Birdwatching in Spain 2024-2025

Spain is a paradise for birds, so if you are a bird lover, don't miss the chance to observe an incredible variety of species

Best time: September–June

Every year, thousands of birds gather in Spain. While you can find them everywhere in the country, some places are especially good for birdwatching.

The smallest of Spain's fifteen national parks—Tablas de Daimiel National Park—is located in the province of Ciudad Real. Covering 3,000 ha, this is one of the most important wetlands in the world, which continues to impress with its animal diversity and incredible landscapes. This is where you can find birds such as the Purple Heron, Northern Pintail, Little Egret and Red-crested Pochard. Waterbirds are truly the protagonists of this park and there are also many flower species to be found in the waters.

The Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve is located in the North on the coast of the Bay of Biscay. The marshlands are critical for bird life, both as a nesting area and as a stopover or wintering site. This is where you can observe birds such as eagles, black storks, and herons in their natural environments.

The entire region of Extremadura is a paradise for birds and is one of the most important birding destinations in Europe. About 75% of the Extremadura region has been included in the Important Bird Areas of Spain. In Monfrague National Park, you can see the Peregrine Falcon and Bonelli’s Eagle. In Llanos de Caceres, you can see the Cattle Egret, Eagle Owl, and Short-toed Eagle. The Los Barruecos natural park is famous for ducks, herons, and the Ornate Hawk Eagle.

Spring is when the migration and breeding season for waterbirds and multicoloured birds is in full force. In Autumn, a large variety of birds will use parks as rest areas or shelter in their migratory journeys. Winter is also good for certain species. In fact, birdwatching in Spain is good all year round. The least favourable months are July and August as it's extremely hot and the birds aren't active. If you still come during summer, go birdwatching early in the morning.

Practical info

When is the ideal season for pilgrimage of the El Camino de Santiago?

The best months for walking the El Camino de Santiago is April, May, June, September, and October. These months are suitable for walking as the weather is mild, there is less crowd and also there is more assistance available. July and August are very hot and crowded. Pilgrims should avoid December, January and February due to the weather conditions.

What is the most popular stretch of El Camino de Santiago?

The French Way, also known as Camino Frances, is the most popular and traditional pilgrimage route out of the whole network of pilgrim ways leading to Santiago de Compostela. The French way starts from Saint Jean Pied de Port and covers around 493 miles. It is the busiest of all the routes, and most of the pilgrims on the route are foreigners.

What are some iconic landmarks on El Camino de Santiago?

El Camino de Santiago has a lot of historical and cultural landmarks while on the journey. The most significant landmarks include the Gothic-style Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Basilica de San Isidoro in Leon, the Romanesque Church of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, the medieval bridge Puente de la Reina, Gothic Iglesia de San Pedro in Puente la Reina, Iron Cross at the highest point of the route, and the medieval Knights Templar Castle Ponferrada.

What is the ‘Pilgrim’s Meal’ on the El Camino de Santiago?

The Pilgrim's meal or 'Menu del Peregrino' is a traditional special menu served on the El Camino de Santiago route to the registered pilgrims. It offers a three-course meal consisting of a starter, an entree, and a dessert with bread and wine. The Pilgrim's menu usually features local dishes and traditional Galician cuisine such as cocido, empanadas, and tarta de Santiago made with almonds.

How does one get a ‘Compostela’ for completing the El Camino de Santiago?

To get a Compostela certificate, which authenticates the completion of the El Camino de Santiago, the pilgrim must walk at least 100 km on foot or cycle at least 200 km. They also need to collect stamps on their ‘credential’ at the end of each stage as evidence of their pilgrimage journey. Once they obtain at least two stamps per day through walking, they can go to the pilgrims' office and apply for the certificate.