Beyond the beaches, historic cities and bustling nightlife of Andalusia, the iconic Spanish region has a myriad more tranquil pursuits in nature – including world class bird watching. Budding and seasoned ornithologists alike will discover that Karma La Herriza offers a spectacular opportunity to witness the diverse avian species that migrate through Andalusia – and what’s more we have a resident ornithologist extraordinaire on site too in the shape of Tosh Todorov, our Operations Manager! Situated in the heart of this bird migration hotspot, the region provides a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena – and Tosh is happy to be your guide.
Andalusia lies along the Via Gibraltarensis, one of Europe’s two major migratory routes. This path takes birds through the Strait of Gibraltar, where a mere 14.8 km separates Europe from Africa. The area’s warm thermic currents make it an ideal crossing point for a variety of species. From mid-August to late September, you can observe massive flocks of storks, cranes, eagles, sparrow hawks, and kites as they gather for their annual journey southward.
Spring and Autumn are particularly rewarding for bird watchers. Warblers, robins, and thrushes make their way to the North in spring, returning to Africa in late summer. Raptors, including eagles, kites, and hawks, begin their migration to Africa in late July, with many passing through Andalusia.
At Karma La Herriza, guests can simply relax on the terraces and enjoy the sight of these incredible birds in flight. The resort is even home to a resident pair of Bonelli’s eagles, adding a special touch to any bird-watching experience. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious observer, this region is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
And besides birds, many magnificent marine creatures migrate through the waters off the Cadiz coast, taking advantage of the nutrient-rich marine environment created by the meeting of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic – with cetaceans such as sperm whales and killer whales as well as resident species like pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins. Look out for more on nature based tourism in Andalusia featuring Tosh – and here he is appearing on a local news channel with some avian insights for the Spanish speakers amongst you.
