La Palma: PlatanoLógico Edible Forest Tour

If you’ve ever wondered how bananas grow organically on the Canary Islands and how they can be cultivated in harmony with nature, then the PlatanoLógico Edible Forest Tour in Puerto Naos is a must. For just $35 per person, this 90 to 120-minute experience offers an insightful look into eco-friendly farming practices, with a friendly guide who makes complex topics accessible and engaging. Led by Francisco (Fran), the tour combines education, tasting, and a touch of local charm, making it a worthwhile addition to your La Palma itinerary.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines hands-on learning with authentic tastes—you’ll get to try fresh bananas straight from the trees and sip solar tea brewed on-site, all while understanding the importance of sustainable agriculture. Another highlight is the interpretation center, the only one dedicated solely to Canary Island bananas, giving context to what makes these local fruits so special.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves sitting for some parts of the presentation, which might be less appealing to travelers seeking a more physically active or extensive walking experience. However, the relaxed pace and shaded seating make it accessible and enjoyable even in warmer weather.

This tour is ideally suited for families with children aged 6 and above, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone curious about local farming traditions and sustainable food practices. If you’re looking for an authentic, educational experience that’s more about learning and tasting than physical exertion, this is a perfect choice.

Key Points

• Educational and Fun: Learn about sustainable banana farming and eco-agriculture in an engaging way.
• Authentic Tasting: Enjoy fresh bananas and regenerative solar tea straight from the farm.
• Expert Guide: Tour led by passionate guides like Fran, known for their enthusiasm and clarity.
• Accessible Experience: Short walks, shaded seating, and plenty of sitting make it suitable for most visitors.
• Unique Interpretation Center: The only center dedicated solely to Canary Island bananas adds context and depth.
• Value for Money: At $35, this tour offers a rich mix of education, taste, and local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting and Setting Out

Starting at Puerto Naos Beach, the meeting point is easy to find—look for a sign with a giant 6-meter banana on the wall just in front of the plantation. The tour begins promptly at 10:30 a.m., giving you the chance to enjoy the cooler morning hours. The farm’s location on the beach promenade makes for a scenic arrival, with views of the ocean providing a relaxed backdrop for the day ahead.

What to Expect During the Tour

Once gathered, your guide—most notably Fran, who’s praised for his enthusiasm and professionalism—will lead you into the world of banana cultivation. You will learn about the matriarchal structure of banana trees, which is quite fascinating. The tour emphasizes organic methods—no chemicals are used—and explains why good plant-based nutrition is vital for your health.

Throughout the visit, you’ll observe how banana trees grow in harmony with their environment, especially in an area that has withstood the 2021 volcanic eruption. The resilience of the farm adds a layer of appreciation, showing how sustainable farming can adapt to natural challenges.

The Educational Segment

Part of the tour involves sitting in shaded areas as Fran shares insights about ecosystems, the importance of organic farming, and local traditions. While some reviews mention the long seated presentation, they also highlight Fran’s lively and humorous delivery, making complex subjects easier to understand. This part of the tour provides context about the history and significance of bananas in La Palma.

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Tasting and Final Moments

The highlight for many is the fruit tasting—sampling bananas and other fruits directly from the edible forest. The freshness is undeniable, and the experience is designed to show how nutritious food can be grown in eco-friendly ways. The tour concludes with a cup of solar tea, brewed on-site using solar-powered methods, reinforcing the sustainable theme.

Practical Details

This experience is designed to be comfortable and accessible. It involves minimal walking and offers shade and seating, making it suitable for most visitors, including families with kids over 6. The group size tends to be small, fostering an intimate learning environment. The cost includes the guided tour, tastings, and the tea, providing great value for such a hands-on, informative experience.

Authentic Insights from Tour Reviews

Many visitors praise the tour’s enthusiastic guides—especially Fran—for their ability to explain complex topics with passion and clarity. Berit describes the experience as “an unbelievable adventure” with lots of humor, making the learning process enjoyable. David mentions Fran’s professionalism and enthusiasm, which keeps the group engaged throughout.

Some reviews note that the presentation style involves seated explanations at two different locations, which might feel a bit static for those expecting a more walking-oriented tour. However, others appreciate the relaxed pace and opportunity to ask questions.

The tasting experience is often highlighted as a high point. Romain and Jason Vincent appreciated the delicious bananas and herbal tea from the farm, complimenting the friendly guidance and informative commentary. While a few critics felt that the long sitting isn’t ideal for very young children or those seeking a more physical experience, most agree that the educational value far outweighs this minor drawback.

The Cultural and Environmental Context

Understanding how banana cultivation fits into La Palma’s landscape and economy enriches your visit. The interpretation center is a rare find—dedicated solely to the Canary Island banana—providing insightful background that elevates the tasting and sightseeing. It highlights how eco-agriculture not only sustains the farm but also preserves local traditions and supports biodiversity.

The farm’s resilience after the volcanic eruption of 2021 underscores the adaptability of local farmers and the importance of sustainable practices in the face of natural adversity. Learning about these efforts fosters appreciation for local resilience and ecological balance.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re interested in food, sustainability, and local culture, you’ll find this tour both informative and delicious. It’s particularly suited for families, eco-conscious travelers, and curious minds eager to learn about organic farming and regional traditions. The small group setting and enthusiastic guide make it engaging, and the tastings add a memorable flavor to your La Palma experience.

While it may not satisfy those looking for active hiking or extensive walking, the relaxed pace and shade make it a comfortable choice. Plus, the price includes plenty of knowledge, tastings, and a unique interpretation center, ensuring you get good value for your money.

This tour offers a rare glimpse into sustainable agriculture on La Palma, making it more than just a sightseeing stop—it’s a chance to connect with the land, the people, and the future of food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is recommended for children aged 6 and above. The tour involves some seated explanations and light walking, which most kids can handle comfortably.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, ensuring clear communication for most visitors.

How long does the tour last?
Expect it to take between 90 and 120 minutes, depending on questions and group pace.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
The tour begins at Puerto Naos Beach, in front of the banana plantation marked by a sign with a 6-meter banana on the wall.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor conditions, including sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, are advisable. The tour has shaded seating, but sun exposure can vary.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking, pets (except assistance animals), alcohol, drugs, and littering are not permitted during the tour.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Minimal walking and sitting are involved. You won’t be hiking or traversing rough terrain.

What makes this tour unique compared to other La Palma experiences?
It’s the only interpretation center dedicated solely to Canary Island bananas and emphasizes eco-friendly, sustainable farming practices in a personal, engaging manner.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the La Palma PlatanoLógico Edible Forest Tour offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at sustainable banana farming paired with tastings and local insights. Its value lies not just in the information but in the authentic experience of connecting with La Palma’s agricultural roots. It’s best suited for families, eco-enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to understand how local food systems work and how they can support sustainable practices in their own lives. The knowledgeable guides, delicious fruits, and relaxed pace make for a memorable, educational outing that will leave you with a greater appreciation for the land—and the bananas—you might just be munching on back home.

You can check availability for your dates here: