Top 15 Caves around Puntagorda
Best caves around Puntagorda are found on the island of La Palma, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This region features diverse geological formations, including impressive sea caves and ancient cave dwellings. Visitors can explore sites that showcase both natural wonders and the adaptive lifestyles of past inhabitants. The area provides insights into traditional coastal life and pre-Hispanic settlements.
Best caves around Puntagorda
- The most popular caves is Porís de Candelaria, a settlement that is a…
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Buracas Caves
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Porís de Candelaria
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Through 13 tunnels to the Marcos and Cordero springs
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La Cueva del Dragón (The Dragon's Head Rock), Tijarafe
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Water Tunnel of La Palma
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Tips from the Community
The Buracas Caves are a prehistoric and ethnographic site on the island of La Palma, located near Las Tricias. The archaeological site consists of natural caves that were once inhabited, necropolises, and three groups of geometric petroglyphs.
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The route is currently closed.
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Did this tour today. Some pretty narrow paths along steep cliffs. Not for the faint hearted! Be sure to have sufficient hiking experience and make sure you have hiking poles. Necessary! Else too dangerous / slip falls. Piece of advice: bring a flashlight for the water tunnels.
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This was the first tour of our La Palma holiday. It was supposed to be an easy one. However, it ended up being a steep uphill climb over some rocky paths covered in roots. However, we were rewarded with a variety of plants, some of them exotic, that grow wherever there is a patch of earth. At the turning point in the tour, there is the option of doing the circular route through a tunnel, which also contains the channel that carries water from the summit into the valley. This tunnel is visibly blocked off with four gates, distributed along the entire route. However, you can go past it from the side, which is what a few hikers did, i.e. keep your head down. It is not completely dark, as the tunnel is repeatedly ventilated through holes in the rock.
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There is a branch off the main path at the westernmost tip that leads down to the sea on the other side. Not as well secured as the main path, but not dangerous. Here you can usually enjoy your hiking break in peace and without Insta hotspotters!
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Attention, this hike from El Jesus, the church down into the gorge is currently still closed in September 2024! We don't know whether you can still walk it. Both entrances are extensively cordoned off. In addition, extensive road construction work is currently taking place, which makes hiking difficult.
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The often so-called “dragon head” (with an impressive nose horn) is a landmark of Tijarafe: The hiking trail essentially leads through its mouth - you can see the (almost) white "teeth" and the black sooty "lips" (from breathing fire?): The goatherds used to light their campfire in the cave in the evening. You can see the sea from the street through the "eye" (the famous hole in the rock): if the dragon is blue-eyed, the weather is good.. ;)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical or archaeological sites can I explore in the caves around Puntagorda?
The region offers fascinating historical and archaeological cave sites. The Buracas Caves are an important pre-Hispanic settlement featuring natural caves used as homes, storage, and stables, along with rock carvings and burial sites. Another unique site is Porís de Candelaria, a coastal cave settlement historically used by fishermen, showcasing traditional adaptive architecture.
Are there any unique cave dwellings or settlements in the area?
Yes, Porís de Candelaria is a remarkable example, where houses are integrated into massive natural caves along the coast. These dwellings were seasonally used by fishermen and their families, demonstrating ingenious adaptation to the rugged environment. The Buracas Caves also represent an ancient settlement where natural caves were continuously inhabited and utilized.
What kind of natural caves can I find near Puntagorda?
Puntagorda is known for its diverse natural caves, including impressive sea caves and formations within volcanic rock. You can explore sites like La Cueva del Dragón, which features a unique 'perforated' wall and offers stunning views of a gorge. The area's geology provides a variety of natural cave experiences.
Are there any challenging cave-related trails or experiences?
For those seeking a challenge, the trail Through 13 tunnels to the Marcos and Cordero springs is a demanding route. It requires a flashlight and rain gear for navigating multiple tunnels. Another challenging experience is the Water Tunnel of La Palma, which involves narrow paths along steep cliffs and requires sure-footedness and a head for heights, often with hiking poles and a flashlight.
What outdoor activities can I do near these caves?
The area around Puntagorda offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, including routes like the Mirador Barranco Jurado – Porís de Candelaria loop. There are also MTB trails and road cycling routes for exploring the diverse landscapes.
What is the best time to visit the caves around Puntagorda?
The caves and trails around Puntagorda can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. However, for challenging routes involving tunnels or coastal paths, it's advisable to avoid extreme summer heat. Always check local conditions, especially for trails that might be closed due to weather or maintenance, such as the Marcos and Cordero springs route.
Are there any caves that offer impressive viewpoints?
Yes, several cave-related sites provide stunning views. La Cueva del Dragón offers a fantastic view of a grandiose gorge. Porís de Candelaria, a coastal settlement, is set dramatically amidst the Atlantic waves, providing unique sea views.
What should I bring when exploring the more adventurous cave trails?
For challenging trails like Through 13 tunnels to the Marcos and Cordero springs or the Water Tunnel of La Palma, it is essential to bring a flashlight and rain gear. Additionally, sure-footedness, a head for heights, and at least one hiking stick are highly recommended for safety on narrow and steep paths. Always carry sufficient water and wear appropriate footwear.
What makes the Buracas Caves ethnographically interesting?
Beyond their archaeological significance, the Buracas Caves hold ethnographic value due to their continuous use by locals until recently. These natural caves served as apartments, storage rooms, and stables, sustained by two permanent water points in the area. This demonstrates a long-standing interaction between humans and their environment.
How can I access the coastal cave settlement of Porís de Candelaria?
Porís de Candelaria can be reached via hiking routes, such as parts of the PR LP 12.2 or GR LP 130. These trails often involve significant elevation changes and can be challenging, requiring experienced and sure-footed hikers. It's important to be prepared for a descent to the coast and an ascent back up.
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