Explore one of Spain’s most beautiful Canary Islands on this 8-day self-guided walking tour
La Palma, known as "La Isla Bonita" (The Beautiful Island) is a jewel that juts up from the Atlantic Ocean. It is waiting to be discovered on this 8-day self-guided walking tour. Belonging to Spain's esteemed Canary Islands, La Palma is known for its incredible volcanic landscapes, enchanting green forests, and beautiful stretches of beach-lined coast.
The entire island of La Palma was declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 2002, ensuring that the island's natural beauty remains unspoiled. Discover the highlights and hidden corners of this hiker’s paradise as you explore well-marked trails through a variety of mesmerizing scenery.
Setting out from hand-picked locations in strategic points on the island, you'll spend your days navigating ancient trails like the island's Camino Real, trekking through plunging gorges bursting with colour.
Visit the UNESCO nature reserve of Los Tilos, where you'll hike through lush laurel forest beneath a whimsical canopy of dream-like clouds. Soak in the serenity of the countryside as you walk peaceful trails through agricultural landscapes. Ascend Bejenada Peak (1,854m/6082ft), the island's only free-standing mountain, challenging yourself to reach the top, granting you fabulous views of the mighty Calder de Taburiente.
Connect with nature on this exceptional island escape as you discover the best of La Palma!
Touching down in La Palma is an experience all its own! The anticipation is no doubt rising as you’ve caught a glimpse of this green island paradise from above.
A private transfer will greet you at the airport and take you to your first hotel in the village of Los Cancajos. Once settled, perhaps catch a bus or taxi to visit the vibrant capital Santa Cruz de la Palma. If sun and sea sound more like your cup of tea, then head to the beach for some R&R before your first day of walking tomorrow!
Early in the morning a taxi transfer is arranged to go to one of the cloud forests that are so typical of the Canary Islands: el Cubo de la Galga. The walk starts on wide forest paths but then changes to paved and unpaved country roads as you reach the coast; covered in with plantations of the Canarian banana: the plátano. You can choose to end the walk after 7 or 11.7km at one of the bus stops where you can get on the Guagua (canarian for public bus) to Barlovento. From this northern most town you walk another km to the comfortable hotel (with indoor and outdoor swimming pool) where you will stay for 2 nights.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Barlovento
Taxi transfer to the village of Los Machines de Franceses, situated in one of the most remote parts of the island. You will follow the historic “Camino Real de Los Machines”, walking via La Tosca (famous for its magnificent Canary Island Dragon trees) back to Barlovento.
Finally, enjoy another excellent dinner tonight at the hotel.
Your day begins with a taxi transfer to the foot of the impressive Pico de La Nieve (2,039m/6689ft). As you trace the end of the deep Caldera de Taburiente, an exciting route unfolds before descending along the Camino Real.
Walk through fragrant pine forests until you reach the Virgen del Pino Chapel, a tiny church set amidst glorious scenery. From the chapel, a taxi transfer will take you to tonight's accommodations in Los Llanos de Aridane.
A taxi transfer to Los Brecitos kicks the day off as you make your way into the heart of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where you’ll enjoy a day of exploring the stunning natural oasis.
Descend to the bed of the Taburiente River, where you’ll spot the legendary “Roque Idafe,” a patchwork of breathtaking natural scenery, including a colourful waterfall (dyed by the sulphur of the Caldera) and strange rock formations. You’ll have ample opportunity to snap your new profile picture here!
After a full day of exploring the park, a taxi transfer will take you back to your accommodations in Los Llanos de Aridane.
Panoramic route that starts with supersteep climb across ancient lava flow to the western edge of the crater Taburiente. Then you gradually descend over mainly footpaths and unpaved country roads to the restaurant and mirador El Time; end of the standard walk. The route extension continues further downhill along mainly paved but quiet lanes to the friendly beach town of Puerto Tazacorte. Take your time to have lunch before travelling back to the hotel in Llanos de Aridane by public transport.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Los Llanos de Aridane
On you last day you’ll do another classic of the island's hiking repertoire: the Ruta de los Volcanes, between the hermitage of the Virgen del Pilar towards Los Canarios (Fuencaliente). Fortunately ,this route is again open to the public, after the most recent volcanic eruption at Cumbre Vieja (in September 2021). It was already a route of great geological interest, and now it is even more so; demonstrating the shaping and destructive force of nature, whose consequences the inhabitants of the Island still suffer daily.
If this route seems too long and hard, ask the taxi driver to take you to Los Canarios so that you can do the last part of the route only, towards the Fuencaliente Lighthouse (supplement to be paid directly on the spot). In both cases you continue in the afternoon by public bus to Santa Cruz where your luggage awaits you at the hotel.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Los Cancajos
Your hiking adventure on La Palma comes to an end today. Once you’re packed up, a private transfer will take you to the airport to depart.
This self-guided tour of La Palma is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, as well as the season.
Prices below are per person:
Departures on October 1st - December 21st, 2022:
Departures on December 22nd - January 6th, 2023:
Departures on January 7th - March 25th, 2023:
Departures on March 26th - April 30th, 2023:
Departures on May 1st - September 24th, 2023:
Departures on September 25th - December 21st, 2023:
Departures on December 22nd - January 6th, 2024:
This tour is based in 2-star and 3-star hotels that are excellently located. The hotels offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and basic amenities.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy and single travelers will pay a supplement.
This charming hotel, set in a serene rural area just outside the village of Los Cancajos, boasts traditional island architecture with vibrant splashes of colour and beautiful façades.
This spectacular mountain hotel surrounds guests with amazing views of the sea, forest, and mountains, and is the perfect place to unwind after a day on foot.
This recently renovated hotel is located nearby the beach and offers guests superb views of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
This charming hotel, set in a serene rural area just outside the village of Los Cancajos, boasts traditional island architecture with vibrant splashes of colour and beautiful façades.
7 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included on this tour.
Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.
Airport transfers upon arrival and on departure are included on this tour. Luggage transport between hotels on Days 1, 2, 4 and 7 are included on this tour. All transfers noted in the day-to-day itinerary are also included on this tour, except for the public transport transfers.
How hard is the Best of La Palma Walking Tour?
We rate this tour a 4 / 5. Challenging day walks and some trekking in mountainous areas are required on this tour. You should be comfortable hiking between 5-7 hours daily in sometimes difficult or rocky terrain.
Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Best of La Palma Walking Tour?
7 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included on this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Los Cancajos to start this tour?
Arrive at La Palma Airport (SPC), where you’ll be met by a private transfer that will take you to your accommodations in Los Cancajos.
Where does the Best of La Palma Walking Tour end?
The tour ends in Los Cancajos. A private transfer will take you from your accommodations in Los Cancajos to the La Palma Airport (SPC) to depart.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?
The best time to travel to the Canary Islands for this tour is between March and October. If you prefer hot weather, visit in July or August. If you prefer cooler weather, visit in the spring or fall.
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Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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45 total ratings, 0 with reviewsStephen L.
I’ve been using 10A route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10A made that happen.
Melinda S.
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Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
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I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
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We rate this tour a 4 / 5. Challenging day walks and some trekking in mountainous areas are required on this tour. You should be comfortable hiking between 5-7 hours daily in sometimes difficult or rocky terrain.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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