Discover the last eruption in La Palma

Discover the Last Eruption in La Palma

If you’re eager to see La Palma through the eyes of someone who knows it intimately, this 5.5-hour guided tour offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, history, and volcanic drama. Led by local guide Basso Lanzone, a seasoned explorer of the island, you’ll visit Santa Cruz, the spectacular Cumbrecita viewpoint, and the fascinating volcanic landscapes around the Tajogaite volcano. For just $83.01 per person, you’ll get an authentic experience, with a small group and a knowledgeable guide sharing stories that bring the island’s volcanic past and vibrant culture to life.

What we love about this tour is its personal touch—every stop has been carefully selected after countless visits to ensure you see only the most meaningful and eye-catching sites. We also appreciate the balanced approach to culture and nature, giving you a well-rounded view of La Palma’s unique character. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the tour’s length and stops might feel a bit rushed if you prefer more leisure at each site. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full, engaging day with lots of insight and stunning vistas.

This experience is ideal for those who want a deep dive into La Palma’s volcanic history, coupled with cultural highlights, without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you love learning from passionate guides and want to see the island’s most impressive viewpoints and volcanic sites, this tour is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Approach: Crafted personally by guide Basso Lanzone, not a generic itinerary.
• Diverse Highlights: From Santa Cruz’s colorful streets to powerful volcanic landscapes.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable local guide sharing stories, history, and personal insights.
• Balanced Experience: Mix of natural vistas, cultural sites, and recent volcanic activity.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, guide, and entrance fees with a reasonable price.
• Limited Group Size: Enhances interaction and personalized attention.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Calle O’Daly at Santa Cruz de La Palma

We begin in the vibrant heart of Santa Cruz, the island’s capital. Meeting at the Cartel Nitrato de Chile, we step into a lively atmosphere filled with colorful buildings, inviting cafes, and a sense of local charm. From here, our guide shares stories about the history of the street, its colonial past, and its influence as a hub of island life. The walk through the historic center gives us a taste of La Palma’s rich cultural fabric, packed with colonial architecture, plazas, and artisanal shops.

The 45-minute introductory segment is a smooth way to get oriented and set the tone. It’s especially great for those who love strolling through old towns and learning about local traditions directly from a passionate guide.

Santa Cruz’s Historic Center

Next, we continue exploring on foot, wandering through Santa Cruz’s well-preserved old town. Here, you’ll see houses painted in lively colors, intricate balconies, and bustling squares. The guide points out significant landmarks like the Town Hall and historic churches, weaving in fascinating details about the island’s maritime past. According to reviews, this part of the tour is an ideal primer for understanding La Palma’s cultural heritage—“perfectly preserved,” as one traveler put it.

This segment lasts about 30 minutes, and is free of charge, making it a perfect complement to the scenic views ahead.

The Spectacular Cumbrecita Viewpoint

The next stop is the Mirador de la Cumbrecita, situated within the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. Here, you’ll stand on an impressive platform overlooking a vast volcanic crater surrounded by pine forests. We loved the panoramic views that make your camera work hard, with sweeping vistas of the volcanic cones and lush greenery. The geological origins of the park are explained by the guide, adding depth to the breathtaking scenery.

This viewpoint is a highlight, offering some of the most stunning scenery in the Canary Islands. The 20-minute stop allows plenty of time to soak it in and take photos. It’s a great place to contemplate the island’s volcanic power and natural resilience.

Approaching the Volcán Tajogaite

We then venture towards the Tajogaite volcano, born from La Palma’s most recent eruption in 2021. Reaching the Tacande de Arriba, you’ll travel along the newly constructed road that snakes over hardened lava flows, past homes buried under ash and blackened landscapes. The contrast between the vibrant greenery of the slopes and the dark lava scars is striking.

Our guide shares personal stories from residents who experienced the eruption firsthand, emphasizing the destructive yet resilient spirit of the island. The one-hour visit to this volcanic site is an evocative, tangible reminder of La Palma’s dynamic geological activity. As one reviewer said, “Seeing the lava so close and hearing about its history was really interesting.”

Time in El Paso

The tour concludes in El Paso, the lively heart of La Palma’s interior community. Here, you’re encouraged to grab lunch, browse local shops, or chat with residents. It’s a perfect opportunity to experience the island’s everyday life and taste some regional dishes. After about an hour, the group heads back to Santa Cruz, filled with images of volcanoes, colorful streets, and resilient communities.

The free time in El Paso was highly appreciated by travelers, many of whom mention the warm atmosphere and delicious local cuisine as highlights.

Transportation and Group Size

Throughout the tour, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives between sites comfortable. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a good balance between social interaction and personal space. While some reviews note that the tour can feel somewhat rushed—especially with the number of stops—you’ll generally get a very comprehensive snapshot of La Palma in one day.

Price and Value

At $83.01 per person, including guide and entrance fees, this tour offers good value for those interested in a structured, yet authentic experience. The cost covers transport, guide, and key viewpoints, but note that lunch is not included—so budget for a meal in El Paso or bring snacks.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and some uneven terrain.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.
• Prepare for variable weather—layers are always a good idea.
• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Authenticity and Expertise

What makes this tour stand out is the personal involvement of Basso Lanzone, who has explored every corner of La Palma. The stories he shares about the eruption, the island’s history, and local life add a layer of authenticity not found in more generic sightseeing tours. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides—highlighted as a major plus—and the care taken to include meaningful sites.

Real Feedback in Reviews

Travelers often mention how the guide managed multiple languages smoothly, making the experience accessible for everyone. One reviewer noted, “The guide did a great job, making sure everyone was involved,” which highlights the inclusive atmosphere. Others appreciated the good value of the tour, stating that the amount of sites visited and insights gained justified the price.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour is ideal for curious travelers who want more than just a superficial overview of La Palma. It’s perfect if you enjoy learning about volcanic activity, culture, and local life all in one day. The mix of breathtaking viewpoints, historical streets, and volcanic landscapes makes it especially appealing for those who love geology, photography, and island stories.

While the schedule is full and the stops are many, it remains a manageable pace thanks to the comfortable transportation and engaging guide. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, authentic, and memorable day on La Palma, this tour offers a genuine taste of what makes the island special—without feeling overly touristy or superficial.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time in El Paso to enjoy a meal or a coffee.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time, stops, and free time.

What is the group size?
The tour can have up to 50 travelers, which is a good size for a shared experience but might feel busy for those craving a more intimate setting.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, the tour includes entrance tickets for the viewpoints and national park areas.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking at the viewpoints and in Santa Cruz. Layered clothing is advisable due to variable weather.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and stamina if planning to explore volcanic sites and walk in uneven terrain.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at Calle O’Daly in Santa Cruz de La Palma, near the Nitrato de Chile mural.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide fluent in multiple languages?
Yes, the guide manages multiple languages and ensures everyone is involved.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during high season or busy periods, to secure your spot.

If you’re eager to combine geological wonders, cultural insights, and scenic beauty into one carefully curated day, this tour on La Palma is a compelling choice. It combines natural spectacle with authentic storytelling, making it a worthwhile addition to any island itinerary.