
Bucegi Sphinx
A mystical rock formation in the Bucegi Mountains, Romania, famed for its sphinx-like appearance and ancient legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Bucegi Sphinx
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical rock formation in the Bucegi Mountains, Romania, famed for its sphinx-like appearance and ancient legends.
"The Sphinx is one of the most remarkable attractions in the Bucegi National Park, a place of great beauty and sacred to many."

Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be uneven. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Layers & Jacket
Temperatures at 2,200m can be much colder than in the valleys. A jacket is a must, even in summer. :cloud:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bucegi Sphinx
Bucegi Mountains
A striking natural rock formation resembling a human head, carved by millennia of erosion.

Babele Rocks
Bucegi Mountains
Ancient megaliths near the Sphinx, also shaped by erosion, adding to the mystical landscape.

Panoramic Mountain Views
Bucegi Mountains
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Carpathian peaks, often above the clouds.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Bucegi Sphinx Visit
Getting to the Sphinx
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be uneven. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Layers & Jacket
Temperatures at 2,200m can be much colder than in the valleys. A jacket is a must, even in summer. :cloud:
Bring Cash for Park Entry
There's a small fee for the national park, often payable in cash to the parking attendant. :moneywithwings:
Cable Car Option Available
If hiking isn't your preference, the cable car offers a convenient way to reach the Sphinx. :mountain_cableway:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trails can be uneven. Comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Layers & Jacket
Temperatures at 2,200m can be much colder than in the valleys. A jacket is a must, even in summer. :cloud:
Bring Cash for Park Entry
There's a small fee for the national park, often payable in cash to the parking attendant. :moneywithwings:
Cable Car Option Available
If hiking isn't your preference, the cable car offers a convenient way to reach the Sphinx. :mountain_cableway:
Respect Sacred Sites
Do not climb on the Sphinx or Babele rocks; they are considered sacred and protected. :pray:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Bucegi Sphinx as a unique natural wonder with breathtaking mountain views. The hike or cable car ride up is considered an adventure in itself, offering a chance to connect with nature. While some find the Sphinx itself less impressive than expected, the overall experience and the surrounding landscape are highly regarded.
"Amazing place on the top on 2292 m of Carpathians! Panoramic view is incredible. We’ve been here in the end of October and there was a little snow here.
More recommendations on @borntolovve"
Elena *
"Nice hike that leads to two rocks carved by nature that resembles the sphynx. It is an uphill hike that takes about one hour and ten minutes to reach the first sphynx. There is a charge of 10 Lei per person for the national park you pay the parking attendant in cash. There are few coffee shops and a delightful couple that sell grilled corn. You need about three hours from the parking lot."
Dr. Shakir
"The "sphynx" itself is not really interesting- i couldn't even figure out the angle in which i should stand to see it. But the surrounding views are great. I recommend to hike there from Busteni, as the journey up is amazing (but very hard, so be careful)."
Semion Vino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Bucegi Sphinx by taking the cable car from Busteni up to the plateau, followed by a hike. Alternatively, a more challenging but rewarding hike directly from Busteni is also an option. The cable car ride offers stunning views and takes about 15 minutes, with an additional hour of hiking to reach the Sphinx.
Yes, there is parking available near the cable car station in Busteni. Be aware that there might be a fee for parking, and sometimes payment is required in cash.
Many visitors recommend hiking the trails for a deeper connection with nature, though the cable car is a popular and efficient alternative. Both offer incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
From the cable car station, the hike to the Sphinx typically takes about an hour. If hiking from Busteni, it can take significantly longer, depending on your pace and the chosen route.
Yes, several tour operators offer guided trips to the Bucegi Mountains, including visits to the Sphinx. These tours often provide transportation and local insights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a fee for entering the Bucegi National Park, which you typically pay to the parking attendant in cash. The cable car also has its own ticket price, which is around 16 Euros per person.
The Bucegi Sphinx is a natural formation and is accessible year-round. However, the cable car operating hours may vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check in advance.
While online booking options might be available, it's often recommended to purchase cable car tickets directly at the station, especially during peak season. Check the official operator's website for the most current information.
Information on discounts for the cable car is not widely publicized. It's best to inquire directly with the cable car operator or check their official website for any available promotions or group rates.
The national park fee typically covers access to the natural areas and trails within the Bucegi National Park. It helps in the preservation and maintenance of the park's natural beauty.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Bucegi Sphinx is a large, naturally eroded rock formation that strikingly resembles a human head. Its unique shape has led to comparisons with the Egyptian Sphinx.
Nearby, you'll find the Babele rocks, another set of fascinating natural formations. The surrounding Bucegi Mountains offer stunning panoramic views and hiking opportunities.
The hike from the cable car station is moderately challenging, involving an uphill climb. The hike directly from Busteni is considered very hard. Proper footwear and preparation are recommended.
The weather at an altitude of over 2,200 meters can change rapidly. It's often cooler than in the valleys, and strong winds are common. Be prepared for sun, wind, and potentially rain or even snow, depending on the season.
There are a few coffee shops and vendors selling snacks like grilled corn near the Sphinx. Restroom facilities might be limited, so plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the Sphinx's features. The golden hour can be particularly magical.
Experiment with different angles to capture the resemblance to a human head. The classic view is from the front, but exploring side profiles can also be interesting.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in national parks and protected areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the Sphinx and the vast mountain landscapes. A telephoto lens can be good for distant mountain shots. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:
While there are no specific photo restrictions for personal use, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb other visitors or the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Emphasize the importance of staying on marked trails and not climbing on the rocks to ensure everyone's safety and to respect the natural site. The grilled corn sold by local vendors can be a tasty treat for kids.
⛰️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will be captivated by the unique geological formations and the stunning alpine scenery. The area is rich in flora and fauna, especially during the warmer months. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this pristine environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Mythology of the Bucegi Sphinx
Beyond its geological origins, the Sphinx is steeped in Romanian folklore and mythology. Some legends suggest it was a sacred site for the ancient Dacians, possibly linked to their chief god, Zalmoxis. Modern interpretations and theories, some bordering on the speculative, propose it holds ancient energy fields or even hidden chambers containing advanced technology. These mystical associations contribute significantly to its allure and draw for many visitors.
Adjacent to the Sphinx are the Babele rocks, meaning 'old women' in Romanian, which are also natural formations shaped by erosion. Together, the Sphinx and Babele create a landscape that feels both ancient and otherworldly, inviting contemplation and wonder about the forces of nature and the stories humans weave around them.
Hiking vs. Cable Car: Choosing Your Ascent
For those seeking a quicker and less strenuous journey, the cable car from Busteni is an excellent option. It whisks you up to the plateau in approximately 15 minutes, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the way. From the cable car's upper station, it's a relatively short and manageable hike of about an hour to reach the Sphinx and Babele formations.
Regardless of your chosen method, remember that the altitude means the weather can be unpredictable. Packing layers, including a warm jacket, is crucial, as temperatures can be significantly lower than in the valley. Comfortable hiking shoes are also a must for navigating the terrain safely.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit