Pribylina in 1 Day for Friends - Guided bearwatching in the High Tatras (safe-distance observation)
In Collaboration with Adventoura Slovakia. Updated on February 14, 2026.
One-day guided bearwatching walking tour in the High Tatras. 14 km return hike through a valley near Podbanské with experienced local guide, binoculars and National Park fees included. Pickup available from Poprad, Starý Smokovec or Štrbské Pleso. Tour finishes in Podbanské around noon or 1 PM.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Adventoura Slovakia, inspired by the tour Bearwatching Hiking Day Tour in High Tatras from Poprad. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided bearwatching in the High Tatras (safe-distance observation)
- 14 km valley walk (7 km in, 7 km back)
- Binoculars and National Park fees included
- Pickup and drop-off service from/near Poprad, Starý Smokovec or Štrbské Pleso
- Tour ends in the village of Podbanské around noon/1 PM
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided bearwatching hike starting from Podbanské/near Poprad area. Moderate 14 km hike in a valley with wildlife observation from a safe distance.
Pick up location and start
Hotel or pre-arranged pickup from Poprad, Starý Smokovec or Štrbské Pleso; assemble group and transfer to the walk's trailhead near Podbanské. Guide briefs group and safety rules before setting off.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your pickup point and time at least 48 hours before departure (reconfirmation number provided by operator).
- Be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup; pickups typically start ~30–60 minutes before the departure time.
- Bring a small daypack with a warm layer and a water bottle (operator provides binoculars but not food/drinks).
While on bearwatching tour
Guided walk into the valley: approximately 7 km in and 7 km back along the same route. The guide locates likely bear areas and conducts observation from a safe distance (minimum observed ~100 m). Moderate-paced hiking with stops for observation and photography.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and layered clothing — weather can change quickly in the Tatras in September.
- Keep quiet and follow the guide's instructions at all times; maintain the advised safe distance from wildlife (do not attempt to approach or feed animals).
- Bring personal snacks and at least 1.5 L of water; food is excluded from the tour and should be kept in sealed containers to avoid attracting wildlife.
End of the tour
Return walk to the trailhead and drop-off in the village of Podbanské. Tour normally concludes around 12:30–13:00 depending on sightings and group pace.
Tips from local experts:
- If you need onward transport from Podbanské, arrange a taxi or check local bus schedules in advance — service can be infrequent at midday.
- Carry some small change and ID; village facilities are basic and may not accept cards everywhere.
- If you plan more activities in the High Tatras afterwards, keep the same outdoor gear and layers; reconfirm your preferred drop-off location with the guide at the start.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 1 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor |