From Tenerife: Tajogaite Volcano, La Cumbrecita and Casco Antiguo

Tenerife to La Palma: An In-Depth Look at the Volcano, Coastal Charm, and Cultural Gems

Imagine setting sail from Tenerife early in the morning, crossing the Atlantic on a ferry, and landing in La Palma, one of the most captivating Canary Islands. For around $163 per person, this 11-hour guided tour offers a chance to witness spectacular volcanic landscapes, explore charming towns, and see firsthand the power of nature — all with the guidance of an experienced official guide, Rosa, who impresses with her multilingual expertise and genuine enthusiasm.

What we love most about this experience are the stunning views from La Cumbrecita, set high in the Caldera de Taburiente, and the eye-opening visit to the Tajogaite volcano, which erupted as recently as September 2021. These stops aren’t just photo ops; they’re real encounters with nature’s raw force. Plus, the inclusion of a free, authentic local lunch adds a delicious touch to the day.

A potential consideration is the ferry ride, which lasts about two hours each way and can be bumpy if the weather isn’t cooperative. Also, the tour’s duration means limited time in some locations, like Santa Cruz de La Palma, which might leave those of us who love wandering wishing for a bit more exploration.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about volcanic activity, enjoy scenic drives, and want an authentic taste of La Palma’s culture and natural beauty without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves. It’s especially well-suited for those who value knowledgeable guides and meaningful, off-the-beaten-path encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Designed by an official guide, the tour emphasizes genuine sights rather than tourist traps.
• Spectacular Views: From La Cumbrecita to volcanic landscapes, the scenery is a highlight.
• In-Depth Knowledge: Rosa’s multilingual explanations make complex volcanic history accessible.
• Cultural & Natural Balance: Combines town visits, natural parks, and volcanic sites.
• Value for Money: All fees, ferry, and guide included, with a tasty local lunch.
• Consideration: Ferry rides can be rough, and time in some places is limited.

A Full Breakdown of the La Palma Day Trip

Starting Point: Los Cristianos Harbor

Your adventure begins bright and early at the Los Cristianos ferry terminal, where you’ll board the Fred Olsen Express at 8:30 am. The ferry ride takes about two hours and fifteen minutes, offering a scenic crossing with plenty of space to relax — or even grab a snack for purchase if you’re feeling peckish. Many travelers comment on the smoothness of the ride, though some noted it can be a bit rough if the sea’s choppy.

Santa Cruz de La Palma: A Town of Colonial Charm

Once you arrive in Puerto de la Santa Cruz, the tour quickly transitions into exploring La Palma’s capital. Rosa gives a lively overview of the town’s history and culture. You’ll have around 30 minutes to walk freely, which is enough to see iconic sights like:

• The Ship of the Virgin, a replica of Columbus’s Santa María, which serves as a reminder of La Palma’s maritime history. Inside, there’s a naval museum with charts and ship models.
• The Castle of Santa Catalina, once vital for defending Spanish ships en route to the Americas.
• The charming Balconies, double-layered wooden overhangs that show off traditional Canary Islands architecture. These balconies allow for excellent ventilation and add picturesque details to the streets.

Many reviews appreciate the guide’s ability to share fascinating stories and historical context in multiple languages, making the town’s sights come alive.

Caldera de Taburiente & La Cumbrecita Viewpoint

Next, the tour heads to Caldera de Taburiente National Park, one of the archipelago’s most impressive natural preserves. A brief stop here offers panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding landscape. The highlight is the La Cumbrecita viewpoint, perched high above the crater, where you’ll see sweeping vistas of the rugged terrain and lush vegetation below. Expect to spend around 15 minutes here, but the views are worth every second.

Approaching the Volcano: Tacande de Arriba and Tazacorte

The journey continues into the exclusion zone of Tacande, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the Tajogaite volcano, the recent eruption site from September 2021. It’s both startling and humbling to see the raw, black lava flows that now blanket parts of the landscape. Walking on the lava road, you’ll witness the resilience of nature as new land and habitat begin to form after destruction.

In Tazacorte, you see Spain’s youngest lava flows, which have transformed parts of the coastline. Many travelers note the dramatic contrast between the fertile, lush surroundings and the blackened volcanic terrain, making this a powerful visual lesson about volcanic renewal.

The Iconic Tajuya Viewpoint

Next, we stop at the Tajuya viewpoint, where Rosa offers insights into the Cumbre Vieja eruption, which began in September 2021 and displaced over 1,000 residents. Many reviews highlight the emotional impact of this stop, as the landscape visually narrates the eruption’s devastating force and ongoing recovery. It’s a sobering but essential part of understanding La Palma’s recent history.

Returning to Santa Cruz & Ferry Ride Back

After a full day of exploring, you’ll catch the ferry back at 5:00 pm, returning to Tenerife by about 7:15 pm. The ferry ride on the way back often garners positive comments for its comfort, though some mention that it can be rough, so packing some motion sickness tablets might be wise.

The Experience in Practice: What Travelers Say

Feedback from participants paints a vivid picture. Rosa, the guide, is repeatedly praised for her ability to explain complex volcanic processes clearly, and her multilingual skills mean everyone feels included. One traveler notes, “Rosa explained very good what we saw and experienced during the trip,” emphasizing how her knowledge adds depth to the experience.

The views are consistently described as “amazing” and “breathtaking,” especially from La Cumbrecita and the volcanic sites. Many appreciate the chance to see the destructive power of recent eruptions—a fact highlighted by visitors who say, “You will experience a full power of nature in this tour.”

Food and logistics also earn praise. The included lunch in a local restaurant is described as delicious, offering a taste of authentic Canary Island cuisine. The tour’s overall value is noted by many reviewers, considering all fees, ferry rides, and the guide’s expertise are included in the price.

However, a few travelers found the ferry ride long and sometimes bumpy, and some would have preferred more time in Santa Cruz de La Palma. Still, most agree that the overall experience outweighs these minor inconveniences.

What Does This Tour Mean for You?

This trip balances natural spectacle and cultural insight. It’s perfect if you’re interested in volcanoes, want to understand the impact of recent eruptions, and enjoy a taste of local island life. The small group size (max 50) means you’ll get personalized attention, and Rosa’s multilingual explanations make the experience accessible for most travelers.

Given the 12-hour duration, it’s best suited for those with a full day to spare who don’t mind a long but rewarding adventure. It’s also good for adventure seekers and history buffs alike, as you’ll see the physical evidence of La Palma’s fiery past and discover stories of resilience and renewal.

FAQ

• What is the tour’s starting point?
  It starts at Fred. Olsen Express, Los Cristianos port, at 7:45 am, with check-in at zone B.

• How long is the ferry ride?
  About 2 hours and 15 minutes each way, offering scenic views of the ocean.

• Is lunch included?
  No, but the tour includes a delicious meal at a local restaurant, giving you a chance to taste regional cuisine.

• How much walking is involved?
  Expect some walking at Santa Cruz, La Cumbrecita, and volcanic sites. Most stops are short, but the terrain can be uneven near lava flows.

• Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
  Rosa is fluent in multiple languages and provides explanations in at least four, making this tour accessible to most travelers.

• What should I bring?
  Bring a light jacket, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun protection, and a camera. Carry an ID or passport for ferry boarding.

• Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
  It is generally suitable for most travelers, but be mindful of walking over volcanic terrain and the ferry ride’s roughness for those with mobility issues.

• Are there any restrictions because of recent volcanic activity?
  The tour visits the volcanic zones that are safe for travelers, with guides providing safety instructions. The area is actively monitored.

• What is the maximum group size?
  Up to 50 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about volcanic landscapes and want to see recent eruption sites, this tour offers a powerful, up-close perspective. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided learning with a knowledgeable host, and for anyone eager to explore a less touristy, more authentic side of La Palma. The inclusion of cultural sights in Santa Cruz makes it well-rounded, while the natural beauty and recent volcanic activity are sure to make a lasting impression.

To sum it up, this full-day Tenerife to La Palma tour delivers a well-rounded experience blending natural wonders, cultural insights, and recent volcanic history. It’s a great choice for travelers who want an authentic, educational adventure with a professional guide, impressive scenery, and good value. Just be prepared for a full day, some long ferry rides, and a landscape that’s both beautiful and humbling.