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La Palma: Under the Stars (Self-Guided)

La Palma, deemed one of the world's most beautiful islands, impresses with its versatile landscapes, from the recently accessible northern cloud forests to the iconic Caldera de Taburiente in the south.

  • La Palma

  • 7 nights
  • Bed and Breakfast
  • Coast & Islands

    Landscape

  • January - December

Moderate

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Walking grade

Grade 5

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Self-Guided Collection

Expertly planned, flexible walking itineraries, led by you, with accommodation, route plans, and luggage transfers all taken care of by us.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • An ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts: explore well-defined trekking paths winding through serene and diverse landscapes.
  • Discover the Caldera de Taburiente National Park's lunar landscapes and cloud forests while staying in carefully chosen accommodations strategically located for walking.
  • Explore the charming old quarters of Santa Cruz de la Palma, exuding a tropical ambiance.
  • Consider booking additional nights for the option to rent a car and visit the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.

La Palma stands out as one of the world's most beautiful islands, showcasing remarkable versatility. The recently accessible northern region offers scenic hikes through the cloud forests of Cubo de la Galga and the historic Camino Real, featuring tranquil agricultural expanses and deep ravines, culminating at the striking Dragon Blood Trees in La Tosca. Countless flower-lined paths crisscross this northern landscape. Following the lunar terrain of Cumbre Vieja, the journey leads to the vast crater of the renowned Caldera de Taburiente, a meticulously maintained National Park. The descent to the Fuencaliente Lighthouse provides a stark reminder of the impact and slow recovery from volcanic eruptions.

We highly recommend extending your stay at the tour's conclusion, renting a car, and driving up to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Amidst a spectacular lunar landscape, over a dozen futuristic telescopes create an atmosphere reminiscent of a science fiction film set. If there were any lingering doubts about the uniqueness and breath taking beauty of La Isla Bonita's landscapes, a visit to the observatory will undoubtedly confirm it.

  • Seven nights accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Transfer from airport to first accommodation.
  • Transfer from last accommodation to airport.
  • Luggage transfers on days two, four, and seven.
  • Transfers on Days 2,3,4,5,6 and 7 according to the walking programme.
  • Digital detailed route notes and maps in English
  • Access to route information on an app.
  • 24 hour telephone assistance in English.
  • Flights.
  • Meals not mentioned.
  • All transfers by public transport in the afternoons although they are part of the programme.
  • Personal expenses such as tips, phone calls, drinks.
  • Hotel tax where applicable, paid locally.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Shipment of printed documents to the first accommodation.
  • Printed detailed route information (available at an additional charge of £30, and is available at your first hotel)

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

62040

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival

Accommodation

Upon arrival at La Palma Airport, a pre-arranged taxi will be ready to transport you to your initial lodging in the vibrant capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma. Situated in the historic old town, your hotel is conveniently located opposite the black pebble beach.

Day 2

Cubo la Galga

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer to Barlovento included.

  • Time

    4/6 hours

  • Distance

    4.5/7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    450/650/400/800m

In the early morning, a scheduled taxi transfer will take you to a quintessential Canary Islands cloud forest, El Cubo de la Galga. The trek commences on broad forest paths, transitioning to paved and unpaved country roads as you approach the coast, adorned with Canarian banana plantations. The walk offers two endpoints, either 7 or 11.7km, where you can catch the Guagua (Canarian for public bus) to Barlovento. Concluding the journey in this northernmost town, you then proceed another kilometre to a comfortable hotel featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, where you'll enjoy a two-night stay.

Day 3

Los Franceses - Barlovento

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    7 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    925/725m

Take a taxi transfer (included) to the village of Los Machos de Franceses, located in one of the island's most secluded areas. Follow the historic "Camino Real de Los Machos," trekking through La Tosca, renowned for its splendid Canary Island Dragon trees, on your way back to Barlovento.

Day 4

From Pico de la Nieve to Virgen del Pino chapel

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer to Los Llanos de Aridane. 

  • Time

    6/7 hours

  • Distance

    9.5/11 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    625/650/925/1025m

Start your day with a morning transfer (included) to the base of Pico de La Nieve (2039m). Follow today's route along the rim of the vast Caldera de Taburiente. Embark on a extended descent along the "Camino Real," weaving through pine forests and the 'Reventón,' ultimately reaching the Virgen del Pino chapel. From there, a short distance remains to the National Park Visitors Centre, where you catch the Guagua to Llanos de Aridane.

Day 5

La Caldera de Taburiente

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    6 hours

  • Distance

    8.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    250/900m

Following a transfer to Los Brecitos (included), at the heart of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, your exploration of this natural haven begins with a descent to the Taburiente River bed. Wander towards the iconic Roque Idafe, a uniquely shaped rock holding special significance for the island's native inhabitants, featuring a vividly colored waterfall tinted by the Caldera's sulfur. At the route's conclusion, a taxi will be arranged to transport you back to Los Llanos de Aridane.

In case of hot weather or a high forest fire risk, the crater may be closed, and the standard walk becomes unavailable. In such instances, an alternative circular route from Las Tricias to Buraca, though shorter, offers surprising variety.

Day 6

Along the Time ridge to Tazacorte

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    6.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    250/1490m

Embark on a panoramic journey commencing with a steep ascent across an ancient lava flow to the western rim of the Taburiente crater. Subsequently, descend gradually via footpaths and unpaved country roads, reaching the endpoint of the standard walk at the El Time restaurant and mirador. For those extending the route, proceed further downhill along mostly paved yet peaceful lanes to the welcoming beach town of Puerto Tazacorte. Enjoy a leisurely lunch before returning to the hotel in Llanos de Aridane via public transport.

Day 7

La Ruta de los Volcanes

Meals

Breakfast

Accommodation

Luggage transfer to Santa Cruz de la Palma.

  • Time

    6.5 hours

  • Distance

    11 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    550/1200m

On your final day, embark on another island hiking classic: the Ruta de los Volcanes, stretching from the hermitage of the Virgen del Pilar to Los Canarios (Fuencaliente). Fortunately, this route is once again accessible to the public following the recent volcanic eruption at Cumbre Vieja in September 2021. Already a path of considerable geological interest, it now serves as a testament to the shaping and destructive forces of nature, with the island's residents still grappling with the daily consequences.

If this route proves too lengthy or challenging, you can arrange for a taxi to transport you directly to Los Canarios. From there, you can undertake the final segment of the route towards the Fuencaliente Lighthouse (additional fee payable on-site). In either case, continue in the afternoon via public bus to Santa Cruz, where your luggage awaits you at the hotel.

Day 8

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast your holiday on La Palma ends, your included transfer will take you to La Palma Airport. 

Travel Details

The nearest airport is Santa Cruz de La Palma. Airport transfers are included in the holiday cost. 

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is an example of the type of accommodation you will be allocated on this holiday. Your final accommodation list will be confirmed on your travel documents, these will usually be with you around two weeks prior to departure.

Holiday Time Hotel or similar

This establishment exudes a distinctive charm with its traditional island architecture, strategically positioned between the historic town centre and the recently developed black gravel beach of Santa Cruz. Experience comfort and functionality in the rooms, complemented by a satisfying breakfast. Rooms are equipped with ensuite facilities, safe, A/C, hairdryer, TV and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel La Palma Romántica or similar

Experience a breath taking mountain hotel that exudes a welcoming family atmosphere. Situated just 1 km from Barlovento, it offers stunning views of the sea and mountains, enveloped by the lush laurel forest. Rooms are equipped with ensuite facilities, heating, phone, TV, minibar, safe, and hairdryer. 

Hotel Benahoare or similar

Discover a delightful contemporary hotel nestled in the heart of Los Llanos de Aridane, across from the Archaeological Museum Benahorita. Fully renovated and redecorated in 2020, the hotel boasts comfortable rooms, a welcoming lounge, and a rooftop terrace featuring a petite pool. Start your day with breakfast served downstairs in Café Idafe, open to the public. Rooms are equipped with ensuite facilities, A/C, safe, TV, Wi-Fi and hairdryer. 

Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Each day you will walk up to 6 hours with cumulative daily ascents and descents in the range of 750m. Some walks will have longer descents that can be towards 1000m.  The paths can be rough and steep at times, but should be taken at a an appropriate pace.  The average mileage for this holiday is 8 miles a day, this can vary depending on the day. 

Trips comprise of day walks with plenty of ups and downs, some steep and rough ground will be encountered at times and walks averaging 7 miles with 650m of ascent / descent. Some holidays will cover longer distances on easier paths, others will be shorter walks but have more demanding ascents and terrain.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 7 miles; Ascent/Descent 650m; Terrain: generally decent paths and tracks with some steeper sections; Walking Time: Day walks. 

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s keys walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Spending Money

Holiday Budgeting

As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.

If your holiday does not include dinners (see itinerary) we recommend budgeting an additional £25-30 per day.

Currency in Spain

The currency in Spain is the euro. You may wish to take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller towns and rural areas.

Tipping

Tips are not included in the holiday price. Although entirely at your own discretion, tipping is an important aspect of tourism and hospitality life and expectations are fairly high.  We strongly recommend when receiving good service you make a tip to the local supplier.

Your Travel Details

The nearest airport is Santa Cruz de La Palma. Airport transfers are included in the holiday cost to and from the hotel. 

If you would like to book flights through us please let our travel team know. 

Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents

Should you have decided to book any overseas flight arrangements through us, details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.

Personal Details Check

To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.

Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.

You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.

Documentation

After booking your holiday, expect to receive a confirmation and holiday information sheet soon after.

Once you've settled your balance, about 2 weeks before your holiday, you'll get instructions on how to log into your ActiveNav or GUIBO App. Grab your Apple or Android smartphone and head to the app store for a quick download. Once installed, the app grants you access to all route information and provides guidance on how to navigate it.

Around 2 weeks prior to your departure, you'll also get a destination manual & road book. This comprehensive guide includes detailed information on your walking route and interesting facts about the areas you'll stay in. Alongside, a trip voucher will confirm all the services booked for you, complete with the names and addresses of your hotels and other service providers. Be prepared to present this voucher as confirmation at your accommodations, and don't forget to bring along a valid form of ID.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.

Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:

  • less than 10 years old on the day you enter (check the ‘date of issue’)
  • valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.

Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.

Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.

Meals

In general all of our self-guided holidays are on a bed and breakfast basis with breakfast provided at your accommodation. Depending on the route you are walking and access to local services such as restaurants, cafes and supermarkets, your itinerary may include packed lunches, dinners or a mix of both. Please refer to the individual itinerary and what is included for accurate information.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Footwear is a walker’s personal choice; however, we suggest lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support and may be essential for some walks.

Luggage Transfers

On a self guided holiday, the days you walk from one property to another, your main luggage will be transferred for you as part of your holiday arrangements. This leaves you free to just carry what you need for the day. Please refer to your individual itinerary for which days your luggage will be transferred. Before you leave your accommodation in the morning, please speak with your host for where the luggage should be left and by what time. 

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Compass
  • Map case
  • Whistle
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Water bottle - at least 2 litre capacity (more may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat
  • Mobile
  • Power Bank for charging mobile if needed.
  • Phone charging lead

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Travel Documents Checklist

Documents and Information to take with you:

  • Passport (make sure it's yours and valid)
  • Your travel tickets or e-ticket itinerary
  • Any visa or electronic travel authorisation (if required)
  • Holiday money
  • Credit or debit cards (and separate details of who to call if lost)
  • Car parking ticket and car park directions (if prebooked)
  • Coach or rail travel tickets (if prebooked)
  • Your holiday Booking Confirmation document
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Alternative form of identification (such as a driving licence)
  • Photocopy of the personal details' pages of your passport
  • A valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if relevant
  • Details of any medical condition or allergy your holiday leader should know about

Electricity in Spain

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Water To Go

Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.

Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.

As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.                        

Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday, you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!

Maps, Guidebooks & Other Information

Weather

Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Spain

No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Spain. You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

Cultural Awareness

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust

Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.

The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam, and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.

Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.

For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.

Heart and Sole

We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.

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La Palma

  • Capital

    Santa Cruz de La Palma

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Time Difference

    n/a

  • Flight duration

    4.5 hours

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    18°C

    Avg. Rain: 49mm

  • February

    18°C

    Avg. Rain: 57mm

  • March

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 33mm

  • April

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 19mm

  • May

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 7mm

  • June

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 2mm

  • July

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 1mm

  • August

    24°C

    Avg. Rain: 1mm

  • September

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 12mm

  • October

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 41mm

  • November

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 70mm

  • December

    19°C

    Avg. Rain: 80mm

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