There is so much to explore within the charming streets of Seville but many visitors are not aware that one of the most important and diverse nature reserves in Europe is just a short drive away. Less than 40km south of Seville, the Doñana National Park covers an area of almost 550 square kilometres and is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. The main gateway to Doñana is through El Rocío, a unique village steeped in tradition and famous for its annual pilgrimage. On our full-day excursion, you can explore Doñana National Park in a 4 x 4 vehicle, passing through El Rocío for a guided visit to the most significant sites. Throughout the day, you will have the chance to experience the captivating beauty of Doñana's stunning scenery and learn all about its extraordinary wildlife.
On this full-day private excursion, you will:
- Embark on a thrilling excursion from Seville to Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site;
- Enjoy the undivided attention of your private guide as well as convenient pick-up and drop-off from your central hotel;
- Traverse the different terrain easily in a 4 x 4 vehicle;
- Immerse yourself in a unique natural environment and discover the diverse range of ecosystems that coexist within the area;
- Step back in time on a visit to El Rocío Village and learn about its deep religious and historical significance;
- See the stunning Hermitage of El Rocío and learn about the miracles attributed to Nuestra Señora del Rocío whose pilgrimage draws in over a million pilgrims every year;
- Visit the marshlands of la Dehesa de Abajo, a habitat for over 300 species of birds including the largest colony of white storks in Europe;
- Get closer to nature with a guided hike through the National Park;
- Keep an eye out for rare wildlife including endangered species like the Iberian Lynx and the Spanish Imperial Eagle;
- Stroll along the beautiful Doñana beach, the longest virgin beach in Spain;
- Find out about the conservation projects designed to protect the park and its inhabitants;
- Catch the sunset from the pine forest of El Abalario;
Our full-day private excursion is an ideal escape for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those seeking a deeper connection to Andalusia’s rich heritage. Whether exploring El Rocío’s storied past or admiring Doñana’s incredible wildlife, this experience promises unforgettable memories. Your adventure will begin at your hotel in Seville, where you will get acquainted with your local guide and hop aboard your 4 x 4 vehicle, well-equipped for the diverse terrains you will encounter throughout the day. You will then head south towards Doñana National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich biodiversity and pristine beauty.
You will proceed to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from wetlands and dunes to pine forests and salt marshes. As you comfortably cruise through the countryside along the Guadalquivir River, your guide will explain the intricate balance of ecosystems that make Doñana such a haven for wildlife. Your first stop will likely be La Dehesa de Abajo, a birdwatching area home to 200,000 individuals of more than 300 species of birds every year, making this the most important wetland on the continent. You will marvel at the incredible birdlife including flamingos, herons and Europe’s largest colony of white storks.
Nestled within the picturesque surroundings of Doñana, you will step back in time with a visit to the quaint village of El Rocío, known for its sandy streets and traditional way of life. As you visit the Hermitage of El Rocío, your guide will explain its history and religious significance. You will find out about how the hermitage was constructed as a shrine to Nuestra Señora del Rocío, a revered statue of the Virgin Mary believed to possess miraculous powers. You will discover how this monument has been venerated for centuries and has inspired an annual pilgrimage that draws over a million worshippers to the normally quiet town.
Following your exploration of El Rocío, you will have a chance to get closer to nature on a guided hike through Doñana's scenic trails where you might spot elusive species like the Iberian Lynx and the Spanish Imperial Eagle, both critically endangered and protected within the park. Your guide can tell you more about these majestic creatures and share insights into the ongoing conservation efforts that protect Doñana’s delicate ecosystems and its diverse inhabitants, ensuring the park remains a sanctuary for future generations.
Later, your guide will take you on a leisurely walk along Doñana Beach, a stunning stretch of unspoiled coastline. You can take in the tranquillity of Spain’s longest virgin beach, where the Atlantic Ocean meets untouched dunes. Last but certainly not least, before you return to Seville, you will end your adventure with a peaceful moment in the El Abalario pine forest, where you’ll witness a stunning sunset, casting golden hues over the trees and marshlands—a perfect conclusion to a day in nature.
