What exactly is closed on the Ruta 17?
The Ruta 17 is a circular walking route to Alto de Garajonay, the highest point on the island. The closed section runs between Cruce de Pajaritos and the junction with the access to the hamlet of Igualero.
The reason for the Ruta 17 closure in Garajonay is the construction of a retaining wall, according to the Gobierno de Canarias, Parque Nacional de Garajonay. The closure has been in place since 17 September 2026 and is due to end on 31 October 2026.
The regular route "Pajarito–Alto de Garajonay–Pajarito" starts and ends at the Pajarito roundabout on the GM-2 at kilometre 23. The official description gives a length of 4.5 km and a duration of 1 hour 15 minutes.
The cumulative ascent and descent is 115 m each way. The route also has connections to routes 14 and 16 and to the PRLG-3 path to Igualero.
Because of the closure, these connections cannot be used automatically on the ground. Walkers should not enter the closed section and should use signposted alternatives instead.
What does the CV-14 road closure at El Rejo mean?
On 21 and 22 October 2026 the CV-14 at El Rejo will be fully closed to traffic from 7:00 to 13:00 each day. The reason is work to secure embankments.
Residents and drivers must allow for diversions during this time window. The published park authority does not name a specific diversion route.
The closure only affects the morning hours. From 13:00 the road is open again on both days.
The official information gives neither the expected duration of the daily work beyond 22 October nor any further dates. Any changes would have to be announced via the national park's "Incidencias" page.
What other restrictions apply in the national park?
Since 4 May 2026 the Pista de La Meseta de Vallehermoso has been closed to vehicles. This restriction is listed separately in the park overview.
Access on foot remains permitted there according to the official notices. The park authority recommends using only authorised paths and roads.
The closures serve safety and conservation, according to the Gobierno de Canarias. Garajonay National Park can close paths, tracks, viewpoints and recreational areas for safety reasons.
These include weather warnings, forest fire risk or ongoing construction work. The current notices are published on the park's "Incidencias" page.
What should walkers and drivers do now?
The park authority advises respecting the closures and using only open paths. During the CV-14 closure, journeys through El Rejo should be avoided between 7:00 and 13:00.
For walks in Garajonay, the park authority recommends sturdy footwear, preferably mountain boots or walking shoes, as well as warm clothing. Pets must be kept on a lead.
Camping and overnight stays in the park are not permitted. Fires may only be lit in the designated zones.
The notices do not mention any fees, special permits or application deadlines. No specific rules for residents, foreign residents or tourists are given.
What happens after 31 October?
According to the currently published information, the Ruta 17 closure is due to end on 31 October 2026. After that, the section between Cruce de Pajaritos and Igualero would be open again.
The official information does not give a date for completion of the retaining wall. Any changes would have to be announced via the national park's "Incidencias" page.
No further closures of the CV-14 at El Rejo have been published beyond 22 October. A specific diversion route for the two closure days is also missing from the notices.
Walkers and drivers should therefore check the current situation shortly before their visit. The park authority updates its notices on the official website of the Parque Nacional de Garajonay.