With some of the most breathtaking views and interesting landscape on the Canary Islands, Caldera de Taburiente National Park on La Palma is definitely a must for any nature lover. Once thought to be a huge crater formed hundreds of years ago, the main attraction of the park is its towering mountain arch and strange shape which takes up most of the northern part of the island. The main area of this crater-shaped formation measures around 10km in diameter and the mountain wall can reach over 2000m in parts with the highest point reaching 2423m at Roque de los Muchachos. Despite its misleading appearance, this unique crater shape was caused by a massive volcano which measures 20km in diameter, although not by its eruption but rather its erosion.
As you can already tell, Caldera de Taburiente National Park is definitely a unique form of landscape and this lead to it being designated as a national park in 1954. Its status has also meant that all natural elements in the park have been well protected and its beauty well preserved. For walkers and nature lovers this park is a haven either for a day of exploring or a few days of camping adventures, either way if you’re planning a trip to La Palma then Caldera de Taburiente should definitely be on your list of things to see.
Caldera de Taburiente National Park is abundant with pine forests and rare species of mountain flora which are hard to spot outside of the parks' boundaries. The park is home to over 100 recorded species of tree and plant adding to its picturesque natural beauty and a haven for nature lovers.
In terms of fauna, although the park is not as abundant in wildlife as other parks of similar size, it is home to a rich variety of bird species making bird-watching a popular activity. Due to the parks youth (youth meaning an estimated 2 million years!), new species of larger wildlife have yet to be introduced and flourish however there are a total of over 500 recorded invertebrate species that reside in the park.
There are three main entrances to the park and preference depends mainly on how far you wish to walk and at what level. The Los Brecitos forestry track is a two hour steady walk to the campsite and is perfect for a day of exploring and enjoying the scenery whether you plan on staying the night or not. Barranco de las agustias enters from another side of the park and is a three-hour walk upstream along a ravine. To reach the campsite is a further 2 hour steep up-hill climb recommended only to avid walkers but if you are just there to enjoy the scenery then the ravine is a beautiful spot to begin. Finally La Cumbrecita Path is principally aimed only at the experienced walkers and hikers due to its steep climb and relatively dangerous terrain. This path is only recommended at certain times of the year due to its increased danger risk during winter. Before arriving at the park it is recommended that you read up on all paths that run through the park and pick which suits your level and plans best, a full list of such routes can be found at: www.tourlapalma.com
Campsite: The campsite is quite centrally located and can be reached from all access points to the park. Facilities include areas for pitching tents, benches, toilet facilities and first-aid point. In order to pitch your tent here you must apply for a permit in advance, details can be found at La Caldera Visitor Centre or call (+34) 922 411583. More information.
El Paso Visitor Centre: As the largest and main information centre for Caldera de Taburiente National Park, La Caldera provides maps, route details, practical information and camping permits as well as answering any queries you may have about your stay in the park. The centre can also provide up to date news on weather and the accessibility of certain paths through the park. In addition the centre houses exhibitions on nature found within the park as well as a general overview of how it was created. For opening times and contact information please visit: www.spain.info
In addition there are also a number of tourist information kiosks dotted around the park, a selection of these include: La Cumbrecita, El Roque de los Muchachos, Lomo de los Caballos. These information points can provide maps and route information.
El Riachuelo camp-nature school: This area is also available to school and organised groups as an education are to study and learn more about the unique nature that exists within the park. If you wish to make use of classrooms you must first apply for a permit at the main visitor centre and a deposit is required.
For a full list of information offices and centres please visit; www.reddeparquesnacionales.mma.es
