North Island Discovery
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port
Santa Cruz de La Palma, Canarias, Spain
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activityLevel
Strenuous Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$90
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 4 Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
the biosphere reserve of 'la palma' in the canary islands
"the biosphere reserve of 'la palma' in the canary islands encompasses the entire island, which contains a wide range of representative habitats with all the diversity provided by the transition from the coast up to the mountain peaks. the island has also one of the best examples of humid mountain laurel forests with pine forests, dry woodlands to coastal sub-tropical vegetation. there is a large number of endemic plants among the vegetation, while both the invertebrate and vertebrate diversity is outstanding, without loosing sight of the great interest of the marine communities. the island of la palma has 4,885 species, 980 of which are endemic.
setting off from the pier, you'll drive north, following a coastal route that leads toward a scenic lookout wedged between two deep-cut gorges.
after taking in the views, you'll wind through the mountains to los tilos. this biosphere reserve area is covered by the largest, most pristine laurel forest in the canary islands. you may also see indigenous plants such as the orange canarian bellflower and the blackberry tree, whose edible fruits resemble bright blackberries.
reboarding your coach, you will descend toward the coast, passing several sprawling banana plantations along the way. bananas flourish on the island and fuel much of the economy, as does sugarcane, which is used in the production of rum. at a nearby rum distillery, you'll see how the popular spirit is produced. you'll also have the opportunity to sample some rum, whose distinct taste comes from the local sugar cane variety that was introduced to the canary islands from india in the 15th century. the cane is also used to produce brandy and liqueurs flavored with bananas, mulberries and loquat.
one of the island's most impressive natural wonders awaits you at charco azul -- a cluster of clear natural swimming pools formed long ago by a lava flow that reached the sea. here, you'll have time to walk along the coast or simply relax and take in the scenery.
please note: tour includes approximately two hours of moderate walking/standing and there is some uneven ground and some cobblestone surfaces to negotiate. the walking at los tilos is somewhat strenuous. not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations.