Description
Niveau
GR131 La Gomera: Trekking Through the Heart of the Island
The GR131 on La Gomera is an 8-day individual trek of approximately 88 kilometres* allowing you to discover the island on foot. During the first three hiking days, you follow the official GR131 from east to west, crossing the central mountain ridge of La Gomera. With an additional overnight stay in Vallehermoso, there is time for a rest day or an extra hike. Two additional stages then complete the route, taking you back to the starting point via a loop.
The trek takes you through the green interior of La Gomera, where laurel forests, volcanic rock formations, deep valleys and small mountain villages alternate. The landscape changes constantly, from the cool and humid highlands around Garajonay to sunny valleys with palm trees and eventually towards the coast.
An important part of the route is Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you hike through ancient laurel forests, where mist and humidity create a distinctive atmosphere. Along the way, you pass landmarks such as Roque Agando and traditional villages where life still moves at a relaxed pace.
The hiking stages average between 12 and 15 kilometres, but the many elevation changes make this a challenging mountain trek. With luggage transfers included, you only need to carry a light daypack.
What makes the GR131 La Gomera special?
✅ Garajonay National Park: Hike through ancient laurel forests in the heart of La Gomera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
✅ East to west: Follow the central mountain ridge of La Gomera and experience how the landscape changes along the route.
✅ Roque Agando: Pass one of the island’s most distinctive volcanic rock formations.
✅ Silbo Gomero: Discover the traditional whistling language of La Gomera, which remains an important part of the island’s culture.
✅ Mountain forests and palm-filled valleys: Experience the contrast between the cool highlands and sunny valleys.
✅ Complete circular trek: Thanks to the additional stages, you eventually return to your starting point, completing a full hiking circuit of La Gomera.
Hiking level
The GR131 on La Gomera is a challenging mountain trek. The daily distances of around 12 to 15 kilometres are manageable, but the route includes frequent climbs and descents. A good level of fitness and experience hiking in mountainous terrain are therefore important.
Included in this hiking holiday
✓ 8-day individual trek
✓ Overnight stays in carefully selected, small-scale accommodations
✓ Luggage transfers between accommodations
✓ All necessary passenger transfers during the hiking holiday
✓ Comprehensive Canary-Hiking travel itinerary with practical information
✓ Access to the Canary-Hiking Travel App with daily programmes, routes, GPX files and accommodation details
✓ 1 month of free use of the Canary-Hiking Komoot app from the start of your trip
- Roque Agando
- Alto de Garajonay
- Unique Valleys
- Special Accommodations
- Valley of Vallehermoso
- Silbo Gomero
- Including Luggage Transport
- Variety in Landscapes
1 | Arrival in San Sebastián
Welcome to La Gomera! After arriving at Tenerife airport, you’ll be picked up for a comfortable transfer to the port of Los Cristianos. From here, you’ll board the ferry that will take you to the enchanting La Gomera. Once you arrive in San Sebastián, the island’s capital, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and exploring the car-free town center. Enjoy a well-deserved drink on a terrace or taste the local specialties. It’s the perfect way to prepare for the adventure ahead!
2 | Uphill: The Start of Your Adventure
The first stage of the GR131 begins with a steep climb! This challenging start is a great way to get into the right walking mindset. The path winds its way upwards, and although you won’t cover many kilometers, you’ll gain a lot of elevation. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view and can treat yourself to a refreshing drink at the cozy restaurant. After this climb and the beautiful vistas, you’ll be comfortably transferred back to San Sebastián to rest for the next stage.
Distance: 9 km
Elevation: +940m uphill / –96m downhill
3 | The Mid-Mountains: Between Mountains and Clouds
You begin the day with a transfer to where you ended the previous stage. Here, you start the next phase of the GR131, which takes you through one of the most beautiful sections of La Gomera. As you slowly ascend, you’ll get closer to Alto Garajonay, the island’s highest point. This is a magical place, in the heart of Garajonay National Park, famous for its ancient laurel forests and the mysterious mist that envelops the area. From the top, you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the green heart of La Gomera. After this stage, you’ll arrive in Chipude in the afternoon.
Distance: 17 km
Elevation: +720m uphill / –560m downhill
4 | The Valley of Vallehermoso: The End of the GR131
Today, you’ll walk through the beautiful Valley of Vallehermoso, the impressive endpoint of the GR131 on La Gomera. The route leads you through a landscape that becomes greener as you get closer to Vallehermoso. This valley, surrounded by mountains, is one of the most beautiful spots on the island, offering a stunning panorama of nature.
Just before you reach Vallehermoso, you’ll pass the reservoir, Presa de la Cabezita. The peaceful surroundings of the lake make for the perfect pause. After this break, you’ll continue through the valley, known for its fertile land and traditional terraced farming. Eventually, you’ll reach Vallehermoso, the endpoint of the GR131.
Distance: 14 km
Elevation: +280m uphill / –1170m downhill
5 | Extra day in Vallehermoso
Would you like to take a rest day, or prefer another hike? The choice is yours. You will receive a beautiful circular walk towards the Ermita de Coromoto, which is well worth the effort.
- You can also choose to swap this extra night in Vallehermoso for a free day in San Sebastián, just before your departure.
6 | The Red Earth: From Vallehermoso to Hermigua via Agulo
Today, you’ll walk a challenging stage of the GR132, taking you from Vallehermoso toward the coast. The journey begins with a steep climb, and as you ascend, you’ll get spectacular views of Tenerife and the impressive El Teide volcano towering above the clouds.
The route passes through Agulo, a village famous for its picturesque streets, before continuing to Hermigua, the next destination of your journey. The paths lead you through rugged landscapes, where you’ll discover the typical red soil of this part of the island. This volcanic landscape provides a beautiful contrast to the greenery of the surrounding valleys.
Distance: 19 km
Elevation: +940m uphill / –980m downhill
7 | Last but Not Least – The Final Stage to San Sebastián
This final stage of your adventure on La Gomera is yet another great challenge and a perfect way to finish your journey. You start the day with a tough climb from Hermigua to the higher areas. After this impressive ascent, a long, gradual descent follows toward the capital. As you descend, you’ll pass a beautiful reservoir nestled in a peaceful green environment. The journey ends in San Sebastián, where you’ll arrive with a sense of accomplishment. You’ve completed the island loop, an adventure full of highlights, breathtaking views, and untouched nature. It’s a journey you’ll remember with a smile – the ultimate discovery of La Gomera!
Distance: 17,5 km
Elevation: +770m uphill / –900m downhill
8 | Return Journey
After an unforgettable experience on La Gomera, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful island. Enjoy your last moments on the island and reflect on the remarkable trek you’ve completed. The ferry will take you back to Tenerife, and a transfer will be waiting to take you to the airport.
Until next time! ✈️🌴
Inclusive
- The price is based on 2 persons
- Travel time: 8 days
- Comfortable accommodations with breakfast
- Return transfer airport Tenerife South – Port
- Return ferry
- Transfers during the walking tour
- Luggage transport!
- Selfguided hike with GPX and script
- Whatsapp support
- Travel guarantee STO Garant
- Acces to our travel app
Exclusive
- Outward and return journey
- All meals except breakfast
- Booking costs
- Single supplement
- Return transfer airport Tenerife North
- Travel and cancellation insurance
- Mountain sports insurance recommended
Our special accommodations
Because we use small-scale accommodations, it is possible that we use a different accommodation than shown. All accommodations are equal to each other!
Distance
88 km
Difficulty
Difficult
Up.
4624 m.
Down.
3968 m.
Frequently asked questions about GR131 La Gomera
How difficult is the hike on La Gomera?
The GR131 trek on La Gomera is considered a challenging route, ideal for hikers with a good physical condition. The trek is not suitable for absolute beginners, as the route has many differences in altitude and sometimes steep ascents and descents.
Average distance per day: Approximately 15-20 km per day.
Elevation: The trek has a total of approximately 4000 meters of elevation (ascents and descents).
Type of terrain: You walk on unpaved paths, through mountainous areas, rocky gorges, and laurel forests.
How long does the journey take on La Gomera?
The trek takes 8 days, including a number of extra stages to make a complete loop around the island. The route covers approximately 75 kilometres over several stages, from the east to the west of the island, with extra highlights along the way.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The GR131 is a challenging hike, ideal for experienced hikers. The route has considerable elevation changes and some stages are quite tough. A good level of fitness is essential, but with the right preparation the hike can be completed by most experienced hikers.
Can I also book this trip alone?
Yes, you can do the trek solo. The route is well marked and with the detailed route information you receive, you can follow the stages independently. It is important to prepare yourself well for the physical challenges of the route.
Is luggage transport included?
Yes, your luggage will be transported for you daily. You will only walk with a light daypack and can enjoy the route without any worries.
What kind of terrain can I expect?
The GR131 takes you over unpaved paths, through rocky gorges, mountainous areas and laurel forests. You will also experience varied landscapes, from the green inland to the rugged coasts, with a few tough climbs and descents.
Where do I stay during the tour?
You will stay in comfortable and well-located accommodations, ranging from small hotels and mountain hotels to traditional island houses. All accommodations have been carefully selected for comfort and authenticity.
What is the best time to travel?
The GR131 can be walked all year round. On La Gomera it is between March and June or September and November, when the weather is mild. In summer it can be quite hot, especially in the lower areas, and in winter it can be colder at higher altitudes.
Are there any special details I should take into account?
La Gomera is known for its misty and green mountains, especially during the winter months. Make sure you are well prepared for changeable weather, and remember to bring adequate walking shoes, rain protection and sunglasses for the different weather conditions you may encounter along the way.
How many meters of elevation do I have to overcome?
The route has significant elevation changes, with some stages taking you above 1400 meters. During the trek you will conquer more than 4000 meters of elevation, both up and down, so good physical preparation is important.
