La Palma: Guided Trekking Tour To Cubo de la Galga

La Palma’s Guided Trekking Tour to Cubo de la Galga offers a captivating journey into one of the island’s most treasured natural environments. Priced at $36 per person, this 4 to 5-hour adventure takes you through a 2 million-year-old laurel forest that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The tour is led by experienced guides who bring the lush landscape to life with engaging commentary. It departs from the Punto de Información Ambiental Cubo de La Galga parking lot and includes pickup from selected locations, making logistics straightforward. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 64 reviews, this experience appeals especially to those who enjoy moderate hikes, scenic views, and learning about unique ecosystems.

While the tour is well-suited for most hikers, it’s worth noting that it covers 11 km and is classified as medium difficulty, so participants should be comfortable with a few hours of walking. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so bringing water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. This trek provides an authentic glimpse of La Palma’s natural heritage and a chance to enjoy spectacular vistas of neighboring islands like Tenerife and La Gomera.

Key Points

• Price: $36 per person, offering great value for a nearly half-day guided outdoor experience.
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.
• Main activity: Walking through the ancient laurel forest of Cubo de la Galga.
• Highlights: Views from Mirador of Somada Alta and Mirador de San Bartolo, plus stories about local legends.
• Accessibility: Suitable for those with moderate fitness; not recommended for children under 3, people with back problems, or mobility issues.
• Included: Guide and pickup; food, drinks, and specific transportation costs are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

This tour begins at the Punto de Información Ambiental Cubo de La Galga parking lot, where travelers meet the La Palma Transfer & Tours bus. Pickup options are available from select locations including outside the Los Cancajos Tourist Information Office. At the end of the trek, the tour returns to the original meeting point, making the day’s logistics simple and clear.

Exploring the 2-Million-Year-Old Laurisilva Forest

The journey to Cubo de la Galga takes you northeast towards the Puntallana municipality. Here, guides introduce you to Laurisilva, a type of forest that originated in the Tertiary period—more than 20 million years ago. This forest remains lush year-round thanks to horizontal rain generated by trade winds, ensuring a vibrant green landscape always on display.

Walking through the forest, you’ll notice big ferns, mist, and high humidity, creating a mysteriously enchanted atmosphere. The flora and fauna at Cubo de la Galga take center stage, providing plenty of opportunities for photography and nature observation. The trail is well-maintained, and the guides are attentive to your pace and interests.

Scenic Views from Mirador of Somada Alta

After exploring the forest, the tour continues with an ascent to Mirador of Somada Alta. On clear days, this vantage point offers spectacular views of Tenerife, La Gomera, and the villages of Los Sauces and San Andrés. These panoramas give a grand perspective of La Palma’s rugged coastlines and volcanic landscapes.

The Mirador of Somada Alta also offers many photo opportunities and a chance to relax while taking in the scenery. The guides share insights into the geography and history of the islands, enriching the experience beyond just the visual spectacle.

Visiting the Mirador of San Bartolo and El Salto del Enamorado

Descending from the higher viewpoints, the tour heads to San Bartolomé, where the Mirador of San Bartolo provides a different perspective of the lush surroundings. Here, visitors learn about local legends, including a romantic but tragic story tied to El Salto del Enamorado (The Lovers Leap), a dramatic cliffside with captivating views.

This stop combines natural beauty with cultural storytelling, making it a perfect spot for reflection and photography. The guide’s narration adds depth to the scenery, turning the landscape into a storyteller’s canvas.

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What Makes the Trek Unique on La Palma

This tour stands out because it offers a walk through a forest that dates back over 20 million years. The Laurisilva forest is a living museum of natural history, preserved in its ancient state thanks to the island’s climate. The humid environment and lush vegetation evoke an almost enchanted feeling, especially when big ferns and mist surround you.

The views from the viewpoints further enhance the experience, connecting you with the wider volcanic landscape of La Palma and neighboring islands. The combination of natural and cultural highlights makes this trek a well-rounded exploration.

Practical Tips for the Trek

Participants should bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to capture the scenery. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for comfort over the 11 km route. Since weather can be variable, packing a jacket and rain gear ensures you’re prepared for humidity or sudden showers.

The tour is not suitable for children under 3, individuals with back problems, or those with mobility issues. The moderate difficulty level makes it accessible for most reasonably active visitors, but it’s best to be prepared for some physical effort.

The Experience of Guides and Group Dynamics

The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and ability to keep the group engaged. They effectively convey information about the landscape, flora, fauna, and local legends, making the walk both educational and enjoyable. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Comparing Similar Tours on La Palma

This trek is one of several options offered by La Palma Transfer & Tours, including tours to El Roque de los Muchachos, volcanoes, and the island’s highlights. Compared to other excursions, this particular experience emphasizes natural history and scenic viewpoints over long drives or purely cultural visits.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

At $36 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the length, scenery, and guided expertise. It includes pickup and a live guide speaking English, German, and Spanish. The booking process allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and reserving now does not require payment until later, providing flexibility for travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Cubo de la Galga Trek

This guided walk offers a great opportunity to see La Palma’s ancient forests up close, combined with spectacular viewpoints and stories that bring the landscape to life. The moderate difficulty and well-organized logistics make it accessible for most visitors who enjoy moderate hikes and nature photography.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s rich scenery, knowledgeable guides, and cultural stops make it a worthwhile addition to any La Palma itinerary. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to explore the island’s unique natural heritage while enjoying comfortable group travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 4 to 5 hours, depending on availability and pacing.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $36 per person.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, water, food, hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 3 years or people with mobility issues or back problems.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Punto de Información Ambiental Cubo de La Galga and ends back at the same point.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included.

In what languages are guides available?
Guides speak Spanish, German, and English.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transport included?
Pickup from selected locations is included; transportation details are arranged through the tour provider.

What is the difficulty level?
The tour has a medium difficulty level, suitable for most physically fit visitors.

This guided trek to Cubo de la Galga promises a memorable experience amid La Palma’s ancient forests, scenic vistas, and cultural tales that make the island so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby