Garajonay National Park
Canarias
Garajonay National Park, located in the center and north of La Gomera in the Canary Islands, Spain, covers approximately 40 km² and spans all six municipalities of the island. Established as a national park in 1981 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, it preserves the best example of Canarian laurisilva - a humid subtropical forest that once covered much of Southern Europe during the Tertiary period. The park features a diverse landscape including the island's highest peak, Garajonay, standing at 1,487 meters, as well as volcanic rock formations like Roque Ojila and Roque de Agando, which hold cultural significance for the native Guanche people. The forest hosts a rich biodiversity with many endemic flora such as Laurus azorica and Laurus novocanariensis, and fauna including the Gomeran lizard and two endemic pigeon species, the laurel pigeon and Bolle's pigeon. Visitors can explore a network of 18 footpaths, offering trekking opportunities amid lush valleys and unique geological formations. The park also holds cultural importance through the legend of Gara and Jonay, a tragic love story akin to Romeo and Juliet. Despite a significant fire in 2012 that affected part of the forest, Garajonay remains a vital natural and cultural treasure of the Canary Islands.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during the cooler months when the laurisilva forest is lush and the weather is mild. Advance planning is recommended to explore the park's extensive trail network. While there are no populations inside the park, accommodations are available nearby. Visitors should be aware that some areas can be foggy and humid, so suitable clothing and footwear are advised. Check for any park alerts or trail closures, especially after the 2012 fire event. Guided tours can enrich the visit by providing insights into the park's ecology and local legends.
Interesting facts
- •Garajonay National Park covers over 10% of La Gomera island's surface area.
- •The park contains the highest point on La Gomera, Garajonay peak, at 1,487 meters.
- •It hosts one of the best examples of laurisilva forest in the world, a forest type that once covered much of Southern Europe.
- •The park is home to two endemic pigeon species: the laurel pigeon and Bolle's pigeon.
- •In 2012, a significant forest fire affected 747 hectares, about 18% of the park.
- •The park is crossed by 18 footpaths, making trekking a popular activity among visitors.
- •Garajonay was declared a Biosphere Reserve along with the entire island in 2012.
History
Garajonay National Park was officially established on March 25, 1981, becoming the youngest national park in the Canary Islands.
In 1986, it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its outstanding example of laurisilva forest.
The park's territory encompasses volcanic formations shaped over millennia, with cultural significance dating back to the native Guanche people, who regarded some rock formations as sacred.
In 2012, a forest fire burned approximately 18% of the park's area, impacting its diverse ecosystem.
Since then, restoration efforts have been underway to preserve its unique biodiversity and landscape.
Place Guide
Garajonay Peak
The highest point on La Gomera at 1,487 meters, offering panoramic views and a symbolic landmark of the park.
Laurisilva Forest
A lush subtropical rainforest featuring endemic trees such as Laurus azorica and Laurus novocanariensis, with a rich understory of mosses, ferns, and lichens.
Volcanic Rock Formations
Notable formations like Roque Ojila, Roque de Agando, and Roque de La Zarcita are ancient volcanic remnants sculpted by erosion, some considered sacred by the native Guanche.
Laguna Grande Recreation Area
A designated recreational zone within the park offering picnic facilities and access to several trails.
Juego de Bolas Visitor Center
Located in the municipality of Agulo, it provides educational exhibits and information about the park's natural and cultural heritage.
