Many consider this trail to be one of the most beautiful in all the Canary Islands.
Even getting there feels like the beginning of an adventure.
A 4×4 taxi takes you high into the mountains, where nature rules.
The air is humid, the greenery is overwhelming, and the sound of running water fills the silence.
The vegetation feels tropical, almost like an equatorial jungle.
The trail runs through tunnels, along springs, and deep into an ancient laurel forest.
With every step, you feel the heartbeat of the island beneath your boots.
Immerse yourself in the lush nature and explore one of the bests hikes La Palma, the impressive trail of the Springs of Marcos and Cordero, situated in the north of the island.
What Makes This Hike So Special
- Marcos and Cordero springs: natural water emerging straight from the rocks, creating cascades and pure living streams.
- “The Water Route”: 13 hand-dug tunnels, including one almost 400 m long, following the historic water canal.
- Hydraulic heritage: old canals, early 20th-century engineering, and the remains of the hydroelectric plant El Mulato.
- Ancient laurel forest: lush, humid, and full of life, with giant ferns, laurels, and viñátigos.
- Wild adventure: a mix of tunnels, streams, and forest paths for those who seek raw nature and true excitement.
- Natural viewpoints: endless green ravines, waterfalls, and tunnels, a paradise for photography lovers.
Marcos y Cordero group excursion
Dive into Adventure: Marcos y Cordero’s Trail. Water Wonders, Wild Nature, and Safe, Thrilling Excursion.
Trail Data
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 12–13 km (full) or 9 km (short tunnel version) |
| Elevation gain/loss | +150 m / −1 000 m approx. |
| Duration | 5–7 h (long), 3 h (short) |
| Difficulty | High (long route); moderate (short version) |
| Type | Linear (Casa del Monte → Los Tilos) or with taxi/minibus |
Practical Tips for an Unforgettable Experience
- Access closes early: until 14:00 in summer, 12:30 in winter.
- Closed on Wednesdays due to maintenance work.
- You need good physical condition, it’s long and sometimes uneven.
- Bring a torch and a helmet or cap for tunnel safety.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, the ground is often wet and slippery.
- Pack a rain jacket and warm clothes, weather changes quickly.
- Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, and GPS or map.
- Not suitable for people with vertigo or knee problems, the descent to Los Tilos is steep (around 1000 m).
- Always check the weather before going.
- You can’t reach the trailhead with your own car, only special 4×4 vehicles.
- Best option: book a guided hiking tour, includes transport, helmets, lights, and expert guidance.
Getting There and Route Options
- By 4×4 taxi or private vehicle: to Casa del Monte (1300 m), the starting point of the trail.
- By guided tour: includes transport, guide, helmet, and flashlight, with departures from Santa Cruz, Los Llanos or Los Cancajos.
Route Options
- Long version: drive to Casa del Monte, then hike 13 km down to Los Tilos ravine.
- Short version: 9 km round trip through tunnels and springs, starting and ending at Casa del Monte.
→Note: Due to ongoing work in Los Tilos Forest, only the short version of the trail is currently open.
Marcos and Cordero Map
