Europe’s Premier Wetland for Birds
Just a short drive from Costa Ballena, the Dunas de Doñana National Park stands as one of Europe’s most celebrated birdwatching destinations. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a mosaic of marshlands, mobile and fixed dunes, pine forests, and lagoons, making it a haven for both resident and migratory birds. With more than 400 species recorded and up to half a million waterfowl wintering here, Doñana is a must-visit for anyone passionate about birds — whether you’re a seasoned ornithologist or a curious newcomer.
A Year-Round Spectacle
Doñana’s birdlife is spectacular throughout the year. In winter, vast flocks of ducks, geese, and waders — such as wigeon, teal, greylag goose, and black-tailed godwit — blanket the flooded marshes. The iconic greater flamingo is present in impressive numbers, sometimes gathering in groups of tens of thousands, especially in the cooler months. Spring brings an explosion of life as African and Mediterranean migrants, like the spoonbill and marbled teal, arrive to breed and feed in the park’s rich wetlands.
Iconic and Rare Species
The diversity of habitats in Doñana means birdwatchers can spot an incredible variety of species. The marshes and lagoons are home to the elegant Eurasian spoonbill, glossy ibis, purple gallinule, and the rare white-headed duck. The pine forests and scrublands shelter woodland birds such as the lesser spotted woodpecker, Iberian grey shrike, and dartford warbler.
Raptors are a major highlight: the Spanish imperial eagle, booted eagle, short-toed eagle, and black kite can all be seen soaring above the park. The Bonanza saltpans near Sanlúcar de Barrameda are excellent for spotting slender-billed gulls, ospreys, and a variety of waders and terns, especially during migration.
Birdwatching Hotspots and Tours
The village of El Rocío, with its famous marshes, is one of the best places to start your birdwatching adventure. Here, large concentrations of birds can be observed from the comfort of the village or from nearby trails and hides. Other top sites include La Rocina, with its reedbeds and breeding Savi’s warbler, and the Brazo del Este, a river area with flooded paddy fields that attract storks, herons, and wintering bluethroats.
Guided tours are widely available, offering expert local knowledge, transportation, and equipment such as binoculars and scopes. Whether you prefer a half-day excursion or a multi-day tour covering all the park’s hotspots, there are options for every level of interest and experience.
An Unforgettable Experience
Birdwatching in Dunas de Doñana is a journey into one of Europe’s last wild places, where every season brings new surprises. From the pink clouds of flamingos at sunrise to the silent glide of an imperial eagle overhead, the park offers unforgettable encounters with nature. This extraordinary birding paradise is right on the doorstep to Costa Ballena, waiting to be explored.