The nature of the Ribera of Navarra stands out for its diversity and contrast. Within a single territory, arid steppe landscapes coexist with fertile plains, riverbanks and wetlands of great ecological value.
The River Ebro and its tributaries shape an environment where water, land and open skies create a unique landscape identity in southern Navarra.
This balance between desert, farmland and river makes the Ribera an ideal destination for nature tourism in Navarra, where visitors can enjoy sustainable, peaceful experiences deeply connected to the environment.
Natural spaces and protected areas of the Ribera of Navarra
The natural areas of the Ribera of Navarra offer a wide variety of ecosystems within a short distance. The region includes protected sites and areas of high environmental value, providing different experiences depending on the landscape and the time of year.
Among the most representative are:
- Bardenas Reales de Navarra, a unique semi-desert landscape in Europe and a Biosphere Reserve.
- The Ebro riverside groves (Sotos del Ebro), such as Vergara (Arguedas and Valtierra), Ramalete (Tudela), Buñuel, Cortes, Castejón and Milagro, as well as Mejana (Tudela).
- Laguna de Lor and Laguna de Pitillas.
- The estancas (lagoons) of Cintruénigo and Corella.
- Machín Dam and Las Norias Dam.
- Barranco del Rey (Funes).
- Ebro Green Corridor.
These areas allow visitors to connect with nature in a respectful way and explore some of the most iconic landscapes in southern Navarra.
Wildlife and birdwatching
The Ribera is one of the most important areas in Navarra for birdwatching and observing wildlife. The diversity of habitats — river environments, wetlands, steppe landscapes and agricultural areas — supports a wide range of species.
Visitors can observe birds linked to the Bardenas Reales, the Ebro groves and wetlands, as well as emblematic species such as the booted eagle, kingfisher, griffon vulture and European mink. The Ribera offers dedicated resources and routes for responsible birdwatching.
Flora and biodiversity of the area
Flora and biodiversity of the area
The flora of the Ribera supports much of the territory’s biodiversity. White poplars, black poplars, tamarisks, ashes, elms and reeds shape the river landscapes and Ebro groves, creating natural refuges for wildlife.
These ecosystems play a key role in environmental balance and biodiversity conservation, reinforcing the natural value of the region and its appeal for sustainable tourism in Navarra.
Routes and viewpoints in the Ribera of Navarra
The routes of the Ribera of Navarra invite visitors to explore the region on foot, by bike or through interpretive walks. There are itineraries adapted to different visitor profiles, from family-friendly routes to more specialised trails.
Highlights include:
- Viewpoints Route
- Imperial Canal of Aragón
- Tauste Canal
- Ebro Green Corridor
- Tarazonica Greenway
- Alhama Health Route
- Network of routes in the Ribera Alta of Navarra
- Birdwatching observatory network
- Starlight Sites network
- Digital gymkhanas as a family tourism resource
These routes allow visitors to discover the landscapes of the Ebro in Navarra from different perspectives, combining nature, physical activity and environmental awareness.
Feel the nature of the Ribera
Let yourself be guided by the paths along the Ebro, the trails among vineyards and the endless horizons of the Bardenas. In the Ribera of Navarra, every step is an experience and every landscape a story waiting to be discovered.
A territory that invites you to enjoy nature in its purest, most vibrant and accessible form.
Let yourself go
Frequently asked questions about nature in the Ribera of Navarra
What natural areas should you visit in the Ribera of Navarra?
Bardenas Reales, the Ebro groves, lagoons, estancas and the Ebro Green Corridor.
Where are the Bardenas Reales located?
In the south-east of Navarra, within the Ribera of Navarra.
What hiking routes are there in the Ribera?
River routes, viewpoints, historic canals and signposted nature trails.
Where can you watch birds or enjoy nature tourism?
In the Bardenas, the Ebro groves, wetlands and protected areas, as well as designated birdwatching points (Azagra, Buñuel, Tudela…).
How can you enjoy sustainable tourism in the Ribera of Navarra?
Through marked routes, wildlife observation, outdoor activities and respect for the natural environment.