Are you on holiday in La Palma and want to see the most recent active volcano in the Canary Islands? Specialised companies offer guided tours to the area closest to the eruption, while observing every safety measure. An unforgettable experience, not only because of the majesty of the cone and its cliffs, but also because of how breathtaking it is to behold the scar left by an eruption that destroyed more than 1,700 homes, shops, neighbourhoods and farms.

It should be noted that the archipelago emerged from the Atlantic Ocean as the result of underwater eruptions millions of years ago. Since then, the history of the Canary Islands has been marked by volcanic eruptions, which have created such spectacular landscapes as the Teide National Park on the island of Tenerife, and the Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote.  

Specifically, La Palma’s recent past been very active volcanically, having been home to the most recent eruptions on the islands. In fact, it has seen three eruptions in the last 100 years: the volcano of San Juan in 1949, the Teneguía volcano in 1971, and the volcano that was born in Cumbre Vieja in 2021. 

The volcano erupted on 19 September last year, and spewed out lava continuously for 85 days. Authorities officially declared the eruption over on Christmas Day, 25 December 2021, although the yellow alert remains in place due to gas emissions and the very high temperatures at some points in the flows.

Because of this, safety measures and monitoring the volcanic activity are essential in order to safely visit the area around the volcano.

How to see the La Palma volcano up close

The volcano is visible from the Cabeza de Vaca trail, in the municipality of El Paso. After a short walk with a guide, the tour will take you a safe distance away from ground zero of the eruption, where you will be able to see the vastness of the cone and lava flows.
The guides will have specialised tools for measuring gases to make sure they remain at safe levels at all times. The trail has a round-trip length of 5.5 kilometres (approximately three hours) with a 183 m elevation gain, and will surprise you with a landscape covered in ashes and gravel. It also runs through the famous Llano del Jable, which is even more Moon-like after the eruption.

Who this route is for

Medium difficulty, recommended for people in good physical condition. Comfortable clothing and proper footwear should also be worn, as well as sun protection. 

The route is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or walking difficulties, nor is it advisable for children under seven. In any case, minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Also, although they may seem like the perfect souvenir, it is important to note that taking volcanic ash or rocks with you is forbidden. You are, however, allowed to carry a camera to immortalize the moment. Other good photographs of the volcano can be taken from the Tajuya viewpoint and from the El Time viewpoint, where some of the specialised companies that provide these services also offer tours to visitors.
We remind you that the island is home to the La Palma & Teneguía Princess hotel, located in the municipality of Fuencaliente, and which features every amenity to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, or you come with your partner, we recommend the “Esencia de La Palma” option. It has all the advantages of an exclusive and private hotel in a dream setting, and it’s only for adults.

Categories: Canaries, Travel Tips, La Palma, Lifestyle, Uncategorized