Los Tilos Laurel Forest - Image 1
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Los Tilos Forest La Palma

4.6
·3k reviews·Los Sauces, Spain

Step into a magical, ancient laurel forest with a stunning waterfall cascading down lush cliffs. A vibrant green oasis on La Palma.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Los Tilos Laurel Forest - Image 1

Los Tilos Forest La Palma

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a magical, ancient laurel forest with a stunning waterfall cascading down lush cliffs. A vibrant green oasis on La Palma.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"An incredible art of nature, worth seeing the change from volcanic scenes to this amazing forest."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be damp and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe exploration.

💧 Embrace the Humidity

The forest is lush and green, so expect a humid environment. Light, breathable clothing is recommended.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cascada de Los Tilos

Cascada de Los Tilos

Main attraction

A stunning waterfall cascading down lush, green cliffs into a gorge. A true natural wonder!

Laurel Forest Trails

Laurel Forest Trails

Various paths

Wander through an ancient, dense laurel forest with towering trees and vibrant ferns. Pure magic!

Information Center

Information Center

Entrance

Learn about the forest's unique ecosystem and get tips for exploring the area. Friendly staff!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Lushness

Prepare for a vibrant, green escape! Los Tilos is a unique laurel forest, a stark contrast to La Palma's volcanic landscapes. Wear sturdy shoes for the trails, as they can be damp and uneven. The air is humid, so light, breathable clothing is best.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While beautiful year-round, visiting during weekdays or outside peak holiday seasons can offer a more serene experience. The forest's magic is best savored without large crowds, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in its natural splendor.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Sunlight filters through trees
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bosque de los Tilos (La Palma) . . . #lapalma #lapalmaislabonita #visitlapalma #isladelapalma #lapalmaisland #islascanarias #canaryislands #bosquedelostilos #canarias #canariashoy #ok_canarias #canarias_esmas #laurisilva #estaes_canarias #estaes_lapalma #bosque #woods #forest #silencio #silence
sergio_phototraveler
162 likes • 11.6K views

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be damp and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe exploration. Instagram

💧 Embrace the Humidity

The forest is lush and green, so expect a humid environment. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Instagram

MAGIC FOREST ✨ Incroyable découverte de cette belle forêt primitive à La Palma. Un espace préservé comme il en existe peu, une pure merveille. 🌱 ‼️ANECDOTE 💡 ➡️ « Los Tiles » est le nom officiel du lieu, mais localement les habitants de La Palma l’appellent « Los Tilos » , en raison d’une confusion historique avec le pluriel de Til, le principal spécimen de la flore indigène qui abonde dans la ...
nais.explore
45 likes • 778 views
Île de la Palma des Canaries 🇪🇸 La cascade de Los Tilos est un endroit impressionnant, avec une chute d’eau qui semble sortie d’un film. Le sentier s’enfonce progressivement au cœur de la forêt de lauriers, une végétation luxuriante et dense typique des îles Canaries. The Los Tilos waterfall is an impressive place, with a waterfall that looks like it came out of a movie. The trail gradually sink...
phil_girard62
17 likes • 363 views

🗺️ Visit the Info Center

Get maps and insights about the forest and nearest waterfalls. Staff are very helpful! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Short Hike Option

A 1.3 km trail is available, suitable for families with children, though it can be steep. Reddit

Cascada de Los Tilos, isla de La Palma, Canarias, España #canaryislands #canariastrekking #canary #canarias #canariasparaiso #canarias_life #islandlife #islascanariasenamora #islascanarias #islascanarias🇮🇨 #islascanariasoficial #bosque #cascada #reservadelabioesfera #forest #naturaleza #natgeo #naturelover #landscapelover #lapalma #lapalmacanarias #lapalmaisland #nature #natgeoadventure
jmonagas_awara
150 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear

Trails can be damp and uneven. Good hiking shoes are essential for a comfortable and safe exploration. Instagram

💧 Embrace the Humidity

The forest is lush and green, so expect a humid environment. Light, breathable clothing is recommended. Instagram

🗺️ Visit the Info Center

Get maps and insights about the forest and nearest waterfalls. Staff are very helpful! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Short Hike Option

A 1.3 km trail is available, suitable for families with children, though it can be steep. Reddit

📸 Capture the Magic

The lush greenery and dramatic waterfall offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the 'incredible art of nature' at Los Tilos, praising its lush, green beauty and the year-round waterfalls. The ancient laurel forest is described as 'magical' and a stark, beautiful contrast to the island's volcanic landscapes. While some trails can be challenging, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural splendor.

"A must visit incredible art of nature. Worth to see the change from the totally volcanic scenes in the south to the amazing forest in the north."

Edilberto Alonso

"Beautiful forest, very green. With the waterfalls around all the year, not depending on if there is the rain season or not. Several trekking routes available. We've taken the shortest 1,3 km as we were with children. All the way up, hard, but beautiful way to go.
There is also the barbeque area in there and the restaurant at the main entrance to the forest.
There is the small museum at the entrance too, where you can find out some facts about the forest and to get an information about the nearest waterfall (the first one is just 5 minutes away from the entrance)"

Zanna Vahmistrova

"Wonderfull site. Although the waterfall is almost dry the lush canyon is gorgeous! Follow the stream upwards to come to a large clearing with a 10m+ waterfall. With good shoes the climb is not too difficult. Being fit helps but is not nececary. We had a few seniors in the group that had no trouble climbing the rocks."

Rens van den Biggelaar

What People Like

Magical laurel forest
Beautiful year-round waterfalls
Lush green scenery

What People Dislike

Steep/uneven trails

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Los Tilos Forest is located in the north of La Palma. You can reach it by car, which is the most convenient option. The drive from Santa Cruz de La Palma takes approximately 40-50 minutes. Public buses are also available, but schedules might be less frequent, so check in advance. Instagram

Yes, there is a parking area near the entrance of the forest, close to the information center and restaurant. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable. Reddit

While possible, it's less convenient. Public bus routes might require transfers and have limited service. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Los Tilos and other parts of La Palma. Instagram

Many visitors combine a trip to Los Tilos with exploring other natural attractions in the north of La Palma, such as the Caldera de Taburiente National Park or the Mirador de San Bartolomé. Instagram

The main paths can be uneven and damp. While there are accessible areas near the entrance and information center, some of the more adventurous trails might be challenging for those with mobility issues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Los Tilos Forest itself is generally free. There are no admission fees to walk through the forest and see the main waterfall. Reddit

The forest is a natural park and is typically accessible during daylight hours. The information center and restaurant may have specific operating hours, which are best checked locally. Reddit

The information center at the entrance of Los Tilos Forest is usually free to enter. It provides valuable information about the forest's flora, fauna, and hiking routes. Reddit

While not always advertised, local guides might be available, especially during peak season. Inquiring at the information center upon arrival is recommended for potential guided tour options. Reddit

Since entry is free, there's no need to book tickets. However, if you plan to visit during a busy period or want to ensure a restaurant reservation, it's wise to check availability. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary draw is the stunning Cascada de Los Tilos, a beautiful waterfall that cascades down a lush, green gorge. The surrounding ancient laurel forest is equally captivating. Instagram+1

Yes, there are several hiking trails of varying difficulty. The shortest is a 1.3 km route suitable for families, while longer, more challenging paths lead deeper into the forest and to other viewpoints. Reddit

Los Tilos is a prime example of a laurisilva forest, an ancient type of subtropical rainforest. You'll see abundant ferns, mosses, and a variety of endemic trees. Instagram+1

The waterfall is known to flow year-round, though its volume can vary depending on rainfall. Even when less powerful, the gorge and surrounding greenery are spectacular. Reddit

There's an information center, a restaurant at the main entrance, and a barbecue area. Restrooms are also available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main waterfall is a must-capture. Also, look for dramatic shots of the dense laurel forest, the misty atmosphere, and the unique plant life. The elevated walkways offer great perspectives. Instagram+1

Mornings can offer softer light filtering through the canopy. However, the misty, moody atmosphere, especially after rain, can also create incredibly atmospheric shots. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the forest and the waterfall. Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on wet surfaces. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in very dark or sensitive areas. Instagram

Los Tilos is ideal for landscape, nature, and macro photography. The lush greenery, dramatic waterfall, and unique plant textures provide endless subjects. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Los Tilos Forest offers a fantastic natural playground for families. The 1.3 km trail is a manageable option for children, though it can be a bit steep in parts. The main waterfall and the lush greenery are sure to capture their imaginations. Reddit

Pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable, closed-toe shoes. The information center provides insights into the forest's unique ecosystem, which can be educational for younger visitors. Consider a picnic at the designated barbecue area for a relaxed family outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Los Tilos presents a rewarding experience with its network of trails. Beyond the main waterfall, explore routes that delve deeper into the laurisilva forest, offering varied terrain and stunning natural vistas. Instagram

Be prepared for potentially damp and uneven paths. The Biosphere Reserve status of La Palma means you'll encounter a rich and well-preserved natural environment. Don't miss the chance to explore the less-trodden paths for a more secluded and immersive nature experience. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Laurisilva Forest

Los Tilos is a protected area renowned for its laurisilva forest, a type of subtropical rainforest that once covered much of Southern Europe. This ancient ecosystem is characterized by its dense canopy, abundant ferns, mosses, and a rich diversity of plant life. Walking through Los Tilos feels like stepping back in time, with the air thick with moisture and the sounds of nature surrounding you. The towering trees and the vibrant green hues create a truly magical and immersive experience. Instagram+1

This unique forest is a vital part of La Palma's biodiversity and a testament to the island's ecological importance. The Biosphere Reserve status of La Palma highlights the commitment to preserving such precious natural environments. Visitors often describe the forest as 'magical' and 'primitive,' emphasizing its untouched beauty and the sense of wonder it evokes. Instagram+1

When exploring the forest, pay attention to the smaller details: the intricate patterns of moss on tree trunks, the delicate fronds of ferns, and the unique shapes of the leaves. This careful observation enhances the appreciation for the complex web of life thriving within Los Tilos. It's a place that encourages quiet contemplation and a deep connection with nature. Instagram

Navigating the Trails and Waterfall

The main attraction, the Cascada de Los Tilos, is relatively accessible, with a short path leading to its base. However, for those seeking a more adventurous experience, several trekking routes extend further into the gorge. These paths can be steep and uneven, requiring good footwear, especially after rain. InstagramReddit

One popular route involves following the stream upwards past the main waterfall to discover a larger clearing with a more impressive cascade. While some sections might involve climbing over rocks, many visitors, including seniors, have found these climbs manageable with appropriate caution. The effort is rewarded with stunning views and a deeper immersion into the forest's heart. Reddit

It's advisable to check the weather conditions before your hike, as the forest can become slippery. The information center at the entrance is an excellent resource for obtaining trail maps and advice on the best routes based on your fitness level and time constraints. Reddit

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