La Palma is an island of adventure, nature, and breathtaking landscapes. From mighty volcanoes to lush laurel forests, it offers countless outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking through dramatic canyons, kayaking along rugged cliffs, or stargazing under one of the clearest night skies in the world, there’s no shortage of experiences.
Here are seven must-do activities to make your trip to La Palma truly unforgettable!
1. Hiking in the Caldera de Taburiente 🥾🌿
The Caldera de Taburiente National Park is the green heart of La Palma and a paradise for hikers. With deep canyons, waterfalls, and dense pine forests, it’s one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the Canary Islands.
🏞 Why visit?
✔️ Stunning views over the massive crater
✔️ Explore the Barranco de las Angustias and swim in natural pools
✔️ See the mystical Roque Idafe, a sacred site for the island’s indigenous people
This diverse hiking experience is perfect for anyone who wants to discover La Palma’s unique volcanic and forest landscapes.
2. Stargazing at Roque de los Muchachos 🔭🌌
Thanks to minimal light pollution, La Palma is one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. The Roque de los Muchachos Observatory sits at 2,426 meters above sea level and is home to some of the world’s most advanced telescopes.
⭐ What makes it special?
✔️ Guided night tours with expert astronomers
✔️ Incredible views of the Milky Way and distant galaxies
✔️ Stunning sunset views over a sea of clouds
Even without a telescope, the night sky over La Palma is a sight you’ll never forget!
3. Volcano Route – Hike Through the Fire Mountains 🌋🔥
The Volcano Route is one of the most impressive hikes on La Palma, leading along the volcanic ridge of Cumbre Vieja.
🚶♂️ Why it’s a must-do:
✔️ Walk through otherworldly lava fields and craters
✔️ Stunning panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean
✔️ Witness the San Antonio and Teneguía volcanoes up close
This unforgettable hike showcases La Palma’s geological history and raw volcanic beauty.
4. Kayaking Along the Cliffs 🚣♂️🌊
A kayak tour along La Palma’s rugged coast is one of the best ways to experience its dramatic landscapes.
🛶 What makes it unique?
✔️ Explore hidden caves along the coastline
✔️ Calm morning waters make for a peaceful paddle
✔️ Spot dolphins and sea turtles in the wild
One of the highlights is the famous sea cave Cueva Bonita, where sunlight creates mesmerizing reflections on the water.
5. Visit the Lava Caves of Cueva de Todoque 🕳️🌋
La Palma is shaped by its volcanic history, and the lava caves offer a unique opportunity to explore this. Cueva de Todoque is one of the most famous lava tubes on the island.
💡 Why visit?
✔️ Discover bizarre rock formations inside the cave
✔️ Learn about volcanic activity on a guided tour
✔️ Experience the eerie silence deep underground
Exploring this cave feels like stepping into another world!
6. Relax in Natural Seawater Pools 🏊♂️🌊
Instead of traditional beaches, La Palma is famous for its natural seawater pools, formed by lava flows meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
🌿 Best natural pools to visit:
✔️ Charco Azul – A crystal-clear and calm pool in the northeast
✔️ Piscinas de La Fajana – Three pools with spectacular coastal views
These natural swimming spots offer a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the ocean!
7. Wine Tasting at Bodega Tamanca 🍷🌋
La Palma is home to unique volcanic wines, cultivated on lava-rich soils that give them a distinct flavor.
🍇 Why visit Bodega Tamanca?
✔️ Taste rich, earthy wines unique to the island
✔️ Learn about traditional Canarian winemaking
✔️ Enjoy local wines paired with delicious tapas
A visit here is the perfect way to end a day of adventure!
Insider Tip: Cueva de las Palomas – A Hidden Lava Cave 🔦🌋
For a lesser-known volcanic experience, visit Cueva de las Palomas, a lava cave formed by the 1949 San Juan eruption.
🌋 Why it’s special:
✔️ Guided tours take you through stunning underground tunnels
✔️ Learn about how lava flows shape the island
✔️ A great alternative to the more popular caves
The mystical lighting inside the cave makes it a photographer’s dream!
Why Is La Palma Worth Visiting? 🌍✨
La Palma is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. Whether you want to:
✔️ Hike through breathtaking volcanic landscapes 🥾
✔️ Kayak along rugged cliffs 🚣♂️
✔️ Marvel at the night sky 🔭
✔️ Explore deep lava caves 🌋
✔️ Relax in natural ocean pools 🏊♂️
…the island offers endless opportunities for unforgettable experiences.
For those looking to explore the wild, untouched beauty of the Canary Islands, La Palma is a must-visit destination!