La Palma, Guided trekking tour to volcanoes south

Embark on an exhilarating hiking expedition that commences at the El Pilar Refuge and traverses the rugged terrain bordering the southern mountain range, culminating in a breathtaking ascent to nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, ultimately reaching Los Canarios, the ultimate destination.

One of the most popular routes on La Palma, renowned for its stunning beauty and rich landscape, is undoubtedly the Volcanoes Route. Spanning approximately 17 kilometers, this spectacular volcanic itinerary offers breathtaking panoramas that reveal the island's recent geological history.

The Ruta de los Volcanes is the ideal means to explore the most volcanic region of the island, allowing visitors to experience landscapes that evoke a sense of sci-fi wonder, reminiscent of a hypothetical visit to Mars. Additionally, the tour provides unparalleled panoramic vistas of both sides of La Palma, sometimes even offering glimpses of neighboring islands: Tenerife, La Gomera, and El Hierro. This unique vantage point showcases the diverse terrains of the island, including lush pine forests interspersed with varying shades of volcanic terrain.

Guided tours of the Volcanoes Route provide valuable insights into the island’s volcanic history, narrated by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating tales of lava flows, ash deposits, calderas, and explosive volcanic events that intertwine with the distinctive green hues of the Canary Island pine. As you traverse the youngest volcanic areas, characterized by multiple active volcanoes forming part of the Cumbre Vieja Natural Park, your journey becomes a blend of awe-inspiring natural wonders and historical narratives.

This challenging route requires participants to maintain excellent physical fitness throughout the 17-kilometer journey from the Refugio de El Pilar refuge to Los Canarios (Fuencaliente). Starting at the Refugio El Pilar, travelers follow the GR-131 trail, ascending towards the Pico Birigoyo peak. Alongside this ascent, the scenic view includes the Aridane Valley, the Caldera de Taburiente, and the Roque de Los Muchachos—high points within the island of La Palma.

Continuing along the path, you'll encounter various municipalities, such as El Paso, Los Llanos de Aridane, and Tazacorte, as you climb higher until reaching the crater of Hoyo Negro. Here, the mesmerizing cloud formations created by the mountain's mist make for a truly unforgettable sight.

From Hoyo Negro, the descent commences, leading you to the picturesque Volcán de Martin, the last crater encountered before arriving at the concluding point of the guided tour. Characterized by an imposing reddish cone, this area offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape, particularly when the weather permits.

Finally, after descending to Los Canarios (Fuencaliente), your journey concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your starting point. Throughout the trip, you're guaranteed to capture memories that will remain etched in your mind forever.

In summary, the Volcanoes Route on La Palma offers a captivating exploration of the island's volcanic heritage, providing not just a visual feast but also an educational journey through the island's geological past.