Ruta de los Volcanes - Image 1
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Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail

5
·76 reviews·, Spain

Hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes and above the clouds on La Palma's iconic trail.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and enjoy clear views

CrowdMedium
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Ruta de los Volcanes - Image 1

Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail

Best Time

Morning

Beat the heat and enjoy clear views

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes and above the clouds on La Palma's iconic trail.

5
(76 reviews)

"One of the best hikes I've ever been on, truly magical!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended

Highly recommended for the significant ascents and descents, making the hike easier.

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as large portions of the trail have no shade.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcanic Landscapes

Volcanic Landscapes

Trail between El Pilar and Los Canarios

Traverse ancient and recent volcanic craters, a truly unique geological experience.

Above the Clouds

Above the Clouds

Higher elevations of the trail

Experience the magic of hiking above a sea of clouds, offering surreal and breathtaking vistas.

Diverse Microclimates

Diverse Microclimates

Throughout the trail

Discover a fascinating array of microclimates, from pine forests to arid volcanic slopes.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Trek Wisely

This iconic trail winds through volcanic landscapes, offering stunning views. Consider the 17.6 km stretch from El Pilar to Los Canarios, which can take up to 7 hours with stops. Sun protection and ample water are essential, as shade is limited. Hiking poles are recommended for the significant elevation changes.

Logistics and Timing

Taxis from Los Canarios to El Pilar cost around 45 euros. While the trail can be rushed in 4.5 hours, many recommend taking your time to savor the views and unique microclimates. Be prepared for potential cloud cover at higher elevations, but often you'll find yourself above it.

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the heat and enjoy clear views
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on volcanoes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

RUTA DE LOS VOLCANES..🌋 📍LOS CANARIOS-REFUGIO DEL PILAR. GR 131.. 💪 ISLA DE LA PALMA...LA ISLA BONITA 😍 ISLAS CANARIAS..🏖 DESDE EL FARO DE FUENCALIENTE ES EL PRIMER TRAMO DE @transvulcaniabyutmb 🏃‍♂️ Y UN TREKKING ESPECTACULAR..❤️ DIAS DESPUES DE LA CARRERA LO DISFRUTE CON CALMA Y SIN PRISAS CON @immamorenovirgili 😘😘 MIENTRAS LE EXPLICABA BATALLITAS..🥳😬🤣 NO TENGO PRUEBAS😊. PERO TAMPOCO DUDAS.....
ferrertxema
43 likes • 529 views

🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended

Highly recommended for the significant ascents and descents, making the hike easier. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as large portions of the trail have no shade. Reddit

La Ruta de Los Volcanes, I realized that I was missing to run down from Refugio El Pilar to Fuencaliente on one of the most emblematic trail route of La Palma. The terrains, the views of both sides of the island, the different sceneries all are magical and unique to La isla bonita. La Ruta de Los Volcanes / GR 131 reopened recently, still the road from the west / El Paso is closed. So that you ...
kristofberg
79 likes • 2.2K views

💧 Carry Plenty of Water

Essential for this long hike, especially during warmer periods. Stay hydrated! Reddit

📸 Allow Time for Photos

The views are spectacular; don't rush! Plan for extra time to capture the scenery. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Trekking Poles Recommended

Highly recommended for the significant ascents and descents, making the hike easier. Reddit

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as large portions of the trail have no shade. Reddit

💧 Carry Plenty of Water

Essential for this long hike, especially during warmer periods. Stay hydrated! Reddit

📸 Allow Time for Photos

The views are spectacular; don't rush! Plan for extra time to capture the scenery. Reddit

🚖 Taxi Logistics

A taxi from Los Canarios to El Pilar costs around 45 euros. Book in advance if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

5
(76 reviews)

Reviews Summary

This trail is widely hailed as one of the best hikes on La Palma, offering an unforgettable journey through unique volcanic landscapes and above the clouds. Visitors rave about the stunning views and the sense of being far from civilization. While challenging, the experience is consistently described as incredibly rewarding and a must-do for nature lovers.

"The best hike on La Palma and one of the main reasons to visit the island! For hours you find yourself between ancient and recent volcanoes, often shaded by charming pine trees, and far, far away from civilization. The views are amazing and the nature is welcoming.
The part that we did, from El Pilar to Los Canarios, is 17.6 km long and it took us just a bit less than 7 hours. But we did stop often to enjoy the views and photographed a lot. Yes, you can rush it in 4.5 hours, but what’s the point? The total ascent for this part was 800 m and the descent was 1500 meters. Hiking poles are highly recommended but not critical. Sun protection is a must because good portions are without shade. It is typically windy so the temperature is perfect, but when there is no wind it gets really hot! Pack plenty of water. Given the peculiar weather conditions of La Palma, you could end up in clouds/fog, but typically at the top you will get above the cloud cover. So stop reading this long review and start packing for this amazing hike!"

Miko

"If you're wandering if you should do this hike, stop thinking and get going. A taxi from Los Canarias to El Pilar cost 45 euro. The route took around 5 hours with breaks for photos and snacks. Its one of the best hikes ive ever been on."

Antoni Kępka

"We did a hike between 4-6 hours and it was one of the most memorable hikes I've ever done! To walk above the clouds is something else ⛅ there were so many beautiful microclimates as well during the hike, I definitely recommend going here if you adore nature ⛰️"

Chelsey

What People Like

Incredible volcanic scenery
Hiking above the clouds
Sense of remoteness

What People Dislike

Limited shade
Significant elevation changes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common starting point is El Pilar, and the trail typically ends in Los Canarios. You can arrange a taxi from Los Canarios to El Pilar, which costs approximately 45 euros. Reddit Alternatively, some visitors use public transport to reach nearby towns and then hike to the trailheads.

The Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is primarily a point-to-point hike, not a loop. You'll need to arrange transportation back from your endpoint. Reddit

Taxis are readily available in Los Canarios to take you back to your accommodation or starting point. It's advisable to have your accommodation book one for you, especially if you finish later in the day. Reddit

While direct public transport to the trailheads can be limited, you can use buses to reach towns like Los Canarios and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the trail. Check local bus schedules in advance. Reddit

Limited parking is usually available at the main trailheads like El Pilar. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is a public hiking route and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. Reddit

The trail is open 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural area. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

While technically possible, hiking the trail at night is not recommended due to safety concerns, lack of lighting, and the difficulty of appreciating the volcanic landscapes. Reddit

No permit is required to hike this trail. It's a well-established public hiking route. Reddit

Parking at the trailheads is generally free, though it can be limited. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The trail is considered moderately challenging due to its length (around 17.6 km from El Pilar to Los Canarios) and significant elevation changes (800m ascent, 1500m descent). However, many find it very walkable. Reddit

While it can be done in about 4.5 hours if rushed, most visitors recommend taking 5-7 hours to fully enjoy the views, take photos, and have breaks. Reddit

Expect to walk through diverse volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and unique microclimates. The views of the island and the ocean are spectacular. InstagramReddit

There are very limited facilities directly on the trail. Refugio El Pilar offers some basic amenities, but once you start hiking, it's a remote experience. Carry all your essentials. Reddit

The trail is generally well-marked, often following the GR 131 route. However, always pay attention to trail markers and consider carrying a map or using a GPS device. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire trail offers incredible photo opportunities, from the stark volcanic craters Instagram to panoramic views of the island and the ocean. Hiking above the clouds provides a truly surreal backdrop. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can be particularly magical. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Consider a telephoto lens for distant views. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing cloud inversions. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary, and it's essential to check current rules for La Palma National Parks and protected areas. Always fly responsibly and respect the environment. Instagram

Many points along the trail offer stunning vistas. Keep an eye out for clearings that provide unobstructed views of the volcanic cones and the coastline. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail offers a unique adventure for families, but it requires careful consideration. The 17.6 km length and significant elevation changes mean it's best suited for families with older children or teenagers who are accustomed to longer hikes. Reddit Ensure everyone has sturdy footwear, ample water, and sun protection. The dramatic volcanic scenery can be incredibly engaging for kids, sparking their imagination about geology and nature. Instagram

Consider hiking only a portion of the trail if a full day trek is too much. The experience of walking through a volcanic landscape and potentially above the clouds can be a memorable highlight for younger adventurers. Pack plenty of snacks and make frequent stops to keep energy levels up and spirits high. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

The Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is a fantastic choice for solo hikers seeking solitude and stunning natural beauty. The trail's remoteness offers a sense of peace and connection with nature. InstagramReddit It's advisable to inform someone of your hiking plans, including your estimated start and end times. Ensure you have a fully charged phone and consider carrying a power bank. Reddit

While the trail is generally well-marked, always be prepared with navigation tools. The physical challenge is rewarding, and the sense of accomplishment upon completion is immense. Solo hikers often find the experience deeply reflective and invigorating, with ample opportunities to pause and absorb the breathtaking volcanic vistas. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is a dream destination. The dramatic volcanic landscapes, the ever-changing light, and the possibility of hiking above the clouds provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. InstagramReddit Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting conditions, with soft, warm hues enhancing the textures of the volcanic terrain. Instagram

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the scenery and consider a telephoto lens for distant details. A sturdy tripod can be beneficial for capturing the ethereal beauty of cloud inversions or for low-light photography. Remember to protect your gear from dust and potential moisture. The unique geological formations and panoramic views make this trail a photographer's paradise. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Volcanic Tapestry of La Palma

The Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is a journey through La Palma's fiery past and present. This route, often part of the GR 131 long-distance path, showcases the island's dramatic volcanic origins. You'll traverse landscapes shaped by both ancient eruptions and more recent geological activity, offering a unique opportunity to witness the raw power of nature. The trail's name itself, 'Volcanoes of Fuencaliente,' hints at the geological wonders that await. TikTokInstagram

As you hike, you'll encounter a variety of volcanic formations, from cinder cones to lava fields. The terrain can be rugged, but the visual rewards are immense. The trail offers a chance to understand the geological forces that have sculpted La Palma, making it a fascinating experience for anyone interested in earth sciences or simply awe-inspiring natural beauty. Walking through these volcanic fields feels like stepping onto another planet. TikTokInstagram

This trail is a testament to the island's resilience and its ongoing geological narrative. It's not just a hike; it's an immersion into a living geological museum. The ever-changing scenery, from barren volcanic slopes to pockets of resilient vegetation, tells a story of creation and adaptation. TikTokInstagram

Navigating the Trail: Practicalities and Perspectives

Completing the Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail requires some planning, especially regarding logistics and personal comfort. While the trail is generally well-marked, many hikers recommend using a map or GPS device for added security, particularly if weather conditions change. The elevation changes are significant, with a substantial descent from El Pilar to Los Canarios, making hiking poles a valuable asset for many. Reddit

Sun protection is paramount. Large sections of the trail are exposed, with minimal shade. Visitors consistently emphasize the need for sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to avoid sunburn and heatstroke. Similarly, carrying plenty of water is non-negotiable, as there are no reliable water sources along the route. Reddit The weather on La Palma can be unpredictable; while it's often windy and pleasant, periods without wind can become intensely hot. Reddit

Transportation is a key consideration. A taxi from Los Canarios to El Pilar is a common solution, costing around 45 euros. Reddit Many advise booking this in advance or ensuring you have a reliable way to get back to your starting point or accommodation. While the trail can be completed quickly, most reviewers suggest dedicating at least 5-7 hours to truly appreciate the unique landscapes and the experience of hiking above the clouds. InstagramReddit

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