La Palma, often called “La Isla Bonita,” is a treasure trove for hikers and trekkers alike. Its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and rugged coastlines make it a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. What sets La Palma apart is its active volcanic history—recent eruptions in 2021 have shaped the terrain, offering unique hiking experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. For example, a visit to the new volcano allows you to stand just meters from fresh craters, a truly unforgettable sight. Whether you’re after a half-day adventure or a full-day expedition, La Palma’s terrain invites you to explore in ways that are both accessible and awe-inspiring.
In this guide, we’ll compare two of the best hiking and trekking tours on the island. The first is a half-day walk visiting La Palma’s newest volcanic crater, perfect for those wanting a shorter, yet impactful experience. The second is an entire day that combines a hike with scenic drives, culminating at the spectacular Tajogaite volcano. Both tours offer rich insights into the island’s volcanic activity and landscape, but they cater to different levels of time, fitness, and adventure appetite.
Here’s a quick overview of what’s on offer: a half-day volcano visit that takes you close to recent lava formations and a full-day trek that includes a guided walk to the crater and sightseeing around lava deltas. Now, let’s dive into the details of each.
1. Hiking Route Visit to the New Volcano of La Palma
This tour offers a half-day hike of roughly 4 hours, covering about 3.7 miles (6 km), and is rated as medium in difficulty. You’ll explore La Palma’s latest volcanic landforms, created after the dramatic eruption of 2021. The trail takes you close enough to the craters to feel the heat and see the volcanic ash still coating the terrain. Your expert guide will share compelling stories and insights about the eruption, helping you understand the island’s ongoing geological story. The scenery includes volcanic craters, ash plains, and rugged paths that make for an evocative landscape.
What makes this trip stand out is the intimacy of getting so near to active craters—standing just a meter from the edge of one of these formations is a moment you’ll never forget. The tour is well-reviewed, with many participants praising the knowledgeable guides like Juan and Cynthia for their ability to make complex volcanic science accessible. Plus, it’s a good value at around $47.47 per person, including safety insurance and local expertise.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time but a strong interest in volcanic geology. It’s accessible, informative, and offers an up-close look at La Palma’s recent volcanic activity.
2. Full Day Tour with Hiking to the Tajogaite Volcano
For those wanting a comprehensive experience, this full-day tour blends a 3-hour guided hike with scenic bus routes around La Palma. Starting from Llano del Jable, the hike takes you across volcanic terrain to a specially set-up viewpoint of the Tajogaite crater. You’ll learn about the island’s geological history from authorized guides, making this a rich educational experience. After the hike, the tour continues to the port of Tazacorte, where you’ll see the impressive lava delta—a recent landform created by lava flows.
This tour lasts approximately 8 hours and costs about $57.79 per person, offering great value considering the scope of scenery and knowledge you gain. Highlights include the scenic drive along the coast, a photo stop at Tajuya to admire the volcano, and a close-up view of coladas (lava flows). Reviews highlight the efficient itinerary and the stunning views, with some guests noting that the walk to the crater is about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip. The bus transfers mean you cover more ground, making this ideal for travelers who want a full perspective of the island’s volcanic landscape.
Bottom Line: If you crave a deep dive into La Palma’s geology combined with scenic exploration, this full-day hike is perfect. It suits active travelers who don’t mind a longer day and enjoy learning on the move.
How to Choose Your La Palma Hiking Adventure
When deciding between these two options, consider your time availability, fitness level, and what you’re most eager to see. The Hiking Route Visit to the New Volcano is perfect for a shorter, more focused experience, especially if you want to stand close to recent volcanic activity without committing a full day. It’s a great choice if you’re tight on time but still want to connect with La Palma’s volcanic heart.
The Full Day Tour with Hiking to the Tajogaite Volcano offers a broader perspective—combining a detailed hike with scenic drives and multiple viewpoints. This is ideal if you’re interested in a more immersive experience, enjoy learning about geological processes, and want to see different parts of the island’s volcanic landscape.
Make sure to book early, especially in peak seasons, and prepare for variable weather—bring sturdy shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Final Thoughts
La Palma’s volcanic terrain provides compelling hiking options for all levels. Whether you prefer a half-day walk that gets you close to recent eruptions or a full-day adventure that explores multiple volcanic features, this island offers authentic experiences packed with scenery and insight. For a quick, impactful trip, the visit to the new volcano is excellent. If you want a comprehensive look at the island’s volcanic story, the full-day Tajogaite volcano tour delivers.
Both tours are well-rated and represent fantastic ways to experience La Palma’s unique geological landscape. To make the most of your trip, consider your schedule, fitness level, and curiosity about volcanoes. Book early, and don’t forget your camera—it’s a landscape that’s worth capturing.
Happy hiking!
