Berca Mud Volcanoes
If you would like to experience a somewhat different natural phenomenon, then the Berca Mud Volcanoes are just the place for you. The mud volcanoes are located in the Romanian municipality of Berca in Buzău County, about 130 km north of Bucharest. Since 1924, the crater landscape covering around 30 square kilometers has been a protected nature reserve.
What makes the volcanoes so special?
Instead of hot lava, these volcanoes eject cold mud. The so-called mud volcanoes reach heights of between three and eight meters and are formed by small gas eruptions. From depths of up to 3,000 meters, a mixture of clay soil and groundwater is pushed to the surface.
Thanks to the absence of heat, hiking through the crater landscape is a truly unique experience. This form of cold volcanism can be observed particularly well around Pâclele Mari and Pâclele Mici, where especially large numbers of mud volcanoes can be found.
The landscape appears almost unreal and feels more like another planet. The barren, desert-like scenery, the flowing mud streams, and above all the bubbling volcanoes create an impressive natural spectacle.
Flora and Fauna
Flora
The geological and botanical nature reserve of Berca is home to several special plant species. The unusual soil composition allows specialized plants to grow that are otherwise rarely found in Romania, such as Nitrariaceae or Atriplex verrucifera. The salty and sulfur-rich soils as well as the nutrient-poor ground allow only limited vegetation – yet unique plant species can still be found here.
Fauna
The surroundings of the mud volcanoes are mainly inhabited by small animals, insects, and various bird species. Observed species include the Barred Warbler, Alpine Accentor, Penduline Tit, Isabelline Wheatear, and European Bee-eater. The specialized plants provide a food source, while the uneven terrain offers protection from predators.
The Berca Mud Volcanoes are an impressive example of how even unusual geological formations can serve as habitats for a diverse range of wildlife.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Berca is between April and October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant. In July and August, temperatures can rise to around 32 °C, while at other times they usually remain around 20 degrees.
Important information
Visiting the mud volcanoes is recommended only for physically fit individuals, as there are no paved paths and the terrain is very uneven. The site is not suitable for people with severe physical limitations or wheelchair users.
Please do not leave any litter behind and treat nature with respect.
The DMC team wishes you a pleasant journey
The Berca Mud Volcanoes are an extraordinary excursion destination with impressive photo spots and a truly unique landscape. We wish you a pleasant journey to Romania and lots of fun on your exploration tour. Please make sure to inform yourself in advance about the toll regulations in Romania. Further information about tolls can be found in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to optimally plan your trip. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at any time via e-mail.
