Garajonay National Park

Garajonay National Park on La Gomera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting the largest remnant of the ancient laurel forest (laurisilva) that covered the Mediterranean basin during the Tertiary period, millions of years ago. The park is a dense, mist-shrouded subtropical rainforest with a magical atmosphere, crisscrossed with well-marked hiking trails. The unique ecosystem hosts numerous endemic species of plants, birds, and insects.

By Plane

The nearest airport is La Gomera Airport (GMZ), about 30 km from the park. Alternatively, fly to Tenerife South (TFS) and take a ferry to La Gomera.

By Car / Road

The park is accessed from the island's main road network. The main visitor centre is at Juego de Bolos, near the centre of the island. Forest roads are narrow and winding but well maintained.

The only way to truly experience the park is on foot. The park has an extensive network of 18 well-marked hiking trails ranging from 30-minute walks to full-day treks.

• Mirador de la Laja — a viewpoint offering a stunning panorama of the park's dense green canopy and the Tenerife coast beyond.

• Centro de Visitantes Juego de Bolos — the main visitor centre with exhibits on the park's ecology and history.

• Silbo Gomero — learn about La Gomera's unique whistled language at the Silbo Gomero Interpretation Centre in nearby Agulo.

• El Cedro — a beautiful valley within the park with a waterfall (Cascada de El Chorro) and swimming pool.

• Hike the El Cedro-Cascada del Chorro trail — a stunning route through laurel forest to a seasonal waterfall with natural pools.

• Walk the Laguna Grande-Samara trail — a 6 km circular route through the heart of the park's densest forest.

• Birdwatching — look for the endemic laurel pigeon, rabiche pigeon, and the Canarian chaffinch.

• Sunset from Mirador de la Laja — the light filtering through the ancient forest at this hour is magical.

• Restaurante La Vieja Escuela (El Cedro) — traditional Gomeran cuisine in a rustic setting within the park. Mid-range.
• Bar-Restaurante La Laguna Grande — a simple restaurant near the park's central picnic area, serving Canarian dishes. Budget.

Try the local Gomeran wine, produced from Listán Blanco grapes grown on the island's steep volcanic slopes.

Budget

Budget: There are several rural casas rurales (cottages) around the park edges, from €50–80 per night.

Mid-range

Mid-range: Casa Rural Los Manantiales — a charming rural house near El Cedro, doubles from €60–100.

Upscale

Upscale: 5-star resort hotels in the main tourist areas range from €100–250 per night. Boutique rural hotels offer a quieter luxury experience from €80–150.

• Local crafts: traditional Canarian pottery, basketwork, and textiles
• Gourmet specialities: local cheeses (especially queso majorero), mojo sauces, gofio, and wines
• Aloe vera products — the Canary Islands are known for high-quality aloe-based cosmetics

• Tenerife — the largest Canary Island with Teide National Park and vibrant resorts
• Lanzarote — Timanfaya National Park and César Manrique's artistic legacy
• Gran Canaria — the dunes of Maspalomas and the historic quarter of Vegueta
• Fuerteventura — pristine beaches and world-class windsurfing