Strange Growing Stones and Mud Volcanoes in Buzau County

Exploring Romania’s Strange Growing Stones and Mud Volcanoes: A Detailed Review

When thinking of Romania, many travelers picture castles, medieval towns, or the legendary Dracula. Yet, tucked away in Buzau County are natural phenomena that feel almost otherworldly. This private full-day tour from Bucharest takes you to see the trovants, or “living stones,” and the mud volcanoes of Berca. For a total cost of around $610.87 for your group of up to seven people, you get a full day of exploration in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from your hotel.

What we love about this experience is its balance of scientific curiosity and folklore. The trovants are fascinating because they seem to grow, while the mud volcanoes offer a smoking, bubbling landscape that looks like something out of a science fiction movie. Another plus is the private nature of the tour, giving you the flexibility to focus on what interests you most. The only consideration? This trip requires a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy comfortably, especially at the outdoor stops. It suits nature lovers, families with kids, or anyone curious about Romania’s hidden wonders.

Key Points

• Unique Natural Features: See the fascinating trovants and mud volcanoes—unusual geological formations with captivating legends.
• Comfort and Privacy: Travel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, allowing a personalized experience.
• Flexible and Customizable: As a private tour, it’s tailored to your interests and pace.
• Educational Experience: Learn about the science behind the formations and the legends they inspire.
• Ideal for Families and Nature Enthusiasts: An engaging trip that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
• Cost-Effective for Groups: While the price may seem high, it covers a full day of expert-guided exploration for up to 7 people.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point: The Trovant Sites – Babele de la Ulmet

Your day begins early, with pickup around 7:00 am. The first stop, the Trovani, is a site that captivates visitors with its mysterious stones. These aren’t ordinary rocks—they are accumulations of sand, sandstone, and cemented marls that have been formed over millions of years deep underground. The rocks are arranged in a circle, and local legends suggest they are “living” or even growing every year—a claim that sparks curiosity and debate.

During the roughly three-hour visit, your guide will explain the scientific theories behind their formation—like the groundwater and marine animal contributions—while also sharing the folklore. You might find yourself pondering questions like: Are these stones truly alive? While many believe they grow, experts point out they are simply geological formations. Still, the mystique is part of what makes the site so engaging.

The site features some interpretive signs and possibly some local guides offering further insights, but most of the appeal comes from simply wandering around these strange, seemingly animate stones. The experience is enhanced by the surrounding landscape—a quiet, open area that feels timeless.

Next Up: The Berca Mud Volcanoes

After a refreshment break, your journey continues to the Berca mud volcanoes—a spectacular display of nature’s unpredictable power. These formations are not volcanic in the traditional sense but are created by natural gas escaping from deep underground (roughly 3,000 meters deep). As the gases force their way upward, they bring water and clay to the surface, forming cone-shaped structures that resemble mini volcanoes.

Expect a landscape that’s both surreal and slightly pungent, with a faint smell of sulphur. The cold mud and bubbling vents make for fantastic photos and a tactile experience you won’t forget. The lava-like cones are constantly changing due to gas activity, which keeps the site dynamic and interesting.

Your guide will explain how these mud volcanoes form and why they are important for scientists studying geological processes. The site is also a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities for walking and exploring at your own pace.

The overall visit here lasts about two hours, giving you enough time to appreciate this otherworldly landscape without feeling rushed.

The Transport and Timing

Traveling in a private air-conditioned vehicle makes all the difference, especially on a day that involves outdoor walking and potentially hot weather. The pickup service ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or taxis, letting you focus entirely on the sights. The total tour lasts about 8 to 9 hours, including travel time, so it’s a full but manageable day.

Starting early at 7:00 am, you’ll arrive at each site during daylight hours, which is perfect for photos and exploring. The tour’s flexibility allows you to adapt the pace, which is especially appreciated by families or travelers with specific interests.

The Cost and Value

While $610.87 may seem steep at first glance, it’s important to recognize what this covers: private transportation, a dedicated guide, and exclusive access to remarkable sites. Group size of up to 7 helps keep the cost reasonable for the intimacy and customization offered. Considering the unique natural sights, this is a good value for travelers eager to see some of Romania’s hidden gems without the hassle of independent planning.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to step off the beaten path and see something truly unique. Families with kids will appreciate the hands-on nature of the mud volcanoes and the intrigue of the stones. Nature lovers and geology buffs will find the explanations about the formations fascinating. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy personalized experiences and dislike large tour groups.

Authentic Perspectives from Past Travelers

One reviewer described the mud volcanoes as “a fantastic, otherworldly place,” emphasizing that it’s a “landscape to take your breath away.” They also noted how active the volcanoes are, adding a sense of spontaneity and excitement. The mysterious trovants are described as “formations that seem to move,” with some legends claiming they grow—highlighting how much the site sparks the imagination.

The private nature of the tour is often highlighted as a strength, giving travelers more freedom to explore at their own pace and ask questions. Many feel it’s a worthwhile experience that offers a different side of Romania—away from castles and city streets, into something more primal and mysterious.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for outdoor sites.
• Bring sun protection—hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses—since most of the tour is outdoors.
• Carry some water and snacks to stay energized.
• Be prepared for moderate physical activity, especially at the mud volcanoes and trovants.
• Photography enthusiasts will love the unique landscapes, so bring a good camera or smartphone.
• Confirm the weather forecast—the experience depends on good weather, and poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Bucharest offers an unusual chance to see some of Romania’s most intriguing natural features. The trovants and mud volcanoes stand out as sights that combine science, legend, and pure wonder. With its personalized approach, it provides real value for those who want an authentic and engaging experience.

While the price may seem high, you’re paying for expert guidance, comfort, and the thrill of seeing sites that few travelers visit. It’s particularly suitable for families, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager to learn and explore Romania’s hidden geological treasures.

If you’re looking for an adventure that’s a bit different from the usual, this tour will give you stories to tell long after you leave. For those seeking a memorable, eye-opening day, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, including travel time and visits to both sites.

Are tickets included in the price?
No, admission tickets to the trovants and mud volcanoes are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or check if your guide can provide tickets.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially since it offers opportunities for kids to see unusual landscapes and learn about natural phenomena.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with sun protection, as most of the tour is outdoors.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with your guide to some extent.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to rain or other conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.