Salinas de Marchamalo, La Manga: flamingos and wetlands

Salt pans and flamingos at the southern tip of La Manga

Las Salinas de Marchamalo is a former salt-producing area of almost 200 hectares at the southern tip of La Manga del Mar Menor, very close to Cabo de Palos and within the municipality of Cartagena. Its ponds and wetlands beside the lagoon form one of the few places in La Manga where birds, rather than the beach, take centre stage.

Birds and wildlife

Flamingos are the main attraction, and many visitors see them at almost any time of year. Alongside them are black-winged stilts, avocets, herons and other waders. The ponds also hold fartet (Spanish toothcarp), a small endangered fish found only in south-eastern Iberia.

An area with several forms of protection

Beside the beach at Las Amoladeras, the salt flats form a protected natural area. They are included in the Natura 2000 network as a Site of Community Importance and Special Protection Area, are a Specially Protected Area of Mediterráneo Importance, and belong to the Mar Menor Ramsar wetland. The Asociación de Naturalistas del Sureste (ANSE) is working to restore traditional salt production to improve wetland biodiversity.

Before you go

Be aware that the surroundings are not as well kept as they should be: several reviews mention neglected ponds and nearby buildings. Even so, birdwatchers and sunset visitors leave happy. Access is free; stay on the paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. It combines well with a visit to Las Amoladeras or the lighthouse in Cabo de Palos, with more ideas in what to visit in La Manga.

Frequently asked questions

Where are the salt flats in La Manga?

At the southern tip of La Manga del Mar Menor, very close to Cabo de Palos and the beach at Las Amoladeras, in the municipality of Cartagena.

Can you see flamingos at Salinas de Marchamalo?

Yes. Visitors highlight flamingos most, alongside black-winged stilts, avocets and herons.

What protection do the salt flats have?

They are in the Natura 2000 network (SCI and SPA), are a SPAMI and form part of the Mar Menor Ramsar wetland.

Can you visit freely?

Yes. Access is free, provided you stay on the paths and do not disturb the birds.

Salinas de Marchamalo

Salt pans and flamingos at the southern tip of La Manga

Birds and wildlife

An area with several forms of protection

Before you go

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Frequently asked questions

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