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Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
The Lagunas de Espera are classified as a Natural Reserve and SPA areas (Special Protection Area for birds) due to their ecological importance. This complex is made up of a permanent lagoon (Dulce de Zorrilla), a semi-permanent lagoon (Salada de Zorrilla) and a temporary lagoon (Hondilla), of steppe origin and morphology and endorheic in nature. Of great ecological interes, they are vestiges of Betic endorheism, which spread through the countryside of the provinces of Seville and Cádiz.
Its proximity to other wetlands and the mouth of the Guadalquivir River makes it an essential area for breeding and a migratory rest stop for numerous species of birds, constituting a complementary habitat of the Doñana marshes. The value of the landscape is enhanced by the contrast that these relatively naturalised areas represent with the environment which has traditionally been transformed by agriculture.
On its banks the reeds, rushes, nut grass, African tamarisk and cattails predominate. Large numbers of birds visit these lagoons, using them as breeding and wintering areas. Among the most frequent species of birds are white-headed ducks, crested coots, marbled teals, Eurasian teals, shovelers, flamingos and swamphen.
About 600 metres away is a viewpoint where you can look out over the Hondilla Lagoon, this hiking trail begins here and runs along the Salada and the Dulce de Zorrilla lagoons. This path is about 2 kilometres long and has an observatory about 350 metres from the beginning, from which we can enjoy the panoramic view of the largest lagoon in the complex, the Salada lagoon.
If we continue on our way a bit, we will soon see the Dulce de Zorrilla lagoon. The path takes us very close to the edges of the lagoon and ends when we have passed it.
You can access the Lagunas de Espera Natural Reserve from two different places. The first access is in the highest part of the municipality of Espera, next to the cemetery and very close to the medieval castle. From there a lane descends that will take us directly to the lagoons, following the signs that we come across on the way. The other access is on the CA 4412 / SE 447 Espera-Las Cabezas de San Juan road, which we reach from the town, heading towards Seville. 1.5 km away from the town, on this road, there is a signposted entrance to a lane that, after about 5 km, will take us to the path described above.
Go to our visitor centres, information points and ecomuseums to get the most out of your visit.
Do not disturb or feed the animals. You would negatively alter their behavior.
Check the weather forecast before starting your activity.
Bring water, sun protection, suitable clothing and footwear.
Bring a mobile phone with enough battery in case of emergency (112), but remember that there is not always coverage.
For your safety and that of the environment, do not go off the signposted trail or take shortcuts.
Extreme caution in adverse conditions and in the occasional presence of animals or motor vehicles.
Follow the recommendations and comply with the regulations at all times
Respect the facilities put at your disposal. We all pay for its maintenance.
Help prevent fires. Do not throw cigarettes or any other object that produces combustion.
Trash doesn't come back alone. Take it with you to the nearest container. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Avoid going out alone. If you do, communicate the route and time of return to other people.
Noise is another form of pollution. In silence you will enjoy your experience more.
Live respectfully with the locals and other users. Respect private property.
Facilitate use for people with special needs.
By consuming local products and counting on local companies, you will contribute to rural development.
Practice responsible tourism and committed to the environment. Be a true ecotourist!
Never leave your pet in the wild. It would endanger the flora and fauna of the place.
Get around in a sustainable way: public transport, bicycle, on foot, electric or shared vehicle ... Park in the designated places
Do not leave a trace of your passage through nature. The best memory you can take with you is your own photograph.
Your safety is our concern, but it is your responsibility.
The conservation of natural spaces is also in your hands. Thank you for your collaboration!
Find out in advance about the possible existence of hunting activity and remember that all public use facilities are declared safety zones.