Games of Thrones – The Dothraki Sea

The Bardenas Reales, located in the heart of Navarra near the town of Tudela, became the vast and arid Dothraki Sea during the first and sixth episodes of Game of Thrones’ sixth season. This unique natural park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, spans 42,500 hectares of semi-desert landscape, characterized by striking geological formations shaped over millennia by wind and water. Its cinematic appeal has also drawn other productions, such as The World Is Not Enough and The Man Who Killed Don Quixote.

In Game of Thrones, the Bardenas Reales provided the perfect setting for pivotal moments in Daenerys Targaryen’s journey. In one scene, Daenerys, bound and guarded, is marched through the Dothraki Sea to be presented to Khal Moro. Initially facing a grim fate, Daenerys asserts her status as Khal Drogo’s widow and is eventually spared, though she is condemned to live among the dosh khaleen in Vaes Dothrak. Later, she is seen riding with Daario Naharis and her loyal Dothraki, strategizing her return to Meereen and the conquest of Westeros, culminating in a dramatic moment where she rallies her khalasar from atop her dragon, Drogon.

The Bardenas Reales’ otherworldly terrain, formed from eroded clay, gypsum, and sandstone, evokes an epic and desolate beauty that perfectly captured the essence of the Dothraki Sea. The production required over 1,500 people, 70 horses, and grueling filming schedules to bring these scenes to life. Key locations include the Balsa de las Cortinas, where Khal Moro’s camp was set up.

The climate of the Bardenas Reales reflects its rugged landscape, with long, dry summers, cold winters, and a constant breeze known as the cierzo. This harsh yet stunning environment has made it a must-visit destination for fans of the series, as well as nature enthusiasts seeking to explore its dramatic vistas and unique formations.

For those venturing into the Bardenas Reales, tracing the paths of Daenerys and her khalasar offers an unforgettable journey into one of the most iconic landscapes of Game of Thrones. Whether you’re inspired by the series or captivated by the park’s natural splendor, this is a destination that won’t disappoint.