Pico de la Nieve and Erita de los Guanches Circular Hike

An insight into the hike:

The circular hike across Pico de la Nieve to Erita de los Guanches delivers an unusual combination of scenery and cultural history within a relatively short distance. It starts at the small car park at the end of the Pista del Pico de la Nieve and explores the high ground on the rim of the Caldera de Taburiente. A distance of around five kilometres, approximately 327 metres of ascent and a walking time of just under two to a little over two hours make it an appealing half-day outing for experienced walkers.

The transition from high-altitude pine forest to open summit vegetation is part of the attraction. As the route climbs, views open across the steep inner walls of the caldera, towards the Cumbre Vieja and over eastern La Palma. In clear conditions, Pico de la Nieve provides an especially broad perspective across the island, sometimes extending as far as Tenerife on the horizon. Reddish-brown and grey rock layers, deeply cut slopes and wind-shaped vegetation give the ridge a distinctly alpine atmosphere.

Erita de los Guanches near Pico de la Sabina adds a cultural dimension. Its protected rock engravings offer a glimpse into the pre-Hispanic history of La Palma and make this more than a purely scenic hike. These sensitive remains should only be viewed from the designated path and from behind the protective barrier.

The moderate rating describes a short but genuine mountain hike. Narrow, stony paths require sure-footedness, while sun, wind, mist and cold can become significant above 2,000 metres. Sturdy footwear, water, food and protection against sun, wind and rain are essential. Parking at the trailhead is very limited. The exact route, complete trail description, elevation profile and GPS data are available from our partner Sunhikes.