Donana National Park

Donana Overview

Doñana National Park, known as Parque Nacional de Doñana in Spanish, is a vast and ecologically diverse protected area in southern Spain. Covering approximately 209 square miles (542 square kilometers), it is situated in Andalusia, spanning the provinces of Huelva, Seville, and Cádiz. T

he park lies near the mouth of the Guadalquivir River and serves as one of Europe’s most important wetlands, offering a unique blend of ecosystems that support a remarkable variety of flora and fauna.

The terrain of Doñana National Park is characterized by an extraordinary mix of landscapes, including expansive marshlands, shifting coastal dunes, Mediterranean scrubland, and dense pine forests. The park’s marshes, which undergo seasonal flooding, are among its most defining features, providing a critical habitat for migratory birds.

The dune systems, such as those near Matalascañas, are constantly reshaped by the wind, creating a dynamic landscape where sand formations move over time. The park’s forests, predominantly consisting of stone pine and cork oak, offer shelter to a wide array of wildlife. One of the most striking natural features is the Rocina stream, which flows through the park and feeds the wetlands, sustaining the park’s biodiversity.

Doñana is home to an exceptional range of wildlife, making it one of the most important natural reserves in Europe. Among its most iconic residents is the Iberian lynx, one of the world’s most endangered feline species, which has found refuge in the park’s dense shrublands. The park is also home to wild boars, red deer, and the elusive Egyptian mongoose.

Birdwatching is a major draw for visitors, as the park serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa. The greater flamingo, with its vibrant pink hues, is among the most recognizable bird species found in the wetlands. Other notable birds include the Spanish imperial eagle, one of Europe’s rarest raptors, as well as herons, spoonbills, and avocets.

Doñana National Park is a place of deep historical and cultural significance, featuring landmarks such as the Palacio del Acebrón, a grand mansion surrounded by woodlands that now serves as a visitor center detailing the park’s history and conservation efforts.

Another significant site is the Virgen del Rocío pilgrimage route, which passes through the park and is one of Spain’s most famous religious traditions, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year.

Visitors can explore the park through guided tours, which are the primary way to experience its diverse landscapes and wildlife. Due to its protected status, independent access is restricted, but organized vehicle tours, horseback excursions, and boat trips along the Guadalquivir River offer unique perspectives on the park’s natural beauty.

Hiking and birdwatching are also popular activities, particularly in areas such as El Rocío, where visitors can observe wildlife from designated viewpoints.

Conservation efforts in Doñana have been extensive, with the park serving as a crucial stronghold for endangered species. However, challenges remain, including water scarcity, pollution, and the encroachment of agriculture, which threaten the park’s delicate ecosystems.

Recent successes in conservation have led to a rebound in the Iberian lynx population, demonstrating the effectiveness of habitat protection and restoration initiatives. Despite ongoing pressures, Doñana National Park continues to be a sanctuary for wildlife and a symbol of Europe’s commitment to environmental preservation.

Park Map

Donana National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Doñana National Park is one of the most important birdwatching destinations in Europe, serving as a crucial stopover for migratory birds between Africa and Europe. Here are some of the most notable bird species found in the park:

Spanish Imperial Eagle (Aquila adalberti)
An endangered raptor and one of Spain’s most iconic birds, the Spanish imperial eagle nests in the park’s forests. It preys primarily on rabbits and has a distinctive golden-brown plumage.

Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
These elegant, long-legged birds are a highlight of Doñana’s marshlands. Their pink coloration comes from their diet of algae and small crustaceans.

Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia)
Recognizable by its long, spoon-shaped bill, this wading bird sweeps its beak through shallow water to catch fish and invertebrates.

Marbled Teal (Marmaronetta angustirostris)
A globally threatened duck species, the marbled teal is an important resident of Doñana’s wetlands. It has a distinctive pale, mottled appearance.

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)
With its iridescent dark plumage and long, curved bill, the glossy ibis is often seen foraging in shallow waters for small aquatic prey.

White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala)
This rare diving duck is known for its bright white head and blue bill. It prefers still, deep waters where it can dive to find food.

Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus)
This striking wader has long, thin legs and a black-and-white body. It is commonly seen in shallow waters, probing the mud for insects and small invertebrates.

Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
A graceful white heron with black legs and yellow feet, the little egret is a common sight in Doñana’s wetlands, where it hunts for fish and amphibians.

Red-knobbed Coot (Fulica cristata)
This waterbird resembles the common coot but is distinguished by the red knobs on its forehead. It is a strong swimmer and builds floating nests in reeds.

Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus)
A small but powerful eagle, the booted eagle is an agile hunter that preys on birds, reptiles, and small mammals. It can be seen soaring over the park’s forests and marshes.

Doñana National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering incredible opportunities to observe some of Europe’s most remarkable species in their natural habitat.

Doñana National Park, located in southern Spain, is one of Europe’s most important wetland reserves and a biodiversity hotspot. The park features a unique mix of marshes, dunes, forests, and lagoons, supporting a wide variety of wildlife. Here are some of the most notable species found in Doñana National Park:

Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardinus)
One of the rarest and most endangered wild cats in the world, the Iberian lynx is a symbol of Doñana. This elusive predator has tufted ears, a short tail, and distinctive spotted fur. Conservation efforts in the park have helped its population recover from the brink of extinction.

Spanish Red Deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus)
This subspecies of red deer is commonly seen in the park’s forests and meadows. Males are particularly striking during the rutting season when they engage in fierce battles for dominance.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Roaming freely through the park, wild boars are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats. They play an important role in the ecosystem by foraging for food and helping to disperse seeds.

Egyptian Mongoose (Herpestes ichneumon)
This small carnivorous mammal is an expert hunter, feeding on insects, reptiles, and small mammals. It is one of the few mammals in Europe that can prey on venomous snakes.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
Thriving in Doñana’s waterways, the European otter is a semi-aquatic mammal known for its playful behavior. It is an excellent swimmer and primarily feeds on fish and amphibians.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
This elegant deer species is smaller than the Spanish red deer and is often seen in the park’s wooded areas. It is known for its agility and ability to adapt to different environments.

Common Genet (Genetta genetta)
A nocturnal and secretive mammal, the common genet has a long, spotted body and a ringed tail. It is an excellent climber and is often found in trees searching for small prey.

European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
A keystone species in Doñana, the European rabbit is a crucial food source for predators such as the Iberian lynx. However, its population has been impacted by disease, affecting the entire ecosystem.

Iberian Polecat (Mustela putorius aureola)
This elusive mustelid is a skilled predator, feeding on small mammals, birds, and amphibians. It is known for its distinctive facial markings and solitary nature.

Mediterranean Chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon)
One of the few chameleon species found in Europe, this fascinating reptile is known for its ability to change color and move its eyes independently. It thrives in the park’s coastal dunes and pine forests.