From the south of Tenerife you can see La Gomera on the horizon, and it is closer than most visitors think. If you have one free day, a trip to La Gomera is one of the best things you can do: it is all about nature, hiking and some of the most impressive natural monuments in the Canaries.
Quick answer: take an early ferry from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián de La Gomera, ideally with a car or on an organised tour. Spend the day in Garajonay National Park, stop at the Roque de Agando viewpoint, see a valley like Valle Gran Rey or Hermigua, and catch the evening ferry back.
How to get to La Gomera from Tenerife
Ferries leave from the port of Los Cristianos in the south of Tenerife and arrive in San Sebastián, the capital of La Gomera. The fastest crossing takes less than an hour. Two companies run the route several times a day, and you can take a car on board.
| Option | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry with your rental car | Freedom to see the whole island | Check that your rental contract allows it |
| Ferry and rent a car in La Gomera | Cheaper ferry ticket | Book the car in advance |
| Organised day tour | No driving on the mountain roads | Less flexibility |
| Ferry only, on foot | A relaxed day in San Sebastián | You will not see the national park |
Local tip: take the first ferry of the morning and the last one back. The roads in La Gomera are full of bends and everything takes longer than the map says.
What to see in one day
Garajonay National Park
The heart of the island and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Garajonay protects one of the best preserved laurel forests in the world: mossy trees, ferns and mist that make it feel like a fairy-tale forest. There are short, easy trails from the car parks, and a walk up to the Alto de Garajonay, the highest point of the island, for views over the other islands on clear days.
Roque de Agando
A huge tower of volcanic rock standing above the forest, and one of the most famous natural monuments of the island. The viewpoint is right next to the main road from San Sebastián to the national park, so it is an easy first stop.
Valle Gran Rey
A deep valley of terraces and palm trees that runs down to the sea in the west. It is the most popular area for visitors, with small beaches and restaurants, and the drive down is spectacular.
Hermigua, Agulo and the Mirador de Abrante
If you prefer the green north, visit the valley of Hermigua and the pretty village of Agulo. Above Agulo, the Mirador de Abrante has a glass walkway over the cliff with Mount Teide in front of you on clear days.
A simple one-day route
- Morning: early ferry from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián.
- Drive up to the Roque de Agando viewpoint.
- A short walk in Garajonay National Park, or the climb to the Alto de Garajonay.
- Lunch: a traditional restaurant near the park, such as Casa Efigenia in Las Hayas or Laguna Grande.
- Afternoon: drive down to Valle Gran Rey, or north to Agulo and the Mirador de Abrante.
- Back to San Sebastián for the evening ferry.
Things to try in La Gomera
- Almogrote: a spicy cheese spread, perfect on bread.
- Miel de palma: palm syrup, poured over desserts and cheese.
- The Silbo Gomero: a whistled language used to talk across the valleys, recognised by UNESCO. Some restaurants and visitor centres show demonstrations.
Good to know before you go
- Bring a jacket: the forest is often cool and misty, even when the coast is sunny.
- Wear walking shoes: even short trails can be steep and wet.
- Check the ferry times: timetables change with the season, so book both ways in advance.
- Want more time? La Gomera deserves two or three nights if you love hiking.
Planning the rest of your trip? See the best things to do in Tenerife and where to stay in Tenerife.
Frequently asked questions
Is a day trip to La Gomera worth it?
Yes, if you love nature. In one day you can see the national park, a viewpoint or two and a valley. Just start early.
How long is the ferry from Tenerife to La Gomera?
The fast ferry from Los Cristianos to San Sebastián takes under an hour. Slower ferries take a little longer.
Can I take my rental car to La Gomera?
Often yes, but many rental companies need you to ask first or charge extra. Check before you book. Read my car rental tips.
Ferry timetables, prices and trail access change. Check official information before you go.
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