
El Hondo Natural Park
A premier wetland sanctuary for birdwatching, El Hondo Natural Park boasts diverse avian life, accessible hides, and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird migration

El Hondo Natural Park
Best Time
Peak bird migration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier wetland sanctuary for birdwatching, El Hondo Natural Park boasts diverse avian life, accessible hides, and scenic trails.
"Amazing birdwatching spot, I had a lovely morning observing purple swampens, horned coot, glossy Ibis, whiskered terns, flamingos and so on."

Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the park's abundant birdlife. Don't miss out on the details!
Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on boardwalks and trails. Stay comfortable for longer explorations.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Birdwatching Hides
Various locations throughout the park
Observe diverse water birds from strategically placed hides and boardwalks. Perfect for photography!

Visitor Centre
Main entrance area
Learn about the park's unique ecosystem and rare wildlife. Excellent for understanding the local biodiversity.

Wooden Boardwalks
Overlooking the lakes
Enjoy scenic walks with elevated views of the wetlands and their inhabitants. Great for a leisurely stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Birdwatching
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the park's abundant birdlife. Don't miss out on the details!
Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on boardwalks and trails. Stay comfortable for longer explorations.
Bring water & snacks :water_pistol:
Especially in warmer months, stay hydrated. Limited facilities inside the park.
Check open day schedules :calendar:
Some of the best birdwatching spots are only accessible on specific open days. Plan accordingly!
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars are a must! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting and identifying the park's abundant birdlife. Don't miss out on the details!
Wear comfortable shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a fair bit of walking on boardwalks and trails. Stay comfortable for longer explorations.
Bring water & snacks :water_pistol:
Especially in warmer months, stay hydrated. Limited facilities inside the park.
Check open day schedules :calendar:
Some of the best birdwatching spots are only accessible on specific open days. Plan accordingly!
Photography paradise :camera_with_flash:
The park is ideal for wildlife photography, especially with the reintroduction of crested coots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about El Hondo Natural Park as an exceptional birdwatching destination, praising its diverse avian population, well-maintained facilities like hides and boardwalks, and free entry. Some note that the best areas are restricted, but the accessible parts and visitor center are still highly rewarding. The heat can be a factor during summer visits.
"Nice place to look for birds. It was very hot when we were there, but still enjoyed it."
Rob Arts
"Amazing birdwatching spot, I had a lovely morning observing purple swampens, horned coot, glossy Ibis, whiskered terns, flamingos and so on"
Moreno Camoletto
"Amazing views, great place for a relaxing walk"
Vivian Moreno Pak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Hondo Natural Park is accessible by car, with a good-sized car park available. It's located near Dolores and Crevillente. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access.
Yes, there is a good-sized car park available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While possible, it's challenging. Public transport to the immediate vicinity is scarce. Consider ride-sharing or checking local bus routes if a car isn't an option. mentions nearby amenities in Elche, suggesting car access is common.
The park is situated near towns like Dolores and Crevillente. These towns offer amenities and are good starting points for your visit.
While the park itself has walking trails and boardwalks, cycling is generally not permitted on the main visitor paths. However, the surrounding areas and nearby towns might offer cycling routes. mentions a sports area nearby, suggesting active pursuits in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the entrance to El Hondo Natural Park and its main visitor areas, including the boardwalks and hides, is free.
The park is generally open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific access to certain areas or facilities might vary. It's best to check for any seasonal changes or special event timings.
Some of the best parts of El Hondo are off-limits to general visitors and can only be accessed on specific 'open days', usually Saturdays. Plan your visit around these to see the rarest wildlife.
No, as entry is free, no advance booking is required for general access. For guided tours or special events, it's advisable to check their specific booking procedures.
Guided tours may be available, especially on open days or during peak migration seasons. Inquire at the visitor centre or check the park's official website for schedules and booking information.
🎫 🐦 Birdwatching & Wildlife
El Hondo is a haven for water birds. Expect to see flamingos, purple swamphens, horned coots, glossy ibis, whiskered terns, marbled ducks (one of the world's rarest), and re-introduced crested coots.
Migration seasons (spring and autumn) offer the greatest diversity. Early mornings and late afternoons are also prime times for bird activity and photography.
While birds are the main attraction, the wetlands also support other wildlife, including amphibians and reptiles. The diverse flora also attracts various insects.
Absolutely! The park's hides, boardwalks, and the presence of habituated birds like the crested coot make it an excellent spot for wildlife photography.
Yes, flamingos are a common sight at El Hondo Natural Park, especially in the wetter areas of the reserve.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The park offers a visitor centre, a car park, level walking paths, a wooden raised walkway over a lake, and various observatory hides for birdwatching. There's also a cafe.
The walking paths are generally level and well-maintained, including the wooden boardwalks, making them accessible for most visitors.
Yes, there is a cafe available at El Hondo Natural Park, offering refreshments for visitors.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during warmer months. A camera is highly recommended for photography.
Mobile signal can be spotty within the park. There is no public Wi-Fi available. It's best to download any necessary information beforehand. mentions a magical place, implying a natural escape.
📸 📸 Photography
The birdwatching hides and the wooden boardwalks offer excellent vantage points for capturing wildlife, especially birds. The reintroduction of crested coots makes it ideal for close-up shots.
El Hondo is primarily a destination for wildlife photography, particularly bird photography. The diverse avian population and natural wetland scenery provide ample opportunities.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds at a distance. However, even with a standard camera or smartphone, you can capture beautiful landscape shots and closer wildlife.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage might require special permits. Always respect the wildlife and avoid disturbing them.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – provide the best natural light for photography, enhancing colors and reducing harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as keeping kids happy and hydrated is key. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings, to avoid the heat. The observatory hides can be exciting for kids to peek through and try to spot different birds, turning it into a fun game of 'I Spy'.
📸 Photographers
Telephoto lenses are highly recommended to capture the detail of distant birds. The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for stunning shots. Remember to check the schedule for Saturday open days, as these can offer access to areas with unique photographic potential.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Beyond birdwatching, the park's tranquility and natural beauty are a significant draw. It's a place to disconnect and appreciate the local ecosystem. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan on longer walks. The park's accessibility and the variety of its natural landscapes cater to a wide range of nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Avian Paradise of El Hondo
Birdwatching is the primary draw, and the park is well-equipped for it. Strategically placed observatory hides and a wooden raised walkway allow visitors to get close to the birds without disturbing them. The visitor centre provides valuable information about the park's ecology and the species you might encounter. For the most dedicated birdwatchers, attending one of the Saturday open days is essential, as these grant access to areas typically off-limits to the public, revealing even more of the park's hidden treasures.
Beyond the birds, the park's landscape itself is beautiful, especially during the cooler months. The Jaime el Barbudo Trail (PR-CV 255), mentioned in an Instagram reel, offers a chance to walk among aromatic Mediterranean flora like thyme, rosemary, and lavender, with stunning views of the valley and even the Mediterranean Sea in the distance. This trail provides a different perspective on the natural beauty surrounding the park.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
Comfort is paramount for enjoying your visit. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be traversing boardwalks and trails. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is highly recommended, particularly during warmer periods, as facilities within the park are limited. While there is a cafe, it's wise to be self-sufficient. Don't forget your binoculars – they are essential for truly appreciating the park's avian inhabitants.
For those keen on accessing the most secluded birdwatching spots, checking the schedule for Saturday open days is crucial. These days offer unique opportunities to explore areas not usually accessible to the public. While the park itself is free to enter, understanding these access nuances can significantly enhance your experience. The park's natural beauty and the chance to see rare wildlife make it a rewarding destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit