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Murcia's nature reserves see visitor boom in 2025
Over 68,000 people explore parks through guided activities and centres
Protected natural areas across the Region of Murcia welcomed more than 68,000 visitors in 2025, marking a steady rise in people enjoying these special spots. That's according to the latest annual report on the Visitor Information and Assistance Service, which covers everything from direct help at centres to workshops, guided walks and school programs.Juan María Vázquez, the Minister of the Environment, Universities, Research, and the Mar Menor, couldn't hide his enthusiasm. "These figures reflect the growing public interest in learning about, enjoying, and respecting protected natural areas," he said. He also pointed out that "environmental education and outreach are key tools for ensuring the long-term conservation of our natural heritage." It's heartening to see folks getting out there, connecting with Murcia's great outdoors.
Help is on hand at four Visitor Centres and four Information Points dotted around the region.
- Visitor Centres: Ricardo Codorníu in Sierra Espuña Regional Park; El Valle in El Valle and Carrascoy; Las Cobaticas in Calblanque, Monte de las Cenizas and Peña del Águila; Las Salinas in Salinas and Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar.
- Information Points: Fuente la Higuera in Sierra de la Pila (Fortuna); Sanctuary of La Esperanza in Sotos y Bosques de Ribera de Cañaverosa (Calasparra); Monte Arabí in Yecla; Coto Cuadros public forest in Murcia.
Activities really took off last year, with over 14,000 joining the 'Activity Backpack' programme. That includes treasure hunts, exhibitions, workshops and special events tied to environment days, open to families, groups and anyone curious. Schools got in on it too, with 11,800 students in 'Nature at Your Fingertips' programs, plus over 15,000 total through initiatives like ProCuadros at Coto Cuadros, where 3,306 kids learned about nature hands-on.
Standouts included visits to El Valle's Wildlife Recovery Center, popular guided tours showing off local biodiversity, and outreach at events like Science and Technology Week, reaching about 2,000 more people. It's all about making nature accessible and fun, helping everyone appreciate what makes Murcia's parks so special. If you're local, why not plan a visit? These numbers show there's something for all ages.You might also be interested in: Sierra Espuña, a Mecca for nature enthusiasts, adventure sports and relaxation!
Images: turismoregiondemurcia
