The Volcanoes Route of La Palma

Overview

The volcanoes trail of La Palma crosses the main volcanoes area of the canary island, from EL Refugio del Pilar to Fuencaliente. This route can be done backwards, from Fuencaliente to EL Pilar but it’s normally hiked on the other way due to the elevation gained is way less.

During the trail, the volcano landscape shows plenty of colour contrasts, from the green of the Canarian pines, the black lava trails and yellow-reds and brown oxidation tones of volcanic terrains.

The Volcanoes route of La Palma follows the volcanic ridge that divides the south of the island into two sides, east and west. Walking through the volcanoes ridge trail allows hiking above the clouds of the east side, to contemplate the incredible views of the west side of La Palma and other islands as Tenerife, La Gomera and El Hierro.

El Pilar – La Deseada volcano

Walking this route from El Pilar to Fuencaliente is a bit easier than backwards so if you’re not considering doing the GR131 from Fuencaliente to Tazacorte.

Behind the picnic area of El Pilar begins the volcanoes route of La Palma. It starts going up through a pine forest to the south-west. It quickly gains elevation and as the trail goes higher the vegetation is poorer and at 1800m there are only a few pine trees challenging the heavy winds that are often present up there. The path goes around Birigoyo volcano following the gr131 and slowly goes up until it reaches La Deseada, where the trail follows the ups and downs of the orography originated by the volcanoes chain through which this trail pass by.

From La Deseada to Volcan Martín, volcanoes landscapes of La Palma

The most beautiful part of the path is probably the part from La Deseada to Volcan Martín. The landscape and amazing mountain relief make this part of the hike one of the most unique places of the Canary Islands. Heavy winds during the route can be presents but especially in this exposed area. This area is very exposed to the sun as well so be sure of bringing enough water during summer.

Recommendations

-Be careful with the weather conditions because it can change quickly and in an unexpected way, especially during winter. In case of bad weather conditions like winds up to 50km/h, fog, rain or other inclement weather do not hike around the area or be very careful if you decide to take this risk. Before going to hike check out the conditions of the paths in Senderos de La Palma.

-In case of setting up a tent to avoid the camping areas and nearby without permission and notice that is illegal to set up a tent in Spain. If it is wanted to take the risk, set up the tent in a remote place at sunset and wake up early to avoid forest rangers. During summertime, there are more controls.

-Your safety is our concern but it is your responsibility. Hiking in nature requires a minimum of preparation and wearing warm clothes and proper boots always with us.