Best Hiking Trails in La Palma: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
La Palma, often called “La Isla Bonita,” is the greenest and most diverse of the Canary Islands.
With towering mountains, lush forests, impressive waterfalls, and striking black sand beaches, it’s a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or just looking to enjoy the island’s beauty at a leisurely pace, La Palma offers trails for all levels.
Here’s a guide to some of the best routes that will make you fall in love with this unspoilt paradise.
1. Marcos y Cordero Springs and Los Tilos Waterfall
One of La Palma’s most enchanting trails, this route takes you through tunnels, rainforests, and past stunning waterfalls. Starting at Casa del Monte, it can be adjusted to your fitness level. For a lighter trek, complete the 7 km circular route to Marcos y Cordero springs in about 3 hours, perfect for families with children.
For a greater challenge, extend your hike to Los Tilos, covering 14 km with a 1000 m descent in about 4-6 hours. This trail offers a deep dive into La Palma’s lush greenery and impressive water features, making it a must for nature lovers.
Top Tips: Bring a flashlight for the unlit tunnels and a raincoat if you want to stay dry. It’s also wise to start early to catch a taxi back in time, especially during peak seasons.
2. Volcanoes and Salt Flats of Fuencaliente
Experience the volcanic heart of the Canary Islands with a hike that takes you across the dramatic black terrain of Fuencaliente. This 6 km trail starts near the San Antonio Volcano Visitor Centre and descends to the iconic salt flats by the ocean. The route is relatively easy but be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the rugged volcanic landscape.
Along the way, you can explore the crater of the San Antonio Volcano and finish your hike at the picturesque Fuencaliente salt flats, where the ocean meets the stark volcanic landscape.
Top Tips: Enjoy the views and photo opportunities at Fuencaliente Lighthouse. For a cosy stay before your next hike, try the La Palma Princess Hotel in south-west Fuencaliente.
3. La Ruta de Los Volcanes
The Ruta de Los Volcanes is La Palma’s most iconic trail, a 22-kilometre route that winds through volcanic landscapes and pine forests. Along the way, you’ll see the Hoyo Negro crater, the Las Deseadas cones, and the Martín, San Antonio, and Teneguía volcanoes.
The route can be started from El Pilar Refuge or the Fuencaliente Lighthouse. Most prefer starting at El Pilar, as much of the trail is downhill. In Los Canarios, you can stop at bars for coffee, snacks, or local almond pastries.
Top Tips: Starting from the Fuencaliente Lighthouse involves challenging climbs, recommended for experienced hikers. This is also the starting point of the famous Transvulcania trail run.
4. Get Up Close to an Active Volcano
On 19 September 2021, the Tajogaite volcano erupted on La Palma, creating a lasting impact on the island. The eruption, which continued until December of the same year, caused significant destruction, but the spectacle of nature’s power was undeniably awe-inspiring. Today, visitors can explore the still-smoking volcano on guided tours, which include access to the restricted Llano del Jable area—a zone requiring a gas meter due to the presence of residual volcanic gases.
La Palma Outdoor https://lapalmaoutdoor.com/en/ offers these guided tours daily in both Spanish and English, with German-speaking guides available on select days. The journey concludes at a viewpoint, offering stunning views of the vibrant, sulphur-streaked crater—a striking reminder of the volcano’s recent activity.
Top Tips: The three-hour, five-kilometre excursion is best enjoyed with water, sun protection, and warm clothing for comfort.
5. A Walk Through Buracas
In the northwest of the island lies Buracas, a magical place with a rich history. This trail takes you through a region once inhabited by the Benhaoritas, the original people of La Palma, and later by a community devoted to organic farming. The area is also home to the largest concentration of dragon trees in the Canary Islands.
The full circular route from the Church of Las Tricias covers about 4.2 km and is of medium-low difficulty, making it suitable for most hikers. As you walk, you’ll pass through traditional cave houses, see ancient petroglyphs, and enjoy stunning ocean views.
Top Tips: Visit the Gofio Museum (Centro de Interpretación del Gofio) to learn more about local culture and gastronomy, and treat yourself to a meal at Bio Café Finca Aloe for delicious vegetarian dishes made from local ingredients.
6. Caldera de Taburiente
The Caldera de Taburiente National Park is a must-visit for hikers in La Palma. This expansive, lush area features forests, natural pools, waterfalls, and striking ravines. The main trail extends 13 km from Mirador de los Brecitos to Barranco de Las Angustias car park, offering a full day of stunning natural beauty.
For a shorter hike, start and end at Mirador de los Brecitos. For a deeper experience, consider camping in the park. Don’t miss the Cascada de Colores, a unique waterfall with mineral hues, and the chance to swim in the park’s natural pools.
Top Tips: Secure a camping permit in advance, pack enough food and water, and be prepared for chilly waters if you decide to take a dip.
7. Nogales Beach
For those with limited time, Nogales Beach offers a quick but stunning hike. This black sand beach, framed by green cliffs, is one of La Palma’s most beautiful spots. The walk down to the beach is straightforward, with a well-maintained staircase leading from the car park above.
On your way, you’ll be able to explore a cave with mesmerising colours where sunlight meets the darkness of an underwater volcanic tube. Once you reach the beach, relax and take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic.
Top Tips: Be cautious of strong currents when swimming, and keep a close eye on children. The beach is also a fantastic place for photography, so don’t forget your camera!
8. Cubo de la Galga Forest
Perfect for beginners and families, the Cubo de la Galga Forest trail takes you through a fairytale-like landscape filled with giant ferns and laurel trees. This circular route offers two options: a 9 km trail that takes you to a lookout with stunning views, or a shorter 4 km version.
The trail starts near the information point car park and leads you deep into the heart of the forest, where you’ll be enveloped by its lush greenery and cool temperatures.
Top Tips: Bring a jacket, as the forest can be quite cool and humid, especially outside the summer months.
9. Discover Poris de Candelaria
Poris de Candelaria is a unique fishing village nestled inside a cave, surrounded by the ocean, on the island of La Palma. The interplay of light, the rhythm of the tide, and the quaint, handcrafted houses make it a sensory delight. While you can drive there, hiking from Tijarafe offers a deeper connection to the surrounding nature. The 7 km trail through the Barranco del Jurado is challenging but rewarding, especially at sunset, when Poris offers unforgettable views.
Top Tips: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be steep and demanding.
10. Conquer la Punta de Los Roques
Punta de Los Roques, at 2,040 metres, offers some of the best views on the island. Although the journey is tough, the panoramic vistas at the summit are well worth it. Start from the El Pilar picnic area, and be prepared for a strong breeze, especially in winter. The 25-kilometre trail takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush vegetation to lunar-like terrain. At the top, enjoy the vastness of La Palma, and if you wish, stay overnight at the mountain refuge for incredible stargazing.
Top Tips: Pack warm layers and a torch if you plan to stay overnight, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset.
Final Tips for Hiking in La Palma
- Footwear: Wear comfortable and suitable shoes; hiking boots are recommended for more challenging trails.
- Preparation: Research the trails beforehand to ensure they match your fitness level, and note that mobile signal can be patchy in many areas.
- Respect Nature: Always carry a bag to collect your rubbish and respect the local flora and fauna.
- Hydration and Snacks: Bring enough water and food, and carry something sugary for a quick energy boost.
- Timing: Start early to avoid the midday heat, and avoid hiking in bad weather.
La Palma’s varied landscapes and untouched nature make it a hiker’s paradise. From ancient forests and volcanic terrain to dramatic coastlines, each trail reveals the island’s unique beauty.
So lace up your boots, grab your backpack, and get ready to explore La Isla Bonita!
Categories: Canaries, Travel Tips, Get Inspired, La Palma
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