Campulung is a fantastic base for exploring the rugged beauty and cultural sights of the Arges region. Its proximity to the Făgăraș Mountains makes it an ideal starting point for memorable day trips. We particularly love the Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour for its blend of wildlife and scenic landscapes, and the Top Gear Transfagarasan Road Tour for those craving a high-octane drive through some of Romania’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Both offer a chance to see remarkable sights while providing a well-organized, enjoyable experience.
What makes Campulung stand out is its access to both natural wonders and historical sites. Whether you want to track bears in their natural habitat or cruise along the famous Transfagarasan Highway, there’s a tour here for every type of traveler. If you’re pressed for time, these guided excursions help you see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the two best tours in Campulung. Each offers a different flavor of adventure—one immerses you in wildlife and history, the other in adrenaline and breathtaking mountain drives. Read on for all the details.
1. From Bucharest: Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour
For about $81 per person and lasting roughly 11 hours, this tour is perfect if you’re interested in wildlife, stunning landscapes, and historical sights. It begins with a pickup from Montrek Sport, then heads toward the Făgăraș Mountains, a rugged range that offers some of Romania’s most beautiful scenery. The group visits the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a 16th-century monument with striking architecture, and learns about its significance.
What makes this tour special is the opportunity to spot brown bears in their natural habitat—a rare chance to observe these majestic creatures safely. The tour also includes a visit to the Poenari Fortress, famously linked to Vlad the Impaler, adding a dash of history and legends. The scenic highlight is the Vidraru Dam and Lake, an impressive feat of engineering where you can admire the mountain reservoir and the surrounding landscape.
The itinerary is well-paced, with 30 minutes at the monastery and time at Vidraru Dam to soak in the views. The guided nature walk offers insights into local flora and fauna, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those interested in Romanian legends, with many travelers noting the bears are seen in their natural environment, which is a thrill.
Bottom Line: This tour combines wildlife viewing, cultural visits, and spectacular scenery. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that includes both nature and history, with the chance to see bears in the wild.
2. 1 Day Private Tour of Famous Top Gear Road Transfagarasan
For roughly 10 hours, this private guided tour offers a different experience—focusing on Romania’s most famous mountain road. The Transfagarasan Highway is a marvel of engineering and film fame, often called one of the most spectacular drives in the world. This tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience and the flexibility to spend time at key spots.
The tour starts with a scenic drive along the Transfagarasan Highway, where you’ll cross mountain passes, sharp bends, and tunnels. Along the way, you’ll visit the Vidraru Dam, one of Romania’s largest hydroelectric projects, and explore the stunning Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake at 2,034 meters altitude. The highlight for many is the stop at Capra Waterfall, a powerful cascade at 1,690 meters, ideal for photos and a short walk.
What sets this tour apart is the customizable nature of a private guide, allowing you to linger longer at Bâlea Lake or take a detour to lesser-known spots. The experience is highly rated for its breathtaking scenery and the thrill of driving along the winding mountain road. The guide also shares stories about the engineering feats and the road’s history, making it both fun and informative.
Travelers love this tour for its flexibility and the chance to enjoy Romania’s most iconic mountain corridor in comfort. It’s suited for anyone who’s eager to combine a scenic drive with sightseeing and photography.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a personalized, scenic adventure with the flexibility to explore at your own pace, this private Transfagarasan tour is a top choice. It’s especially suitable for road trip enthusiasts and those who want a memorable, hassle-free experience.
How to Choose Between These Excursions
When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your interests and travel style. The Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour (see details here) is a fantastic pick for wildlife lovers, history buffs, and those wanting a mix of scenic nature and cultural sites. On the other hand, the private Transfagarasan Road Tour (check availability here) suits travelers craving a more personalized exploration, especially if they love driving or want to focus solely on Romania’s dramatic mountain roads.
Budget-wise, the bear watching tour offers good value for a full-day experience that includes multiple highlights. If you prioritize comfort and flexibility, the private road tour might cost more but provides a tailored, relaxed journey.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak summer months when these scenic spots are most popular. Also, think about your physical fitness—both tours involve some walking, but the bear tour is more active with nature walks, while the private road trip is mostly driving with brief stops.
Final Thoughts
Campulung serves as a perfect jumping-off point for a variety of memorable adventures. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour offers unmatched chances to see Romania’s iconic bears and explore historic sites. If a scenic drive along the Transfagarasan Highway sounds more appealing, then the private tour provides a flexible, expertly guided way to experience this engineering marvel.
Both tours are well-rated and designed to give you authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist trail. Whether you choose a wildlife-focused day or an adrenaline-fueled mountain drive, you’ll leave with stories and photos worth sharing. For the best experience, book early and get ready for a day of adventure in the beautiful Arges region.
