A Guide to Visiting the Caldera de Taburiente National Park
20 February 2026
If La Palma is known worldwide as the Isla Bonita (Beautiful Island), its heart is undoubtedly the Caldera de Taburiente National Park. We are talking about one of the largest erosion craters (calderas) in the world: an impressive cirque of peaks spanning 5 miles (8 kilometres) in diameter, sheltering a 1,500-metre drop teeming with life, fresh water, and Canary Island pines. It isn't just a landscape; it is a geological scar of breathtaking beauty that leaves everyone who gazes upon it speechless.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker looking for demanding routes or you are travelling with the family and want to know how to get there and what to see, here is a clear and practical guide to making the most of the Caldera. At TopCar, we have gathered everything you need to know so you don't miss a single detail of this natural treasure.
What is the Caldera de Taburiente?
Declared a National Park in 1954 and part of La Palma's Biosphere Reserve, the Caldera de Taburiente is the island's most iconic natural space. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a single explosive volcanic crater, but rather the result of millions of years of overlapping eruptions, massive landslides, and, above all, intense water erosion.
The result is a spectacular landscape with dizzying cliffs and a constant presence of water—a rare sight in the Canary Islands—which has created a truly unique ecosystem.
How to get to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park
Due to its complex terrain, it is not possible to drive across the interior of the Caldera de Taburiente from one side to the other. Instead, there are various access points you can reach with your vehicle. This is why choosing a car hire in La Palma is a fantastic option, giving you the freedom to move around and plan your visit at your own pace. Choosing the right access point is key to enjoying the park based on your time, fitness level, and the type of experience you are looking for.
La Cumbrecita Viewpoint: The option for the whole family
The Mirador de la Cumbrecita is the easiest and one of the most popular access points. Located in the municipality of El Paso, this natural balcony sits on the eastern edge of the Caldera and offers some of the most spectacular views of the National Park.
It is ideal if you want to enjoy the scenery without going on long treks. Short, accessible trails lead from the car park to other viewpoints such as Los Roques or Las Chozas.
- Important: Parking at La Cumbrecita is regulated. It is mandatory to book a parking space in advance via the official National Parks website. Without a reservation, you cannot pass the control barrier.
Access via the Barranco de las Angustias
The Barranco de las Angustias, located to the southwest, is where the park's streams flow out. It is the main walking entrance to the interior of the National Park and a firm favourite for hikers. A wide track leads from its car park into the heart of the Caldera, flanked by towering volcanic rock walls.
This is where the longer, more comprehensive routes begin, and it is the entry point to iconic spots such as the Cascada de Colores (Coloured Waterfall).
The Barranco de las Angustias car park is open, free of charge, and requires no prior reservation, though it is advisable to arrive early during peak season to secure a space easily.
Roque de los Muchachos: Touching the sky in La Palma
While it does not grant access to the interior of the Caldera, Roque de los Muchachos deserves a special mention. At 2,426 metres above sea level, it is the highest point on the island and the best place to grasp the sheer magnitude of the National Park from above.
Driving up here is an experience in itself, following a winding road that often sits above the famous 'sea of clouds'. On clear days, the views from the summit stretch not only across the interior of the Caldera but also as far as the islands of Tenerife, La Gomera, or El Hierro. Furthermore, this site is home to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, a world-class scientific landmark. If you want to learn more, the Roque de los Muchachos Visitor Centre, located just before the summit, is a highly recommended stop.
Although you cannot enter the Caldera from Roque de los Muchachos, you can walk along sections of its rim via the GR-131 trail—a high-mountain route perfect for enjoying panoramic views of the park without venturing into the interior trails.
Hiking Trails and Routes in the Caldera de Taburiente
For those looking for the best hikes in La Palma, experiencing the park from the inside, exploring it on foot is the best option. Walking these trails will allow you to understand the true scale of the landscape and discover iconic corners that are inaccessible any other way.
The Barranco de las Angustias and the Cascada de Colores
From the Barranco de las Angustias, you can reach one of the island's most curious landmarks: the Cascada de Colores (Coloured Waterfall) of La Palma.
This small waterfall is not famous for its volume, but for the shades of its walls. Yellows and oranges, produced by iron dissolved in the water, blend with the green moss and black volcanic rock to create a natural painter's palette.
The Los Brecitos route
This is the park's star route. The standard practice is to leave your car at the Barranco de las Angustias car park and take one of the 4x4 taxis authorised by the National Park. These transfer hikers to the Mirador de los Brecitos via a forest track restricted to private traffic.
From there, a descending trail of approximately 8 miles (13 kilometres) begins, cutting through the heart of the Caldera, passing the camping area and the Taburiente River, where you can cool off before completing the return journey to your starting point.
Practical tips for visiting the Caldera de Taburiente
- Plan your route: La Palma's terrain is rugged. Distances on the map can be deceiving; 6 miles (10 km) can easily take 40 minutes to drive. Before setting off, be clear about your chosen access point and the actual duration of the hike.
- Check before you go and stick to marked trails: Before starting your visit, it is highly recommended to stop by the Caldera de Taburiente Visitor Centre, where you can check the condition of the trails and receive updated information for the season. Once inside the park, always follow the marked paths to ensure your safety and protect this natural environment.
- Appropriate equipment: The weather changes significantly with altitude. It might be 25 degrees on the coast and barely 5 degrees at Roque de los Muchachos, so it is important to bring warm clothing, hiking footwear, and sun protection.
- Provisions: There are no bars or restaurants within the National Park. Carry enough water and food for the day.
- Fragile nature: You are in a protected space of great ecological value. Leave no trace during your visit and take all your rubbish back with you.
Discover the Caldera de Taburiente at your own pace in La Palma
La Palma is an island to be driven slowly, enjoying every curve and every change in scenery. To get from sea level to the peaks of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, you need a reliable travel companion.
At TopCar, we have a modern fleet perfectly suited to La Palma's terrain. From compact models for couples to SUVs with extra power for families seeking comfort. We offer unlimited mileage and the peace of mind of our included basic protection, so your only worry is deciding which viewpoint to visit first.
If your hiking boots are ready, all that remains is to reserve your car hire with us. You can collect your vehicle at our office at La Palma Airport or at the Port of Santa Cruz and get ready to collect "Miles of Experiences" on the Isla Bonita.
