Romania

Hunting in Romania has deep roots tied to its rural traditions and aristocratic heritage, the latter exemplified by former authoritarian dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. He claimed 270 gold medals, including the 1983 world record European Brown Bear skin (687.79 CIC points). However, his methods often involved exploitive canned hunts which remain widely criticized for lacking sportsmanship.

After Ceaușescu's demise on December 25, 1989, professional outfitting was soon established and the country began welcoming global hunters the following year. Today, Romania's warm hospitality, alluring wildlife, and varied ecosystems – ranging from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube Delta – make it a most desirable hunting destination.

The Carpathian Mountains, the second longest mountain range of Europe, for decades have produced trophy-class Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) – some of the largest ever recorded. A hunt for an impressive stag during the September "roar" is one of the country's most exhilarating adventures. Several gold medal trophies are taken annually during this period.

Also found in the Carpathians, particularly the Bucegi and Fagaras ranges, is the agile Carpathian Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), the largest of all the chamois species. Their robust bodies and relatively large horns make Romania a mandatory destination for Capra collectors. They are a primary target during the rutting period between late October and early November.

Hunting Carpathian Chamois can be a physically and mentally demanding endeavor set against a stunning natural backdrop. They test marksmanship, endurance, and patience, offering a chance to engage with Romania's cultural heritage in a region steeped in folklore (e.g., Dracula myths).

These fleet-of-foot goats can run at incredible speeds and leap up to 10 feet vertically. They are typically found at elevations from 700 to 4000 meters (2300 to 13000 feet) and feel safe when they can peer down from higher elevation on the lookout for danger. However, winter brings them down to the lower end of their elevation range where they can escape the snow and find nutrition more easily. Chamois can be combined for hunts with Brown Bear, Red Deer, Wild Boar and Wolf.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) are common to the forests and agricultural areas of the Transylvanian Hills. From about May to October, these small but alert deer seemingly emerge out of nowhere in big numbers around farm and grassland areas. For the many hunters loyal to hunting Roe Deer annually, Romania has a plentiful population to earn its place on a Roe Deer circuit.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) are overpopulated in many regions and cause significant agricultural damage. They are considered to be an opportunity animal of main species hunts.

Romania hosts one of Europe's largest Brown Bear (Ursus arctos) populations (estimated at over 10000). Bear hunting was banned from 2016 to 2021 due to conservation concerns but resumed after multiple instances of bear-human conflict. Areas like Harghita, Covasna, and Brașov and the Carpathians are renowned for trophy bear hunting. The most productive hunting periods are April–May and again September–October. Hunts often involve the use of baited sites with high seats or stalking. These hunts are virtually 100% successful and as a result experience high demand annually.

A bonus species is the interesting Capercaillie. Prized by many hunters, prime hunts take place between April-May, and they can be combined with Spring Brown Bear hunts.

Comfortable accommodations and good food are part of every hunt. Accommodations will vary depending on the hunt and area but generally utilize small village inns, hunting lodges and chalets. All are clean and maintained to an enjoyable standard.

Caprinae Safaris experience in Romania dates to its formal opening to international hunters in 1990. As a test of the start-up of the outfitting industry, we harvested a gold medal Red Deer. Since that time the outfitting has become even more professionalized. Guides are dedicated, hard-working, and possess the core skills needed to satisfy avid trophy hunters.

We welcome a no-obligation, exploratory discussion about hunting Romania for the most in-depth insights and recommendations for each species. We will get you hunt-ready for what will be a wonderful cultural hunting experience.