Guided visit to the upper lagoons, on foot and by van

A morning with an interpretive guide through the upper lagoons, the part of the park least seen from the road: upper lagoons, former power stations, water mills, hillocks and out-of-the-way corners that those who only drive the lagoons road never reach. The combination is what makes it different: some stretches are done by van and others on foot, so that in three and a half hours you cover more ground than you would walking.

Van, trail and viewpoints

The visit combines journeys in an air-conditioned passenger van with a circular trail of about 3 km with 64 metres of climb up to panoramic viewpoints. The difficulty is medium: it is not a long walk, but there is an uphill stretch, and it cannot be done with a wheelchair or a baby buggy. A pair of binoculars per couple is included, useful for the birds of the lagoons and for the views from above.

It is run by a partner company of the Lagunas de Ruidera portal, from Destinos Manchegos, which is who takes the booking.

Time, meeting point and price

It leaves at 9:30, or at 8:30 in the summer months, from the car park of the Hostal Restaurante Guadiana, in Ruidera. Departures are punctual, with a maximum of five minutes' grace. In 2026 it costs €42 per person and €34 from 0 to 12 years, VAT included. It needs a minimum of six people: you request a date and quote on the portal's form and the company replies confirming whether there is a departure. If there are fewer than six of you, ask whether you can join another group.

What it does not allow

Pets are not allowed: if you are travelling with a dog, this is not the activity. Bring water and something to snack on.

How it fits into the trip

First thing in the morning, the visit puts the map of the park in your head; afterwards it makes sense to head out on your own to the Miradores trail or the Peñarroya castle. For lunch on your return, Perca Rosa is beside the Rey lagoon, at the entrance to Ruidera.