About Encierro
(E-N-C-I-E-R-R-O)
We are the most trusted authority in bull running.
Since 2007
Our Story
At Encierro, we are not tour guides. We are bull runners. We live the encierro (the running of the bulls). We run the streets of Pamplona every July. We are the people that other companies turn to for expertise on running with the bulls.
For us, this isn't a business. This is our passion, our purpose, and our way of life.
We're not in the business of convincing people to come run with bulls. It's a fundamentally dangerous thing. For those who have decided to run—or those who will spectate from a balcony and want an in-depth understanding of what it is to run—we are here for you.
Since 2007, we have dedicated ourselves to providing expert, in-depth, personal instruction for first-time and returning runners alike. We have guided thousands of clients through the complexities, traditions, and safety protocols of the San Fermín Festival and the Pamplona bull run—one of Spain's most iconic and adrenaline charged traditions.
Encierro was founded by Dennis Clancey, a West Point-educated Army officer who served in Iraq before discovering his passion for the run through his film Chasing Red.
Today, our team of experienced runners—Dennis Clancey, Anthony Fizer, and Brock Fizer—continues the mission: recognizing the need for authentic instruction from actual runners. Our belief is that people considering this tradition should have access to current runners—people who are actively running and understand the nuances of the run—providing tours of the bull run route. It shouldn't be left to people in the town who have maybe run once or haven't run before.
Running of the bulls is a dangerous tradition. Our belief at Encierro is that everyone getting on that run route should have the opportunity to ask as many questions as they want of a current runner before they decide to step in the streets.
Meet Our Expert Guides
Anthony Fizer
Senior Guide
Anthony was a member of the famed Pamplona Posse. He's been a bull runner since 2015 and a bull run guide since 2017. He has run all sections of the route, but since 2022, Anthony has focused on running La Curva.
Runner Since
2015
Guide Since
2017
Preferred Section
La Curva
Brock Fizer
Senior Guide
Brock is well known as the guy who jumps over vaquillas at the Suelta de Vaquillas in the Plaza de Toros. Incredibly athletic, Brock has displayed some impressive runs.
Runner Since
2022
Guide Since
2024
Preferred Section
Calle Estafeta
Dennis Clancey
Senior Guide & Founder
Since 2007, Dennis has run the encierro. Since 2008, he has specifically focused on the stretch from the top of Calle Santo Domingo to the start of Calle Estafeta.
Media Appearances:
- CNN Seeing Red — Director of Chasing Red
- Guest host for Esquire Network's broadcasting of the Running of the Bulls
Runner Since
2007
Guide Since
2007
Preferred Section
Town Hall
Media Appearances
CNN — "Seeing Red"
Featured expert commentary on bull running safety and tradition. Dennis Clancey was featured as the guide/host for this documentary, which is a reboot of his documentary Chasing Red. Streaming on CNN and Max, part of Season 1 of The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper.
Learn More →Esquire Network — "Running of the Bulls"
Dennis did daily in-depth interviews about encierro strategy and history. (2014, 2015)
Learn More →Hotels.com — "Extreme Booking 2"
Dennis was featured in Hotels.com's Extreme Booking campaign for Pamplona. (2012)
Learn More →What Our Clients Say
The expertise and knowledge provided by Encierro was invaluable. As a first-time runner, I felt prepared and confident thanks to their thorough guidance.
These guys are the real deal. Active runners who know every inch of the route. Their safety-focused approach gave me the confidence I needed.
I've attended other tours, but Encierro stands out. The difference between a guide who runs versus one who doesn't is night and day.
Dennis and his team provided honest, detailed answers to every question. Their commitment to safety and authentic instruction is unmatched.
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The Encierro Difference
We're Active Runners, Not Just Guides
Unlike other companies that hire local guides with limited running experience, our entire team actively participates in the encierro during the San Fermín Festival.
Section-Specific Expertise
Each of our guides specializes in different sections of the route, providing detailed insights about specific challenges and strategies.
Year-Round Commitment
We maintain deep connections with the community throughout the year, not just during the festival.
Industry Recognition
We're the experts that tour companies consult for bull running knowledge.
Our Approach
We believe that running with the bulls requires more than just physical preparation. It demands mental readiness, cultural understanding, and strategic knowledge.
Thorough Preparation
We spend as much time as needed to make sure everyone feels fully prepared. We never rush our bull running guidance.
Honest Assessment
We provide unfiltered advice in response to questions. Our clients end up running the bull run route with us—we have a vested interest in ensuring those on the run route are well informed, because the decisions people make can affect other runners, our friends, and ourselves.
Ready to Experience the Encierro?
Join thousands of satisfied runners who have trusted us with their Pamplona experience. Let our expertise guide you through this incredible tradition.