GR131 (Canary Islands Route)
GR131 Canary Islands Route: Complete Guide to Spain’s Epic Long-Distance Hike
Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the GR131 Canary Islands Route, a legendary trail weaving through the dramatic landscapes of Spain’s volcanic archipelago. Stretching across all seven main Canary Islands, this epic long-distance hike takes you from rugged lava fields and towering mountain peaks to arid desert stretches and lush pine forests. Every step offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, ancient laurel woodlands, stark volcanic craters, and idyllic coastal villages, all bathed in the islands’ unique subtropical light.
The GR131’s diverse terrain promises an ever-changing experience for seasoned trekkers, drawing you into the heart of one of Europe’s most geologically fascinating regions. Whether traversing the high altitudes of Tenerife’s Tenerife’s Teide National Park or the serene slopes of La Palma, hikers are rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas and cultural encounters in charming island towns. Prepare for a journey where natural beauty, challenging ascents, and the spirit of exploration unite on every island crossing.
Route Overview
The GR131 Canary Islands Route is a long-distance, point-to-point trail traversing the seven main Canary Islands: Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro. The official route generally starts in Órzola, Lanzarote (northeast) and finishes in La Restinga, El Hierro (south), though hikers can complete the trail in either direction. Each island features a signed segment of the GR131, typically beginning and ending at ferry ports or major settlements to facilitate logistics.
Throughout its approximately 560 km length, the trail guides hikers through distinct landscapes and various elevations, with key waypoints including Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote), Betancuria (Fuerteventura), Roque Nublo (Gran Canaria), Teide National Park (Tenerife), Garajonay National Park (La Gomera), Santa Cruz de La Palma (La Palma), and the high ridges of El Hierro. While ferry crossings between islands are necessary, each staged segment provides its own unique highlights and logistical considerations.
The estimated duration to complete the entire GR131 is about 35 days, though this can vary widely based on daily distances, rest days, and detours for accommodation or supplies. The trail surface is a mix of dirt paths, rocky and gravel terrain, with occasional paved sections near towns. Water sources and campsites are found along most sections, particularly in higher elevations or protected areas, but hikers should plan for some long, exposed stretches between resupply points and challenging weather shifts with elevation changes.
The GR131 is well-marked in most areas with standard GR red-and-white blazes, though conditions may fluctuate with weather, erosion, or local maintenance. Preparation, navigation skills, and a degree of self-sufficiency are important to ensure a safe and rewarding experience on this demanding multi-island trek.
History and Origins of the GR131 Canary Islands Route
The GR131 Canary Islands Route is a relatively recent addition to Europe’s long-distance hiking network, yet its path is deeply intertwined with the islands’ rich historical tapestry. The route follows ancient shepherd trails, trade paths, and pilgrimage routes that have connected villages and communities for centuries. Indigenous Guanche people traversed these landscapes long before Spanish conquest, relying on the intricate network of footpaths for survival, trade, and cultural exchange across challenging terrains.
With the designation of the GR (Gran Recorrido) network, the GR131 was established to promote sustainable tourism and to link the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Canary Islands. Its creation marked a meaningful effort to celebrate and preserve traditional ways of life while making these dramatic landscapes accessible to modern adventurers. Along the trail, hikers encounter historical sites such as old hermitages, colonial-era towns, and archaeological remains, providing a living connection to the islands’ past. In recent years, the GR131 has also become a symbolic route for islanders and visitors alike, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and connectivity across this Atlantic archipelago.
Notable highlights
Teide National Park (Tenerife): Traverse Spain's highest peak, Mount Teide (3,718 m), surrounded by surreal volcanic landscapes, ancient lava flows, and striking rock formations with panoramic views across the archipelago.
Caldera de Taburiente (La Palma): Experience the dramatic rim and verdant interior of this massive volcanic caldera, featuring dense pine forests, waterfalls, and steep canyon walls teeming with unique flora.
Garajonay National Park (La Gomera): Hike through UNESCO-listed laurel forests, a relic of the subtropical woodlands that once covered much of southern Europe, shrouded in mist and biodiversity.
Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote): Witness a landscape shaped by recent volcanic eruptions with otherworldly black and red lava fields, geothermal activity, and fascinating interpretive centers.
El Hierro’s High Ridge: Walk along the island’s dramatic central ridge, enjoying stunning 360-degree views, traditional villages, endemic flora, and centuries-old agricultural terraces.
Gran Canaria’s Cumbre: Cross the mountainous heart of the island, passing Roque Nublo, an iconic volcanic monolith, and traverse high-altitude pine groves with sweeping vistas.
Cultural Villages and Waypoints: Pause in historic island towns such as San Sebastián de La Gomera and Santa Cruz de La Palma, each offering unique Canarian architecture, cuisine, and hospitable settings.
Coastal Cliffs and Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking moments along cliff-top paths, where the ever-present Atlantic Ocean stretches out below, often paired with sightings of migrating birds and, occasionally, whales offshore.
Challenges to expect
Hikers tackling the GR131 Canary Islands Route should be prepared for significant elevation gains and long, demanding stages, especially on islands like Tenerife and La Palma. The trails can be steep and rocky, with loose stones and exposed sections requiring sure-footedness and good fitness. Descents may be taxing on knees and ankles, particularly after long ascents to volcanic summits or ridgelines.
Weather variability is another challenge, as conditions can shift rapidly with altitude and location. While the Canaries enjoy a mild climate, hikers may encounter strong winds, sudden fog, or temperature drops at higher elevations, especially in mountainous areas. Sun exposure can also be intense on barren volcanic sections with limited shade, making sun protection essential.
Navigation can be tricky in certain stretches where waymarking is faded or damaged, particularly after storms or in more remote areas. Carrying reliable maps or GPS devices is strongly advised, and it’s important to check local updates on trail conditions as maintenance varies by island. Water sources in some regions are scarce or seasonal, so planning ahead for resupply is critical to avoid dehydration on the longer, more isolated stages.
Spain - Mountainous
- Coastal
- Desert
- Dirt
- Rocky
- Gravel
- Hotels
- Hostels
- Campsites
- Wild camping spots
- Pet Friendly
- Water Sources
- Campsites
Begin your GR131 journey from the northern port village of Órzola in Lanzarote. The trail traverses volcanic and arid landscapes, climbing gradually toward Haría, a lush valley town surrounded by palm groves. Expect long sections of exposed trail with little shade and striking views over the rugged coastline.
Continue south from Haría through agricultural valleys and lava fields. The path passes traditional villages before reaching Teguise, a historic former capital of Lanzarote, known for its colonial architecture and weekly markets.
Depart Teguise and journey across the heart of the island. The landscape alternates between vineyards, volcanic cones, and open plains. The route leads you to San Bartolomé, a peaceful central town famous for its wine production and traditional windmills.
Traverse south toward the village of Yaiza, skirting the edge of Timanfaya National Park. This section passes through dramatic volcanic terrain, with multicolored lava rocks and sparse vegetation creating an almost lunar atmosphere.
Descend through the southernmost valleys of Lanzarote, with views toward the Atlantic and Fuerteventura on the horizon. The trail ends this island stage at Playa Blanca, a lively beach town and ferry point to Fuerteventura.
After a ferry crossing, start on Fuerteventura in Corralejo. The path leads across dunes, arid plains, and the volcanic landscapes typical of the island toward the traditional inland town of La Oliva.
Travel from La Oliva through central Fuerteventura, passing over hilly terrain and remote settlements. Ending in Betancuria, the oldest town on the island, you’ll find historical sites and a peaceful valley surrounded by rugged hills.
Leave Betancuria, walking through narrow mountain passes and scenic barrancos (ravines). Reach the quiet inland village of Pájara, known for its unique church and tranquil setting.
The trail continues through the southern hilly ranges and desert-like expanses before reaching La Pared. Here, enjoy dramatic ocean cliffs and the wild west coast of Fuerteventura.
Traverse the Jandía Peninsula, a remote landscape of arid hills and endless sky, descending toward Morro Jable—a lively tourist center and ferry point to Gran Canaria.
Arrive on Gran Canaria at Agaete. Climb steadily from the coast into the rugged, green valleys of the island’s north. The day’s journey ends in picturesque Tejeda at the base of Gran Canaria’s central mountains.
This stage covers high-altitude pine forests and iconic rock formations, including Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga. End the day at the panoramic viewpoint of Cruz de Tejeda.
Descend through lush forest, past rural hamlets and open valleys before reaching the sun-kissed village of Tunte. The route enjoys constant mountain views and characteristic Canarian scenery.
A final descent on Gran Canaria through palm oasis and arid lowlands, finishing in Maspalomas. Enjoy the sight of immense sand dunes as you reach the southern coast and prepare for your next island crossing.
On Tenerife, begin in Santa Cruz and climb through humid forest regions and up toward the village of La Esperanza. The trail is mostly ascending, revealing panoramic coastal and Atlantic views.
This section features a dramatic gain in elevation, crossing into Teide National Park. Walk through pine forests and striking volcanic rockscapes, ending at the visitor center of El Portillo.
Cross the extraordinary lava fields and volcanic plateau beneath Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide. Complete this exposed, high-altitude stage at the parador beneath the peak’s gaze.
Begin with a descent from the volcanic heights of Teide National Park. Traverse pine covered slopes and dramatic barrancos before descending into Vilaflor, one of Spain’s highest villages.
Pass through terraced farmland and scattered pine forests as you continue your descent toward Arona, a traditional village with a pleasant town square and historic church.
The final short segment on Tenerife. Descend further through arid lowlands, cacti, and volcanic outcrops before reaching the bustling coastal town and ferry port of Los Cristianos.
Step ashore on La Gomera at San Sebastián. Ascend through terraces and forest into verdant mountains, finishing in the valley town of Hermigua, surrounded by banana plantations.
Climb from Hermigua into laurel forests of Garajonay National Park. Enjoy lush scenery and mountain panoramas before descending to Vallehermoso, nestled between dramatic peaks.
A day of ascents through deep ravines and remote hamlets as you reach Chipude. The village sits high, close to Garajonay’s summit and offers excellent sunset vistas.
Descend through palm valleys and farmland toward the island’s southwestern coastal paradise of Valle Gran Rey, renowned for its cliffs and laid-back atmosphere.
Arrive on La Palma and head uphill from historic Santa Cruz into laurel forests, continuing to the central town of El Paso, gateway to the Caldera de Taburiente.
Ascend onto the spine of La Palma, traversing pine forests and volcanic ridges en route to Refugio del Pilar, a popular base for trekkers and nature lovers.
Continue along the island’s dramatic ridge, enjoying unparalleled views of Caldera de Taburiente and both coasts before reaching the viewpoint at El Time.
Descend from the crest into the lush agricultural town of Los Llanos de Aridane, nestled amidst avocado, banana, and citrus groves on La Palma’s western slopes.
On El Hierro, start in the hillside village of Sabinosa. The path leads you over challenging ascents and panoramic ridges above dramatic coastal cliffs en route to Frontera.
Cross the central plateau of El Hierro, following paths through pine forests, rural hamlets and farmland. This scenic section ends at El Pinar in the south.
The final section of the GR131 descends from El Pinar’s forests and volcanic slopes, passing unique lava scenery as you approach the island’s southernmost fishing village, La Restinga.
Use this day for rest, exploration, or to adjust your schedule due to weather, logistics, or to enjoy notable cultural sights encountered along the route.
A flexible day for unforeseen delays, enjoying local towns, or sightseeing. This helps accommodate unplanned events and supports a less rigid hiking schedule.
Extra time for recuperation or detours. Can be used to visit national parks, relax in coastal villages, or account for any logistical changes affecting your travel on island segments.
Final buffer day. Ideal for travel, rest, or to revisit particularly memorable spots before departing the Canary Islands.