La Palma: Guided Trekking Tour To Cubo de la Galga

If you’re visiting La Palma and craving a walk that combines natural beauty, history, and some of the island’s most impressive scenery, the Guided Trekking Tour to Cubo de la Galga should be on your list. For just $36 per person, you get around 4 to 5 hours of wandering through a 2 million-year-old forest, with a guide leading the way and pointing out the fascinating flora and fauna that have thrived here for eons.

What we love about this trek is the chance to walk through a living museum of nature, where the lush greenery and misty atmosphere transport you to a different time—no fancy time machines required. Plus, the panoramic views from the Mirador of Somada Alta provide a spectacular backdrop to this adventure, with the possibility of glimpsing neighboring islands like Tenerife and La Gomera.

One thing to consider is the moderate difficulty level—the 11 km walk requires comfortable hiking shoes and a fair bit of stamina. If you’re after a leisurely stroll, this might be more energetic than some relaxed walks. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, packing a snack and enough water is a smart move.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and those curious about La Palma’s unique ecosystems. If you’re interested in an environment that feels like stepping into an enchanted forest, you’ll enjoy this experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas.

Key Points

• Ancient Forest: Experience a laurel forest dating back over 20 million years.
• Spectacular Views: From Mirador Somada Alta, enjoy panoramic vistas of neighboring islands.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about local flora, fauna, and legends from knowledgeable guides.
• Accessible for Moderate Hikers: Around 11 km, suitable for those comfortable on a trail.
• Value for Money: At $36, the experience offers a rich combination of scenery and insight.
• Flexible Scheduling: Check availability for different start times, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Walking into the Cubo de la Galga tour feels like stepping into an ancient jungle that has stayed remarkably unchanged through the millennia. The journey begins with a pickup from designated points, including the Los Cancajos Tourist Information Office, making logistics straightforward for travelers. From there, you head northeast toward Puntallana, where the dense Laurisilva forest awaits. This forest is a living relic, originating during the Tertiary period—more than 20 million years ago—and it’s still green year-round thanks to the trade winds and horizontal rain.

We loved how the guide explains the significance of this environment—it’s more than just a walk; it’s a history lesson in living plants. The big ferns, mosses, and thick foliage create a landscape that feels more like an enchanted realm than a typical hiking trail. The humidity and mist add to the sense of stepping into a primeval world, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot some of the local wildlife or unique plant species.

After exploring the forest, a climb to the Mirador of Somada Alta offers some of the best views on the island. On clear days, you’ll see neighboring islands La Gomera and Tenerife stretching out across the horizon—imagine that! It’s a perfect spot for photos and simply soaking in the expansive scenery. The guides are eager to share stories about the landscape and local legends, including the romantic tale of El Salto del Enamorado, which adds a poetic touch to an already memorable vista.

Descending to the Mirador de San Bartolo, you’ll enjoy sweeping views and learn about the area’s history. The guide might also share some local stories, making the experience both scenic and culturally engaging. The walk concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a sense of having traveled through both space and time.

One of the reviews summarized it well: “Nice walk with lots of information about the area, nicely told by the guide. Everyone was well taken care of by the whole group. Good condition and necessary hiking shoes.” This reflects the tour’s balance of informative narration and physical activity.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $36, this guided trek provides a rich, immersive experience—not just a walk, but a journey through La Palma’s natural history. The price includes transportation to and from the trailhead, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to see some of the island’s most iconic landscapes. While food and drinks aren’t included, the experience’s depth and the views make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those who love outdoor adventures and nature.

The tour is flexible: you can check availability for different start times and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk option for spontaneous travelers or those with fluid plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek is perfect for hikers with a moderate fitness level who want to see La Palma’s most ancient forests. It’s also suitable for those eager to learn about local flora and enjoy panoramic island views. Since the trail covers about 11 km, it’s better suited for active travelers rather than complete beginners or those with mobility issues.

If you enjoy guided experiences that blend natural beauty with storytelling, this tour will resonate. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery, makes for a memorable outing. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of physical activity and cultural storytelling, especially if you’re interested in the island’s natural history.

The Complete Breakdown: What You Can Expect

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The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transfer

The tour kicks off with a pickup from designated locations, typically the Los Cancajos Tourist Information Office, making logistics straightforward. The transport takes you northeast toward Puntallana, the gateway to La Palma’s lush forests. This part is simple but essential, as it ensures your day starts smoothly and without hassle.

Walking Through the Laurisilva Forest

Once at the trailhead, the real adventure begins. The Laurisilva—meaning “laurel forest”—is a living relic of ancient ecosystems. You’ll walk through dense greenery, big ferns, and moss-covered trees that seem to whisper stories of millennia past. The guide’s knowledge enriches this part, as you learn how this environment has persisted through climate changes and volcanic activity.

Expect humidity and mist to create a mystical atmosphere—think of it as walking through a fairy tale. The trail covers approximately 11 km, with enough variety to keep things interesting without becoming overwhelming. The terrain is manageable for most hikers in good shape, but sturdy hiking shoes are recommended given the potentially slippery, mossy surfaces.

The Mirador of Somada Alta: A Breathtaking Viewpoint

After exploring the forest, you’ll ascend to the Mirador of Somada Alta. This vantage point offers commanding views over the surrounding islands and the coastal villages of Los Sauces and San Andrés. If the weather cooperates, you’ll see Tenerife and La Gomera, making it one of the most scenic spots of the tour. It’s a prime location for photos and appreciating the vastness of the Canary Islands’ landscape.

Descending to San Bartolo and the Legend

The trail then takes you to the Mirador de San Bartolo, where you’ll have more sweeping vistas. The guide shares stories about the area’s history, adding a cultural layer to the natural experience. Among these tales is the legend of El Salto del Enamorado, a romantic but tragic story that adds a poetic touch to the landscape.

Returning and Reflecting

The walk concludes back at the starting point, with a sense of having knitted together nature, history, and legend into one memorable outing. It’s a full, satisfying day that leaves many feeling both invigorated and enlightened.

Practical Tips for Your Trek

• Bring sturdy hiking shoes — the terrain can get mossy and slippery.
• Pack water, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear—the weather in the forest can change quickly.
• A camera is essential for capturing the views and flora.
• Wear comfortable clothing suited for walking, and bring an extra layer or rain jacket just in case.
• Snacks and drinks are not included, so pack some if you want to stay energized.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a nature-filled experience that combines scenic beauty, educational insights, and a touch of adventure, this trek is a solid choice. It offers enough physical activity for those comfortable with a moderate hike and plenty of stunning vistas to make it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides enrich the walk, making the environment come alive with stories and facts.

It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate well-organized tours, enjoy learning about local ecosystems, and want to see a truly ancient part of La Palma. While not suited for wheelchair users or children under three, active travelers with a keen interest in nature will find this tour both enjoyable and meaningful.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, covering approximately 11 km of walking through the forest and viewpoints.

What is the difficulty level?
The tour is rated as medium difficulty—suitable for most hikers comfortable with moderate distances and terrain.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water, snacks, and perhaps a light lunch if desired.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the price includes pickup and return from selected locations, including the Los Cancajos Tourist Information Office.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in Spanish, German, and English to accommodate diverse travelers.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under three and individuals with mobility issues or back problems should consider other options, as this is a moderate outdoor walk.

To sum it up, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore one of La Palma’s most emblematic landscapes—the ancient laurel forest—with the added benefit of expert storytelling and breathtaking views. It’s an experience that balances physical activity with natural beauty and cultural storytelling, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic connection with the island’s natural history. If you’re ready for a memorable day among towering ferns and misty trails, this guided trek might just be the highlight of your La Palma visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: