Dear Hikers,
On November 30, we will embark on a new adventure in the protected areas of Sibiu County. This time, we’ll uncover the secrets of a nature reserve dedicated to the conservation of water birds, called the Natural Reserve – Mândra Ponds.
We will meet in the morning at 9:30 AM in the parking lot of the Kaufland Veteranilor store (across from Hornbach Sibiu). After a brief presentation of the day’s program, we will drive to the village of Mândra, where we’ll park and begin our hike to observe the water birds wintering on the lakes near the village.
An ornithologist from Sibiu will accompany us on our birdwatching journey. We’ll walk along the path that follows the dike of the fishponds near Mândra. Our first bird observation session will involve spotting water birds with the naked eye, binoculars, and a spotting scope provided by the ornithologist. Along the way, we’ll discuss the protected areas in this region: the Natural Reserve – Mândra Ponds and the Natura 2000 Secaș Plateau site.
The wetlands at Mândra have been a significant gathering spot for rare aquatic bird species since the 19th century. From 1990 to the present, a total of 161 bird species have been identified here, 89 of which are breeding species. Our invited ornithologist will share fascinating insights into the world of birds, both those that overwinter in our country and those that will return from migration next year to nest in the area.
WHERE AND WHEN DO WE MEET?
Time: 9:30 AM
Place: Kaufland Veteranilor parking lot (across from Hornbach Sibiu)
ROUTE INFORMATION
Distance: 4–6 km
Elevation difference: None
Difficulty: Very easy
Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours
Participants without personal transportation to Mândra can contact the trip guide, Mihai Proca (0720003332), to inquire about available seats in other participants’ vehicles.
This tour is very easy and suitable for people of all ages, including children aged 4 and up.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Water/tea bottle: At least 1 liter
Snack: For a mid-route break
Binoculars: Any size is welcome!
COSTS
70 RON/participant (adults)
20 RON (children aged 4–14)
The tour will take place with a minimum of 10 adults. Children must be accompanied by an adult, who is responsible for evaluating the route’s difficulty for their child.
GUIDE
Mihai Proca – Local and national tourism guide
Contact: 0720-003.332
Note:
– The route configuration and length will be adjusted according to weather conditions and the homogeneity/heterogeneity of the group.
– The organizer (guide) reserves the right to refuse participants who are not appropriately equipped or who have inadequate physical condition.
– Tours are conducted under safe conditions and with a minimum number of participants. The organizer reserves the right to reschedule or cancel tours without prior notice if these conditions are not met.
– Ticket refunds are only provided in case the organizer (guide) cancels the hike.
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By participating in this event, I consent to being photographed. I acknowledge that the photos may be used for promotional purposes, both online and in printed materials, within the “Anii Drumeției” Program to promote it. I declare under my own responsibility that, to the best of my knowledge, I am physically capable of sustained physical effort during hiking events without jeopardizing my health in any way. My participation in this event is entirely voluntary, understanding the associated risks to which I expose myself.
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The “Anii Drumeției” Program is initiated and funded by the Sibiu County Council in collaboration with the Sibiu County Tourism Association. Its main purpose is to improve hiking infrastructure in the county and promote activities specific to ecotourism.
