Half-Day 4x4 Tour in the Eastern Carpathians
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Traveling by 4x4 is one of the great ways to explore the Eastern Carpathians rugged terrain away from the cities. In just half a day, we will pass through small villages, hidden valleys and along great belvedere points giving you a unique experience with some good photo opportunities. Your guide will introduce you to the local lifestyle, wildlife, history and culture. The trails will be set on the day of the tour depending on the weather.
Optionally, get more insight in the history and battles of the World War I and II in the Eastern Carpathians as you revive the course of the bloody battles and fights with the help of detailed maps and old photos.
- Enjoy an action-packed half day in the Eastern Carpathians
- Learn about the local wildlife and history
- See parts of the landscape you can't reach by a standard car
- Get the personalized experience of a private guide
- All transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off from Miercurea Ciuc is included
Available options
Standard Half-Day 4x4 Tour
Standard Tour: You will spend half day in nature admiring wild places and isolated villages driving through unpaved, forest roads.<br/>Pickup included
Extended with WWI&WWIII
WWI & WWII Battlefield Tour: Get more insight in the history and battles of the World War I and II in the Eastern Carpathians with old maps and photos.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Various opportunities for short hiking trails to great belvedere peaks
Private round-trip transport from Miercurea Ciuc and its surroundings
Bilingual local driver/guide during the whole itinerary
What you'll see
Highlights:
• Get off the beaten track and explore the Hasmas Mountains and surroundings of the Bicaz Gorges in a 4x4 vehicle
• Challenge yourself on remote forest roads
• Get up-close to native wildlife
• Taste local products and cuisine
• Hike in the Bicaz Gorges-Hasmas National Park
• Have an insider look on the Bicaz Gorges
• Visit an authentic Carpathian sheepfold
• Family friendly
• Private tour is operated with just your party and a guide/driver
• Flexibility to customize your itinerary to your own preferences
What You Can Expect
Traveling with a 4x4 car is the best way to visit and discover the highlands of the Hasmas Mountains, part of the Eastern Carpathian mountain range. Your guide will pick you up from your accommodation with our Suzuki Jimny 4x4 vehicle and set off into the surrounding mountains and forests. Depending on the location of your accommodation (nearby Gheorgheni or nearby Red Lake and the Bicaz Gorges), you will ride up to the 1375 m high Kovacspeter ridge where dispersed summer shelters and the source of the Olt river (one of the most important rivers of Romania) can be found. From here ride on forest roads to Tarcau Glade, to the border of the Bicaz Gorges - Hasmas Mountains National Park begins. Here have picnic from local products and go on a 2.5-3 hour easy trekking tour to the top of the 1707 m high Ecem Peak. From the craggy ridge of the Ecem Mountains you can enjoy the silence and a great panorama over the surrounding mountains. When you get back to the car, continue your trip riding on remote forest routes and through mountain traditional areas to the small dispersed village of Haromkut. Here you can witness the traditional way of living and taste locally raised fresh trouts served by a local family. In the surroundings of the village you may meet horses, sheep and oxen flocks grazing, guarded by shepherds. From Haromkut head to the breathtaking Bicaz Gorges riding along the picturesque Bicajel Valley with wooden houses and haystacks, dense forests and small waterfalls. After admiring the massive gorges and a short walk along Red Lake, drop-off at your accommodation follows.
What's not included
Alcoholic and other refreshing drinks (available to purchase)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
RO
HU
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress warmly: sturdy, waterproof footwear and warm clothing recommended
Children must be accompanied by an adult
The programs can be modified depending on the weather conditions or adding other options.
Tours can be personalized on request
About Miercurea-Ciuc
Miercurea-Ciuc is a charming city nestled in the heart of Transylvania, known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, natural beauty, and traditional Hungarian-Szekler heritage.
Top Attractions
Ciuc Fortress
A medieval fortress that played a significant role in the region's history, offering panoramic views of the city.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
St. Michael's Church
A stunning Gothic-style church with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
Religious
30-60 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Harghita Mountains
A breathtaking mountain range offering hiking, skiing, and stunning landscapes.
Nature
Half-day to full-day trips
Free to moderate (depending on activities)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tolkos Csirke
A traditional Hungarian-style chicken dish cooked with sour cream and paprika.
Main Course
Contains dairy and meat
Lángos
A deep-fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and various toppings.
Snack
Vegetarian (can be made vegan)
Palinka
A traditional fruit brandy, often made from plums or other local fruits.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Mountain biking
Spa visits
Picnicking
Strolling in parks
Visiting museums
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and vibrant cultural activities.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: Hungarian, German, English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Miercurea-Ciuc is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Avram Iancu International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
By train
Miercurea-Ciuc Railway Station
By bus
Miercurea-Ciuc Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The local bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Suburban Areas
Day trips
Bălan Valley
30 km (19 miles) • Full day
A scenic valley offering hiking, wildlife spotting, and stunning landscapes.
Sighișoara
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture and rich history.
Festivals
Ciuc Folk Festival • July
Christmas Market • December
Pro tips
- Visit the Ciuc Fortress during sunset for the best views of the city
- Try traditional Hungarian-Szekler dishes at local restaurants and cafes
- Explore the Harghita Mountains for stunning hiking and skiing opportunities
- Attend local festivals and events for an immersive cultural experience
- Learn a few basic phrases in Hungarian to enhance your interaction with locals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
