A Hike to Pip Ivan with Kuluar: How It Went and What to Prepare For

I didn’t have to think long about which tour operator to choose; friends who had already gone on trips with “Kuluar” recommended them to me, and there are plenty of positive reviews about them online. So I decided to talk to their manager, and after getting detailed answers to all my questions, I started packing my backpack.

It helped that the manager sent me a clear list of necessary items. I didn’t have much of my own gear, so they advised me on what I should buy and what I could rent. They answered all my questions about footwear, waterproof clothing, and the backpack quickly and to the point. In the end, I got everything ready without any unnecessary stress.

About the Hike: The Trail, the Weather, and the Actual Difficulty

It all started with the group meeting at the train station at “Kuluar-Hub.” We quickly got organized, met our guide, divided up the food (which we’d be preparing on the hike) among the group, loaded our gear onto the bus, and headed to the trailhead. The group itself was small, so we quickly hit it off, discussing everything under the sun

To be honest about how challenging the climb was, it wasn’t easy.

• Physical Strain: When you’re hiking uphill, especially if you’re not used to it and are carrying a heavy backpack, your legs and shoulders really feel it. At times it was quite difficult, but we took regular breaks to rest, and everyone completed the route without exception.
• Weather: The Carpathians are the Carpathians. We got to experience it all at once: sunshine, a strong cool wind, and rain. However, if you have a poncho, hiking poles, and something warmer to wear, it won’t detract from the experience—it’ll only make it better.
• Food: “Kuluar” will make sure you don’t go hungry :). The guide cooks meals over an open fire every day, and even if you think you don’t really like “that kind of food,” it’ll go down a treat on the hike 🙂

Organization and Thanks to the Team Leader

There are absolutely no complaints about the organization—everything was clear, on schedule, and without any unpleasant surprises. The shuttle arrived on time, the itinerary was well-planned, there was more than enough food, and it was truly delicious (no one went hungry, plus there were always treats to go with tea).

Special thanks to our guide, Yuri. He did a great job of keeping the whole group moving at a steady pace, checking in on each participant, helping those whose backpacks were too tight adjust them properly, and simply creating a calm and positive atmosphere. With a guide like that, any route becomes a pleasure.

Conclusions and Tips for First-Timers

Overall, the hike is fantastic. It’s a great way to clear your head and a good test of your physical fitness.

A few practical tips:

• Footwear: Be sure to bring comfortable hiking boots and make sure to break them in before the hike so you don’t get blisters on the very first day; the size should be larger than what you wear in the city.
• Clothing: Don’t neglect the principle of layering and wind protection—it’s almost always windy on the ridge, and it can get chilly in the tent at night.
• Extra items: Think carefully about what you’re bringing and whether you really need it. You’ll feel every extra kilogram pretty quickly.

Thank you, “Kuluar,” for a wonderful experience and great memories. I'll definitely join you again!