Garganta Verde

The Garganta Verde is a natural site of strong geological character located in the municipality of Grazalema, within the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, in the province of Cadiz. It is a deep canyon carved by the Bocaleones stream, with very vertical limestone walls and an encasement that reaches at some points about 400 meters of unevenness. It is part of the typical karst landscape of this mountain range, modeled by the dissolution of the limestone rock and by a very marked fluvial dynamics. The most striking feature of the place is the gorge itself: a narrow corridor, very deep, with slopes covered by vegetation and rocky cliffs that offer a very unique image of the interior of the mountain range. Its interest for the visit resides in the combination of landscape, geology and fauna observation, especially rocky birds, with an outstanding presence of griffon vultures. The Cueva de la Ermita, of karstic origin, is also mentioned as one of the elements of interest along the route. The Garganta Verde is relevant for its integration in a protected natural area and for being one of the best known enclaves in the surroundings of Grazalema. Access to the trail is regulated and requires prior authorization, which reinforces its conservation value and helps preserve a very fragile environment. It is a resource especially appreciated in hiking and nature guides for the intensity of the relief and the presence of fauna associated with the cliffs.