From Bucharest: Libearty Bear Sanctuary and Draculas Castle

Set out on a captivating exploration from Bucharest to the renowned Libearty Bear Sanctuary and the iconic Dracula’s Castle. This 10-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the remarkable rehabilitation of rescued brown bears and take in the gothic grandeur of Bran Castle. From serene mountain drives to savoring local cuisine, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience that delves into the natural wonders and legendary history of Romania. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a fan of Gothic lore, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A 10-hour tour from Bucharest that takes you to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary and the iconic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.
• The tour includes a guided visit to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, which is home to over 90 rescued brown bears and other rescued animals.
• Visitors can explore the historic Bran Castle, which is known for its imposing Gothic architecture and its association with the Dracula legend.
• The tour features a scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains, offering breathtaking views and opportunities to learn about the region’s history and wildlife.
• Participants can enjoy local Romanian cuisine and street food as part of the tour, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 10-hour tour takes visitors from Bucharest to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary and Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, in the Carpathian Mountains.

Priced from €138.41 per person, the tour accommodates a small group of up to 7 participants and is conducted in English.

Highlights include a guided tour of the Libearty Bear Sanctuary to observe over 90 rescued brown bears and a visit to the historic Bran Castle.

Scenic drives through the mountains and local food experiences are also included.

With a 5/5 rating based on 18 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to support the sanctuary’s important conservation efforts.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from Bucharest, followed by a 2.5-hour drive to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary. Visitors then spend 1.5 hours observing the over 90 rescued brown bears at the sanctuary on a guided tour.

Afterward, the group travels 30 minutes to the iconic Bran Castle, where they’ll explore the historic site for approximately 75 minutes.

The return journey to Bucharest takes 3 hours, allowing time for local food experiences, shopping, and sightseeing along the way.

Throughout the day, travelers enjoy a scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains, seeing the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.

Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Spanning 69 hectares of coniferous forests, the Libearty Bear Sanctuary provides a safe haven for over 90 rescued brown bears. The sanctuary’s mission is to care for these animals, offering them a life free from the poor conditions they once endured.

Considered the most ethical bear sanctuary in the world, Libearty is recognized for its commitment to animal welfare and conservation efforts. Along With the rescued brown bears, the sanctuary also provides homes for rescued horses, donkeys, and wolves, ensuring their well-being and protection.

Visitors to the sanctuary can observe the bears in their natural habitat, gaining a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the important work being done to preserve them.

Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle)

Built between 1211-1225 by the Knights of the Teutonic Order, Bran Castle is a notable historical landmark noted for its imposing towers and turrets.

This 14th-century castle is also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle‘ due to its association with Bram Stoker’s famous novel.

While there’s no evidence that Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula, ever lived in the castle, its Gothic architecture and hilltop location make it a popular tourist attraction.

Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.

Whether you’re a fan of Gothic literature or simply appreciate historical architecture, a visit to Bran Castle is a must-do activity on any trip to Romania.

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Customer Experience

Travelers consistently praise the tour for its knowledgeable guide Alex, who offers friendly and insightful commentary throughout the experience.

With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 18 reviews, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers. They highlight the importance of supporting the Libearty Bear Sanctuary and its conservation efforts, emphasizing the ethical treatment of the rescued animals.

Reviewers also recommend the scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains and the exploration of the historic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.

Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing to fully enjoy the diverse activities and sights encountered during this immersive 10-hour tour.

Scenic Drive Through Carpathian Mountains

The scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains offers a breathtaking journey as the tour winds its way through the rugged terrain and lush landscapes of this iconic mountain range.

Towering peaks, dense forests, and winding roads provide a captivating backdrop for the journey to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

Along the way, the tour guide shares insights about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife, adding depth to the experience.

The drive offers opportunities to take in the stunning vistas, with photo stops allowing travelers to capture the beauty of the Carpathians.

This scenic journey is an integral part of the tour, setting the stage for the sanctuary visit and immersing guests in the natural wonders of Romania.

Local Food Experiences

Along With the scenic drive and wildlife viewing, the tour also includes several opportunities for guests to sample local Romanian cuisine and street food. The tour takes visitors on a culinary adventure, allowing them to enjoy the rich flavors of the region.

Some of the highlights include:

1. Enjoying a traditional Romanian lunch featuring hearty dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mămăligă (polenta).

2. Indulging in delicious street food, such as mici (grilled minced meat rolls) and covrigi (freshly baked pretzels) from local vendors.

3. Discovering the unique flavors of Romanian desserts, like papanași (fried dough with sour cream and jam).

4. Exploring the local markets and sampling artisanal products, such as cheeses, pickled vegetables, and homemade preserves.

Shopping and Sightseeing Opportunities

Aside from the culinary delights, the tour also offers ample opportunities for guests to enjoy the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region through shopping and sightseeing.

During the visit to Bran Castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle, visitors can explore the iconic landmark and its intriguing history.

Plus, the tour incorporates stops at local shops and markets, allowing participants to browse a variety of traditional crafts, souvenirs, and artisanal products.

Whether it’s admiring the castle’s architectural grandeur or discovering unique keepsakes, the shopping and sightseeing aspects of the tour provide a well-rounded cultural experience that complements the sanctuary visit and wildlife encounters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos of the Bears at the Sanctuary?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos of the rescued bears at the Libearty Bear Sanctuary. However, they’re advised to avoid flash photography and to respect the bears’ space and wellbeing during the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair/disability accessible. The sanctuary provides facilities and assistance for visitors with limited mobility. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special needs when booking to ensure a comfortable experience.

Can I Buy Souvenirs From the Local Shops?

Yes, visitors can buy souvenirs from local shops during the tour. The itinerary includes shopping and sightseeing opportunities at Bran Castle, allowing participants to browse and purchase local crafts, snacks, and other memorabilia.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request an extended itinerary to explore the sanctuary and castle in more depth or add additional stops. This is subject to availability and may incur an additional fee.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Castle?

The dress code for visiting Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, is casual and comfortable. Visitors are advised to wear closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the castle can be quite chilly inside.

Recap

This captivating tour from Bucharest offers a unique opportunity to explore the remarkable Libearty Bear Sanctuary and the iconic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.

Witness the rescued bears in their natural habitat, learn about the Gothic splendor of the castle, and savor the stunning scenery of the Carpathian Mountains.

This adventure creates an unforgettable experience that delves into Romania’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: