
Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail
Hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes and above the clouds on La Palma's iconic trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and enjoy clear views

Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and enjoy clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through dramatic volcanic landscapes and above the clouds on La Palma's iconic trail.
"One of the best hikes I've ever been on, truly magical!"

🥾 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Volcanic Landscapes
Trail between El Pilar and Los Canarios
Traverse ancient and recent volcanic craters, a truly unique geological experience.

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
Throughout the trail
Discover a fascinating array of microclimates, from pine forests to arid volcanic slopes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Trek Wisely
Logistics and Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 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.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for this long hike, especially during warmer periods. Stay hydrated!
📸 Allow Time for Photos
The views are spectacular; don't rush! Plan for extra time to capture the scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 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.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for this long hike, especially during warmer periods. Stay hydrated!
📸 Allow Time for Photos
The views are spectacular; don't rush! Plan for extra time to capture the scenery.
🚖 Taxi Logistics
A taxi from Los Canarios to El Pilar costs around 45 euros. Book in advance if possible.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. 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.
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.
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.
Limited parking is usually available at the main trailheads like El Pilar. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Volcanes de Fuencaliente Trail is a public hiking route and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
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.
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.
No permit is required to hike this trail. It's a well-established public hiking route.
Parking at the trailheads is generally free, though it can be limited.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
Expect to walk through diverse volcanic landscapes, pine forests, and unique microclimates. The views of the island and the ocean are spectacular.
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.
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.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers incredible photo opportunities, from the stark volcanic craters to panoramic views of the island and the ocean. Hiking above the clouds provides a truly surreal backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The 'golden hour' can be particularly magical.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Tapestry of La Palma
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.
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.
Navigating the Trail: Practicalities and Perspectives
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. The weather on La Palma can be unpredictable; while it's often windy and pleasant, periods without wind can become intensely hot.
Transportation is a key consideration. A taxi from Los Canarios to El Pilar is a common solution, costing around 45 euros. 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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit