In Switzerland’s Engelberg region, a unique hiking experience combines historic cable cars with alpine farm stays, offering visitors an immersive journey through the Uri Alps' scenic landscapes. The “Buiräbähnli Safari,” developed by Engelberg-Titlis Tourism, connects several trails via small cable wagons historically used to transport goods between farms. While these cable cars remain functional for agricultural use, they now serve primarily as a cultural attraction and supplementary income source for local farmers.
The safari begins at Engelberg, where participants hike to the cable car station in Eggendössli, located at 4,632 feet above sea level. From there, travelers descend on a series of modest, open-fronted cable cars to reach lower elevations, linking different parts of the region. A pass for the safari costs CHF47 and covers single journeys on eight separate cable cars, although tickets must be kept carefully as they are handed directly to the operators.
Among the cable car operators is Josef Durrer, who manages two cars near the alpine farm of Spis at an elevation of 3,937 feet. Durrer greeted visitors warmly in his control room, highlighting the enduring connection between the cable cars and the area’s farming heritage. Passengers enjoy not only the transportation but also the informal interactions with locals who maintain these systems.
Following the cable car rides, hikers continue on foot along trails that offer sweeping views of alpine meadows, cowbells, and wildflowers, culminating in a stop at Chrüzhütte Bannalp for refreshments. Afterward, an ascent beside Bannalp Lake passes a snowfield before reaching Alp Oberfeld, an alpine farm nestled at 6,102 feet and managed by the Käslin family. Operating from May through October, the Käslins oversee around 100 goats and provide rustic accommodation in a recently renovated dormitory. Rooms sleep six and include breakfast, with a nightly rate of CHF65, offering a blend of simplicity and mountain charm, though without shower facilities.
The following day’s trek along the 6.8-mile Walenpfad trail rewarded hikers with continuous panoramic views and encounters with free-ranging goats sharing the path. The trail is noted for its balanced terrain—not overly steep or flat—making for a pleasing descent through the mountains.
On the final day, visitors can opt for a gentler hike on the “Little Patagonia” route from Engelberg’s Fürenalp station. This half-day trail features peaks reminiscent of Chile’s Torres del Paine and is complemented by a picnic from Restaurant Fürenalp. The picnic, priced at CHF77 for two, includes a selection of local cheeses, meats, fresh bread, nuts, pickles, homemade almond croissants, and beverages such as white wine and iced tea.
The experience concludes with an evening at Brasserie Konrad within Ski Lodge, where guests can enjoy beers and dishes like quesadillas made with Swiss Sbrinz cheese and jalapeño, priced reasonably. The Buiräbähnli Safari offers a distinctive, budget-friendly way to explore the Swiss countryside, combining traditional transport, natural beauty, and a taste of rural alpine life.