Mud Volcanoes, Berca

South-Muntenia Region

Located in the South-Muntenia region of Romania, the Mud Volcanoes of Berca represent a rare geological and natural phenomenon within the Subcarpathians of Curbură, on the territories of the Berca and Scorțoasa communes. These mud volcanoes form when gases from deep underground push subterranean waters to the surface, mixing with clay from surrounding rocks to create viscous mud that erupts continuously. This process shapes small cones and craters resembling miniature volcanic structures. The landscape is characterized by barren 'badlands,' polygonal dried mud plates, salt efflorescences, and sparse vegetation mainly on the slopes of plateaus. The mud volcanoes are grouped into four main areas: La Fierbători, Pâclele Mari, Pâclele Mici, and Beciu. La Fierbători features nearly circular craters with liquid mud that appears to boil due to gas emissions. Pâclele Mari hosts numerous active and fossil mud volcanoes, some up to 8 meters tall, covering about 22 hectares, with traces of petroleum. Pâclele Mici contains fewer and smaller cones but includes a prominent cone with two large active craters. The Beciu area is smaller, mainly exhibiting boiling mud activity. The site’s alien-like terrain and continuous mud eruptions offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into unique geological processes rarely seen elsewhere. The reserve is open daily with seasonal hours and provides accessible paths, though it is closed during rainy weather for safety.