8-day adventure
Volcanoes of La Palma
Spain
- Trekking & Hiking
From $1,425
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our UK team
Our local team
Our Canary Islands office is based in El Médano on the island of Tenerife. Our local team provide group adventures and create tailor made private trips. Whether you want to scale the 3715m peak of Mt Teide (Spain's highest mountain) or discover the laurisilva forests of La Palma, our experienced team of guides have all the skills and local knowledge to ensure you have an exceptional experience. The team have a contagious passion for the Canary...
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Kandoo's view
On this superb route you will hike your way through all the most stunning natural wonders of La Palma. From the misty and humid forests of Los Tilos and Caldera del Agua to the dizzying heights of the Roque de los Muchachos and Cumbre Vieja. Parts of our trail will follow the famous Transvulcania, the route of a long distance race rated as the hardest mountain ultra-marathon in the world. We will discover deep gorges, troglodyte caves and bizarre lava rocks. Swim in the Atlantic Ocean and peer into volcanoes. The landscapes and vegetation are incredibly diverse and each day yields its own remarkable discoveries. This is without doubt one of the finest hiking routes in the Atlantic.
Trip highlights
- Reach the summit of Roque de los Muchachos
- Explore the forest of Los Tilos
- Enjoy the superb local cuisine
Experiences
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Trekking & Hiking
Our core collection of treks and hikes, through some of the world's most outstanding landscapes
Gallery
Itinerary
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Day 1
Welcome to La Palma
Arrival at La Palma Airport (SPC). A member of the Kandoo Adventures team will be at the airport to meet you and we transfer to our hotel in Santa Cruz where we will be staying for 3 nights. We meet our guide and the rest of the group at the hotel. Depending on your arrival time there may be a chance to get out and explore the area. Our pre-trek briefing will be held this evening.
- Accomodation: Hotel
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Day 2
The Forest of los Tilos
We start our exploration of La Palma with a circular hike through the primary forest of Los Tilos, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The forest is an explosion of biodiversity and one of the last remaining strong holds of Laurisilver, a broadleaved tree which dominated the planet millions of years ago.
- Hiking time: 7 - 8 hours
- Ascent: 1485 m
- Descent: 1485 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 3
Roque de los Muchachos
This morning we leave our accommodation early, around 5.30am. Our hike begins in Canarian pine forest but we quickly rise above the tree line as we head for the summit of the island, the Roque de los Muchachos. Home to the most important astronomical observatory in the northern hemisphere, the Rock of the Children stands at 2426m above sea level. We walk along volcanic ridge lines, following the famous GR131 trail along the northern border of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. High on the ridges we are treated to incredible 360 degree views of the cloud sea to the east and the vast Atlantic to the west. After taking some time at the summit to relax and take photos we descend back into the forest and return to our hotel.
- Hiking time: 7 - 8 hours
- Ascent: 800 m
- Descent: 530 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 4
Puntagorda and Buracas
After two days of strenuous walking, today we will take it easy. Our hike starts from Puntagorda on the western side of the island. We follow the ravine known as barranco de Izcagua to the village of Tricias, passing between dragon trees and almond trees. In the afternoon we descend to Buracas, where we can view ancient troglodyte caves and the beautiful dragon tree gardens. There is time for a swim in the sea at Poris de Puntagorda before we reach our hotel.
- Hiking time: 3 - 4 hours
- Ascent: 566 m
- Descent: 605 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 5
La Caldera del Agua
Today we will be exploring the Caldera del Agua, home to the most beautiful laurel forests on the island. We start from the cultural centre of Zarza, passing through an incredibly diverse range of vegetation typical of the north of the island. At Don Pedro we meet the GR130, the old Camino Real (Royal Road) which goes around the entire island. Here on the northern side of La Palma we will see the most isolated villages, pristine forest and deepest gorges the island has to offer.
- Hiking time: 4 - 5 hours
- Ascent: 430 m
- Descent: 1040 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 6
La Caldera de Taburiente
We set off to explore the National Park of Caldera de Taburiente. From los Brecitos, the path leads us through the Canarian pine forest, at the foot of the vertiginous cliffs of the caldera, a volcanic basin 8km in diameter. We follow the trail to the famous barranco de las Angustias, where we will make a detour through waterfalls with incredible colours thanks to the presence of iron and sulfur in the rock. We continue along the river bed and discover the cushion lavas, similar to giant turtle shells! In the afternoon we return to our hotel in Tazacorte.
NOTE: In the afternoon there will be transport available to Tazarcorte where you can take a PCR test for Covid19 before your return flight. The cost for a test is €90 which must be paid locally.- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Ascent: 160 m
- Descent: 950 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 7
The Volcano Trail
An early start (6.30am) is required today as we have a long distance to cover. After a short transfer to El Pilar, we begin climbing the volcanic ridge of Cumbre Vieja on the magnificent Volcano Trail. We will be walking over the last craters to have erupted on the island many years ago. We reach the first crater of Hoyo Negro (last eruption 1949) and enter a volcanic desert of craters and cones. This crossing of more than 20km offers remarkable views of the entire island of La Palma. We climb Teneguia, the location of the last eruption on the Canary Islands in 1971. Finally we reach the southern tip of the island with its salt marshes an iconic lighthouse (the last in use on the island). A truly dramatic hike to mark the end of our adventure on La Palma.
- Hiking time: 5 - 6 hours
- Ascent: 750 m
- Descent: 1500 m
- Accomodation: Hotel
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch
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Day 8
Departure
Depending on your flight time there may be an opportunity to wonder the streets of Sant Cruz and pick up some souvenirs before transferring to the airport for your flight home.
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Details
Trip information
Difficulty
This adventure is rated as difficult. The
walking is continuous for 6 days with up to 1500m of ascent and descent and
20km to cover in a single day. The terrain can be very steep, rocky and
difficult to walk on so care should be taken to avoid slips and trips. The
weather on the Canary Islands can be hot and humid which makes the walking more
demanding. You should be in good physical condition
with recent experience of hiking for several days in row with 1500m of ascent
and descent in a day. To ask about your suitability for this trip and what you
can do to prepare please feel free to give us a call.
Food & drink
Breakfasts
are taken either at our hotel or in small adjoining restaurants. The breakfasts
will be continental in style with a selection of bread, jam, pastries, cold
meats, cheese, yoghurts and fruit.
Please note that a hot breakfast may not be available.
Lunches
are picnic style, the Canarian
cuisine lending itself perfectly to fresh fruits and vegetables (banana, mango,
avocado and tomatoes), cold meats and local cheeses etc. In
the evening, meals are taken in small local restaurants. We attach great
importance to gastronomy and all the places we eat have been chosen with
care. You will have the opportunity to sample all the local specialties
such as papas arrugadas, ropa vieja or miel de palma.
Please
note that the water on La Palma is not drinkable everywhere. During the trip,
drinks including water, are your own responsibility. Although drinkable water
is widely available, it is a good idea to bring a water filter along for peace
of mind and flexibility.
If
you have special dietary requirements please call and let us know as soon as
possible before departure. We will do everything possible to accommodate your
needs.
Accommodation
On La Palma, we use
only 3 star hotels and select properties carefully to ensure you are staying in
the best locations.
Rooms will be double or twin with en-suite
facilities. Triple rooms and single
supplements are available subject to availability.
Transport
All transportation including airport transfers is included.
To travel around the island we will use comfortable minibus style vehicles.
Luggage
During your trip your luggage will be
transported by vehicle. Your main bag must be flexible (a duffle bag and
not a rigid suitcase) and weigh a maximum of 15kg. Your luggage will be
transported to your accommodation each afternoon and you will not be able to
access it during the day. You should also bring a small day pack to carry
water, snacks and anything else you may need whilst walking.
How do I get there?
La Palma Airport (SPC) is located 8km south of the city of Santa Cruz, on the eastern coast of La Palma.
From the UK there are direct flights with TUI from London Gatwick and Manchester airports. British Airways also offer flights from Heathrow with a short stop in Madrid.
For those traveling from the states, Iberia offer flights to La Palma via Madrid from New York, Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia. British Airways and American Airlines also have flights via Madrid from Dallas.
Those traveling from the west coast will need to make an additional connection at one of the airports mentioned above or may prefer to fly direct to London and continue to La Palma from there.
Once you have arrived in La Palma, cleared immigration and collected your luggage, please look out for a member of our team in the arrivals area. They will be holding a large “KANDOO” sign.
From the UK there are direct flights with TUI from London Gatwick and Manchester airports. British Airways also offer flights from Heathrow with a short stop in Madrid.
For those traveling from the states, Iberia offer flights to La Palma via Madrid from New York, Boston, Chicago and Philadelphia. British Airways and American Airlines also have flights via Madrid from Dallas.
Those traveling from the west coast will need to make an additional connection at one of the airports mentioned above or may prefer to fly direct to London and continue to La Palma from there.
Once you have arrived in La Palma, cleared immigration and collected your luggage, please look out for a member of our team in the arrivals area. They will be holding a large “KANDOO” sign.
Budget & change
The currency on the Canary Islands is the
Euro (EUR). For the latest exchange rates please see www.xe.com
It is possible to withdraw cash from ATMs
on the island but please be mindful of any charges from your bank. Credit cards
are widely accepted in the towns but not in remote areas. Please budget for
drinks, souvenirs and any meals not included in your tour.
Tips
Although the custom is practiced here, it
is not expected. If you are satisfied with the services of your guide and local
team, tipping is always appreciated. It
is not obligatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual.
Formalities & health
Passport
Most travellers will require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific requirements and please be aware that proof of onward travel may be required.
Visa
Travelling to the Canary Islands is visa free for up to 90 days, for UK and US citizens
Vaccinations
No vaccinations are required.
Insurance
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully and adequately insured for the duration of your trip. Please ensure that all activities, excursions and destinations in your itinerary are included in your travel insurance policy, in addition to your regular cover for cancellation and medical expenses. We ask that you keep a copy of your policy summary (containing policy number and the emergency contact number for your insurer) in your day sack at all times, so that we can access this information should we need to contact the insurer on your behalf.
Medication
Your guide carries a first aid kit at all times but we recommend you carry the following items:
- Painkillers
- Sunscreen for lips and skin
- Moisturising cream (for sunburn)
- Elastic bandage, regular bandages and Blister bandages
- Sanitary products
Equipment & clothing
Clothing to bring
- Warm
hat (beanie)
- Sun
hat with wide brim for protection
- Sunglasses
- Neck
gaiter or scarf
- Suitable
quick drying underwear
- Light
gloves
- Walking
boots (with ankle support and sturdy soles)
- Socks
(quick drying and not too warm)
- T-shirts
and warm jumper
- Fleece
or soft shell jacket
- Waterproof
and windproof hard shell jacket
- Walking
trousers and/or shorts
- Pajamas,
travel towel and toiletries
- Comfortable
shoes for the evenings
- Waterproof
trousers
Equipment to bring
- Head
torch and spare batteries
- Walking
poles
- Wet
wipes and hand sanitiser
- Plastic
bags for wet/dirty clothing
- Eating
utensils
- 30-40
litre
day pack
- 80
– 100 litre
duffel bag, max weight 15kg
- Camera
- Water
filter
- Water
bottles or hydration pack
Dates & prices
| From | To | Price | Availability | Book | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29/09/2022 | 06/10/2022 | $1,425 £1,099 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 27/10/2022 | 03/11/2022 | $1,425 £1,099 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
| 10/11/2022 | 17/11/2022 | $1,425 £1,099 |
Available
|
Book now | Enquire now |
Want to add flights or create a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!
Contact usPrice includes
- Airport transfers
- An expert Kandoo Adventures guide
- 7 nights hotel accommodation
- 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
- All transportation
Price does not include
- Flights and visas
- Travel insurance
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
- Dinner on day 1 and 7, breakfast on day 8
Options
- Additional hotel nights before or after your tour
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