La Charca de Maspalomas - round printed button
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La Charca de Maspalomas

4.5
·324 reviews·San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Spain

A vital freshwater oasis and bird sanctuary nestled beside the iconic Maspalomas Dunes, offering a unique natural escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter mornings

Peak bird migration season

CrowdLow
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La Charca de Maspalomas - round printed button

La Charca de Maspalomas

Best Time

Winter mornings

Peak bird migration season

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vital freshwater oasis and bird sanctuary nestled beside the iconic Maspalomas Dunes, offering a unique natural escape.

4.5
(324 reviews)

"Amazing fresh water lake which is an oasis for many wading and other birds."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐦 Bring Binoculars!

Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that frequent the pond.

🦟 Mosquito Repellent

Especially after rain, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent for a more comfortable visit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Migratory Bird Haven

Migratory Bird Haven

The pond itself

Witness a stunning array of wading and other birds, especially during winter migration. A paradise for birdwatchers!

Oasis Amidst Dunes

Oasis Amidst Dunes

Adjacent to Maspalomas Dunes

A vital freshwater lake offering a stark, beautiful contrast to the surrounding sand dunes. A unique natural landscape.

Dawn Wildlife Spectacle

Dawn Wildlife Spectacle

Around the pond

Patience may reward you with sightings of elusive creatures in the soft morning light. Perfect for nature photographers.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Birdwatching

Visit during migration seasons (winter) for the best chance to spot diverse birdlife. Early mornings or late afternoons offer calmer conditions and better light for photography. Be aware of potential mosquito presence, especially after rain.

Conservation Concerns & Access

While a protected area, there are reports of pollution and neglect.TikTokInstagram Stick to designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem. Check local advisories for any temporary closures, especially after storms.Instagram

Best Times

When
Winter mornings
Why
Peak bird migration season
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Conservación de la naturaleza? Así es como el #cabildodegrancanaria #gobiernodecanarias protegen la biodiversidad de la Charca de Maspalomas, mirando para otro lado cuando se producen vertidos continuados de aguas fecales, un problema que deriva en la eutrofización de la laguna, alterando todos sus ciclos naturales y matando a la poca fauna que milagrosamente sobrevive en esta ¿Reserva natural? L...
@accionfelina
9 likes • 897 views

🐦 Bring Binoculars!

Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that frequent the pond. Reddit

🦟 Mosquito Repellent

Especially after rain, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent for a more comfortable visit. Instagram

Charca Maspalomas • • • #grancanaria #grancanariavibes #visitcanarias #visitcanaryislands #canaryisland #canarias #visitgrancanaria
@destination.grancanaria
170 likes • 4.5K views
Este precioso ejemplar de combatiente (Calidris pugnax) se estaba alimentando en la charca de Maspalomas en la isla de Gran Canaria (Islas Canarias, España) en el mes de mayo de este año. Sin duda fue un privilegio poder observar a este limícola. Sin duda uno de los animales que mayor cambio en el plumaje presenta cuando está en época reproductora. Espero que les guste este tipo de reels #avesdee...
eduhdzphoto
171 likes • 911 views

🚶‍♀️ Stay on Paths

Help protect this delicate ecosystem by sticking to marked trails. TikTokInstagram

📸 Camera Ready

Capture stunning wildlife and landscape shots, especially during the golden hours. Instagram+1

Bajando a la playa por el lado de la charca de Maspalomas, que por cierto está muy alto el nivel del agua y también los mosquitos jejeje...
nuezjoseantonio
120 likes • 827 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐦 Bring Binoculars!

Essential for spotting and identifying the diverse bird species that frequent the pond. Reddit

🦟 Mosquito Repellent

Especially after rain, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent for a more comfortable visit. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stay on Paths

Help protect this delicate ecosystem by sticking to marked trails. TikTokInstagram

📸 Camera Ready

Capture stunning wildlife and landscape shots, especially during the golden hours. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(324 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are often pleasantly surprised by this natural oasis amidst the popular Maspalomas landscape. The abundance of birdlife, especially during migration, is a major draw for nature enthusiasts and photographers. While the natural smells and occasional mosquito presence are noted, the overall experience is described as magnificent and offering beautiful views of dunes and wildlife.

"Absolute surprise to see this pond here in Gran Canaria.
Some nature enthusiastic people were on watch with their professional camera to catch some lovely bird moments.
Winter time you can observe migrating birds from the North Europe."

Anna Jánosi

"Amazing fresh water lake which is an oasis for many wading and other birds, particularly Little Egret and Grey Heron. Others seen include: Black Winged Stilt, Glossy Ibis, Common Waxbill, Red Knot, Yellow Legged Gull, Great Black back gull and many others"

Mike Carey

"Every beach day we parked our bikes 🚲 near this area. It’s the access way to get to the beach and nature there is simply magnificent…"

Mark Jakobs

What People Like

Abundant birdlife
Beautiful natural contrast
Great for photography

What People Dislike

Occasional pollution
Mosquitoes after rain
Natural smells

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

La Charca de Maspalomas is easily accessible from the Maspalomas beach area. Many visitors park their bikes nearby as it's a common access route to the beach and dunes.Reddit It's a short walk from the Faro de Maspalomas (Maspalomas Lighthouse).

There is parking available in the vicinity of the Maspalomas beach and lighthouse area, which is a short walk from the charca. Be prepared for potential crowds during peak tourist seasons.

Yes, you can walk from Playa del Inglés along the coast towards Maspalomas. It's a pleasant walk, especially if you enjoy coastal scenery, and will take approximately 30-45 minutes.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

La Charca de Maspalomas is a natural reserve and generally accessible without an entrance fee. However, always check for any local advisories or temporary access restrictions.

As a natural reserve, there are no strict opening hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to best observe the wildlife. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for birdwatching.

Swimming is not permitted in La Charca de Maspalomas as it is a protected natural area and a vital habitat for birds. It's a place for observation, not recreation.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of wading and other birds, including Little Egret, Grey Heron, Black Winged Stilt, Glossy Ibis, and various gulls. During winter, it's a key stop for migratory birds from Northern Europe.InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The charca offers unique photographic opportunities with its birdlife and the contrast against the Maspalomas dunes. Early morning and late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.Instagram+1

While the charca itself is a natural area, facilities such as restrooms and cafes can be found along the nearby Maspalomas beach promenade and near the lighthouse.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll likely be walking along paths. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen. Don't forget insect repellent, especially after rain.Instagram

Yes, children can enjoy observing the birds and the natural environment. It's a great educational opportunity, but ensure they stay on paths and are supervised.

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. These times also coincide with increased bird activity.Instagram+1

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of birds from a distance. A tripod can also be beneficial for stability, especially in low light conditions.

The edges of the charca offer various vantage points. Look for areas where birds tend to congregate, often near the water's edge or on any small islands within the pond.

The primary subjects are the diverse bird species. You can also capture the unique landscape of the pond against the backdrop of the Maspalomas Dunes, and the interplay of light and water.

Always maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife and avoid disturbing them. Stick to designated paths and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

La Charca de Maspalomas offers a fantastic opportunity for families to introduce children to nature and wildlife. It's a chance for kids to spot birds and learn about different ecosystems. Encourage them to be quiet observers and to stay on the designated paths to protect the environment. Bring binoculars if you have them, as they can make the birdwatching experience much more engaging for younger visitors. The proximity to the beach also means you can easily combine a nature visit with a fun day of sand and sea.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, La Charca de Maspalomas is a gem, especially for wildlife and landscape photography. The best times to shoot are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and dramatic, and bird activity is often high.Instagram+1 A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of the diverse bird species. The contrast between the water, the birdlife, and the vast Maspalomas Dunes provides unique compositional opportunities. Remember to be patient and respectful of the wildlife.

🐦 Birdwatchers

This protected natural reserve is a must-visit for any avid birdwatcher. La Charca de Maspalomas is renowned for its diverse avian population, particularly during the winter migration season.Reddit Bring your binoculars and a field guide to identify the various species of wading birds, waterfowl, and other visitors. Early mornings are often the most rewarding for sightings. Be mindful of the charca's ecological sensitivity and avoid disturbing the birds or their habitat.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ecological Significance of La Charca

La Charca de Maspalomas is a crucial freshwater lagoon nestled within the larger Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas. It serves as a vital oasis for a remarkable diversity of birdlife, particularly during their migratory journeys. This unique ecosystem provides a critical resting and feeding ground for numerous wading birds and other avian species that travel from as far as Northern Europe.InstagramReddit The presence of both freshwater and its proximity to the coast creates a rich habitat that supports a complex food web.

Despite its ecological importance, the charca faces challenges. Reports highlight concerns about pollution from sewage discharge and general neglect, which can lead to eutrophication and negatively impact the fauna.TikTokInstagram Efforts are underway for scientific monitoring and management to improve its conservation status.Instagram Visitors play a role in its preservation by respecting the environment and staying on designated paths.

The charca's role as a stopover point for migratory birds makes it a significant site for ornithological observation. Birdwatchers often come equipped with professional cameras and binoculars, hoping to spot species like the Little Egret, Grey Heron, Black-winged Stilt, and even rarer visitors like the Red Knot.Instagram The changing seasons bring different species, making it a dynamic natural spectacle throughout the year.

Navigating and Experiencing the Charca

Accessing La Charca de Maspalomas is straightforward, often integrated into a visit to the famous Maspalomas Dunes and beach. Many visitors use it as a convenient access point to the beach, parking their bikes nearby.Reddit The area around the charca offers beautiful views, with the expansive sand dunes providing a dramatic backdrop. The natural smells, though sometimes intense due to decomposing organisms, contribute to the authentic natural experience.Reddit

When visiting, it's essential to be prepared. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially after rainfall, so carrying repellent is highly recommended.Instagram The terrain around the charca is generally flat, making it accessible for walking, but sticking to marked paths is crucial to protect the sensitive habitat.TikTokInstagram The charca can be particularly beautiful in the early morning light, offering a chance to spot elusive wildlife.TikTok

While the charca itself is a natural reserve, the surrounding area offers amenities. You can find restrooms and cafes along the Maspalomas beach promenade and near the iconic Faro de Maspalomas. This makes it easy to combine a nature excursion with other tourist activities, creating a well-rounded day out.

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