The Arosa Bear Sanctuary Private Rail Tour via Chur is an enriching, full-day Swiss excursion that combines historic town walking, dramatic mountain rail transit, and high-Alpine animal conservation. Escorted by a dedicated private guide from morning hotel pickup to evening return, this flexible itinerary takes you through Chur’s historic Old Town, up the Schanfigg Valley aboard the Arosa Railway, and onto the slopes of the Weisshorn to observe rescued bears roaming in their natural mountain habitat.
A private full-day rail journey via Chur and Arosa to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary (Arosa Bärenland), combining historic mountain scenery, the Weisshorn cable car, and time observing rescued bears in a protected Alpine environment. The Arosa Bear Sanctuary Private Rail Tour via Chur provides a harmonious mix of regional history, scenic train travel, and animal welfare education suitable for all ages.
Guided stroll through the winding medieval alleyways of Chur—Switzerland’s oldest city
Scenic climb aboard the Arosa Railway over dramatic viaducts and deep river gorges
Ascent on the Weisshorn cable car to the middle station and summit viewpoints
Direct admission to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary to observe rescued brown bears
Stunning panoramic views across the Graubünden Alps from the sanctuary’s viewing platform
Private local guide meeting you directly in your hotel lobby for a personalized experience
Your private guide meets you directly in your hotel lobby to begin the day’s journey. Travel by Swiss rail to Chur, where you will take a gentle orientation walk through the car-free Old Town, admiring centuries-old buildings, historic squares, and St. Martin’s Church.
Next, board the red carriages of the Arosa Railway. Over the course of 1 hour, the train winds past dense pine forests, steep cliffs, and across the iconic Langwieser Viaduct into the high-altitude resort of Arosa. Upon arrival, step onto the Arosa-Weisshorn cable car and ascend to the middle station, home to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary. Learn about animal rescue efforts led by Four Paws while watching brown bears explore their vast Alpine enclosure. Optionally, ride the cable car to the Weisshorn summit (2,653 m) for 360-degree mountain views before making your return journey alongside your guide.
Route: Hotel → Chur → Arosa → Weisshorn / Arosa Bear Sanctuary → Hotel
Transport: Swiss rail + Arosa mountain railway + Weisshorn cable car
Walking Level: Easy (gentle town strolls and paved or packed sanctuary pathways)
Complete private guiding service for the Arosa Bear Sanctuary Private Rail Tour via Chur
Swiss rail day pass (available in 1st or 2nd class depending on selected option)
Weisshorn cable car ticket (including access to the Bear Sanctuary middle station)
Admission tickets to the Arosa Bear Sanctuary
Hotel lobby pick-up and drop-off escort
Food and beverages (lunch in Chur, Arosa village, or at the Weisshorn summit)
Gratuities for your private guide
Personal shopping and souvenir expenses
Valid passport or official photo ID card
Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes
Layered clothing and a warm jacket (mountain temperatures vary at higher altitudes)
UV sunglasses and sunscreen for high-altitude sun protection
Guide Service: Your private guide will meet guests directly in the hotel lobby at the agreed morning departure time.
Accessibility: The tour is listed as wheelchair and stroller accessible via standard Swiss rail infrastructure and modern cableways.
Pet Friendly: Pets are permitted on Swiss regional trains and cableways (local pet transport rules apply).
Official Rail Schedules: Train connections adhere to live operational timetables managed by the SBB Swiss Federal Railways network.
STC Pricing Note: Live prices, operating dates, rail schedules, mountain transport connections, and seasonal sanctuary restrictions must be reconfirmed prior to taking final payment.
What is the Arosa Bear Sanctuary?
The Arosa Bear Sanctuary (Arosa Bärenland) is a cooperative project between Arosa and the animal welfare organization Four Paws. It gives rescued bears previously kept in poor conditions a species-appropriate home in a large Alpine mountain environment.
How do you reach the sanctuary from Arosa station?
The sanctuary is located at the middle station of the Arosa-Weisshorn cable car, which is situated right next to Arosa’s main railway station.
Is this tour suitable for families with young children?
Yes! The walking level is Easy, the route is stroller-accessible, and children enjoy seeing the bears in a natural mountain setting.
Looking for other mountain rail day trips or panoramic journeys from Zurich? Explore our popular Glacier Express Scenic Route Private Rail Tour from Zurich, browse our full selection on the Swiss Tours Catalog, or reach out on our Contact Page to reserve your dates for the Arosa Bear Sanctuary Private Rail Tour via Chur.
Yes. Swiss Tour Company will quote this as a private itinerary for your travelling party, subject to final availability.
Swiss rail day pass in 1st or 2nd class depending on selected option; Weisshorn cable car ticket; Admission to Arosa Bear Sanctuary
Live price, timetable and operating conditions must be reconfirmed. Key notes for this route include: The source lists wheelchair and stroller accessibility; Pets are listed as allowed; Guide meets guests in the hotel lobby
