Introduction

Set in a natural oak and pine forest outside the town of Zărnești, about 30 km from Brașov, the Libearty Bear Sanctuary offers a safe and ethical home for formerly captive brown bears. This isn’t a zoo—it’s a rescue sanctuary focused on animal welfare, rehabilitation, and letting bears live as bears.

Zărnești Gorge trail between limestone walls Photo: Sandra‑Beatrice Molnar on Unsplash
Zărnești Gorge (Cheile Zărneștiului) is the classic approach into Piatra Craiului—bring layers and good shoes.

Mission & Ethos

Operated by the Romanian NGO Asociația Milioane de Prieteni (Millions of Friends), Libearty was created to end the exploitation of bears kept in captivity for entertainment or profit. Today, dozens of rescued bears roam forested enclosures with pools, trees for climbing, and places to hibernate—far from the concrete cages where many once lived.

The sanctuary’s first priority is welfare. Visits are structured to keep stress low: small guided groups, limited times, and clear viewing rules. You come to observe respectfully—not to provoke encounters or performances.

Brown bear walking through a lush forest Photo: Alexandru‑Bogdan Ghita on Unsplash
Expect calm, quiet observation from marked paths with a trained guide.

Where it is & getting there

The sanctuary sits near Zărnești, southwest of Brașov. Driving is the most straightforward option; parking is available near the entrance. Public transport to the gate is limited, so if you don’t have a car, consider a local transfer or an organized tour from Brașov. Many visitors combine the sanctuary with a same‑day visit to Bran Castle nearby. If you prefer another outdoor detour, the waterfall ladders at Seven Ladders Canyon sit just across the valley in Dâmbul Morii and pair nicely with an ethical wildlife stop.

What the visit is like

Visits run by guided tour only. A typical tour lasts around an hour along forest paths (roughly 2 km). Your guide explains the bears’ stories, how rescues work, and what responsible care looks like in practice. You’ll watch from designated viewpoints at a respectful distance.

Keep expectations real: bears roam large enclosures with trees, water, and dens—sometimes you’ll see them foraging or bathing, other times snoozing in the shade. That unpredictability is part of ethical wildlife viewing.

Brown bear resting on a mossy rock Photo: Alexandru‑Bogdan Ghita on Unsplash
Wildlife decides the pace. Guides manage time and routes to minimize stress.

Best time to visit

Mornings are generally best for activity, and cooler months offer clearer views through the trees. Bears may be less visible during hot afternoons or in deep winter when hibernation patterns kick in. For seasonal planning, see The weather and seasons in Brașov. Always check the official schedule—Mondays are usually closed for maintenance.

Practical tips

  • Book ahead: Tours have fixed times and limited spots.
  • Age rules: Children under 5 aren’t permitted inside the sanctuary (safety and animal welfare).
  • Dress for trails: Closed shoes, layers, and rain gear as needed. The path is natural, not paved.
  • No food, no pets, no drones: Avoid smells, noise, and distractions that stress animals.
  • Photography: Quietly, without flash, from marked areas, and always follow your guide’s instructions.

Responsible tourism

Libearty exists to right past wrongs. The best way to support that mission is to keep noise low, follow the code of conduct, and focus on learning rather than getting the perfect close-up. Give space, be patient, and let bears set the rhythm.

Official information

For up‑to‑date tour times, ticketing, closures, and visitor rules, consult the sanctuary’s official page: millionsoffriends.org.

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