Mancha Húmeda

Mancha Húmeda is a biosphere reserve in Castile-La Mancha consisting of interconnected lakes, marshes, and river systems between the Guadiana and Cigüela waterways. The reserve includes both Tablas de Daimiel National Park and Lagunas de Ruidera Nature Reserve within its boundaries.

UNESCO designated this reserve as a biosphere reserve in 1980, bringing multiple protected areas under a single conservation framework. This recognition marked a turning point for safeguarding these important wetlands in Spain.

Villages throughout the region preserve traditional ways of life centered on the water and local agriculture. People in communities like Almagro and Alcázar de San Juan continue to shape their daily routines around the natural rhythms of the wetlands.

Visitors can reach the area by car with several access points to the lakes and natural areas throughout the reserve. Early morning visits are best for observing waterfowl, and sturdy footwear is helpful for walking through the wetlands.

The area supports one of the largest concentrations of waterfowl on the Iberian Peninsula, including grebes, ducks, and heron species. This bird diversity makes the site especially valuable for birdwatchers and nature observers visiting the reserve.