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ESCAPE THE WILD - ROMANIA
Join us in the rugged Carpathian Mountains of Romania for a thrilling expedition that will test your survival skills and endurance as you navigate through one of Europe’s wildest terrains. Experience the raw beauty of the snow-covered mountains, dense forests, and untamed wilderness in an adventure designed to challenge and inspire.
Dropped in the mountains
Imagine being dropped into the vast, snow-covered peaks of the Romanian Carpathian Mountains, where the only way out is through your own strength and survival skills. From the moment your boots hit the ground, you’ll be battling the elements and navigating untamed wilderness, far from the comforts of modern life. This is not just an expedition - this is the beginning of an unforgettable adventure.
Survive in the wilderness
Over the next days, you and your team will face nature's raw power. Harsh weather, freezing temperatures, and rugged terrain become your reality. Armed with only the essentials, you’ll melt snow for water, build your own shelter, and navigate through the wilderness where wolves and bears roam. Do you have what it takes to survive and conquer the wild?
Build your own snow shelter
In the heart of winter, your survival depends on your ability to adapt. With no ready-made shelter in sight, you’ll learn how to build your own snow cave—an essential skill in extreme environments. This is where you’ll spend the night, protecting yourself from the cold and the wild, and where you’ll discover the true meaning of self-reliance.
Spot wolves and bears in their habitat
As you navigate through ancient forests and across snow-covered mountain ridges, you’ll be moving through territory shared with some of Europe’s most majestic and feared wildlife. Wolves and bears call this rugged landscape home, and you’ll learn how to respect and coexist with these incredible creatures while staying safe in their domain. This is wilderness immersion like never before.
Find civilization and return to comfort
After navigating treacherous landscapes and enduring the harshest of conditions, the final challenge is finding your way back to civilization. As you step out of the wilderness, exhausted but triumphant, the comforts of modern life will be waiting—a luxury meal, a cozy bed, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve just completed an extraordinary adventure. Celebrate your journey and reconnect with the world, stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Guided by experts
Hi, I’m Koen De Leeuw, a seasoned expedition leader and survival expert with a background in elite military training. As a former Para Commando, I’ve developed my survival and leadership skills in some of the harshest environments on earth.
My certification as a Wilderness First Responder ensures that safety is always the top priority, no matter how remote or challenging the setting. You might know me as the expedition leader on the TV series 'De Expeditie,' where I guided celebrities through some of the world’s most unforgiving terrains.
With over a decade of global expedition experience, I design and lead life-changing adventures that push your limits, inspire growth, and foster resilience.
For people who want more
For leaders, entrepreneurs, and hands-on professionals seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the wild.
If you’re in need of space to recharge, improve your leadership, or test your personal limits, this expedition is for you. Ideal for those looking to step beyond their comfort zone and discover more.
How we’ll help you experience the ultimate expedition
Schedule a discovery call now to discuss your ideal expedition.
02. Tailored proposal
We’ll work with you to finalize the ideal timing for the expedition and assemble a team of like-minded people. You’ll receive a proposal that details every aspect of the journey.
03. Training
Training starts 2-3 months before the expedition with briefings, survival skills, fitness assessments, and gear checks, preparing you for the harsh Romanian Carpathians and building confidence for the challenge ahead.
04. Expedition
You'll need to escape the rugged Romanian wilderness under expert guidance, applying your survival skills—navigating dense forests, snow-covered mountains, and building snow shelters—while we ensure your safety at every step.
05. Reflection
At the end of the expedition, we gather one last time to reflect on the journey. It’s a moment to share your personal growth and unforgettable experiences, with a special surprise to celebrate.
Practical info - Escape the wild: Romania
Are you ready for a journey that will push you to your limits in the rugged Carpathian Mountains? This once-in-a-lifetime expedition takes you deep into Romania’s wildest landscapes, where you'll navigate treacherous peaks, dense forests, and remote wilderness inhabited by Europe's highest concentration of wolves and bears. Over three challenging days, you'll master essential survival skills, from building snow shelters to melting snow for water, all while navigating using only a compass and map. Guided by experienced survival experts, you'll face freezing conditions, rough terrain, and the ultimate test of resilience. At night, sleep in a snow cave you built with your team, and as the journey unfolds, you’ll confront not only the raw power of nature but also your own physical and mental limits. As the sun sets on your final day, you'll reach a cozy mountain hut where a warm meal and local drinks await—celebrating the adventure of a lifetime and your triumph over the untamed Carpathians.
Timing
Feb-April (Dates TBC)
Days
5
Location
Carpathian mountains, Romania
Activity Level (1-5)
Level 3 (Medium - Hard)
Guide
Koen De Leeuw
Pricing
On demand - request a quote
Preparation for the expedition starts 3 months prior to the expedition and includes:
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Introduction and briefing: You’ll receive a comprehensive briefing covering safety protocols, necessary gear, navigation skills, and survival expectations for the Carpathian Mountains. We’ll guide you through the essentials, from handling wildlife to finding shelter.
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Sports analysis and personalized training plan: To ensure you're physically ready for the rugged terrain, we’ll conduct a sports analysis and provide a tailored training plan designed to build the strength and endurance needed for this adventure.
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Technical and physical training: You’ll be trained in vital survival skills, including building snow shelters, melting snow for drinking water, and navigating the mountainous wilderness with just a compass and map. Group sessions will strengthen team cooperation and readiness.
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Gear check and final briefing: Before setting off, we’ll conduct a thorough gear check to ensure everything is in perfect condition. During the final briefing, we’ll review your physical preparedness and address any last-minute concerns.
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Group training and introduction: Get to know your fellow participants through group training sessions. Building trust and teamwork is key to overcoming the challenges you’ll face together in the Carpathian wilderness.
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Personal contact and support: A personal contact will be available for any questions throughout the preparation phase, with a WhatsApp group connecting you directly with your guide.
Join the waiting list
Interested in Escape The Wilde - Romania? Join the waiting list and we'll get in contact soon!
Our experiences
We offer three unique adventures to challenge and inspire. Escape The Wild involves being dropped into the wilderness and using your skills to find your way out. Extreme Expeditions feature longer, more intense journeys for a deep, immersive adventure. Adventure Trails provide a lighter, off-the-grid experience that still delivers excitement and discovery. Each experience is crafted to offer its own level of challenge and unforgettable moments.