Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias

How to get to the ORM

The Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos (ORM) is located at an altitude of 2.396 m above sea level, on the north edge of the La Caldera de Taburiente National Park, in the municipality of Garafía, on the Island of La Palma (Spain).

ORM Google Map

Ways of access

It is possible to reach the ORM by car or taxi. There are numerous rent-a-car companies along the whole island, as well as taxis that cover the whole route. It is not possible the access with regular buses (guaguas) as the ORM is not covered by the usual routes of these lines.

NOTICE: In this moment there are two roads to accede the ORM, one from Santa Cruz, in the east side of the island and another one from Garafía, in the west side. Due to the characteristics of these high mountain roads, and the weather conditions, especially in winter months, we ask you for extreme caution on driving. It is recommended to be sure about weather and road conditions before starting the route. In addition, for your own safety, we ask you not to leave the car in possible landslide or little visibility areas.

ORM access from Santa Cruz

As in this side there are the harbour and the airport, this route is the most frequently used, not only by tourism but also by astronomers working in the ORM.

• Access to the ORM (image 1) (image 2)
• Distance
• Map of La Palma

Approximate prices per route by taxi (updated march 2012)

From the Airport: approx. 50 €

From the Astrophysics Center of La Palma (CALP): approx. 45 €

For further information about the taxi service in La Palma, please check the following link:

http://www.taxilapalma.com