Garajonay National Park Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Garajonay National Park
IUCN Category II (National Park)

Location	La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain
Area	40 km²
Established	1981

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Type:	Natural
Criteria:	vii, ix
Designated:	1986 (10th session)
Reference #:	380
State Party:	Spain
Region:	Europe and North America

Garajonay National Park (in Spanish: Parque nacional de Garajonay) is a very special nature park in Spain. It is located in the middle and north of La Gomera, one of the sunny Canary Islands. These islands are found off the coast of Morocco.

The park gets its name from Alto de Garajonay, which is the tallest mountain peak on the island. Clouds often cover the park, which helps keep over 150 kinds of plants safe and healthy. Garajonay became a national park in 1981. Later, in 1986, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site. The park is about 40 square kilometers (15 square miles) big. It spreads across all six towns on the island.

What Makes Garajonay Special?
- The Unique Laurisilva Forest
  - Plants and Trees of the Park
- Animals Living in Garajonay
  - Birds of the Laurisilva
History and Protection
- Becoming a National Park
- World Heritage Site Status
Visiting Garajonay National Park
- Things to See and Do
Gallery
Images for kids
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What Makes Garajonay Special?

Garajonay National Park is famous for its ancient forests. These forests are called laurisilva (pronounced "law-ree-SIL-vah"). They are like a living fossil from millions of years ago. These types of forests used to cover much of Southern Europe. Now, they are mostly found in places like the Canary Islands.

The Unique Laurisilva Forest

The laurisilva forest is a type of subtropical rainforest. It needs a lot of moisture to grow. The clouds that often cover Garajonay provide this moisture. This creates a magical, misty environment. The trees are often covered in moss and ferns. This makes the forest look like something out of a fairy tale.

Plants and Trees of the Park

The park is home to many different kinds of plants. You can find several types of laurel trees here. There are also giant ferns and mosses. Many of these plants are found only in the Canary Islands. They are very important for scientists to study. The park helps protect these rare and special plants.

Animals Living in Garajonay

Garajonay National Park is also home to many animals. Most of these are small creatures. You can find many types of insects and reptiles. There are also several unique birds that live here.

Birds of the Laurisilva

Two special birds live in the laurisilva forest. These are the Bolle's Pigeon and the Laurel Pigeon. They are found only in the Canary Islands. The park helps protect their homes. This ensures these rare birds can continue to thrive.

History and Protection

Garajonay National Park has been protected for many years. Its unique nature makes it very important. Protecting this park helps save a piece of Earth's ancient past.

Becoming a National Park

Spain made Garajonay a national park in 1981. This means it is a special area. It is protected by the government. This helps keep its plants and animals safe.

World Heritage Site Status

In 1986, UNESCO named Garajonay a World Heritage Site. This is a very important title. It means the park has global value. It is important for all of humanity. This status helps ensure its protection for future generations.

Visiting Garajonay National Park

The park is a wonderful place to visit. There are many walking trails. You can explore the misty forests. It's a great way to experience nature. Remember to stay on the paths to protect the park.

Things to See and Do

Visitors can enjoy hiking through the ancient forests. There are viewpoints with amazing sights. You can see the island's unique landscape. The park also has visitor centers. Here, you can learn more about its history and nature.