Bucharest: Magic Park & Bear Sanctuary Day Trip

Planning a day trip from Bucharest that combines wildlife, fairy-tale fun, and a touch of Transylvanian legend? This tour offers just that — a well-balanced blend of outdoor adventure and whimsical storytelling designed especially for families with kids. It’s a full-day experience that promises memorable moments and plenty of photo opportunities, with comfortable transport and a carefully curated itinerary.

What I find particularly appealing are the visits to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, which offers an educational, compassionate look at Romania’s bears, and Magic Park in Rasnov, where kids can jump into a fairytale world filled with themed houses and Europe’s largest bouncy castle. Plus, the trip is run by MatDan Eco Tours, a provider known for professional service and eco-conscious experiences. There’s a lot to love here — from the engaging activities to the scenic stops — but it’s worth noting that the schedule is quite packed, so it’s best suited for energetic families who don’t mind a full day on the move.

One potential consideration is the trip’s duration and pace. While the itinerary is thoughtfully planned, both stops are quite extensive, and some travelers may find the 3-hour transfers a bit long. Also, not all activities are included in the price (like ATV rides or face painting), which might lead to extra expenses if your little ones want to indulge fully.

This tour works best for families with children aged 5 and up who enjoy wildlife, storytelling, and outdoor play. It offers excellent value for those looking to experience a variety of Romania’s natural and fantastical sides in just one day. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this trip tick and whether it’s the right fit for your family adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife protection: Visit the renowned Libearty Bear Sanctuary, home to rescued bears and a chance to learn about animal welfare.
• Family fun: Magic Park features themed houses, creative activities, and Europe’s largest bouncy castle.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned minibus make the journey smooth and hassle-free.
• Inclusive experience: Entrance to both attractions and bottled water are included, with optional paid activities.
• Flexible planning: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
• Limited for very young children: Not suitable for kids under 5 or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Journey: What to Expect

The Morning: Heading to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Your day begins in Bucharest’s Victoriei Square, where you’ll meet your driver and group. The journey to Zarnesti, home of the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, takes approximately three hours. While long, the drive offers a chance to relax, enjoy scenic views of the Romanian countryside, and maybe spot some small villages or forests along the way.

The sanctuary itself spans 69 hectares of oak forest, designed to mimic a natural habitat that allows rescued bears to roam, climb, and splash in pools. Visitors are usually impressed by how spacious and well-maintained the sanctuary is, with some reviewers noting that the bears seem much happier than in traditional zoos.

Guests appreciate that the sanctuary’s veterinarians carefully control each bear’s diet and medical care, emphasizing the sanctuary’s focus on animal welfare. One reviewer shared, “Seeing the bears in large, natural enclosures was eye-opening. It’s heartening to know they’re cared for so well.” Expect to spend about an hour here, walking along paths that offer various viewpoints and educational signs about the bears’ stories and rescue missions.

The Magic Park Adventure Begins

After the sanctuary visit, you’ll board your minibus for the 30-minute transfer to Magic Park in Rasnov. This is where the fairy-tale magic kicks in. The park is themed around beloved stories and mystical creatures, with several themed houses designed to spark kids’ imaginations.

Here, children can jump into Europe’s largest bouncy castle, which is a highlight for many kids (and the envy of all the other parents). There are also interactive activities like face painting, sand drawing, and adventure options such as ATV rides and electric buggies — though these are usually paid separately.

The park’s atmosphere is lively but safe, with staff often praised for being friendly and attentive. Kids love the sense of entering a storybook land, and many reviews mention how the themed areas are well-curated with attention to detail. For example, one parent noted, “The houses from the stories felt so real, and my kids kept asking to stay longer.”

Midday and Afternoon: Flexibility and Additional Activities

The tour includes some free time at Magic Park, giving you flexibility to explore further or relax at the picnic areas. If you’re interested, you might opt to try the ATV or buggy rides, which add an extra thrill but come at an additional cost.

After a few hours of playful exploration, you’ll begin your journey back to Bucharest. The return trip typically lasts around three hours, giving you time to unwind, reflect on the day, or chat about your favorite moments — perhaps the adorable bears or the giant bouncy castle.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus makes the long drives manageable, especially during the warmer months.
• The tour includes bottled water and a professional English-speaking driver, making logistics easier for families.
• Activities at Magic Park are seasonal and weather-dependent, so check availability if visiting during off-peak months.
• Be prepared with comfortable shoes and camera — the trip involves walking and plenty of photo opportunities.
• The cost of the entrance ticket to the Bear Sanctuary is 8 EUR for children and 17 EUR for adults; this is a worthwhile investment considering the quality of the rescue and educational information provided.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

This trip provides a comprehensive glance at Romania’s wildlife conservation efforts alongside a fairy-tale adventure, making it ideal for families who want both education and entertainment. The round-trip transfer and entrance fees are included, which simplifies planning and often results in better value than booking components separately.

The expert driver and organized itinerary ensure a smooth experience, even for those new to Romania. Plus, the flexibility to cancel with a 24-hour notice adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather or changing plans.

While the full-day schedule might feel intense for very young children or those with mobility issues, many families find the balance of activities perfect for a day of active fun with educational touches.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re traveling with children aged 5 and up, this trip offers a chance to combine wildlife education with a fairytale-themed playground. It’s perfect for families seeking a safe, guided experience that maximizes fun while providing meaningful encounters with Romania’s natural side. The inclusion of the largest bouncy castle in Europe and the chance to see rescued bears in naturalistic enclosures make this a memorable outing.

Those who enjoy outdoor activities, animal rescue stories, and storybook worlds will find this trip engaging and worthwhile. It’s also suited to travelers who prefer organized tours to avoid logistical stress and want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

However, if your kids are under five or have mobility restrictions, this may not be the best fit, as some activities and walking areas could be challenging.

Is transportation provided? Yes, round-trip transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus are included, making the journey easy and relaxing.

How long is the drive? The total transfer time is approximately six hours — three hours each way — with scenic views along the route.

Are food options available? The tour does not include lunch, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan for a meal during your free time at Magic Park.

What is the entrance fee for the Bears Sanctuary? It costs 8 EUR for children and 17 EUR for adults. This fee is paid at the sanctuary, but the tour includes the visit itself.

Can I participate in the park activities? Activities like ATV rides, buggies, face painting, and sand drawings are available but might require additional payment.

Is the tour suitable for young children? It’s best for children aged 5 and above. Kids under 5 may find the schedule too long or challenging.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended to make the most of your day outdoors.

Are there any restrictions? The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, and outside food or pets are not allowed inside the parks.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This day trip from Bucharest offers a well-rounded experience that combines Romania’s heartwarming wildlife rescue efforts with a dash of fairy-tale magic. The Libearty Bear Sanctuary provides not just a chance to see rescued bears thriving in natural environments but also an opportunity to learn about conservation efforts firsthand. Meanwhile, Magic Park brings stories alive in a colorful, interactive setting that kids adore.

The experience is especially valuable for families who want a safe, organized way to explore beyond the city — one that balances educational value, outdoor fun, and scenic travel. The included transportation, entrance fees, and professional guiding make it a hassle-free way to spend a day immersed in Romanian natural beauty and legends.

For those seeking a family-friendly adventure that’s both meaningful and entertaining — with plenty of photo-worthy moments — this trip delivers on all fronts. Just pack some sturdy shoes, a sense of wonder, and a camera to capture your magical day in Romania.

Enjoy a day filled with wildlife, stories, and unforgettable memories — this tour is a lovely way to experience the best of Romanian nature and imagination.

You can check availability for your dates here: