Palma de Mallorca - For many tourists, hiking on Mallorca is an opportunity to unwind amidst the island's natural beauty. However, these excursions can sometimes end in disaster, with incidents of exhaustion, dehydration, and even fatalities occurring more frequently than one might expect. With this in mind, it is crucial for visitors to the island to embark on their hiking adventures well-prepared.

According to statistics from the island's council, the mountain rescue teams were dispatched a remarkable 331 times in the previous year, setting a new record. Alarmingly, the majority of these calls--88 percent--were for rescue operations, with 65 percent involving medical assistance for injured hikers or recovery of deceased individuals.

In light of this concerning trend, Mallorca's mountain rescuers have compiled a list of the seven most perilous hiking routes on the island, along with essential safety tips to help ensure the well-being of outdoor enthusiasts.

The Most Dangerous Hiking Trails on Mallorca 1. Torrent de Pareis - A Deadly Trap in Rain

Difficulty Level: Very High
Description: A spectacular trek through a gorge
Hazards: Extremely dangerous in rain; risk of hypothermia during emergency overnight stays
Equipment Needed: Sturdy footwear, ample water and snacks, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Good physical condition, strict time management

When it rains, the Torrent de Pareis can quickly transform into a lethal trap, necessitating helicopter and winch rescues of stranded hikers each year. Monitoring weather conditions is essential.

2. Pas d'en Segarra - Life-Threatening and Remote

Difficulty Level: Very High
Description: Extremely challenging path with narrow trails and steep cliffs
Hazards: Isolated location, high risk of falling, navigation challenges due to inadequate markings, danger from wind, fog, and falling rocks
Equipment Needed: Climbing gloves, sturdy footwear, helmet, mobile safety equipment, water, thermal blanket, snacks, and emergency supplies
Prerequisites: Excellent physical condition, fearlessness of heights, suitable for experienced climbers only

Located in the Tramuntana range, Pas d'en Segarra is one of the most dangerous and demanding hiking routes, featuring unprotected climbing sections.

3. Sa Gubia - Extreme Difficulty, Risk of Heatstroke

Difficulty Level: Extreme
Description: Challenging paths with climbing sections
Hazards: Minimal shade during summer, loose debris
Equipment Needed: Climbing gloves, sturdy footwear, helmet, mobile safety gear, water and snacks, sun protection, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Excellent physical fitness, fearlessness of heights, suitable for experienced climbers with the proper gear

Sa Gubia, located in the Serra de Tramuntana near Bunyola, offers extreme hiking routes and demanding climbing challenges.

4. Camí de s'Arxiduc - Fall Risk

Difficulty Level: Medium to High
Description: Narrow path above 1,000 meters offering spectacular views
Hazards: Extremely dangerous in strong winds; risk of falling from steep cliffs
Equipment Needed: Sturdy footwear, water and snacks, wind and rain jacket, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Good physical fitness and fearlessness of heights required

The Camí de s'Arxiduc connects Valldemossa with Puig des Teix (1,064 m) and is one of Mallorca's most impressive historical trails.

5. Puig de Galatzó - The Enigmatic Mountain

Difficulty Level: Medium to High
Description: Some climbing sections and steep stretches
Hazards: Rockfall risk, danger of falling on narrow ridges in strong winds, heat risk (little shade)
Equipment Needed: Climbing gloves, hiking shoes, wind jacket, sufficient water and snacks, sun protection, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Good physical fitness, fearlessness of heights, climbing skills, surefootedness

Puig de Galatzó, located in the southwestern Serra de Tramuntana near Es Capdellà and Estellencs, is one of Mallorca's most distinctive peaks.

6. Long-Distance Trail GR 221 - Risk of Getting Lost

Difficulty Level: Medium
Description: For long-distance hiking enthusiasts
Hazards: Risk of getting lost, heatstroke, and sun exposure
Equipment Needed: Sturdy footwear, water and snacks, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Good physical condition required

The GR 221 stretches over 100 kilometers from Port d'Andratx across the Tramuntana Mountains to Cap Formentor in northeastern Mallorca and can become hazardous without proper navigation.

7. Long-Distance Trail GR 222 - Slipping Hazards

Difficulty Level: Medium
Description: Through the island's hinterland
Hazards: Increased risk of slipping, heatstroke, and sun exposure
Equipment Needed: Sturdy footwear, water and snacks, GPS/map
Prerequisites: Good physical condition required

The GR 222 runs from the mountain monastery of Lluc to Artà in the northeast, featuring rocky sections and steep, narrow gravel paths that can pose falling hazards even on flat stretches.

Warnings from Rescue Authorities

The mountain rescue teams emphasize the importance of proper preparation and caution. Hikers often underestimate their abilities or fail to recognize the challenges posed by the terrain. Trail markings can be sparse or difficult to discern, significantly increasing the risk of getting lost. It is advisable to never hike alone and to ensure that one carries a fully charged phone, GPS tracker, and/or hiking maps, along with sturdy footwear, adequate water and snacks, sun protection, and a hat. Always stay informed about weather forecasts before setting out.