With its varied and dramatic nature, La Palma is one of the most beautiful islands in the world according to many. On this north-western Canary Island, you’ll be far away from mass tourism and can instead enjoy the calm pace and fantastic hiking opportunities. A forested ridge with peaks and volcanic craters over 2000 metres high runs the length of the island, and almost half of the island’s surface is protected.
In the unspoilt north of the island, hike along the old Camino Real, through sleepy farmland and deep ravines to the famous dragon’s blood trees of La Tosca. The hike continues westwards through mist-shrouded forests and lunar landscapes to eventually arrive at the huge crater and world-famous Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
The hike ends with dignity as you make your way up Bejenado Peak, with stunning views of the crater and all of western La Isla Bonita.
Difficulty level
The daily stages are quite long and vary between about 12 and 17 km in partly hilly terrain, on average about 600 metres of altitude per day. We classify it as medium difficulty: 3 on a 5-point scale.
Weather conditions
The climate in the area is very mild as it is close to the Atlantic Ocean. Temperatures average around 15°C throughout the year and extreme temperature fluctuations are rare. The summer months tend to be dry and warm, while spring and autumn are mild and ideal for hiking, although there is some risk of rain.