6 National Parks Tours in Bucharest Worth the Early Start

1.Carpathian Wilderness: A Wildlife Experience from Brașov

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 398 reviews · 3 to 4 hours (approx.) · from $95Our pick

Travel from central Brașov into the Carpathian forest for an evening watch from a secure hide. An English-speaking ranger escorts your group and helps you look for brown bears, foxes, deer, and other wildlife. The outing lasts about three to four hours, with a small group of no more than 12. Sightings are never guaranteed.

“Excellent trip and a great guide Lots of bear activity and even a bear and a fox hanging out together Thanks 🙏🏻”

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2.Piatra Craiului National Park Private Hiking Tour from Brasov

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 116 reviews · 6 to 8 hours (approx.) · from $126

Set out from Brașov with a private mountain guide for a 6 to 9 mile hike in Piatra Craiului National Park. Your guide chooses between routes based on weather and your group’s ability. Expect forests, gorges and shepherd country, plus a possible sheep-farm stop from June to September. Bran Castle is an optional stop on the drive back, at your own expense.

“Good weather, great scenery and a very knowledgeable and proficient guide in Bogdan. A really wonderful day out. It was perhaps a little difficult for him as I was so much older and slower than my day trip companion. But speaking for myself I had a beautiful day with lots of laughs, enjoyed a delicious soup lunch at the refuge and got home safely. What more could you ask?”

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3.From Brasov: Piatra Craiului National Park Private Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 32 reviews · 8 hours · from $111

Leave Brașov by private transfer for a guided 5 to 6-hour hike in Piatra Craiului National Park. Your English-speaking mountain guide will discuss route options with you, through scenery that can include Zărnești Gorge, alpine meadows, forest and rural villages. Past guides include Mihai, Isti and Radu. Bring sturdy waterproof boots, warm layers and cash for lunch and the park fee.

“We had a great day out with our guide. He was punctual with the pick-up, informative during the briefing and gave professional advice throughout the hike. Weather didn't permit us to ascend higher than the chalet but it was mid-April. Overall, definitely recommend this activity if you want to see Romania's natural beauty.”

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4.Day Hike PRIVATE – Piatra Craiului National Park

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 16 reviews · 4 to 10 hours (approx.) · from $96

Set out from Brașov with a private English-speaking guide for a hike in Piatra Craiului National Park, including the dramatic cliffs of Zărnești Canyon. The route can be adjusted to your fitness and interests. Guides named by past hikers include Eni, Radu Ursu, Paul, and Valentin, though your assigned guide may vary.

“Fantastic experience at Piatra Craiului National Park thanks to our amazing guide, Radu Ursu. Good profesional and marvellous partner. We have very good moments and beautiful landscapes to remember.”

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5.Private Full-Day Hiking Tour in Piatra Craiului National Park

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 16 reviews · 9 hours (approx.) · from $104

Set out from Brasov at 8:30 am for a private, guided hike in Piatra Craiului National Park. Expect a 12 to 15 km, medium-difficulty route with canyons, limestone scenery and a stop at Cabana Curmătura. Guides associated with the tour include Radu, who grew up hiking here, and Ramona, who explains the local environment.

“I have had zero experience in hiking/trekking. But like me, if you have Radu as your guide, you are in safe hands and great company!”

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6.4-Day Carpathian Trek: Bucegi Mountains and Piatra Craiului National Park

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 11 reviews · 4 days (approx.) · from $1,070

Spend four days hiking from Brasov through the Bucegi Mountains and Piatra Craiului National Park, with a licensed guide, private transfers, guesthouse stays, and meals. Expect forest trails, mountain villages, Zarnesti Gorges, and an optional hard climb to a 2,238-meter summit. Guides have included Bogdan, Mihai, and Radu, though assignments can vary.

“My husband and I loved this experience. Radu, our guide, was knowledgeable and very helpful. He carefully planned the route for each day and supported us with a bit of extra equipment to deal with a lot of snow. We stayed at Villa Hermani, an absolute gem în Măgura village, with a very special management and chefs. We warmly recommend this experience - professional and well organised”

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