National Parks of the Canary Islands. Flowers of the Canary Islands.

National Parks

Parque Nacional del Teide

    The Canary Islands boast one of the world’s most valuable ecosystems, which is why 40% of the archipelago is designated as a protected natural area. Part of this territory comprises its four national parks, making it the Spanish region with the highest number of such protected areas, forming an extraordinary natural heritage resulting from the volcanic nature of this archipelago. These parks are: Teide National Park, Caldera de Taburiente National Park, Timanfaya National Park, and Garajonay National Park.
    Established in 1954, Teide National Park is situated in the centre of the island of Tenerife and is the largest and oldest of the Canary Islands’ national parks. It is a natural landscape dominated by the imposing Teide volcano, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 metres. Its landscapes of lava flows and craters, along with its wide variety of flora and fauna, are ideal for hiking, and it boasts extraordinary biodiversity comprising 194 plant species, many of which are endemic.
    The Caldera de Taburiente National Park is located on the island of La Palma. Covering an area of 59 km², it is the largest caldera-shaped depression in the world, surrounded by a ring of peaks 8 km in diameter. It is a breathtaking landscape, offering spectacular panoramic views and incredible rock formations in a wide variety of colours. Inside, there are streams that flow almost continuously through its steep ravines, impressive volcanic walls, pine forests, and unique vegetation comprising numerous endemic species.
    Located on the island of Lanzarote, Timanfaya National Park is a visual spectacle of craters, lava fields and fire mountains, formed during volcanic eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries. It is home to more than twenty-five volcanoes, some of which are iconic, such as the Fire Mountains, Mount Rajada and the Caldera del Corazoncillo. In addition to numerous features of great scientific, geological and geomorphological interest, such as hornitos, caves, malpaíses, etc.
    Garajonay National Park is situated in the centre of the island of La Gomera. The main feature of Garajonay is the dense laurel forest that covers it, often shrouded in a sea of clouds. It is a magical place, with wonderful trails, extraordinary ancient trees and varied vegetation, including mosses, lichens and ferns.