Pico Bejenado | La Palma

Information

Landmark: Pico Bejenado
City: La Palma
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

Pico Bejenado, La Palma, Canary Islands, Europe

Pico Bejenado is a prominent volcanic peak situated in the center of La Palma, Canary Islands. It forms part of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park's outer rim.

Visual Characteristics

The peak reaches an elevation of 1,854 meters above sea level. Its slopes are covered primarily by Canary Island pine forest, with exposed volcanic rock formations near the summit. The rock is dark grey to reddish-brown basalt, characteristic of volcanic origin. The summit offers a rugged, exposed landscape with sparse vegetation.

Location & Access Logistics

Pico Bejenado is located approximately 15km southwest of Santa Cruz de La Palma. Access is primarily via the LP-3 road, which connects the east and west sides of the island. A dirt track, the Pista de Valencia, leads to a trailhead near the peak's base. Limited parking is available at the trailhead. Public transport does not directly serve the trailhead; a taxi or private vehicle is required from nearby towns like El Paso.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pico Bejenado is a stratovolcano, formed through successive eruptions of lava and pyroclastic material. It represents an older volcanic edifice that predates the formation of the Caldera de Taburiente, acting as a buttress on its eastern flank. The peak's geological composition is predominantly basaltic, with some trachybasaltic intrusions.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking to the summit of Pico Bejenado is a primary activity, offering panoramic views into the Caldera de Taburiente and across the island. The main trail, PR LP 13, is a circular route that takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete. Birdwatching is possible, with species such as the Canary Islands Chiffchaff and Common Kestrel present.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No permanent restrooms or dedicated shade structures are available on the hiking trails or at the trailhead. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available at the summit and along parts of the trail. There are no food vendors directly at the peak or trailhead; visitors must bring their own provisions and water.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for hiking is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months when temperatures are milder and rainfall is less frequent. Early morning is ideal for photography, offering clear views before cloud cover often develops over the caldera. Avoid visiting during strong winds or heavy rain, which can make trails hazardous.

Facts & Legends

Local folklore suggests that Pico Bejenado was once considered a sacred site by the indigenous Benahoaritas, who used its elevated position for astronomical observations. A verified historical oddity is its role as a natural barrier, influencing weather patterns and creating distinct microclimates on its eastern and western slopes, contributing to the island's biodiversity.