luggage transfers from hotel to hotel at each stage and transfers of people, by taxi or regular buses
accommodations
3 small charming hotels, with breakfast (more information in Hotels tab)
6 walks
of approx. 10 ~14 km each to discover the most characteristic features of La Palma.
TOURS AND ACCOMMODATION:
Arrival in La Palma
Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel
1st night in Santa Cruz de La Palma > Hotel Holiday Time
Enchanted Forest
walking distance: 10,9 Km
ascent: + 615 m
descent: – 521 m
2nd night in Barlovento > Hotel La Palma Romántica
The northern ravines
walking distance: 9,8 Km
ascent: + 507 m
descent: – 734 m
3rd night in Barlovento > Hotel La Palma Romántica
Poris de Candelaria: the Pirates Cave
walking distance: 8,7 Km
ascent: + 832 m
descent: – 843 m
4th night in Los Llanos de Aridane > HotelBenahoare
The Caldera de Taburiente
walking distance: 14 Km
ascent: + 237 m
descent: – 1.098 m
5th night in Los Llanos de Aridane > HotelBenahoare
The Volcanoes Route
walking distance: 17,3 Km
ascent: + 632 m
descent: – 1.376 m
6th night in Santa Cruz de La Palma > Hotel Holiday Time
Walking on the Clouds
strenuous option:
walking distance: 19,9 Km
ascent: + 430 m
descent: – 1.888 m
easier alternative:
walking distance: 11,3 Km
ascent: + 326 m
descent: – 836 m
7th night in Santa Cruz de La Palma > Hotel Holiday Time
departure
transfer to the airport
with 7 nights hotel
Difficulty
This program is for you if you usually do sports and have a good physical background; if you can walk steep slopes up and down and don’t have health problems; if you love nature, are environmentally friendly and are a regular hiker.
Laurisilva forests, recent volcanic landscapes, impressive ravines and subalpine scenery.
Gastronomy of La Palma: lunches in typical local restaurants after each route.
About La Palma Highlights
It is one of the most rugged in the world. With barely 724 square kilometres, it rises majestically to 2426 metres above the sea. Its central mountain range divides the island into two distinct parts. In the east, green lush prehistoric forests, and in the west, a more Mediterranean-like vegetation. La Palma has just suffered one of the most destructive eruptions in its history. The Cumbre Vieja is a mountain range with recent volcanism that divides the southern part of the island. It is here that some of the best routes on La Palma take place: the Ruta de Los Volcanes. But the new volcano erupted at a lower elevation and devastated a wide strip of extensively populated areas. The program we propose here includes 6 key routes, which take place in natural spaces and protected areas, unaffected by this eruption:
The best tours of La Palma
Laurel forest
Trail through the north-eastern ravines in Los Tilos. Undoubtedly one of the best routes on La Palma. A protected natural area of enormous botanical interest. Endemic species live and develop in a very humid environment. The landscape takes us back to the lush forests of the tertiary era. But fortunately, the dinosaurs are missing.
The northern ravines
Over hundreds of thousands of years, erosion has carved deep ravines in the north of La Palma. The arrival of man brought civilization. Following the pathing of animals, the best trails were defined to establish paths between the ravines. And it was on the backs of these ravines that the incipient population settled. Today, walking along these ancient paths is one of the best routes on La Palma.
Poris de Candelaria
Also known as Cueva de Los Piratas, although it was never visited by pirates.
Porís de La Candelaria is located on the cliffs in the northwest. From the northern village of Tijarafe, an old royal road leads down to the sea. El Porís was a fishing enclave in ancient times. The cave houses contained inside the huge grotto give a picturesque view of this place. Swimming in the sea is only possible when the sea is calm. The path runs along the next ravine and ascends to El Jesús, on the opposite side.
Caldera de Taburiente
It is the heart of the island, not only because of its shape. It is situated in the very centre and was declared a National Park in 1954. La Caldera is a huge erosion crater. Its volcanic activity dates to a very remote past. The walk inside the crater is one of the best routes on La Palma. It starts at 1050 metres above sea level and descends steadily until it reaches the ravine. The old tobacco farms are still tended by hermit dwellers. The high cliffs of La Caldera favor a mild climate with little rainfall. However, abundant springs provide enough water for the whole Aridane Valley.
Great tour of the volcanoes in the south
In the south of the island, we find a splendid volcanic landscape. San Antonio and Teneguía are two recent craters that can be explored on one of the best routes on La Palma. The original Ruta de Los Volcanes starts at Refugio del Pilar and ends in Fuencaliente. The great circuit through the southern volcanoes is the continuation of this route, which descends to the sea and returns to Fuencaliente.
Roque de los Muchachos
It is the highest point on La Palma. Several astronomical observatories have been set up around it. Along the ridges of the Roque we find the GR131, an extensive long-distance footpath of 84 km. And near the Roque de Los Muchachos we will find splendid viewpoints from where we can observe La Caldera and the whole island from a bird’s eye view, as well as La Gomera, El Teide and El Hierro. Without a doubt, this part of the GR131 is one of the highlights of the week in La Palma.
Transfer to the hotel in Santa Cruz de La Palma and info meeting.
+ Hotel Holiday Time (or similar - Santa Cruz de La Palma)
2
Day 2
Enchanted Forest
Taxi transfer to the begin of the walk The Laurel Forest in Los Tilos.
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In this first route the vegetation is of a lush and exuberant green, with huge laurels, heathers, and giant ferns. It is a primitive forest of prehistoric origin. At the beginning of the route, we find a spectacular waterfall that takes us back to a magical world between the splashing of the water and the cooing of the wild pigeons.
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The path starts with a demanding ascent to the Mirador de Las Barandas viewpoint. From there is a spectacular view of the sea with the nucleus of Los Sauces and San Andrés in the distance. The route continues along the bed of the Barranco de la Herradura ravine until it reaches La Laguna de Barlovento, where the next accommodation is located.
10,9 km | +615 m / -521 m
+ Hotel Palma Romántica (or similar - Barlovento)
3
Day 3
The Northern Ravines
Following the old Camino Real, nowadays signposted as GR 130, today's walk takes you from the same accommodation to the remote village of Franceses through spectacular ravines.
After leaving behind the tiny neighborhood of La Tosca, populated by a centenary Drago Tree Forest, the route continues along the edge of the cliffs that border the coast in a unforgettable panorama. The route goes past small villages like La Palmita or Topaciegas until it reaches the neighborhood of Gallegos, where there is the possibility to enjoy a well-deserved refreshment or eat a tapa in Marleny's bar.
...And now it will be time to cross the last and most spectacular of the ravines to get to Franceses. This is the last stretch of an impressive route. From Franceses, the return to Barlovento is done by regular bus.
9,8 km | + 507 m / - 734 m
+ Hotel Palma Romántica (or similar - Barlovento)
4
Day 4
Poris de Candelaria: the Pirate's Cave
The northwest is known for its dry climate and fabulous sunsets. Its vegetation also differs greatly from that of the eastern side of La Palma. And it is in this sunny environment where the route to the Pirate's Cave takes place.
The transfer takes you to Tijarafe, 640 m above sea level. The route starts directly in the village. The path descends zigzagging down to a deep blue sea until you reach the Porís de Candelaria. It is a huge grotto carved by the waves where the locals have built small caves and little houses used on weekends for fishing or to let the time pass by.
After an appropriate rest next to the sea, now it is time to take the path again in an ascending direction. The path crosses the Barranco del Jurado ravine and starts a relentless ascent to the neighborhood of El Jesús. At the end of the climb, we discover the prize: a small craft brewery awaits us to recover our strength after the hike. Return to Los Llanos by regular bus, every hour.
8,7 km | + 832 m / - 843 m
+ Hotel Benahoare (or similar - Los Llanos de Aridane)
5
Day 5
Caldera de Taburiente
Today's walk takes you to the heart of the island. The Caldera de TaburienteNational Park is a place full of history and geologically relevance. With a river that flows all year round, small waterfalls and cascades, pillow lavas that emerged from the deep sea and vertical walls with falls of up to 2000 metres.
The transfer takes you to Los Brecitos, access gate to La Caldera located at 1050 m of altitude. From there the path descends through a fragrant pine forest towards the interior of La Caldera. After reaching the camping area, you will have to cross the stream for the first time.
And after a break, the descent continues through El Reventón until reaching the Barranco de Las Angustias, where a short visit to the mythical Cascada de Los Colores (Colours Waterfall) is recommended. Now the path continues along the bed of the ravine, crossing the stream several times until you reach La Viña, where the driver will be waiting for you to return to the hotel.
14 km | + 237 m / - 1.098 m
+ Hotel Benahoare (or similar - Los Llanos de Aridane)
6
Day 6
The Volcanoes Route
From the Refugio del Pilar, at 1450 metres above sea level, the GR131 begins its ascent up the Cumbre Vieja. The path goes through beautiful pine woods, leaving behind some spectacular viewpoints to La Caldera.
Along this hike you will walk through an impressive volcanic landscape of recent formation. Las Deseadas, 1949 metres above the sea, are twin peaks that mark the end of the ascent.
In the descent towards Fuencaliente there are still some very striking volcanoes, such as the Martín Volcano, with beautiful reddish tones. The route ends in the southern village of Fuencaliente.
17,3 km | + 632 m / - 1.376 m
+ Hotel Holiday Time (or similar - Santa Cruz de La Palma)
7
Day 7
Walking over the clouds
Today we climb to the top! Our driver will drop you off after a windy road, at Pico de la Cruz, 2,351 metres above the sea. From there you will walk along the GR 131 along the edge of La Caldera to El Paso.
A magnificent trail with spectacular views over the whole island and a breathtaking view of neighboring islands of Tenerife, La Gomera and ElHierro. The GR131 borders all the enormous crater, passing by the Pico La Nieve, the Pico de la Sabina and La Erita, an enclave that was the meeting place for the aborigines of La Palma, with cave engravings.
From the Punta de Los Roques a continuous descent starts until the central summit, wrongly called Cumbre Nueva. Finally, a zigzagging Camino Real continues until the Ermita de La Virgen del Pino. But you still must continue to the La Caldera Visitor Centre, where you return to the hotel by regular bus (every 1/2 hour).
Easier alternative: If you prefer a more relaxed walk, it is also possible to start your walk at Roque de Los Muchachos, ending at Pico de La Nieve (pick-up organized by taxi).
Strenuous option:
19,9 km | + 430 m / - 1.888 m
Easier alternative:
11,3 km | + 326 m / - 836 m
+ Hotel Holiday Time (or similar - Santa Cruz de La Palma)
8
Day 8
Departure
Transfer to the airport for departure.
TOUR LOCATION
Get to know the diverse landscape of La Palma over the course of a week. Discover the essence of the island with the La Palma Highlight program through spectacular walking routes, such as the Caldera de Taburiente, the Bosque de Laureles and the Cumbre Vieja Volcanoes.
Small emblematic hotel with 16 rooms. With an excellent location, in front of the extensive urban beach of Santa Cruz de La Palma. The hotel is close to pedestrian areas, with leisure and atmosphere, while maintaining the tranquillity that its guests demand.
The rooms on the north side offer a romantic view of the Plaza de Los Cantores, with large flamboyant trees with beautiful red flowers. The south side faces the sea, with spectacular views of the urban beach of Santa Cruz. Breakfast is buffet style with a full assortment of fruits and cold meats, as well as yoghurts, coffees and teas, to start the day with energy.
HOTEL LA PALMA ROMÁNTICA
Hotel La Palma Romantica is an ideal place for hiking and nature lovers. This charming mountain hotel is surrounded by a wooded area. The rooms are comfortably furnished with wooden furniture and feature a balcony or terrace with sea or mountain views. The suites also have a seating area, while the bungalow suites have a hot tub and a fireplace.
Its spacious rooms maintain the character of a mountain hotel, with a warm and welcoming decoration that blends in fully with the exuberant nature of its surroundings. The hotel is located at an altitude of 750 metres above the sea, in an area of enormous lushness.
HOTEL BENAHOARE
Located in the heart of Los Llanos de Aridane, in front of the square that houses the Archaeological Museum and surrounded by pedestrian areas. The Benahoare Hotel is a modern building exquisitely decorated, offering all the comfort of a small city hotel.
Its rooms offer great views of Pico Bejenado, Cumbre Nueva and La Caldera de Taburiente. And on the rooftop there is a spectacular solarium with a swimming pool.
Los Llanos de Aridane is a dynamic town of 20,000 inhabitants, with an open and cosmopolitan atmosphere, with charming corners of traditional style that invite you to stroll and enjoy its sunny atmosphere.
Additional overnights
It is also possible to book some additional days, before or after the hiking week, or an additional week to relax.
Difficulty
To successfully achieve the 6 walks it is necessary a good physical condition, steady walk and lack of vertigo. According to the year season, temperatures can be extreme (hot and/or cold). Therefore, it is necessary to have suitable warm clothes permanently, to be removed as layers if necessary. Some parts of this trail include passages with slippery loose stone. Although most of this trail is roomy enough, certain sections are quite aerial and require caution. Using hiking poles is highly recommended.
Trails
The Canary Islands has a well signposted network of trails. All sections where from our tours are perfectly marked. In addition to the detailed map of La Palma, you will get from us precise indications of each route and assistance from the hotline on your walks.
We recommend
Appropriate hiking clothing and sturdy footwear. During the tours, it is necessary to have food and drink enough, as well as sun protection, a cap, wind jacket and, in the winter months, warm clothing.
Luggage transfer
We move your luggage from one accommodation to next, so on your hikes you should only carry a backpack with the essentials of the day. For the whole trip, it is recommendable to use a single suitcase, not bigger than 20 kg.
You can book at any date!
If you can't find a suitable direct flight, try flying to TENERIFE or to GRAN CANARIA. From there, you can easily reach LA PALMA by local flights or ferry. Fly to LA PALMA (SPC) from Tenerife (TFN) or from Gran Canaria (LPA) with BINTERor CANARYFLY
but if your flight lands at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), you may prefer to combine it with a nice fast-ferry sea crossing (3 hours) from Los Cristianos harbour. FRED OLSEN connects the islands of Tenerife and La Palma twice a day.
Miguel
Travel organisation
Do you have any questions? I am happy to help you. I will answer any questions you may have!
Book early!! ...and get a 10% discount for bookings made 90 daysbefore the arrival date.
Book early!! ...and get a 10% discount for bookings made 90 daysbefore the arrival date.
PRICES: until 31st October 2025
850 € ▸ 765€ per person in double/twin room (2 persons)
| Single Suplement (room for single use)
(...and 3rd person): + 175 €
Solo Traveller (1 person): 1359 € ▸ 1220 €
PRICES: from 01st November 2025
936 € ▸ 842€ per person in double/twin room (2 persons)
| Single Suplement (room for single use)
(...and 3rd person): + 240 €
Solo Traveller (1 person): 1515 € ▸ 1363 €
Any arrival date is possible - You decide your travel dates and when to start. However, we must first request availability to the accommodations.
Booking: With an initial payment of 150 € (per person), book now and guarantee your trip. We will confirm your reserve within 24 hours. But in the case of accommodations unavailability, we will refund the paid amount or propose alternative dates.
What does this programme include?
Accommodations - 7 nights in small charming hotel, B&B, 8 days
Informations - personalised information by video-talk (if desired) on your arrival day
informative material - maps to be picked up at the hotel reception, upon arrival
Descriptions & GPX Tracks - to follow the walks on your mobile device
+ Private transfers - all necessary luggage & person transfers for each walk, including arrival & departure day.
Support 24h - we keep permanently in touch with you throughout your stay to solve any problem or enquiry you may have
What is NOT included?
▸Flights to and from your home city to La Palma are not included
▸Lunches & Dinners
Cancellation Policy
▸ Up to 14 days before the date of arrival, 100% refund.
▸Between 13 and 7 days before the arrival date, 50% refund, or free of charge dates change.
▸ Between 6 and 3 days before the arrival date, 25% refund, no date changes permitted.
▸48 hours before the arrival date, 0% refund, no date changes permitted.