Cultural Park La Zarza is an archaeological site and hiking area in Garafía, on La Palma in the Canary Islands. A shaded path runs through a ravine of mossy rocks and rich vegetation, with petroglyphs and rock art connected to the island’s original inhabitants. Information points in Spanish and English explain the site, and the route passes caves where people lived and made carvings. The terrain includes rocky, slippery steps, so wear sturdy footwear. A guided tour can add context to the archaeological remains.
The carvings at La Zarza and La Zarcita
The archaeological area includes La Zarza and La Zarcita, with 47 panels of ancient carvings and stone engravings across the two sites. They are associated with the Benahoarita culture, the island’s original inhabitants. Along the walk, rock art appears on colourful stone, and some carvings are partly covered by moss.
Information points in Spanish and English provide historical context as you move through the site. A guided tour is another option if you want more detail about the carvings and the people who made them.
Walking routes through the ravine
A short path from the visitor centre leads through woodland to two caves where people lived and created art. The route is shaded, with water sounds and birds among the moss-covered rocks. Rocky ground and slippery steps make sturdy footwear important; the trail is not suitable for visitors with mobility difficulties.
For a longer walk, the Caldera del Agua route starts by the Interpretation Center and ends in Don Pedro. Another waymarked route follows LP9.2 through a tunnel into the valley. Trail markers are present, though they can be unclear, so a guided walk can help with orientation as well as interpretation.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Cultural Park La Zarza?
It is in Garafía, on La Palma in the Canary Islands. The address is Ctra. General, LP-1, Km. 59,5.
What can you see at La Zarza?
The site has ancient carvings and stone engravings across La Zarza and La Zarcita, as well as caves and a shaded ravine walk.
How long does a visit take?
A short visit takes about an hour. Longer hiking routes are available, including the Caldera del Agua route to Don Pedro.
Is the trail suitable for visitors with mobility difficulties?
The route has rocky ground and slippery steps, and is not suitable for visitors with mobility difficulties.
