From Tenerife: Tajogaite Volcano, La Cumbrecita and Casco Antiguo

Explore La Palma in a Single Day from Tenerife for $162.55

This full-day tour from Tenerife offers an exceptional way to experience La Palma, one of the most captivating Canary Islands, in just one day. Priced at $162.55 per person, the itinerary is carefully curated to include La Cumbrecita, Tajogaite Volcano, and the charming capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma. The tour is led by a licensed guide with extensive experience in the Canary Islands, ensuring you gain insightful commentary and a true understanding of the island’s natural and cultural highlights.

Starting early, at 7:45 am, the tour departs from Los Cristianos Harbour, with a ferry crossing included, making the journey comfortable and scenic. The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours, with plenty of time at each stop to appreciate the sights, take photos, and absorb the local atmosphere. The tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day trip that balances natural wonders with cultural exploration.

Key Points

• Includes ferry transfer from Tenerife to La Palma, with all fees and taxes covered.
• Guided by an official Canary Islands guide fluent in multiple languages, ensuring engaging commentary.
• Stops at iconic spots like Santa Cruz de La Palma, Caldera de Taburiente, and Tajogaite Volcano.
• Highlights the recent volcanic activity from the Cumbre Vieja eruption in 2021.
• Free time in Santa Cruz to explore attractions like the Ship of the Virgin and the city’s renowned balconies.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an efficient schedule.

The Ferry Journey from Tenerife to La Palma

The day begins with a ferry ride from Los Cristianos to Santa Cruz de La Palma, departing at 8:30 am. The 2 hour and 15-minute cruise on the Fred. Olsen Express offers a relaxing start to the adventure, with the possibility to purchase refreshments onboard. Travelers should be prepared for a rougher crossing at times, as noted in some reviews, but the ferry provides ample space and comfort.

This transfer ensures a scenic view of the Atlantic and sets the tone for the day’s exploration. Returning to Tenerife happens at 5:00 pm, with another ferry trip back to Los Cristianos, wrapping up the long but rewarding journey.

Santa Cruz de La Palma: Colonial Charm and Historic Sights

In the brief 30-minute stop in Santa Cruz de La Palma, visitors gain a taste of the island’s history and architecture. The Ship of the Virgin, a replica of Columbus’s Santa María, features a naval museum with models and charts recalling the island’s maritime past. The Castle of Santa Catalina once played a pivotal role on Spain’s route to the Americas, and the Balconies, especially the double balconies designed for ventilation, showcase the area’s distinctive architecture.

Guests have the opportunity to walk the colonial streets, take photos of the colorful facades, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The free time allows for a quick visit to local shops or a coffee break, enhancing the cultural experience.

Kaldera de Taburiente: Witnessing a Natural Marvel

The tour pauses at the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, a protected landscape renowned for its massive crater and lush surroundings. The viewpoint of La Caldereta offers an impressive panorama of the crater, with the city of Santa Cruz visible from above. This stop provides a perfect moment to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins and natural beauty in a brief 15-minute visit, with free access.

Photographers and nature lovers will appreciate the sweeping vistas, as the park’s dramatic cliffs and forested slopes make for memorable photographs. The stop emphasizes the island’s volcanic landscape and ecological richness.

Approaching the Tajogaite Volcano in Tacande de Arriba

A key highlight is the view of the Tajogaite volcano, born from the Cumbre Vieja eruption in September 2021. The exclusion zone of Tacande de Arriba offers a vantage point to see the fresh lava flows and the area where an entire neighborhood was destroyed. The road built on lava provides a tangible reminder of nature’s power.

This 20-minute stop allows visitors to observe the recent volcanic activity closely and understand the scale of the eruption. It’s a powerful experience that brings the recent geological history of La Palma into focus and is praised for its emotional impact and educational value.

Tazacorte: Spain’s Youngest Lava Flows

Next, the tour guides visitors to Tazacorte, where the youngest lava flows in Spain can be seen. This stop offers another perspective on the volcanic activity, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the landscape. The area presents an opportunity to observe the raw, untouched effects of recent eruptions, making it a compelling visit for anyone interested in geology or recent natural events.

The short 20-minute stop emphasizes how volcanic activity continues to shape La Palma, with the landscape still visibly marked by lava flows. It also offers insight into how the island’s communities adapt and rebuild following eruptions.

The View from Tajuya: Cumbre Vieja’s Last Eruption

A 15-minute stop at the Tajuya viewpoint provides an up-close look at the Cumbre Vieja volcano, which erupted on September 19, 2021. This eruption devastated over 1,000 homes and drew international media coverage. From this vantage point, visitors can see the extent of the destruction and the volcano’s recent activity.

This viewing point has become a focal point for media coverage of the eruption, and the stopping here gives a sobering yet fascinating perspective on the power of volcanic eruptions and their impact on local communities. It’s a highly recommended spot for understanding the scale and aftermath of this recent volcanic event.

Free Time in Santa Cruz de La Palma and Local Highlights

After the volcanic stops, guests return to Santa Cruz for a free period to explore more deeply or enjoy local cuisine. The lunch is not included in the tour price but is available at a local restaurant known for its good food and scenic location, as noted in reviews. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to sample regional dishes or relax after a busy morning.

Some reviews mention the guides’ multilingual skills, providing detailed explanations in multiple languages, which enhances the cultural understanding of the city’s sights and traditions.

The Return Ferry and End of the Day

The tour concludes with a ferry transfer back to Tenerife at 5:00 pm, returning to Los Cristianos Harbour after a full day of sightseeing, volcanic viewing, and culture. The return trip allows for a relaxing reflection on the day’s highlights, with some noting the ferry ride as a bit rough but comfortable overall.

This schedule ensures a comprehensive experience within an 11-hour window, making it a convenient option for those with limited time but wanting to experience La Palma’s natural and cultural riches.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This guided day trip is ideal for travelers interested in volcanoes and recent geological events, especially the Cumbre Vieja eruption. It also suits those who want a rundown of La Palma, including its historic capital, natural parks, and volcanic landscapes, all within a well-organized schedule.

Guests should be comfortable with long ferry rides and moderate walking at stops. The tour’s multilingual guides and informative commentary make it accessible for diverse visitors seeking a deep dive into La Palma’s recent history and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts on the La Palma from Tenerife Tour

This 11-hour guided excursion offers a balanced combination of natural wonders, cultural sights, and recent volcanic history. The expert guide, combined with well-planned stops and included ferry rides, makes it a good value for those keen to see La Palma in a day.

While the ferry rides can be challenging for some, the scenic views and educational stops more than compensate. The tour’s flexibility and attention to detail shine through, especially in the way it highlights recent eruptions and their lasting impact.

This tour suits travelers eager for a comprehensive, well-organized day of exploration and those interested in geology, history, and natural beauty. It’s especially recommended for first-time visitors wanting an overview of La Palma’s most impressive sites in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ferry ride included in the tour price?
Yes, the ferry transfer between Tenerife and La Palma is included, along with all fees and taxes.

How much time do I get in Santa Cruz de La Palma?
You have approximately 30 minutes to explore the city’s main sights, enjoy a quick walk, or visit local shops.

What do I see at the Tajogaite Volcano?
The road built on lava provides a close view of recent volcanic activity from the September 2021 eruption of Cumbre Vieja, including lava flows and the destroyed neighborhood.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, a local restaurant offers delicious options, and many reviews mention the quality of the meal.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves short stops with walking and some elevation at viewpoints. It is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the nature of the stops.