Volcano tour

Hiking on the Volcano tour

This hike begins at the El Pilar Refuge and continues along the edge of the southern mountain range until reaching almost 2,000 m. above sea level. Volcanoes like that of San Juan follow each other until we conquer the crater of Las Deseadas, the highest point on our route, from where we dominate the island from a bird’s eye view. On our descent, the Martín volcano surprises us with its beautiful red tones, and the southern pine forests cover us up to Los Canarios, the final point of our walk.

The GR131  along the Cumbre Vieja

The Volcano Route can possibly be described as the most spectacular and impressive trek, because of the dramatic volcanic landscapes and the incredible views of the two sides of La Palma from a range of 2000-metre-high mountains.

The entire Cumbre Vieja (Old Peak) is an enormous volcano that has burst into life from time to time over the years. From the El Pilar Refuge to the Fuencaliente Lighthouse, an infinity of craters from different ages are scattered across a lunar landscape.

The Refugio del Pilar

From the Refugio del Pilar to the Fuencaliente Lighthouse, countless craters from different periods dot a lunar landscape. From 1,440 m. above sea level, our tour begins at El Refugio del Pilar, from where we always walk south. The path ascends little by little and shows us the first scenes: the plain of El Paso, the Pico Bejenado, the Caldera de Taburiente, the Cumbre Nueva … After the first hour we arrive at the crater of Hoyo Negro, a cone formed by ash and conglomerates, whose eruption took place in 1949.
Las Deseadas (two ancient craters) are the highest point on our route: 1,949 m. We are now above the height of the clouds. The three neighboring islands can be seen clearly. To the west, a calm sea bathes the coasts on which its towns extend.

The Volcán Martin

In the north, the huge crater from La Caldera crowns the island. After a gentle descent we arrive at the Martín Volcano, which is distinguished by its reddish hues in contrast to the green pine forests.

The end from the Volcano tour

When we get to Fuencaliente, we will have spent over 7 hours hiking 19 km, and the route will have shown us how the inhabitants of the island used to have to carry their merchandise from the north to the south. In those days, the Volcano Route was the usual path that was tramped by merchants and country folk, who could enjoy these superb views in the course of their everyday work.

From all accommodations on La Palma (check pick-up points and departure time at the reservation calendar)

We recommend suitable hiking clothing and sturdy footwear. During the routes, it is necessary to have enough food and drink, as well as sun protection, cap, light windbreaker and warm clothing in the winter months. We offer wooden sticks for free.

Due to weather conditions or unforeseen issues, there may be changes to the tour itinerary. You will be informed as soon as possible.

Walking tour offered through La Palma Transfer & Tours – for any enquiries about pick up time, bookings or tour details, please call the telephone number below.

We will be happy to help you and answer any questions you may have!