Description
An Adventure on a High Level: Trek on the GR131 on La Palma
Imagine: you are standing on the steep, rugged landscape of La Palma, the second steepest island in the world. Below you lies a path that winds its way through dense forests, along jagged mountain ridges, and across volcanic plains. Above you – often literally – a sea of clouds, with a clear blue sky above. This is the GR131: a hiking route made for real adventurers.
Your journey starts in the south, in the village of Los Canarios. Here you immediately feel the unique energy of La Palma. The first day sets the tone: a long stage takes you to El Paso, a place where the island’s volcanic past is visible everywhere. Your feet slowly get used to the elevation gain, but you know this is just the beginning.
The next morning starts early. The route takes you over the ridge to the highlight of the day “the Pico de las Nieves”, a place that literally and figuratively brings you closer to heaven.
The ultimate challenge awaits on day three: the climb to Roque de los Muchachos, the highest point on La Palma at 2,426 meters. Once at the top you are above the cloud cover. The view is magical: an endless ocean of clouds with the peaks of the Canary Islands in the distance. This is not just any walking tour. This is a trip for people who crave adventure, challenge and unforgettable nature experiences. Do you have what it takes to brave the GR131? Get ready for a hiking adventure that will stay with you for years to come.
- Seamless Transfers: A Ride Where and When You Need It
Throughout your journey, you won’t need to worry about how to get to or from your hikes – we’ve got it all covered. Comfortable taxi transfers are included to take you to the starting points of your walks and bring you back to your accommodation afterwards. This way, you can begin each day relaxed and fully focused on enjoying the stunning scenery, peaceful trails, and everything La Palma has to offer. No hassle, no surprises – just pure walking pleasure with unforgettable views along the way.
- You can choose to take a direct flight to La Palma via Amsterdam, then pay attention to the flight days! Another option is to fly to Tenerife and take the ferry to La palma.
- Trek along special views
- The magical sea of clouds
- The roof of La Palma Roque de la Muchachos
- Pico de las Nieves
- Colorful villages
- Ruta de Los Volcanes
- Overwhelming starry sky
- La Isla Bonita
1 | Arrival on La Palma
Our transfer will be waiting to take you to your accommodation in the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma. This charming port town is full of life, known for its colorful colonial architecture and rich history. A lovely place to settle into the rhythm of the island.
2 | Time to land – explore Santa Cruz or start unwinding in El Paso
Before your hiking adventure begins, today is all about relaxing and easing into island life. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Santa Cruz de La Palma, admire the vibrant flower-filled balconies, visit the fascinating Island Museum, browse local shops, or simply enjoy a moment on the city beach.
Prefer a taste of the mountain calm already? You can swap this day for an extra rest day in El Paso, tucked into La Palma’s rugged interior.
3 | Hiking Through Volcanic Worlds and Mystical Pine Forests
The trek begins with a spectacular stretch from Fuencaliente Los Canarios to the El Pilar recreation area, covering roughly 18 km. You’ll cross vast lava fields and pass iconic volcanoes like San Antonio and Teneguía. The climb is challenging, but every step rewards you with sweeping views of a raw, volcanic landscape.
From El Pilar, the scenery shifts dramatically. The second stage to El Paso (7 km) is gentler, winding through shady pine forests. The lush green and gradual descent offer a peaceful contrast to the morning’s rugged terrain.
This route beautifully showcases La Palma’s contrasts – from fiery volcanoes to tranquil woodlands.
Distance: 25 km
Elevation: +1350 m up / –1400 m down
4 | El Paso to Pico de la Nieve
Your day starts in El Paso, nestled at the foot of the mountains. You’ll climb steadily through pine forests, with the trail becoming steeper as you ascend. The transition from forest to stark volcanic highlands is nothing short of breathtaking.
At Pico de la Nieve (2,236 m), one of La Palma’s highest peaks, you’ll be standing where clouds often drift below your feet. The name means “Snow Peak,” a nod to the rare but magical snowfall in winter.
Distance: 18.8 km
Elevation: +1680 m up / –460 m down
5 | Pico de la Nieve to Los Muchachos
This route is one of the most stunning hikes on the island. You’ll walk along the rim of the Caldera de Taburiente, with dramatic vistas of La Palma’s volcanic spine and sweeping ocean views.
Starting at Pico de la Nieve (2,236 m), the trail leads you past Pico de la Cruz, a perfect spot for a quiet break and awe-inspiring panoramas.
The route ends at Roque de los Muchachos (2,426 m), La Palma’s highest point and home to world-famous astronomical observatories.
Distance: 13.2 km
Elevation: +320 m up / –700 m down
6 | Los Muchachos to Tazacorte
From summit to sea – this hike descends from the top of the island all the way to the coast. You’ll start at Roque de los Muchachos (2,426 m) and gradually make your way down through ever-changing landscapes.
Along the way, don’t miss La Torre del Time, a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Aridane Valley.
Your journey ends in Tazacorte, where the ocean greets you after days of mountain magic.
Distance: 17.7 km
Elevation: +60 m up / –2460 m down
7 | Rest Day
A well-deserved day off in sunny Santa Cruz. Soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a café terrace, or just relax by the sea.
8 | Hasta luego, La Palma!
Today your journey comes to an end… or maybe not? You’ll be transferred to the airport, or if you’re flying out via Tenerife, take a leisurely walk to the harbor to catch your ferry.
Not quite ready to say goodbye to this enchanting island? Let us know – we’d be happy to help you extend your stay and keep the adventure going!
Inclusive
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Travel duration: 8 days
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Return Transfer Airport
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Return transfer to and from the departure points
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Hiking tour over 75 km
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Accommodations with breakfast
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STO travel guarantee
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Luggage transport
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WhatsApp support during the trip
Exclusive
- There and back journey
- Crossing to and from Tenerife (optional)
- Travel and cancellation insurance
- All meals other than breakfast (unless stated)
- Booking costs €25.00
- Possible single room supplement
- Transfers outside the program
Our special accommodations
Distance
75 km
Difficultly
Hard
Up
3410 m.
Down
5020 m.
Frequently asked questions about La Palma
How difficult is the hike on La Palma?
The GR131 is a challenging hike through mountainous terrain with considerable differences in altitude. A good basic condition is required, but with the right preparation the hike is doable for most hikers. You walk an average of 15 to 20 km per day with alternating ascents and descents.
What is the start and end point of the route?
The GR131 starts in the south of La Palma, in the village of Los Canarios (Fuencaliente), and ends on the west coast at Tazacorte. Along the way you walk via El Pilar, El Paso, and the Roque de los Muchachos – the highest point of the island.
Where do I stay during the tour?
You will stay in small-scale, characterful accommodations on a bed and breakfast or bed and breakfast basis. All locations have been carefully selected for comfort and atmosphere, which completely matches this trip.
How do I get to the starting point of the walk?
Upon arrival at La Palma you will be picked up at the airport with a transfer and taken to your first accommodation. During the trek, the necessary transfers to or from the route are included together with your luggage.
If you arrive at the port from Tenerife, your accommodation is within walking distance.
Do I have to carry my own luggage?
No, your luggage is transported for you! You only walk with a daypack. The rest of your stuff is ready every day in your next accommodation – very comfortable.
What is the best time to travel for this hike?
The GR131 can be walked all year round, but the best periods are spring (March-June) and autumn (September-December). Summer can be warm, especially in the lower parts, while winter can be cool and fresh at altitude. The higher parts can be snow-covered in the winter months. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Is it safe to hike along the volcanoes?
Yes, the hiking trails are closely monitored. You only walk on permitted and safe paths. Especially the path from Los Canarios to El Paso you walk parts of the volcano route. You do not pass the new Tajogaite volcano that recently erupted.
Can I also make this trip solo?
Absolutely! The GR131 is ideal for individual hikers. Everything is taken care of – from luggage transport to route descriptions and support along the way. You are alone, but never left alone.
Are walking poles recommended on the GR131?
Yes, walking poles are highly recommended. The GR131 runs through rough and often steep terrain, with considerable differences in altitude. Poles provide extra support during the ascent and especially when descending they relieve the knees and ankles. They also help your balance on loose ground, lava rock or in muddy parts of the pine forest.
Do you already have experience with poles? Then you know how nice they are. Never used them before? Then this is a perfect route to start with!
🥾 Conquer the Canary Islands, Collect Unique Pins! 🏅
Trek the GR131 Camino Naturales and collect a special Canary Hiking pin for each completed island – each in a unique color to symbolize your achievement!
Group trip? Receive your colorful pin at the end of the tour.
Solo adventurer? Collect stamps on your card at each milestone and we will send your pin!
