Private Brown Bear Watching Experience near Odorheiu Secuiesc
Active
Duration varies
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the Carpathian wilderness, and see wild brown bears in their natural habitat from the security of one of the many wildlife hides operating in the area. Your guide, an experienced local ranger, will take you with his 4wd car deep into the forests of the Eastern Carpathians, which has one of the largest population concentrations of brown bears in the Carpathian Mountains. Follows an easy to moderate 500m walk from the car to a specially-designed observation hide where you will wait quietly for wildlife. The private experience will last 3-4 hours.
Available options
Private Brown Bear Watching Experience near Odorheiu Secuiesc
What's included
Photo fee for non-commercial purposes
Round-trip transport by a 4wd car
Local wilderness guide during the whole itinerary
What you'll see
Your Carpathian brown bear experience starts in the small Szekler town of Cristuru Secuiesc (22km from Sighisoara) where your guide awaits you to set off in his 4wd car into the forests at the foothills of the Harghita Mountains. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for wildlife watching as the population is most dense in Harghita, Covasna, Vrancea, and Brasov counties. After a 20- to 45-minute drive (depending on which spot has the greatest chances for watching on that day) you will be safely escorted down a roughly 500m long trail.
Occupy your place in the hide, stay quiet, listen to the forest wildlife sounds, and enjoy the excitement of waiting for the bears to come. There is usually success in seeing bears, but as there are wild animals involved, nothing is guaranteed. If you are lucky, you may observe bears feeding, playing together, courting, and mating. You may even see other species like wild boars, roe deer and red deer, foxes, badgers, and some game birds. In the past a few sightings of lynxes and wolves were had as well, but these animals, although in great numbers in the Carpathians, are very secretive and rarely seen.
After approximately 3 hours of watching, head back to the car accompanied by your guide and ride back to Cristuru Secuiesc. The entire trip takes 4 to 5 hours and watching from the hide can be complemented with following the animals footprints in the forest upon request. Be prepared by wearing hiking boots and weatherproof clothing, and bring binoculars, a camera, an extra battery, and a memory card to record this unique experience.
Wildlife watching tours in the Carpathians allow wildlife to be viewed in close proximity without being disruptive, and generates revenue for local rewilding efforts.
Please note:
• Your forest ranger guide accompanying you may carry a handgun for your protection in extreme situations.
• The tour usually ends around 9:30-10:00pm, so please plan your dinner time accordingly.There are high chances (statistically more than 75%) to spot the Carpathian brown bear, sometimes a female with cubs, sometimes a larger male bear. As a bonus, your guide can share some of the stories about the Communist dictator Ceausescu's hunting in the area.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Sighisoara, Praid and Odorheiu Secuiesc can be offered on request
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
RO
HU
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
4.7
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Generally, children should be around 8 years old to participate and understand the importance of the environment we operate in
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dress warmly: sturdy, waterproof footwear and warm clothing recommended
A maximum of 9 people per booking
There are no bathroom facilities in the hide
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather and less chances to spot bears, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
Be prepared by wearing hiking boots and weatherproof clothing.
Please avoid wearing perfume, it may scare away the wild animals from the hide.
Departure between 4.30-6.00pm depending on sunset time. The exact departure time will be confirmed after booking.
Meeting point
Parking lot in front of the Tamasi Aron Memorial Park and the catholic church of Lupeni (Farkaslaka in Hungarian) village.
Important notes
• Departure between 4.30-6.00pm depending on sunset time. The exact departure time will be confirmed after booking.
• Dress warmly: sturdy, waterproof footwear and warm clothing recommended
• There are no bathroom facilities in the hide
About Transylvania
Transylvania is a historic region in Romania known for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and rich folklore. It is often associated with the legend of Dracula, but it offers much more, including vibrant cities, picturesque villages, and diverse wildlife.
Top Attractions
Bran Castle
Bran Castle is often associated with the legend of Dracula. Built in the 14th century, it offers a glimpse into medieval life and the famous vampire myth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€10
Sighișoara Citadel
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sighișoara Citadel is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe. It is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula.
Historical
Half a day
€5-10 for museum entries
Peles Castle
Peles Castle is a stunning neo-Renaissance palace built in the 19th century. It served as the summer residence of the Romanian royal family and is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Historical
2-3 hours
€8
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, rice, and spices, usually served with polenta.
Main Dish
Contains pork, not vegetarian
Papanași
Fried dough balls filled with sweet cheese, usually served with sour cream and jam.
Dessert
Can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains
Skiing in Poiana Brașov
Spa treatments in resorts
Picnicking in scenic parks
Visiting medieval castles and citadels
Exploring traditional villages
Rafting on the Olt River
Skiing and snowboarding in Poiana Brașov
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside. It's also the busiest tourist season.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: English, Hungarian, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Transylvania is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to take standard precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Avram Iancu International Airport • 8 km from Cluj-Napoca city center
- Târgu Mureș International Airport • 12 km from Târgu Mureș city center
By train
Cluj-Napoca Railway Station, Brașov Railway Station
By bus
Cluj-Napoca Bus Station, Brașov Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Transylvania. They are affordable and cover most areas within cities and towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town Cluj-Napoca
Lipscani District Brașov
Day trips
Biertan
50 km from Sighișoara • Half day
Biertan is a charming village known for its fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers a glimpse into the region's Saxon heritage.
Râșnov Citadel
15 km from Brașov • Half day
Râșnov Citadel is a well-preserved medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Festivals
Medieval Festival • July
Transylvania International Film Festival • May
Pro tips
- Visit Bran Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local specialties like sarmale and papanași at traditional restaurants
- Explore the countryside by renting a car or joining a guided tour
- Attend local festivals and events for an authentic cultural experience
- Learn a few basic phrases in Romanian to enhance your interactions with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
