La Palma: Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour

Discovering La Palma’s Secret Coast: The Porís de Candelaria Hiking Tour

If you’re visiting La Palma and craving a walk that combines spectacular scenery with authentic local charm, the Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour offers a rewarding adventure. For around $48, you’ll spend roughly five hours exploring a hidden coastal town accessible only by a rugged trek, with a local guide leading the way. The experience takes you from the lush, terraced landscapes of Tijarafe down into an impressive ravine, culminating at a natural port that’s almost too beautiful to be real.

What truly makes this tour shine are the dramatic views of steep cliffs and the wild Atlantic—perfect for those who love geology, birdwatching, and a touch of adventure. We also appreciated the intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel that makes you feel like you’re discovering a secret corner of La Palma.

One thing to keep in mind: the hike is quite steep and physically demanding, which could be a challenge for some. This tour is best suited for travelers with a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. If you’re comfortable with uneven terrain and looking for a truly authentic experience, this trip is a fantastic pick.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Landscape: Features almost vertical ravines and rugged coastline.
• Authentic Experience: Visits a lesser-known, traditional coastal town on La Palma.
• Physical Challenge: Steep and demanding terrain requires good fitness.
• Wildlife & Flora: Opportunity to see local bird species and unique plants.
• Guided Insight: Led by knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.
• Flexibility: Options to swim if the sea conditions allow—bring your gear if you’re keen.

A Closer Look at the La Palma: Porís de Candelaria Hiking Tour

The Itinerary: Stepping into a Natural Marvel

This tour starts in Tijarafe, a northwest town perched around 700 meters above sea level. Here, your guide meets you and sets the tone for the day—expect a friendly introduction to the area’s traditions and natural features. The journey begins with a descent along the PR LP 12.2 trail, leading us into the imposing Barranco del Jurado.

This ravine is breathtaking—walls reaching nearly 620 meters in altitude, carved over centuries into strange geological formations. We loved the way the landscape constantly changed, from lush farmland and bird habitats to raw, rugged cliffs. The natural protection of this protected area makes it a haven for wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for birds and endemic plants along the way.

The trail narrows as we descend, winding through a terrain that’s both challenging and rewarding. It’s vital to note that some reviews have mentioned the trek is more strenuous than it appears. One traveler pointed out that seven out of thirteen guests gave up halfway, citing the steepness and physical demands. So, if you’re not in good shape or have circulation issues, you might want to prepare accordingly.

The Coastal Town of Jurado and the Natural Port

After about half an hour of hiking downhill, you’ll arrive at Jurado beach, a small, unassuming spot with a history as a salt and fish port. The area is quiet and unspoiled, perfect for a break before heading to the highlight—the natural port built in honor of Virgen de la Candelaria.

Here, you’ll find a cave approximately 50 meters high with an almost unreal atmosphere. This part of the tour provides incredible photo opportunities and a real sense of discovery. The port is a natural maze of cliffs and coves, often described as a “hidden paradise.” Weather permitting, there’s a chance to take a dip in the sea—though swimming is not guaranteed, as sea conditions vary.

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The Return Journey

The ascent along the right bank of El Jurado offers spectacular views back towards the ravine—this part of the trail is winding, with more panoramic vistas of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. The entire experience balances physical effort with moments of awe, giving you a sense of accomplishment at the end.

What’s Included and Practicalities

Included in the tour are pickup and drop-off from select locations, a guide fluent in German, English, and Spanish, and transportation. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, especially since the terrain is uneven and quite steep. Warm clothes are recommended in winter months, and since the sea can be unpredictable, packing a swimsuit might be worth considering if you’re eager to swim.

The Realities of the Tour: Reviews and Insights

Reviews paint a picture of a beautiful, authentic experience but also highlight some challenges. One traveler shared that the views and caves are fantastic, but the hike was more strenuous than expected, leading some participants with poor circulation to give up. This is a reminder that the trail demands a good level of fitness and preparation.

Another review noted that guides did not provide much information during the hike—no stops or detailed explanations—so if you prefer a more educational experience, you might find this aspect lacking. Still, the local guides’ expertise in the landscape and natural features is undeniable and adds value.

One of the most appreciated aspects is the guides’ knowledge about the area’s geology, flora, and birdlife, which enhances the appreciation of the scenery. The small group size also makes the experience feel intimate and personal.

The Price and Value

At $48 per person, this tour offers a value-packed opportunity to see part of La Palma that few visitors access on their own. While it’s not a leisurely walk, the combination of stunning vistas, authentic local history, and the physical challenge makes it worthwhile for those prepared for a brisk hike.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking, rugged landscapes, and discovering less-touristed spots. If you’re looking for a guided experience that combines nature, adventure, and authentic local scenery, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, it’s not suited for those with mobility impairments or anyone afraid of steep inclines.

Final Thoughts

The Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour is a remarkable way to uncover La Palma’s wild coastline. It balances challenging terrain with breathtaking sights, making it perfect for adventurous souls eager to explore beyond the usual tourist routes. The knowledgeable guides and the island’s raw natural beauty make it a memorable day, especially if you’re comfortable with strenuous activity.

While the hike demands good fitness and can be physically tough, the reward is a series of unforgettable vistas and a sense of discovering a hidden corner of the Canary Islands. If you’re after an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines natural beauty with a touch of challenge, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ

How long is the hike?
The hike lasts around five hours, including time at the port and breaks. Be prepared for a steep descent and ascent.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
It’s best suited for those in good physical condition, as the terrain is quite steep and challenging. It might not be suitable for very young children or people with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear with good grip, and bring weather-appropriate clothing. Warm clothes are recommended in winter, and if you plan to swim, pack your swimsuit.

Can I swim at the port?
Sea conditions determine if swimming is possible. The tour includes free time at the port, so if conditions are good, you may take a dip.

Are there rest stops during the hike?
The reviews suggest that there aren’t many formal breaks, so be prepared to go at your own pace, with perhaps a short pause at the beaches.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guide, transportation, and pickup/drop-off from select locations. Food or additional gear is not included.

How physically demanding is the hike?
It’s quite steep and requires a good level of fitness. Some participants found it more strenuous than expected.

What language are the guides fluent in?
Guides speak German, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes. Sea conditions and weather can affect the experience, especially swimming and the overall safety of the hike.

In essence, the La Palma Porís de Candelaria Hiking tour offers an authentic, scenic, and physically engaging adventure that’s well-suited for explorers craving a deeper connection to the island’s rugged beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: