Caldera de Taburiente

October 24, 2025

Exploring Caldera de Taburiente National Park

Situated on the island of La Palma in the Canary Islands, Caldera de Taburiente National Park showcases one of the world’s most impressive volcanic landscapes. Declared a national park in 1954, it covers nearly 4,700 hectares and forms a massive erosion crater — the Caldera de Taburiente — about 8 kilometers wide and over 2,000 meters deep.

The park’s rugged terrain includes pine forests, volcanic cliffs, and seasonal waterfalls, shaped by centuries of erosion rather than a single volcanic explosion. Its flora includes endemic Canary pine and colorful rock lichens, while its fauna features species like the La Palma chaffinch and various native invertebrates unique to the island.

Visitors can reach the park via El Paso, with access points such as Los Brecitos and La Cumbrecita. Well-marked trails lead through the caldera to viewpoints and rivers, offering spectacular views of La Palma’s volcanic heart. Caldera de Taburiente is a haven for geology enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking the quiet grandeur of the Canary highlands.

Must See / Must Do

1. Hike the Caldera Circuit – descend from Los Brecitos and follow the Barranco de las Angustias through waterfalls and volcanic walls.

2. Mirador de la Cumbrecita – the park’s most accessible viewpoint, offering breathtaking views into the crater.

3. Camp at Taburiente Area – spend a night beneath the stars inside the caldera (permit required).

4. Observe the sky – La Palma is a Starlight Reserve; nights here are among the clearest on Earth.

5. Visit El Roque de los Muchachos – the island’s highest point (2,426 m) with panoramic views across the Atlantic.

Park Essentials

📍 Region: Canary Islands – La Palma (Spain)

📏 Area: 46.9 km²

🗻 Highest point: Roque de los Muchachos (2,426 m)

🌳 Landscape: Volcanic caldera, deep ravines, pine forests, waterfalls

🌿🦌 Flora and Fauna: Canary pine, endemic violets, kestrels, laurel pigeons, Barbary falcons

📅 Best time to visit: April – October

🚪 Main gateways: Los Llanos de Aridane, El Paso, Santa Cruz de La Palma

Where the Pirineo spirit gives back

At Pirineo, we believe that adventure goes hand in hand with responsibility. Through our YourParks program, we proudly support the stewardship of Spain’s national parks, promoting sustainable exploration and the protection of our most treasured landscapes. Every journey with Pirineo is an opportunity to connect with nature—and to help preserve it for generations to come.

Your purchase. Your park.

Recommended Hiking Trails

1. Los Brecitos to Barranco de las Angustias

Duration: 5–6 hours (one-way descent)
Distance: ~13 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Overview: The classic route through the Caldera: pine forests, waterfalls, and the river of Las Angustias flowing through volcanic walls.

2. La Cumbrecita to Mirador Lomo de las Chozas

Duration: 1.5–2 hours round trip
Distance: ~4 km
Difficulty: Easy / Family-friendly

Overview: A short but stunning walk along the rim of the Caldera with wide views over Los Llanos and the Atlantic Ocean.

3. Taburiente River and Cascada de Colores

Duration: 3–4 hours round trip
Distance: ~7 km
Difficulty: Moderate

Overview: Follow the Taburiente River to the Cascada de Colores, a natural waterfall stained in reds and oranges by iron minerals — one of the park’s most unique sights.