Down to earth

The Canary Islands Network of Protected Natural Spaces is a regional protection system in which natural areas are declared and managed with a common purpose: to contribute to human welfare and the maintenance of the biosphere through the conservation of nature and the protection of the aesthetic and cultural values present in them. What does that sound like? La Palma is a paradise for ecotourism precisely because wherever you go you can visit a natural area, and in the context of the areas you will find populations where you can leave a positive impact, acquiring local crafts, consuming our products, or enjoying the many services.

Depending on the values and natural assets that are protected, they are differentiated into 5 categories consisting of 20 landmarks: Natural or Rural Parks, Natural Reserves, Natural Monuments, Protected Landscapes, and Sites of Scientific Interest.

As you can see, you have a lot to see and enjoy.

In addition to all this, our Island is part of the Natura 2000 Network. What is the Natura 2000 Network?.... Wait, I'll tell you:

It is a European ecological network of biodiversity conservation areas, and it is the main instrument for the preservation of nature in the European Union. Its purpose is to ensure the long-term survival of species and habitat types in Europe, thus helping to halt the loss of biodiversity.

It consists of:

- Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) established in accordance with the Habitat Directive. In La Palma there are 32 areas declared as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC): 30 in the terrestrial area and 2 in the marine area (Costas de Garafía and Franja Marina de Fuencaliente).

- Special Protection Areas for Birds (SPAs) designated under the Birds Directive. At present, La Palma has 6 areas declared as SPAs: 5 terrestrial and 1 marine (Northern La Palma Marine Area).

Tajogaite Volcano

Likewise, the new Tajogaite Volcano, and the fajana or low island, reclaimed from the sea, which is the youngest terrain in Spain, is still to be defined, and has not yet been cataloged the type of protection figure that weighs on it, but what we can assure you is that it is already visitable thanks to a trail that has been enabled, and that you can access by hiring a route to be accompanied by specialized personnel.But what we can assure you is that it can be visited thanks to a path that has been enabled, and that you can access by hiring a route to be accompanied by specialized personnel. There are also boat routes to see it from the sea. In any case, from the road between El Paso and Los Llanos you will see it imposing, and from the Mirador del Time, you will have the whole context of the eruption.

The Tajogaite volcano erupted on September 19, 2021. This eruption was the first on La Palma in over 50 years and attracted worldwide attention. The eruption lasted almost three months, until December 13, 2021, and had a profound impact on the island.

Eruption characteristics

The Tajogaite eruption was characterized by intense explosive and effusive activity. During the months of activity, the volcano expelled large quantities of lava, ash and volcanic gases. The lava flowed down the western slope of the island, sweeping away everything in its path and creating new terrain as it cooled and solidified in contact with the sea.

Impact on the island and its inhabitants

The impact of the eruption was devastating for the local community. Thousands of people were evacuated and hundreds of homes, infrastructure and agricultural land were destroyed by lava. The island's economy, which relies heavily on agriculture and tourism, suffered a severe blow. However, the eruption also showed the resilience and solidarity of the Palmeros, who rallied together to overcome adversity.

La Palma: A volcanic destination

Despite the challenges posed by volcanic eruptions, La Palma remains a fascinating destination for nature and geology lovers . Visitors can explore volcanic trails, observe craters and solidified lava flows, and learn about the island's rich volcanic history at museums and interpretive centers.

La Palma is truly a land of volcanoes, where natural beauty and the force of nature combine to offer a unique experience. The island's volcanic history and geography not only make it special, but also reflect the strength and adaptability of its inhabitants, who continue to live and thrive in this dynamic environment.