Small group max 7 – Bears Safari on Top Gear -Transfgran

Exploring Romania’s Wilderness and Heritage: A Review of the Bears Safari on Top Gear – Transfagarasan

If you’re searching for an experience that combines wildlife spotting, breathtaking mountain scenery, and a touch of Dracula lore, this Small Group Bears Safari on the Transfagarasan Highway might just be your perfect day out. Although I haven’t taken the tour myself, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an adventure packed with stunning views, wildlife encounters, and cultural highlights.

What I love most about this tour is the intimate size—limited to just 7 travelers, which promises a more personalized experience. Plus, the chance to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat sounds both thrilling and rare, especially since sightings are guaranteed from June to mid-October. The scenic stops at Poenari Fortress, the Vidraru Dam, and the Bâlea Lake offer a full immersion into Romania’s rugged mountain beauty, and the guides’ reputation for knowledge and friendliness only sweeten the deal. The only potential drawback? It’s a long day (around 12 hours), so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full-day adventure and variable mountain weather.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone who wants an authentic, smaller-group experience away from large coach crowds. If you’re eager for close wildlife encounters and scenic mountain drives with a friendly guide, this trip should definitely be on your list.

Good To Know

• Small Group Advantage: Limited to 7 travelers, creating a more personal, flexible experience.
• Guaranteed Bear Sighting: From June to mid-October, sightings of wild brown bears are assured.
• Varied Scenic Stops: From Dracula’s fortress to alpine lakes, each stop offers unique photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Reviews praise guides like Sebastian, Roxana, George, and Victor for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling.
• Cost-Effective: At $140 per person, it provides good value considering the length, scenery, and wildlife.
• Early and Long Day: The tour starts early and lasts around 12 hours, ideal for those ready for a full adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from a convenient pickup at Piața 21 Decembrie 1989 in Bucharest, with included transfers to the start of the scenic route. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—small enough to maintain an intimate vibe but spacious enough to keep everyone comfortable during the long drive. As many reviews highlight, the guides like Sebastian, Roxana, George, and Victor make the journey engaging with their wealth of knowledge and friendly banter.

Poenari Fortress: Dracula’s Link to Romania’s Dark Past

Your first stop is the Poenari Castle, perched dramatically on a cliffside. While the interior isn’t visited, the exterior views and the history of Vlad the Impaler (the real-life inspiration for Dracula) make this a fascinating snapshot into Romania’s legendary past. Visitors often comment on the impressive vantage point and the story-rich atmosphere. Expect about 20 minutes for photos and quick sightseeing, enough to feel the weight of its history without feeling rushed.

Vidraru Dam: Engineering Marvel and Lake of Reflection

Next up is the Vidraru Dam, a grand feat of engineering, standing 166 meters tall. It’s one of Europe’s highest dams, creating the shimmering Vidraru Lake, which reflects the surrounding mountains perfectly. The stop here is about 25 minutes—ample time for photos, a quick walk along the dam, and soaking in the awe-inspiring views. One reviewer noted that the dam and lake are “outstanding,” and it’s clear that the scale of this structure leaves a lasting impression.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Transfagarasan Highway: One of the World’s Most Scenic Routes

This is the highlight for many—a 3-hour stretch along the Transfagarasan Road, often called one of the most spectacular drives in the world. Wrapping around rugged peaks and through tunnels, the road offers countless photo stops and panoramic vistas. Expect to see breathtaking mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and possibly wildlife. Despite occasional traffic, guides like Sebastian and George manage to keep stops well-timed and relaxed.

Capra Waterfall: A Scenic Mountain Gem

A quick 20-minute stop at the Capra Waterfall is a natural highlight. The waterfall’s impressive height and the setting amid rugged terrain are picture-perfect. Reviewers appreciate the natural beauty here, noting that it’s a favorite for mountain scenery and outdoor photography.

Bâlea Lake: Mountain Oasis at 2,034 Meters

One of the most popular stops is Bâlea Lake, open only during summer and autumn. Visitors enjoy a 100-minute break to walk around, take pictures, and, if interested, join a guided tour of the area. The lake’s high-altitude location and surrounding glaciers provide a surreal backdrop, often described as “stunning” by travelers. In season, the cable car to the top offers an extra perspective, though it isn’t included in this tour.

Wildlife Encounters: Seeing Bears in the Wild

Most reviews agree that the wild bears are the star attraction, with sightings reported in nearly every account. Guides are praised for their patience and expertise in spotting and observing these majestic creatures. Several travelers mention seeing bears “up close” in their natural environment, which makes the experience truly memorable. Importantly, the tour emphasizes the importance of not bringing food into the vehicle to avoid attracting bears, and guides are careful to keep a safe distance while still offering incredible views.

Reviewers like Nikhail from South Africa, who called Sebastian a “friendly, professional, and knowledgeable” guide, echo the consensus that the wildlife viewing is both thrilling and well-managed. Even in hibernation season, sightings of bears were possible due to the guides’ expertise and the natural environment.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a return to Bucharest, crossing the scenic mountains and the Transfagarasan Highway one last time. While the day is long, many travelers say it’s worth every minute—highlighting the well-organized schedule, comfortable transport, and the variety of sights packed into a single day.

The Value of the Experience

At $140 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full-day, small-group adventure. The price includes all transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, and the chance to see Romania’s iconic wildlife and landscapes with minimal hassle. Meals are not included, but guides advise against bringing food in the vehicle to respect the bears’ habitat and ensure safety.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of scenic drives, cultural sites, and wildlife encounters. Unlike larger coach tours, the small group allows for a more flexible, engaging day—more stops, more personalized attention, and better chances of sightings.

Why the Small Group Matters

Many reviews emphasize the advantage of traveling with just a handful of people. You get more time at each stop, fewer crowds, and a relaxed atmosphere. Guides like Sebastian and Roxana make the difference—they’re knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and patient, often helping with photography and answering questions about Romanian history, nature, and wildlife.

Weather and Timing

The tour runs from June through mid-October, aligning with the best chance to see bears and enjoy the mountain scenery. Weather can vary, so packing warm clothing, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes is recommended. Reviewers mention spotting bears even in rainy or overcast conditions, which speaks to the guides’ expertise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re into nature and wildlife, this is a rare opportunity to see bears in the wild. History buffs will appreciate the Poenari Fortress and the stories behind Vlad the Impaler. Photographers will enjoy the varied landscapes, from waterfalls to mountain lakes. It’s perfect for travelers who value small groups and authentic experiences—not the busload of travelers.

Final Thought: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For around $140, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated mix of Romania’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural landmarks. It’s especially valuable for those wanting a personalized, small-group experience with the chance to observe wildlife in their natural environment—something big-coach tours simply can’t match.

The long day might seem daunting, but many reviews underline how well organized and enjoyable the trip is. The scenic drives, stunning stops, and wildlife encounters make it a highlight of any Romanian itinerary. If you’re after an adventure that balances scenery, history, and wildlife, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

What is the group size for this tour?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 participants, ensuring a more personal experience with less crowding.

Is there a guarantee of seeing bears?
Yes, from June to mid-October, sightings of wild brown bears are guaranteed, making it a reliable wildlife experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, water, and cash are recommended. Remember, no food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle to keep bears from being attracted.

How long does the tour last?
The full day lasts approximately 12 hours, starting early from Bucharest and returning in the evening.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops where you can purchase food or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 years old, mainly due to the long duration and outdoor nature of some stops.

To sum it up, this small-group Romanian adventure offers a fantastic balance of natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate exclusivity, personalized guides, and genuine wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned nature lover or a curious traveler wanting to see Romania’s wild side, this trip promises an authentic, memorable day in the mountains.

You can check if your dates are available here: