Small group size means more personalized attention and a less rushed experience.
• Wildlife sightings include the potential to see numerous bears, including cubs, especially between May and September.
• Scenic drives along the Transfagarasan Highway offer some of the most dramatic mountain views in Europe.
• Cultural stops like Poenari Fortress provide insight into Romania’s history and legendary connection to Dracula.
• Inclusions such as hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and guided commentary help make the trip seamless.
• Limited access to Balea Lake outside summer months due to snow and weather conditions.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure kicks off from Piața 21 Decembrie 1989 in Bucharest, where you’ll be picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size of up to 7 travelers means there’s plenty of space to relax and chat with your guide, who is both friendly and well-informed. Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Sebastian and Roxana enhance the experience with their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and storytelling skills.

Poenari Fortress: A Gothic Touch of History

Our journey begins with a scenic view of Poenari Fortress, built by Vlad the Impaler in 1456. While you won’t enter the fortress—climbing 66 stairs to reach the interior—seeing it from below still offers a strong sense of Romania’s legendary past. Several reviews highlight the outside view as impactful, with some travelers noting that the fortress’s menacing silhouette against the sky is a perfect photo opportunity.

Vidraru Dam: Engineering Marvel

Next, you’ll stop at the massive Vidraru Dam, towering at 166 meters. This is where you’ll appreciate the scale of Romanian hydropower infrastructure, with views of the tranquil Vidraru Lake and the surrounding peaks. Travelers mention how the dam’s scenic location makes for stunning photography and offers a real sense of the country’s engineering feats.

The Road to the Sky: A Winding Marvel

One of the tour’s standout features is driving along the Transfagarasan Highway, often called “the road to the sky” for its twists, turns, and dizzying heights. The route is stamped as one of the world’s most spectacular roads, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. Expect hairpin bends, panoramic views, and the thrill of driving through mountain tunnels. Reviewers describe the drive as “spectacular,” with some mentioning the scenic viewpoints that allow for memorable photo moments.

Capra Waterfall and Local Products

A short stop at Capra Waterfall provides a refreshing break and an opportunity to admire the mountain’s natural beauty. Many travelers enjoy tasting local products like cheeses, pastrama, jams, and even homemade spirits—adding a delicious, authentic touch to the day. The chance to sample regional flavors helps create a well-rounded experience, blending scenery with culinary delights.

Wildlife Safari: Bears in Their Natural Habitat

The core of this tour is the wildlife safari, where the guides’ knack for spotting bears shines. According to reviews, sightings can be plentiful—up to 33 bears, including cubs, have been observed, much to travelers’ delight. Guides like Sebastian and Roxana are praised for their keen eyes and knowledge about animal behavior, which substantially increases the chances of sightings.

Bears are most active from May to September, so timing your trip during these months is essential. Although some travelers hoped to see bears outside this window, the tour’s success in sightings mainly hinges on the season. Reviewers describe this part of the trip as “amazing” and “exciting,” with some pointing out the close proximity of bears, even babies, which makes for unforgettable photos and memories.

Balea Lake: The High-Altitude Finale

The last stop is Balea Glacier Lake, perched at over 2,000 meters altitude. Surrounded by mountain peaks, it offers a stunning backdrop for photos or a peaceful walk. Lunch is provided here, allowing travelers to recharge with traditional Romanian dishes. Weather can vary—temperatures are typically 20 degrees lower than in Bucharest—so packing warm clothing is a must.

Access to Balea Lake is seasonal, only open in summer and early autumn, which is a significant point to plan your visit. When open, the lake’s mirror-like surface and expansive views are often highlighted as the tour’s most photogenic moments.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

This is a 12-hour tour, so prepare for a full day of driving, sightseeing, and wildlife spotting. It’s designed for maximum comfort, with a small group of up to 7 travelers, which ensures plenty of space and personalized attention from your guide. Many reviews praise the intimate feel, as it allows for relaxed conversations and the flexibility to explore stops at your own pace.

Cost and Value

Priced at $148.66 per person, the tour offers remarkable value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, and expert guide. The price is often justified by reviewers through the quality of the guide’s insights, the scenic stops, and the wildlife encounters, which are often described as “worth every penny.”

When to Book

Most travelers book approximately 23 days in advance, indicating high demand, especially during peak bear activity season (May–September). Booking early guarantees availability and helps plan your trip around seasonal access restrictions to Balea Lake and the Belvedere viewpoints.

Accessibility and Considerations

• Weather: Mountain temperatures are significantly cooler, sometimes 20°F (around 10°C) lower than Bucharest. Dress warmly, especially if hiking or spending time at Balea Lake.
• Seasonality: Access to Balea Lake and the Belvedere is limited outside summer/autumn due to snow. Bears are most active between May and September.
• Physical effort: The fortress visit is outside, and some stops involve walking or standing, so comfortable shoes are recommended. If you want to visit inside Poenari Fortress, be prepared for a 66-step climb, but that’s not included in this tour.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of guides, with Sebastian and Roxana standing out for their wealth of knowledge and attentiveness. One reviewer mentioned how Sebastian’s historical commentary made the day even more engaging, while others appreciated Roxana’s cheerful demeanor and storytelling.

The bears are a major draw. Several travelers shared how they saw up to 18 bears, including babies and even foxes, right from the vehicle or close to it. Many describe the sightings as “spectacular,” with one guest exclaiming they returned with a phone full of bear photos.

Culinary highlights include tasting local cheeses, pastrama, jams, and spirits—small touches that elevate the day. The scenic drive itself—especially along the Transfagarasan Highway—receives high praise for its dizzying views and winding roads. The stop at Balea Lake, weather permitting, is often listed as a highlight for its stunning setting and opportunities for photos and relaxation.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling mix of scenic mountain drives, wildlife encounters, and cultural stops, all within a small-group setting that ensures personalized attention. It delivers excellent value, especially for travelers eager to see wild bears in their natural habitat—a rare opportunity that’s hard to replicate elsewhere in Europe.

It’s perfect for those who love adventure, nature, and authentic experiences in Romania. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a lover of mountain scenery, or a history buff interested in Vlad the Impaler, this tour covers all bases.

Travelers who prioritize small groups, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking landscapes will find this tour ticks all the boxes. Just keep in mind the seasonal access restrictions and dress appropriately for mountain weather. This could very well be the highlight of your Romanian trip.

FAQ

What is the maximum group size for this tour?
Up to 7 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of space for comfortable travel.

Which months are best for wildlife sightings?
Bears are most active from May to September, so booking during these months increases your chances of sightings.

Can I visit the inside of Poenari Fortress?
No, the tour only views the fortress from outside, and climbing the 66 stairs to the interior is not included.

Is Balea Lake accessible year-round?
No, access is limited to summer and early autumn due to snow and avalanche risks in winter.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 12 hours, covering multiple scenic stops, wildlife safaris, and cultural sites.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, as mountain temperatures can be 20 degrees cooler than Bucharest, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

What does the tour cost include?
Pickup from central Bucharest, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, and a professional English-speaking guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are opportunities to buy local products and enjoy a meal at Balea Lake.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it risk-free to plan your day.

If you’re after a true Romanian adventure filled with scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and cultural highlights, this small-group safari is a solid choice. Just remember to keep your camera handy and your expectations high—you’re likely to come away with more than a few unforgettable moments.