The Ultimate Hiking Guide to La Gomera's Best Trails
Tucked away in the Atlantic like a secret whispered by the wind, La Gomera is one of the Canary Islands’ most mesmerizing hiking destinations. With its ancient forests, deep ravines, mystical peaks, and quiet coastal paths, this island invites walkers into a world where nature is raw, untamed, and full of soul.
Unlike its more tourist-heavy neighbors, La Gomera moves at its own rhythm—a slower, wilder beat that calls to those seeking authentic adventure and meaningful connection with the land. The crown jewel of the island is Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site blanketed in lush laurel forests and filled with trails that lead you through time and terrain like nowhere else.
Whether you’re chasing panoramic views from the island’s highest point, uncovering secret waterfalls in misty valleys, or following ancient paths once used by shepherds and pilgrims, the island's hiking trails deliver more than exercise—they offer a deep, spiritual immersion in nature.
So lace up your boots, breathe in that earthy forest air, and get ready to discover 12 unforgettable hikes that will leave footprints on both the land and your soul.
1. Laguna Grande – Alto de Garajonay
Step into the heart of La Gomera’s enchanted forest with this iconic loop trail through Garajonay National Park. Starting at Laguna Grande, a place wrapped in mysticism and folklore—once believed to be a meeting point for island witches—you’re instantly surrounded by a dreamlike laurel forest where mist weaves through the trees and sunlight dances off moss-covered trunks.
As you ascend, the forest opens to reveal sweeping vistas, culminating at Alto de Garajonay, the island’s highest point at 1,487 meters. From here, the views are nothing short of epic: you can spot neighboring Canary Islands floating on the horizon and trace the contours of La Gomera’s volcanic terrain. The route then loops back, descending through more dense woodland, alive with birdsong and the scent of damp earth.
This trail offers a captivating mix of raw nature and ancient mystery—perfect for those who want to soak in La Gomera’s unique soul in just a few hours.
What makes it special: A mystical forest walk to the top of the island with panoramic views that span across the entire Canarian archipelago. It’s a trail where nature, myth, and magic meet.
Local Tip: Pack a light snack and enjoy it at the summit—clouds often roll in late morning, so an early start rewards you with clearer skies and unforgettable views.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 9.8 km
Elevation Gain: 409 m
Duration: ~3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Laguna Grande, Garajonay National Park
2. Arure Waterfall Trail
This lush, out-and-back trail takes you deep into the Barranco de Arure, one of La Gomera’s most dramatic ravines. Starting near Valle Gran Rey, the trail hugs the hillside before dipping into a green, jungle-like gorge filled with towering reeds, ferns, and mossy rocks. With each step, the sounds of rushing water grow stronger as you approach the main waterfall, passing several charming cascades along the way.
The contrast between the arid cliffs above and the vibrant greenery below makes this route feel like a secret oasis. It’s a short hike, but incredibly rewarding, especially during the wetter months when the falls are at their most powerful.
It’s the kind of trail that invites you to slow down, listen to the wind rustle through the canyon, and marvel at the wild, untamed beauty of La Gomera.
What makes it special: A hidden waterfall deep inside a lush ravine makes this trail feel like a tropical escape. It’s the perfect blend of raw nature, peace, and a touch of adventure.
Local Tip: Start early, especially in summer—the trail can get hot and busy by midday. Plus, you’ll have the waterfall mostly to yourself!
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Length: 3.5 km
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Near Valle Gran Rey
3. El Contadero – Alto de Garajonay
If you're short on time but still want to conquer the highest point on the island, this loop trail is your go-to. Beginning at El Contadero, the path leads you straight into a vibrant laurel forest, where every twist and turn reveals a new shade of green. Often blanketed in mist, the forest has an otherworldly feel—quiet, ancient, and deeply peaceful.
A gentle climb brings you to Alto de Garajonay, where you're rewarded with sweeping, 360-degree views of La Gomera and neighboring islands on clear days. Despite the trail’s short length, it delivers big on scenery and atmosphere.
Ideal for families, casual hikers, or anyone craving that “top of the island” experience without a full-day trek, this route proves that sometimes, the shortest hikes offer the biggest rewards.
What makes it special: The fastest route to La Gomera’s highest point, with ethereal laurel forests and unforgettable views—this trail is short, sweet, and spectacular.
Local Tip: Bring a lightweight jacket—even on sunny days, the summit can be cool and breezy, especially with the ever-present coastal winds.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 2.6 km
Elevation Gain: 127 m
Duration: ~1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: El Contadero parking area
4. Circular Garajonay (Gran Ruta 18)
This ambitious loop trail is for those who want to go deep—deep into the forest, deep into the heart of the island, and deep into a full day of epic hiking. Starting near Alajeró, this route takes you through some of Garajonay National Park’s most iconic landscapes. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through thick laurel forests, where you’ll feel completely immersed in a prehistoric world of mossy trunks, filtered sunlight, and total serenity.
The path continues toward El Cedro, one of La Gomera’s most beautiful hamlets tucked in the forest, before winding its way past Roques de Ojila, with its towering volcanic rock formations that dominate the skyline. Expect a mix of trail types—from forest paths to more rugged terrain, and even a stretch of roadside—so stay alert during transitions.
What makes it special: This is the full immersion experience—an unforgettable journey through ancient forests, volcanic peaks, and secret villages in the heart of the island.
Local Tip: Bring layers and plenty of water—weather can shift quickly at higher altitudes, and parts of the trail are exposed. Hiking poles will also help on uneven stretches.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 14.3 km
Elevation Gain: 784 m
Duration: ~5 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Garajonay parking lot (Alajeró junction)
5. Ruta Circular Vallehermoso
This rugged and rewarding loop trail in the northwest of La Gomera begins in the charming town of Vallehermoso, winding through deep ravines, coastal paths, and lush valleys. It’s a trail of contrasts—you’ll walk beside the Barranco de la Era Nueva, visit hilltop hermitages like Santa Clara and Coromoto, and cross paths with iconic island routes like GR-132 and PR LG 9.
As you near the Playa de Vallehermoso, the ocean views explode into frame, offering a wild and untamed Atlantic backdrop to your hike. The return leg through Barranco del Valle delivers even more drama, with rugged rock formations and patches of dense vegetation along the ravine.
What makes it special: It’s La Gomera in one hike—mountains, coast, culture, and countryside all wrapped into a dynamic and scenic loop.
Local Tip: Start in the morning and take your time—this route has a bit of everything, and stopping for a beachside picnic at Playa de Vallehermoso is a must!
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 12.9 km
Elevation Gain: 795 m
Duration: ~5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Starting Point: Vallehermoso
6. Cañada de Jorge
Looking for something easy, scenic, and family-friendly? This short loop trail through the Valle Gran Rey area is perfect for a relaxed outing surrounded by nature. The trail winds through a beautiful, quiet section of Garajonay National Park, passing Montaña de los Manantiales, Laguna Grande, and the forested Montaña de la Araña.
This is an ideal route for spotting flora and fauna—especially finches and other small birds who’ve grown quite used to hikers passing by. In spring, the path is dotted with wildflowers and aromatic herbs. The gentle elevation and short distance make it perfect for all ages, and the peaceful forest vibe makes it a refreshing break from the coastal bustle.
What makes it special: A peaceful forest stroll that offers big natural beauty in a small, accessible package—ideal for families or first-time visitors to the park.
Local Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy it at the Raso de la Bruma recreational area—locals love this spot on weekends for its chill vibes and shaded rest zones.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 3.1 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Duration: ~55 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Raso de la Bruma parking area, Valle Gran Rey
7. Las Creces
Nestled within Garajonay National Park, this circular trail is a short but unforgettable journey through one of La Gomera’s most tranquil forests. The path meanders through an old fayal-brezal heathland, where dense ferns, twisted trees, and the scent of wild herbs fill the air. During spring, Canary geraniums and other endemic plants add bursts of color to the undergrowth, creating a true botanical wonderland.
The trail passes an ancient irrigation channel, once vital for delivering water to surrounding villages—a quiet reminder of how much the forest has sustained life on the island. As you walk deeper into the ravine, you’ll notice subtle changes in the forest structure, including small patches of laurel forest clinging to the dampest, shadiest corners.
What makes it special: A short and sweet immersion into La Gomera’s botanical beauty—ideal for plant lovers, bird watchers, and those seeking a peaceful forest bath.
Local Tip: Try this hike in early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the forest canopy—it makes the entire trail feel like a living fairytale.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 3.2 km
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Duration: ~55 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Las Creces recreational area, Vallehermoso
8. Pajarito – Lajugal
This moderately challenging loop trail offers a glimpse into La Gomera’s evolving ecosystem. Beginning near Alajeró, the trail winds through a diverse landscape where pine plantations are slowly being replaced by fayal-brezal formations as part of an ongoing forest restoration effort. You’ll be walking through a zone of regeneration, where young trees and new growth paint a hopeful future for the island’s natural heritage.
As the trail gains elevation and approaches the edge of La Gomera’s central plateau, it opens up to jaw-dropping views over the Benchijigua and Imada calderas—massive volcanic formations that look like natural amphitheaters carved into the island. The scenery is dramatic and wild, with steep walls and distant ocean views completing the picture.
What makes it special: A trail through regeneration and rebirth, offering a mix of ecological insight and stunning volcanic vistas. It’s where conservation meets adventure.
Local Tip: This hike is especially photogenic—bring a wide-angle lens or camera if you’re into capturing sweeping landscapes.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 7.6 km
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Duration: ~2 hours 15 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Pajarito area, Alajeró
9. Vallehermoso – Ermita Santa Clara – Arguamul – Tazo – Alojera
This long-distance, point-to-point trail captures the wild essence of northern La Gomera. Beginning in the charming town of Vallehermoso, the trail starts with a steady climb to the remote Hermitage of Santa Clara, perched high on a ridge with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and La Palma in the distance. From there, it’s a beautiful descent through the quiet hamlet of Arguamul, past Tazo, and finally down to the coastal village of Alojera.
You’ll travel through varied terrain—mountain ridges, coastal cliffs, and sleepy rural paths, all of which showcase La Gomera’s dramatic topography and timeless rural charm. The trail is well-marked and offers several opportunities for peaceful reflection (and amazing photo ops!).
What makes it special: This hike is a journey through solitude, culture, and landscapes that feel untouched by time. Each stop feels like discovering a hidden world.
Local Tip: Pack layers—the elevation drops nearly 1,000 meters, so temperatures change drastically from the top of the trail to the coast.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Point-to-point
Length: 14 km
Elevation Gain: Approx. 1,000 m (mainly descent)
Duration: ~4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Vallehermoso
Ending Point: Alojera
10. Pajarito – Alto de Garajonay – Pajarito
This short circular trail is a must-do for first-time visitors to La Gomera. Starting at Pajarito, the route gently winds through the forest and leads you straight to the Alto de Garajonay, the island’s highest point. It’s a surprisingly accessible hike, considering it brings you to the summit at 1,487 meters with minimal effort and no steep ascents.
Along the way, you’ll pass through laurel forests rich in endemic flora, and near the summit, you'll discover archaeological sites where ancient Gomerans once performed religious rituals. The panoramic view at the top sweeps across the island’s undulating ridges and out to neighboring Canary Islands on clear days.
What makes it special: A compact hike that packs in nature, culture, and the best view on the island—all in just over an hour.
Local Tip: Try it during golden hour—sunset from the summit is breathtaking and usually less crowded than during the day.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: ~1 km
Elevation Gain: ~250 m
Duration: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Pajarito trailhead
11. Las Creces (Extended Route)
This extended version of the Las Creces hike gives you a deeper immersion into the forests of Garajonay. Still relatively easy in difficulty, the longer version (about 4 km) takes you through peaceful fayal-brezal woodlands and aromatic herb fields, where you’ll be surrounded by the fresh scent of mint, thyme, and mountain pennyroyal. Ferns cover the ground like a living carpet, and birdlife thrives in this quiet zone.
This loop stands out for its calm atmosphere and lush biodiversity. You’ll walk through narrow, shaded paths that feel untouched by time and cross a small ravine before returning to the Las Creces recreational area, a popular gathering spot for locals.
What makes it special: A gentle, immersive walk through a forest of scents, birds, and island tranquility—perfect for those who hike to recharge, not race.
Local Tip: Bring a field guide or plant ID app—this is one of the best trails to learn about La Gomera’s unique flora.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: 4 km
Elevation Gain: Low
Duration: ~2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: Las Creces recreational area, Garajonay National Park
12. Guarimiar – Lasadoe – Imada – Guarimiar
This challenging circular trail is a true adventurer’s dream, leading you into the heart of one of La Gomera’s most breathtaking ravines: Barranco de Guarimiar. Starting at the Hermitage of Guarimiar, the path drops dramatically into the ravine, weaving through terraced farmland, volcanic rock walls, and clusters of palm trees that sway against the mountain winds.
At its lowest point, the trail links up with Benchijigua-Pastrana, where you'll get spectacular views of Roque de Agando, one of the island’s most iconic rock formations. The climb back through Imada, a sleepy village of whitewashed houses and stone paths, offers a chance to breathe and soak in the silence of La Gomera’s interior.
What makes it special: A remote and rugged loop through one of the island’s most scenic ravines, rich in culture, geology, and raw natural beauty.
Local Tip: Bring hiking poles—some sections are steep and rocky, especially coming out of the ravine. And don’t skip Imada—it's one of La Gomera’s prettiest villages.
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Loop
Length: ~11 km
Elevation Gain: ~700 m
Duration: ~4 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Starting Point: Hermitage of Guarimiar
BONUS: San Sebastián – Playa de La Guancha
Because no island hike guide would be complete without a coastal gem, this linear trail is your perfect seaside escape. Starting in San Sebastián, La Gomera’s capital, the trail hugs the island’s rugged shoreline, offering continuous views of turquoise coves, basalt cliffs, and the wide, open Atlantic.
After about 8.5 km, you’ll reach the quiet, pebbly Playa de La Guancha—a serene beach perfect for a post-hike swim or a barefoot walk along the shore. It’s the kind of hike that reminds you you’re on an island, where mountains and ocean collide in the most beautiful ways.
What makes it special: A peaceful clifftop walk ending at a hidden beach—perfect for hikers who love the sea as much as the trail.
Local Tip: Bring a swimsuit and snacks—there are no facilities at the beach, and the return hike can feel longer after a dip!
Trail Details:
Trail Type: Linear
Length: 8.5 km
Elevation Gain: ~190 m
Duration: ~3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Starting Point: San Sebastián
Ending Point: Playa de La Guancha
Where Every Path Leads to Magic
From the high ridges of Alto de Garajonay to the hidden beaches beyond San Sebastián, La Gomera’s hiking trails tell stories etched in stone, rooted in forest, and carried on the breeze. Each route reveals a different facet of this wild island: the mystery of its cloud forests, the drama of its ravines, the serenity of its ancient paths. It’s more than hiking—it’s a journey into a living, breathing ecosystem unlike any other.
So whether you're a seasoned hiker or just setting off on your first island adventure, La Gomera promises trails that will inspire, challenge, and captivate you.
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