Summits of the Transylvanian Alps

Summits of the Transylvanian Alps

8 Days Starting and ending in Bucharest, Romania

Visiting: Magura, Piatra Craiului National Park, Piatra Mica, Cabana Curmatura, Turnu Peak, Carpathian Mountains, Ascutit Peak, Carpathian Mountains, Cabana Curmatura, Carpathian Mountains, Plaiul Foii, La Om, Funduri Peak, Spirlea Shelter, Piatra Mare, Seven Ladders Canyon, Bucegi Mountains, Poiana Pichetul Rosu, Cabana Malaiesti, Malaiesti Valley, Bucsoiu Mountain, Omu Peak, Saua Hornurilor, Poiana Ciubotei, Poarta

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TTM

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 12

Physical rating:

Challenging

Age range:

16-99

Activities:

Hiking, Mountain Biking

From: $1800 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 13-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the Transylvanian Alps, exploring the breathtaking trails of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. This guided trek takes you to the summits of several majestic peaks, including La Om and Omu Peak, offering panoramic views and unforgettable experiences. Spend your nights in the cozy Villa Hermani, nestled in the heart of Piatra Craiului National Park, and enjoy the warm hospitality of your hosts. For a true wilderness experience, stay in remote mountain cabins, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Romanian landscape. With all meals included, savor the flavors of Transylvanian cuisine as you journey through this enchanting region. Whether you're navigating the rocky paths of the Seven Ladders Canyon or relaxing in the tranquil Malaiesti Valley, this tour promises an adventure of a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Discover the most scenic trails in the Transylvanian Alps with an expert tour leader.

  • Summit several mountains on a two-day trek around the Ascutit Peak Trail.

  • Hike to the top of La Om, the highest peak in Piatra Craiului National Park.

  • Explore the Seven Ladders Canyon with its rocky paths, waterfalls, and metal ladders.

  • Experience the wilderness with two nights in remote mountain cabins.

  • Summit Omu Peak, one of the highest mountains in Romania.

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit of Piatra Mica.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Catch transfer to Magura

Location: Magura, Piatra Craiului National Park

Accommodation Name: Villa Hermani

Meals Included: Dinner

Our family-run guesthouse, and home for most of the week, is in the quaint village of Magura within Piatra Craiului National Park. It is approximately 105mi (170km) from Bucharest Airport and takes around 3hr 30min to reach by road.



Therefore, we highly recommend you join the group transfer – speak to your sales representative to find out the transfer times. Due to the late arrival of the group transfer, dinner tonight is a light snack.



Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani

Day 2 : First leg of the Ascutit Peak Trail

Location: Piatra Craiului National Park, Piatra Mica, Cabana Curmatura

Accommodation Name: Cabana Curmatura

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Over the next two days we tackle the Ascutit Peak Trail, a circular hike taking in some of the major peaks in Piatra Craiului National Park. Pack your overnight bag before we leave, which should include the essentials, such as a spare T-shirt, fleece, toiletries and a small towel.



We start the hike from the front door of our guesthouse, descending to Botorog Fountain. From here, we hike mainly through forests and alpine meadows to the summit of Piatra Mica (5,958ft/1,816m), where we can take a moment to enjoy 360-degree views over unbroken forests towards Brasov.



We then descend through rocky patches and scree, sometimes using ropes, to Cabana Curmatura, our home for tonight. Staying here gives us more time for tomorrow’s hike, a longer day in which we complete the trail and tackle Ascutit.



Simple accommodation: Cabana Curmatura

Day 3 : Second leg of the Ascutit Peak Trail

Location: Turnu Peak, Carpathian Mountains, Ascutit Peak, Carpathian Mountains, Cabana Curmatura, Carpathian Mountains, Magura

Accommodation Name: Villa Hermani

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Leaving our mountain cabin after breakfast, we start our hike to the summit of Turnu Peak. It takes us through forest to a viewpoint, after which the landscape becomes rocky. There are ropes to help our climb on the first part of the rocky trail. From the top, we follow the ridge to the top of Ascutit (6,998ft/2,133m). We then descend back down to Cabana Curmatura following a different route, after which we cut through forests and across pastures to Magura.



Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani

Day 4 : Summit La Om

Location: Plaiul Foii, La Om, Funduri Peak, Spirlea Shelter

Accommodation Name: Villa Hermani

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We summit La Om today, the highest mountain in the national park at 7,343ft (2,238m). We start with a one-hour drive to Plaiul Foii, the startpoint for hikers tackling the Westwand Trial. From here, we ascend through forest to Spirlea Shelter, before hiking over scree and rocks to the top of La Om – the path is very exposed in some parts and there are several chains to secure the trail!



From the top, we head southward to Funduri Peak, taking a mixed trail of forest, scree and rocky terrain. We then descend back to Spirlea Shelter and Plaiul Foii, where we catch our return to Villa Hermani.



Please note: This trail can only be attempted in dry weather. If it rains, the tour leader provides an alternative option.



Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani

Day 5 : Summit Piatra Mare

Location: Piatra Mare, Seven Ladders Canyon

Accommodation Name: Villa Hermani

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We take a one-hour drive this morning to the foot of Piatra Mare, a 6,181ft (1,884m) mountain that we can attempt to summit today. Our hike up takes us on gravel paths and forest lanes. It also takes us through the Seven Ladders Canyon, a spectacular route along a rocky path, past waterfalls, up metal ladders, and within the steep walls of the gorge.



From the top of Piatra Mare, we head back to our start point on a different route through forest.



Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani

Day 6 : Hike to Cabana Malaiesti

Location: Bucegi Mountains, Poiana Pichetul Rosu, Cabana Malaiesti

Accommodation Name: Cabana Malaiesti

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we drive (one hour) to our start point, Cabana Gura Diham, on the east side of Bucegi mountain. From here, we follow a marked trail through the forests until we reach Poiana Pichetul Rosu, a meadow where multiple trails unite. Then follow the Take Ionescu Trail to Cabana Malaiesti. Our accommodation for the night has a scenic spot in the Malaiesti Valley, allowing us to relax and enjoy the wild beauty of Romania before we tackle Omu Peak tomorrow.



Simple accommodation: Cabana Malaiesti

Day 7 : Summit Omu Peak

Location: Cabana Malaiesti, Malaiesti Valley, Bucsoiu Mountain, Omu Peak, Saua Hornurilor, Poiana Ciubotei, Poarta

Accommodation Name: Villa Hermani

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We start today’s hike from Cabana Malaiesti, with the goal of standing on top of Omu Peak, one of the highest mountains in Romania at 8,218ft (2,505m). The route first cuts through the Malaiesti Valley, before we take the Brana Caprelor (Goats’ Ledge), a narrow path clinging to the seemingly vertical wall of Bucsoiu mountain. After summiting Bucsoiu, we take the Bucsoiu Ridge to Omu Peak.



From the top, we descend via Saua Hornurilor and Poiana Ciubotei to Poarta where we are picked up and taken to Villa Hermani.



Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani

Day 8 : To Bucharest Airport; end

Location: Bucharest Airport Suites & Villas

Meals Included: Breakfast

The adventure comes to an end after breakfast. Bid a fond farewell to the guesthouse, which may feel like a second home by now, and begin your return journey home.

What's Included

  • All breakfasts, six packed lunches and seven dinners

    All breakfasts, six packed lunches, and seven dinners are included in the tour package.

  • All accommodation

    All accommodation during the tour is included, including stays at Villa Hermani and mountain cabins.

  • Free group arrival and departure transfers available

    Free group transfers are available for arrival and departure.

  • Expert tour leader

    An expert tour leader will guide you through the most scenic trails in the Transylvanian Alps.

  • Two-day trek around the Ascutit Peak Trail

    The tour includes a two-day trek around the Ascutit Peak Trail, summiting several mountains.

  • Hike to the top of La Om

    The tour includes a hike to the top of La Om, the highest peak in Piatra Craiului National Park.

  • Two nights in remote mountain cabins

    Experience the wilderness with two nights in remote mountain cabins.

  • Romanian hospitality at Villa Hermani

    Enjoy Romanian hospitality at the family-run Villa Hermani.

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Visas and vaccinations

    Visas and vaccinations are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.

  • Single supplement

    A single supplement is available only at Villa Hermani and is not included in the tour price.

Accommodation

Experience the charm of Villa Hermani, a private guesthouse in Magura, for five nights, offering twin and single rooms with mostly private facilities. Enjoy two nights in simple mountain cabins, sharing dorm rooms with bunk beds, amidst the breathtaking wilderness of the Transylvanian Alps.

Food

All breakfasts, six packed lunches and seven dinners are included.



Meals are a mixture of fresh local produce and Romanian/Transylvanian dishes.



Transylvanian cuisine is influenced by several traditions and cultures (German, Hungarian and Romanian) but maintains a distinct character with a love for homemade cooking. Soups are a staple, main meals tend to be hearty with a strong focus on local produce, while desserts are varied and plentiful.



Breakfasts are usually a small buffet including an egg dish, cold cuts, cheeses, boiled eggs, vegetables, spreads, bread, cereals, juice, herbal teas and coffee.



Lunches included on this trip are usually self-made sandwiches – choose your own fillings from the morning buffets.



Each evening there is a choice between a meat or vegetarian dish. Dinner on the first evening is typically a light snack (cold platters with local food and bread) due to the late arrival of the group.



Vegetarian and special diets can be catered for, but options can be limited in Romania – please inform us of any specific requirements upon booking.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes a group transfer from Bucharest Airport to Magura, approximately 170km away, taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes by road. Daily hikes start from the guesthouse or involve short drives to trailheads, ensuring seamless access to the stunning landscapes of the Transylvanian Alps.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    During the tour, you will stay at Villa Hermani, a private guesthouse in the village of Magura, for five nights. The guesthouse offers twin and single rooms, most with private facilities. You will also spend two nights in simple mountain cabins, Cabana Curmatura and Cabana Malaiesti, which have mixed dorm rooms with bunk beds and no showers or indoor toilets.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, all breakfasts, six packed lunches, and seven dinners are included in the tour package. Meals consist of fresh local produce and Romanian/Transylvanian dishes, with a choice between meat or vegetarian options for dinner.

  • What should I pack for the overnight hikes?

    For the overnight hikes, you should pack essentials such as a spare T-shirt, fleece, toiletries, and a small towel. These items will be necessary for your stay in the mountain cabins.

  • Is there a single supplement available for the accommodation?

    A single supplement is available only at Villa Hermani. It is not available in the mountain cabins where you will be staying in mixed dorm rooms.

  • What is the difficulty level of the hikes on this tour?

    The hikes involve tackling several mountain peaks, including La Om and Omu Peak, with some trails requiring the use of ropes and chains for assistance. The trails can be challenging, especially in exposed and rocky areas.

  • What happens if the weather is not suitable for hiking?

    If the weather is not suitable for hiking, particularly if it rains, the tour leader will provide an alternative option to ensure safety during the tour.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!

Roger Wells (Google Reviewer)  

We have just returned from...

12-Feb-2025

We have just returned from a 2 week Exodus trip to Egypt, Alexandria to Aswan. We had a great time, enjoyable company, with an excellent guide, Sayed. All worked out as described. The 3 day Red Sea extension was relaxing. Even the train journey, Cairo to Aswan, was a great part of the experience

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!

Trustpilot
Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer.

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips.

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!!

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service.

1 Select your preferred date

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Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exodus Adventure Travels allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exodus adventure travels, 43 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.