North Route (Price per vehicle, not per person)

A Detailed Look at the North Route Tour of La Palma

If you’re planning a trip to La Palma and seeking a comprehensive way to see its most captivating sights, the North Route tour offers an excellent private experience. Priced per vehicle rather than per person, this tour is designed for small groups (up to four travelers), making it intimate and flexible. Over approximately 7 to 8 hours, you’ll traverse lush forests, panoramic viewpoints, and lively villages, all with the convenience of pickup and a mobile ticket.

What really stands out about this experience is how it combines scenic drives with carefully selected stops at iconic spots—perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of La Palma’s natural beauty. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the guide’s language skills, which could impact the experience if clear communication is a priority for you.

This tour suits curious explorers eager to see the island’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s ideal for those who value personal attention, a scenic route, and the chance to soak in La Palma’s unique charm from a comfortable vehicle.

Key Points

• Private, vehicle-based tour: Ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience.
• Variety of stops: From laurel forests to viewpoints and charming villages.
• Value for money: Around $100 per person for a full-day excursion when split among four.
• Guides and communication: Mixed reviews—some praise local guides, others note language barriers.
• Duration and flexibility: About 7-8 hours with an itinerary that can adapt based on schedule and weather.
• Authentic scenic experiences: Focused on natural landscapes and local highlights.

An In-Depth Review of the North Route Tour

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is a well-curated exploration of La Palma’s northern landscapes, starting with a pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point. Once in the vehicle, the journey begins along Santa Cruz de la Palma’s bustling Maritime Avenue, giving you a taste of local life and coastal scenery right from the start.

Bosque de Los Tilos is the first major highlight. As one of the most significant laurel forests in the Canary Islands, it’s like stepping into an ancient rainforest. You’re walking into a remnant from the tertiary era, with lush greenery and an air of tranquility. The forest has been a designated Biosphere Reserve, and it’s easy to see why—its moss-covered trees and cool canopy create a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere. Reviewers like Ricardo_R emphasize the importance of local guides, praising Manuel’s knowledge and patience in bringing the forest alive with interesting details.

Next, the tour makes a stop at a natural bathing area, which has grown in popularity thanks to its protected, wave-free puddle. It’s the perfect spot for a quick swim or just relaxing with a view. Facilities like showers, changing rooms, and a children’s pool make it family-friendly, and the security measures and cleanliness help you feel comfortable during your visit.

Scenic Overlooks and Panoramas

As the route continues, you’ll visit several viewpoints—Mirador de las Vueltas de San Juanito, Mirador de San Bartolomé, Mirador del Salto del Enamorado, and Mirador de La Tosca—each offering sweeping vistas over the coastline and rolling hills. These spots are more than just photo ops; they offer a chance to absorb La Palma’s rugged beauty and spot the island’s distinctive landscapes from above.

A highlight for many is the visit to Casa Luján in Puntallana, assuming the schedule allows. This private home offers insight into local architecture and culture, providing an authentic glimpse into island life.

Villages and Coastal Highlights

The tour weaves through charming villages like San Andrés, with its traditional houses and local vibe, and then down to Charco Azul, a popular swimming spot with crystal-clear waters, perfect for a quick dip if time permits. Travelers mention that this stop allows a moment to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings—something that truly adds value to the day.

Later, the journey takes you to the municipality of Barlovento, with a stop at the scenic Mirador de La Tosca. Here, panoramic views of the coastline and lush greenery make it a photographer’s paradise.

The Volcanic and Agricultural Highlights

From Barlovento, the tour heads toward Garafía, another picturesque village, before moving southwards through Puntagorda and Tijarafe. The highlight here is the Mirador de El Time, where the dramatic cliffs and ocean meet—an awe-inspiring scene that travelers love to capture.

The route then descends to Puerto de Tazacorte, where the landscape shifts from lush forests to coastal plains, completing the circle of La Palma’s diverse environments.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a private vehicle—likely a van—that comfortably fits up to four travelers. The reviews mention a clean, well-maintained van, which is essential for a comfortable day of sightseeing. The vehicle’s size allows for flexibility in stops and routes, and the private nature ensures a more tailored experience compared to group tours.

The Cost and Its Value

At $403.34 per vehicle, this experience is priced for small groups or families looking for personalized attention. When split among four, that’s around $100 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the full-day nature of the tour, multiple stops, and private transport. Comparing this to other experiences—like guided day trips or bus tours—this provides more flexibility and intimacy.

The Guide Experience

Reviews highlight the importance of a knowledgeable guide. Ricardo_R appreciated Manuel’s detailed storytelling, emphasizing how local guides can turn a sightseeing trip into a more engaging experience. However, some travelers, like gwenfrazier1, noted that the guide’s English was limited, which could hinder understanding. If communication is a priority, it might be worth confirming language skills beforehand.

Practical Tips for Planning Your North Route Tour

• Book in advance: The tour is typically booked around 49 days ahead, so plan early, especially during peak seasons.
• Weather considerations: The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.
• Bring essentials: Pack comfortable shoes for light walks, swimming gear if you want to enjoy the natural pools, and layers for varying temperatures.
• Communication: Clarify guide language skills if English is essential for your experience.
• Timing: The 7-8 hour duration means you’ll want to start early to maximize daylight and sightseeing time.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private North Route tour is perfect for travelers who value a flexible, intimate experience with a focus on natural beauty and scenic viewpoints. It’s especially suited for small groups or families wanting a relaxed pace without the constraints of large tour groups. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in local culture and landscapes will find plenty to love here.

If you’re keen on exploring La Palma’s forests, cliffs, and villages with expert insights and private transport, this tour offers a balanced blend of adventure and comfort.

The Sum Up

The North Route tour of La Palma offers a well-rounded day exploring the island’s lush forests, dramatic viewpoints, and charming villages. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to avoid large crowds and enjoy a personalized experience, especially if you value natural scenery and authentic local culture. The price, when divided among four, provides good value for a full day of sightseeing, and the mix of scenic stops and cultural highlights makes for a satisfying itinerary.

While communication might be a concern for some—based on mixed reviews about guide language skills—the overall experience seems to deliver on its promise of a scenic, engaging exploration. The knowledgeable guides, beautiful landscapes, and convenience of private transport make this a strong choice for a flexible, memorable day in La Palma.

This tour is particularly well-suited for adventurous couples, families, and small groups eager to see the island’s best without the stress of planning each detail. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic, and reasonably priced way to experience La Palma’s natural wonders, this private North Route tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a group tour or private?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

How many people can join the tour?
The tour is priced per vehicle, suitable for up to 4 people, making it ideal for small groups or families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transport and the scheduled stops along the route. Pickup is offered, and tickets for the attractions are usually included, with some stops like Bosque de Los Tilos free of charge.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are guides available in English?
While some reviews mention good local guides, others note limited English. It’s advisable to confirm language preferences when booking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, swimming gear if you plan to enjoy the pools, and layers for changing temperatures.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially since there are facilities like children’s pools at some stops, and the itinerary is generally family-friendly.

This North Route tour of La Palma offers a thoughtfully designed day full of natural beauty, scenic vistas, and cultural insights—perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, intimate exploration of this stunning island.