Marcos y Cordero Trail
Marcos y Cordero Trail
4.7
(40)
153
hikers
Marcos y Cordero Trail
08:13
20.4km
1,580m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 12.6-mile Marcos y Cordero Trail through 13 water tunnels, ancient laurel forests, and stunning springs in La Palma.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
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5.16 km
Casa del Monte Picnic and Barbecue Area
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
5.40 km
Through 13 tunnels to the Marcos and Cordero springs
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Tip by
9.54 km
Cordero Spring
Highlight • Waterfall
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Tip by
14.0 km
Espigón Atravesado Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
20.4 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.7 km
4.07 km
4.05 km
320 m
219 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
12.4 km
4.37 km
2.62 km
905 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,540 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 17 May
16°C
9°C
15 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Marcos y Cordero Trailhead?
The trailhead at Casa del Monte is typically accessed by a 4x4 taxi service from Los Tilos, as private cars cannot reach it. This logistical detail adds to the trail's wild and adventurous appeal.
What is the difficulty level of the Marcos y Cordero Trail?
The trail is generally considered strenuous and challenging. While the initial section from Casa del Monte to the springs is relatively flat, the descent through the Barranco del Agua to Los Tilos is steep and requires good physical condition. The path can be wet and slippery, especially within the tunnels.
What unique features should I expect on the Marcos y Cordero Trail?
The trail is famous for its 13 hand-carved water tunnels, some of which are very long and completely dark, requiring a headlamp. Tunnel 12, the 'shower tunnel,' has a large stream of water flowing from its vault, so a rain jacket is essential. You'll also follow historic water canals and encounter the Cordero Spring.
Is the Marcos y Cordero Trail suitable for beginners or families?
Due to its strenuous nature, significant elevation changes, and passages through dark, wet tunnels, this trail is not recommended for beginners or young children. It requires good physical condition and appropriate gear.
When is the best time of year to hike the Marcos y Cordero Trail?
The trail can be hiked year-round, but it's best to check weather conditions as rain can make the tunnels and paths very slippery. The laurel forests are lush and green throughout the year, offering a refreshing experience.
Is the Marcos y Cordero Trail dog-friendly?
Information regarding dog access for this specific trail is not readily available. Given the challenging terrain, dark tunnels, and potential for slippery surfaces, it might not be suitable for all dogs. It's advisable to check with local authorities or park regulations before bringing a pet.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Marcos y Cordero Trail or Parque Natural de Las Nieves?
There are no general entrance fees for the Parque Natural de Las Nieves, where the trail is located, nor are there specific permits required for hiking the Marcos y Cordero Trail itself. However, you will need to arrange for the 4x4 taxi service to the trailhead.
What kind of scenery and natural features will I encounter?
You'll traverse ancient laurel forests, described as humid and almost tropical, filled with giant ferns. The route offers spectacular panoramic views, green ravines, and waterfalls, including the Espigón Atravesado Viewpoint. The constant presence and sound of water are defining features.
Does the Marcos y Cordero Trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, the route primarily follows the 'Marcos y Cordero' trail (86% of the route) but also passes through sections of the 'Sendero Autoguiado - Un balcón atravesado entre las brumas' (14%), 'PR LP6' (13%), and various tunnel-specific paths like 'Tunel No 3' and 'Tunel No 13'.
What essential gear should I bring for this hike?
Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential due to wet and slippery sections. A headlamp or torch is mandatory for the dark tunnels. A rain jacket is highly recommended, especially for Tunnel 12. Water, snacks, and sun protection are also advisable.
Are there facilities or places to eat near the trail?
The Casa del Monte Picnic and Barbecue Area is near the trailhead. For more substantial options, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the nearby town of Los Tilos, which is typically the drop-off point for the 4x4 taxi service.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Tommi, this time there is no GPS Spooky 😅. The tour was brilliant but damn exhausting. From Sisa Magic Forest (laurel forest, over gorges, tunnels and steep slopes.
Start today was at a trail parking lot near Los Sauces. This is where a special hike began, because it was one of the most beautiful I have done so far. Found via Komoot, I didn't do a lot of planning and research as I usually do, but just went there. It went straight up very steeply, more than 1000 meters in altitude at a time. The first stretch went up houses on asphalt, until the path finally got lost in the forest. I followed a water pipe through changing vegetation until I finally arrived at the first intermediate destination, Casa del Monte, and took a leisurely break. I wondered where all the people suddenly came from. Apparently, however, guided tours and trips are also offered here, because a very special hike begins: 13 tunnels have to be crossed. Some were rather short but a few were longer at over 150m and I was glad to have my electronics package with a headlamp. You followed levadas the whole time, as you know them from Madeira, on a narrow path, the levada on the left and the abyss on the right and a fantastic view. Everything was green and beautiful. Another surprise awaited in tunnel 12, because this tunnel went under a waterfall and was completely under water. I'm still through with shoes, took a little break where you could sit, wrung out my socks and went on. Only a few meters up and then it went steeply downhill over gigantic stones, remnants of a barranca with its river course. The way down was also spectacular with changing flora. I crossed another gigantic gorge over a bridge and behind it there was another great vantage point: Mirador Esprigon Atravesado. Then it went down an easy, wide path, which was nevertheless very beautiful and led past large dry stone walls. The last 3km or so it was relaxed along a road until I got back to the car.
This year the tour was even better 😎☀️ last year there were a lot of clouds and visibility was poor, and I walked back the road last year and this year I took a beautiful stretch that I had on another tour. Well, Komoot had a hard time keeping up with me at the beginning, but then came after 😂🥾🏃🌺. As an introductory tour, it was a good decision today 👍🤩🤪🤠🥵🥸🎊🤠
Actually, I wanted to go to the Mochachos today, but .... we decided on the spur of the moment to do the tunnel tour. ...Well, Anja took a taxi from Los Sauces at 9 o'clock (1 hour turbulent ride with mega potholes, tight curves, slides and almost got stuck in the mud at 1000 HM) to Casa del Monte. I, the way I am, walked up at 9 a.m. (1000 m in 1.4/5 hours) 🤣 I was so wet, not from the rain 🤭🤪 .. then we went back together through the tunnel to the car 💪🤠 🥾🤗 AND the BIG, we overtook all the other taxi drivers on the tour up to the Casa (Anja still had to wait 45 minutes for me) 🤣🤣🤣 It was pretty crowded throughout the day, but still, in Los Tilos we have Strengthened us with coffee and ice cream, climbed the wonderful rest area and in the last part of the tour, the sun even accompanied us a little 🌞🌺
This morning I went out the door and everything was wet.🥴 I was having doubts about whether I should do the tour, as the route is a bit cooler even when it's warm. ....and wet in the 12th tunnel 😂 But I set off and today the weather was great☀️😎 ...Well, the climb was steep and strenuous, but the paths were easy to walk. The tunnels were another experience that you should definitely do on La Palma. ...dark, narrow, damp to wet💦😜 Don't forget to take a flashlight, waterproof shoes and a towel 👍 ...The path down was closed 🤔 hmm, I didn't know anyone else, so I got over it. Everything was fine, except that NOBODY came towards me, even though there was usually a lot going on. When I got to the waterfalls I realized 🤦♀️ and Tilos was also completely closed! I didn't hesitate for long and climbed over the high fence 🤫🫣 ...and then climbed another barrier 🫣 ....When I got to the car, I found out from other tourists that everything is closed until November.🫣
Very strenuous but thoroughly rewarding round. If you want it more comfortable, you can take a taxi to Castel del Monte and save yourself the 900m of altitude difference. Our chosen descent variant from Castell del Monte is really only recommended for experienced mountain hikers. Very steep and slippery.