La Palma: Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour

If you’re planning a trip to La Palma and love a good outdoor adventure, the Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour could be just what you’re after. We’ve taken a close look at this experience to help you decide if it’s a fit for your travel style. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the details and reviews paint a clear picture of what to expect.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery with a chance to explore a less-trodden part of the island, away from the usual tourist spots. Plus, the opportunity to walk along steep ravines and rugged coastline is perfect for those who crave a bit of physical activity mixed with natural beauty. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this hike is not for everyone — it’s quite steep and can be more challenging than some expect.

This experience is best suited for travelers who are reasonably fit, enjoy outdoor exploration, and love panoramic sea views. If you’re okay with some vigorous walking, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, those with mobility issues or expecting a relaxed stroll might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Challenging but rewarding hike through steep ravines and rugged coastline
• Includes visits to a hidden coastal town and natural caves
• Excellent for nature lovers and adventure seekers
• Guided by knowledgeable bilingual guides who can enhance your understanding of the landscape
• Price point offers good value for the experience and transportation included
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those seeking a leisurely walk

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

La Palma’s Porís de Candelaria is a true hidden treasure on the island’s west coast. Starting from the highlands of Tijarafe, the tour involves a descent through a spectacular ravine with almost vertical walls reaching 620 meters, making the journey as impressive as the destination. This landscape isn’t just pretty — it’s classified as a Jury Protected Natural Area, which means you’ll be walking through a landscape that’s both beautiful and ecologically significant.

The hike begins at Jurado, a small town that historically served as a seaport for salt and fish. From there, you’ll descend along the PR LP 12.2 trail—a winding route that leads down to Jurado beach, a peaceful spot with a rustic, untouched feel. The scenery here is a treat: geological formations, farmland, and a variety of bird species make the journey interesting, especially if you’re into geology or birdwatching.

Once at the bottom, the highlight is reaching the curious natural port dedicated to Virgen de la Candelaria, set in a dramatic landscape with a roughly 50-meter-high cave that adds a sense of adventure. Depending on sea conditions, you might even get to dip your toes in the water — a refreshing reward after the climb back.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour kicks off with pickup from various locations around La Palma — including Fuencaliente, Los Cancajos, Santa Cruz, and Los Llanos—making it easy to fit into your plans. Expect to depart early morning (around 7:45 am to 9:45 am, depending on your pickup spot). The total activity lasts about 5 hours, including transfer, walking, and sightseeing.

Once you arrive at Tijarafe, your guide will lead you through the starting point at Barranco del Jurado. The initial descent is steep and winding, with geological marvels and lush scenery framing your path. As you go down, you’ll observe farmland, birdlife, and some of the island’s unique flora. It’s an impressive landscape, and you’ll probably want to take plenty of photos.

The walk to Jurado beach is about half an hour, but it involves navigating a rugged trail that can be challenging, especially in hot or windy conditions. Be prepared for a workout — as one reviewer noted, “more strenuous than stated,” with some guests giving up halfway. If you have circulation issues or aren’t used to steep hikes, you might find this part tough. The guide’s honesty about the difficulty level is important to note.

After reaching the coast, you’ll have some free time at the natural port, which is both scenic and historically interesting. This is a good place to relax, take photos, and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean. If sea conditions are right, you might even swim, but don’t expect to do this all year round — the weather and sea state play a role.

The ascent back is along the same winding path, offering more opportunities to admire the scenery and catch breathtaking vistas. The return journey is just as scenic but can be physically demanding, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water.

The Good, the Not-So-Good, and what to Expect

What we love about this tour is the impressive landscape and the fact that it takes you off the beaten path. You’ll get up close with La Palma’s rugged coastline, geological formations, and natural caves — features that make this experience memorable for nature enthusiasts.

The guides seem knowledgeable, adding context and interesting facts about the area’s geology and history. One reviewer appreciated the “knowledgeable guides” who enhanced the trip, especially given the challenging terrain.

However, a couple of drawbacks are worth mentioning. One reviewer pointed out that the hike is more strenuous than the description suggests, with some guests needing to give up midway. It’s important to be reasonably fit and prepared for steep paths. The lack of scheduled breaks during the hike can also catch some travelers off guard — there are no official rest stops, which might make the walk feel more exhausting.

Plus, communication before and during the hike appears limited, with one person noting that there was “no information about the hike” beforehand. Having some guidance on pacing or planned breaks could improve the experience and help manage expectations.

The cost of $48 per person is fair considering the guided nature, transportation, and the exclusive access to such a remote and beautiful coastal area. It’s not a cheap outing, but for the scenery and adventure, it’s a good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hike is best suited for adventurous travelers with a reasonable level of fitness who want to see a less accessible part of La Palma. If you’re comfortable with steep trails and enjoy physical challenges combined with natural beauty, you’ll likely find this a memorable outing.

Those seeking a more relaxed outdoor experience or with mobility issues should consider other options, as the trail is steep and demanding. It’s also worth noting that swimming is not guaranteed — sea conditions vary, and swimwear isn’t allowed during the hike, so plan accordingly.

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Final Thoughts

The Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour offers a unique glimpse into La Palma’s stunning coastal landscapes. It’s a solid choice for those who enjoy hiking, geological features, and panoramic views, especially if you’re looking to get off the beaten track.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a leisurely stroll — expect steep climbs and rugged terrain. But in return, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular scenery, interesting geological formations, and a sense of achievement. The knowledgeable guides make a difference, providing insights that deepen your appreciation of the landscape.

If you’re prepared for a physical challenge and eager to see an authentic and remote part of the island, this tour might just be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly advertised as family-friendly, and the steep terrain suggests it’s better suited to adults or older teens comfortable with challenging hikes.

What should I wear?
Opt for comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suited for uneven terrain. Warm clothes are recommended in winter months. Avoid flip-flops or sandals.

Can I swim during the tour?
Swimwear isn’t allowed during the hike, and swimming depends on sea conditions, which can vary. The main focus is the hike itself, not swimming.

How long is the hike?
The entire activity lasts about 5 hours, including transfers, walking, and sightseeing.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, and Spanish, so chances are you’ll find a language you’re comfortable with.

Is there a minimum fitness level required?
Yes, a reasonable level of fitness is needed due to the steep and demanding trails.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

If you’re craving an outdoor experience that combines adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of physical effort, this hike to Porís de Candelaria could be a memorable part of your La Palma journey. Just go prepared, and enjoy the stunning views!

You can check availability for your dates here: