Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of the Buracas dragon trees in the Garafian district of Las Tricias, a symbol of the more rural and traditional La Palma. Access on foot through the GR 130 trail, enjoying a 6-kilometre route that will take you between 2 and 2.5 hours. The route is one of the bests hikes La Palma. Marvel at the rural architecture, such as the farm sheds, cisterns, and traditional houses, while you explore the natural caves, home to the Awaras, hippies, and lovers of ecological life.
One of the bests hikes La Palma: Experience the rural essence of La Palma on this unique and unforgettable route
Don’t miss the gofio mill and its Gofio Museum, paying tribute to the island’s star gastronomic product. Pick up the path from the bus stop and follow the trail alongside it. Take advantage of the small local stands offering dragon tree seeds, aromatic plants, books, and souvenirs.
Discover the enigmatic Buracas, home to petroglyphs and cave-dwellings. Descend towards the Izcagua ravine from Café Aloe and continue on the main path to find the cistern, the washbasins, and more.
What are the Canary Island Dragon Trees?
The iconic dragon tree (Dracaena draco) is a plant characteristic of Macaronesia and certain areas of Morocco. Although it looks like a tree, the dragon tree lacks growth rings, which makes determining its age difficult. Its sap turns red upon contact with air, known as dragon’s blood.
It lives between 100 and 700 meters in altitude, in hard-to-reach areas and under the influence of the humid trade winds. The most famous dragon tree is located in Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife. However, the highest concentration of specimens can be found in Garafia, La Palma, providing a unique and impressive experience.
Recommendations
- Make sure to wear suitable clothing and footwear for hiking, as well as enough water.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen.
- Collecting plants or herbs on the trail is prohibited.
- Try to be discreet and quiet.
Where is Buracas in La Palma?
How to get to the Buracas caves in La Palma without a map?
BY CAR:
Get to the church of Las Tricias located on the main road and park nearby. The route starts from there. Next to the Church, there is a tourist information office open every day in the morning and also in the afternoon on weekdays, where you can ask for information.
WITH A TOUR AGENCY:
By booking a guided group hike, the tour agency will take you back and forth with a minibus from your accommodation to Las Tricias.
