Pico Bejenado is a demanding summit hike in La Palma’s Caldera de Taburiente National Park, with broad views over the caldera, the island and the Atlantic when skies are clear. The route from Mirador de la Cumbrecita climbs through Canary pines and follows much of the crater rim before reaching the peak at 1,853 metres. Expect steep uphill sections and changing terrain; this is a better fit for hikers used to strenuous walks than for a casual viewpoint stop. At the summit, look for a guest book where you can leave a message.
A peak formed by volcanic collapse
Pico Bejenado is the remnant of a volcano that formed after the western part of Cumbre Nueva and the southern part of the Taburiente Volcano collapsed. Its formation helped close the Caldera de Taburiente on the south side, leaving an opening to the southwest. Through that outlet, water from the Taburiente River began carrying material away from the newly formed crater.
The volcanic activity also gave rise to Cumbre Vieja, which began building along a north-to-south fissure farther south on the western slopes of the collapsed Cumbre Nueva. These formations help explain the island’s rugged outline, seen from the Bejenado ridge alongside Cumbre Nueva and Cumbre Vieja.
The climb from La Cumbrecita
The route described from Mirador de la Cumbrecita starts at 1,322 metres and reaches Pico Bejenado at 1,853 metres. Much of the path runs near the crater rim. It passes through Canary pine forest before reaching a saddle, where the terrain opens to views into the caldera.
This is a strenuous walk, with steep climbing along the way. The time needed depends on fitness, so the route is better suited to hikers accustomed to demanding trails. Families who regularly hike may find it a suitable challenge, but it is not the easier option for a short visit to the park. The 3-kilometre La Cumbrecita viewpoint walk, with stops at Mirador Lomo de Las Chozas and Mirador de Los Roques, is a less demanding alternative mentioned for the area.
Views and conditions on the ridge
From the trail, the views extend across the Caldera de Taburiente and towards other volcanic ridges, the Aridane Valley and the Atlantic. The changing outlook is one of the main reasons to make the climb. Cloud can cover the mountains and reduce visibility; on some days it also creates a view above the cloud layer.
Visibility can also be affected by dust carried from the Sahara. Check conditions before setting out if the panorama is central to your plans. At the summit, there is a guest book where hikers can leave a message. Other starting points mentioned for exploring the mountain include Las Piedras and Barrial near El Paso, each giving a different approach to the walk.
FAQ
How difficult is the Pico Bejenado hike?
It is a physically demanding hike with steep uphill sections. It is more suitable for hikers used to strenuous walks than for a casual outing.
Where does the Pico Bejenado trail start?
One described route starts and ends at Mirador de la Cumbrecita. Las Piedras and Barrial near El Paso are also mentioned as possible starting points.
How high is Pico Bejenado?
The summit is at 1,853 metres. The route from Mirador de la Cumbrecita begins at 1,322 metres.
What can you see on the hike?
The trail passes through Canary pine forest and runs close to the caldera rim. On clear days, views reach across the caldera, towards the island’s volcanic ridges and out to the Atlantic.
