Wild Bears On Transfagarasan – Small Group max 8 pax

Wild Bears On Transfagarasan – Small Group max 8 pax Review

Traveling through Romania often feels like stepping into a storybook filled with castles, mountains, and legends. But one of the most memorable experiences you can have here is spotting wild brown bears on the famous Transfagarasan Road. This tour, offered by MatDan Eco Tours, promises a full day of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and mountain adventures—all in a cozy small-group setting.

What we love about this experience is its combination of wildlife spotting and spectacular landscapes. Plus, the chance to cross Vidraru Dam on foot and enjoy a meal at Balea Glacier Lake adds extra layers of adventure. The only catch? With such an action-packed day, you’ll want to be prepared for early starts and some walking. This trip suits travelers who crave authentic encounters and don’t mind a bit of a thrill in the mountains.

If you’re someone who loves nature, scenic drives, and discovering Romania’s lesser-touched corners, this experience could be just right for you. However, keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent, operates rain or shine, and requires a minimum of 2 participants. Let’s explore what makes this day trip so special—and why it might be one of the best ways to experience Romania’s wild side.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Viewing: Spot wild brown bears safely from the vehicle in their natural environment.
• Scenic Drive: Drive along the renowned Transfagarasan Road, often called “Top Gear’s Road” for its dramatic curves and vistas.
• Iconic Stops: Visit Vidraru Dam and Poenari Citadel, both offering memorable photo opportunities and historical intrigue.
• Mountain Experience: Enjoy Balea Glacier Lake, with options for a hot local meal and a short mountain hike.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Practical Value: All transport, bottled water, and a professional driver are included—lunch is on you, giving flexibility.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a pick-up from one of four central Bucharest locations, including major hotels like Hilton Garden Inn and Sheraton. The use of a comfortable, air-conditioned van means you can relax and enjoy the scenery right from the start. With the total journey lasting around 8 hours, the 3.17-hour drive to Transfagarasan is broken up nicely with stops and sightseeing.

One insight from reviewers is that the driver, who speaks both English and Romanian, provides helpful commentary and local tips. Their professionalism helps smooth out any long stretches between stops, making the ride more enjoyable, especially for those with a tendency toward car sickness or traffic fatigue.

First Stops: Poenari Citadel and Vidraru Dam

The tour’s first photo stops are at Poenari Citadel and Vidraru Dam. The citadel, famously linked to Vlad the Impaler, offers a glimpse into Romania’s historical layers—though visitors should be prepared for a short climb to reach the ruins. The views from here are stunning, with sprawling mountain vistas.

At Vidraru Dam, you get to cross on foot, which is a real highlight. Walking over this impressive feat of engineering provides not only great photo opportunities but a sense of connection with the landscape. One reviewer mentioned, “The dam is massive, and walking across it gave me a real sense of Romania’s engineering prowess.”

Spotting Wild Bears on the Road

The core thrill of this trip is seeing brown bears in the wild. The guide’s experience and local knowledge are crucial here—they know the best spots and times to spot these animals safely from the vehicle. Multiple reviews note that the bears are often seen casually strolling along the roadside or foraging, sometimes surprisingly close.

However, travelers are asked not to open car doors or approach the animals—safety first, always. Photography is encouraged, and many guests were able to snap incredible shots through the vehicle windows. Some reviews highlight that the bears appear quite relaxed, as if they’re used to the passing cars, which enhances the viewing experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Transfagarasan Road and Balea Lake

The road itself lives up to its reputation. With twists, turns, and panoramic views, driving along the Transfagarasan feels like an adventure in itself. The natural beauty is breathtaking, and many travelers find this section the most scenic part of the trip.

At the top, the tour stops at Balea Glacier Lake, a striking turquoise body set amid mountains. Here, visitors can opt for a traditional hot meal—soups, grilled meats, and local dishes—while soaking in the views. For the more energetic, there’s a short hike of about 15-30 minutes to further explore the area and take in the mountain scenery up close.

The guide is attentive, offering tips on the best photo angles and ensuring everyone has a chance to enjoy the scenery. Several reviewers appreciated the balance of sightseeing and leisure, describing Balea Lake as a “little piece of heaven” perched high in the mountains.

Return Journey and Final Stops

On the way back to Bucharest, there’s a scheduled stop for a refreshment drink—perfect for stretching your legs after a day of mountain driving and walking. The return ride is around three hours, and the driver often shares stories and insights about the Romanian landscape and wildlife.

You’ll be dropped back at your original pickup point, tired but filled with memories of Romania’s wild beauty. One traveler summed it up: “This tour exceeded my expectations—seeing bears in their habitat and driving through those dramatic mountains was truly unforgettable.”

Practical Details and Value

The Cost and What’s Included

At $164 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. Included are all transportation, bottled water, and a knowledgeable driver. The small-group limit of 8 makes for a more personalized experience—less crowding, more attention, and chances to ask questions.

Lunch isn’t included, giving you flexibility to choose local eateries or pack snacks. Many guests recommend bringing snacks to keep energized, especially if you plan to hike or spend extra time at Balea Lake.

Duration and Logistics

The itinerary spans approximately 8 hours, making it a full but rewarding day. The early start ensures you get the most daylight for wildlife sightings and mountain views. Be prepared for some walking, especially at the dam and Balea Lake, and don’t forget your camera and comfortable shoes.

Weather Considerations

The tour runs rain or shine, which means you should dress accordingly. A waterproof jacket and layered clothing are advised, especially if you plan to hike or spend time outdoors. Several reviews mention that cloudy or misty weather can add a mystical quality to the scenery, but clear days maximize your chances of wildlife sightings and spectacular views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who enjoy scenic drives and mountain landscapes. It’s also suitable for travelers who want an authentic glimpse of Romania’s wild side without the hassle of organizing transport or guides.

Families with older children, couples seeking a unique day trip, or small groups of friends will all find value here. Keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and a willingness to embrace outdoor conditions—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure.

The Sum Up

This small-group day trip from Bucharest delivers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic mountain drives, and cultural highlights. The chance to see brown bears in their natural environment offers a rare and authentic experience, while the stunning views along Transfagarasan Road make it a photographer’s dream.

The tour’s value is enhanced by its intimate size, professional guides, and inclusive transport—all at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore Romania beyond the castles and cities and dive into its untamed wilderness.

If you’re after a day filled with adventure, breathtaking scenery, and the opportunity to see Romania’s iconic bears, this trip is well worth considering—just remember to bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is a full day of outdoor activity, it’s generally suitable for older children comfortable with walking and mountain environments. Always check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and possibly a waterproof jacket. Snacks and extra water are recommended since lunch isn’t included.

How close do the bears get?
Bears are observed safely from within the vehicle, often from a distance that allows for good photos without disturbance. Always respect safety instructions from the guide.

Can I hike at Balea Lake?
Yes, the guide offers suggestions for a 15-30 minute hike to enjoy more views of the mountains and lake.

What happens if it rains?
The tour operates rain or shine. Weather may affect wildlife sightings or visibility, so dress accordingly.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, stops are scheduled for sightseeing, photos, and meals, with flexibility for personal exploration.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience, ensuring everyone gets ample attention from the guide.

You can check if your dates are available here: