Rainforest Walk In Garajonay National Park

by Tommy Bailey

Forty miles to the West of Tenerife lies the island of La Gomera. There are no flashy nightclubs or bars here – Instead you will find a magnificent landscape full of interesting wildlife and fantastic for hiking.

Shaped like an orange squeezer with deep ravines and about 15 miles wide the island is home to the Garajonay National Park – a World Heritage Site http://reddeparquesnacionales.mma.es/parques/garajonay/index.htm .

Large areas of Europe were covered in this type of rainforest but the effects of climate change, man and pollution has led to its demise. On La Gomera the World Heritage Site status protects it from mans worst endeavours and the main threat comes from fire.

Once you have negotiated the hairpin bends on the way to the summit by car the scenery is outstanding. A swirling mist may await but in the heat of the summer this is a blessed relief. Looking across to Tenerife, catch a last glimpse of Mount Teide rising magnificently into the blue sky as you descend into the twisted green forest.

The light fades the deeper you go in as does the temperature – so make sure to bring a light coat or top. That said, its great to escape from the heat of summer which can reach 43deg.

After an hour or so a stream is reached and the chance to replenish empty bottles. The lack of rain makes one wonder where the water comes from but the answer lies in the “horizontal” rain or mist that is soaked up by the forests vegetation.

After walking for an hour or so a stream is reached. This is derived from the moisture collected from horizontal rain or mist. A little further on the path opens to a settlement which contains a number of small holdings and a restaurant which servers local delicacies such as soup and Gofia (ground maize) to thicken it.

Finally, make your way along a short tarmac road to a hidden tunnel where your guide will present you with a lighted candle which is absolutely required as you traverse from one valley to the next. A truly unforgettable experience.

About the Author:
Erland Gray writes for flights to tenerife. Visit us for a cheap flight or holiday to tenerife
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