The range is composed primarily of marble and limestone, which creates a karst landscape prone to sinkholes and subterranean cave systems.
The park's high altitude and specific orientation make it one of the primary observation points for the migration of soaring birds across the Strait of Gibraltar.
La Maroma, the park's highest peak, is named after the rope used in the past to extract ice from the summit for transport to surrounding villages.
The park contains the 'Saltillo' bridge, a 50-meter-long hanging bridge spanning a 100-meter-deep canyon in the Canillas de Aceituno area.
The Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park forms a massive limestone mountain barrier between the provinces of Malaga and Granada. This protected area reaches its highest point at La Maroma, standing at 2,066 meters above sea level. The terrain is characterized by jagged ridges, deep ravines, and dramatic geological formations caused by erosion. The park supports a diverse ecosystem, including colonies of Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) and a variety of raptors like the golden eagle. Numerous trails, such as the route to the Saltillo canyon, provide access to seasonal waterfalls and river gorges. The vegetation transitions from Mediterranean scrubland at lower elevations to holm and gall oaks higher up. The park acts as a climatic divide, significantly influencing local weather patterns between the coast and the inland plateau.
The suspension bridge at the Saltillo route near Canillas de Aceituno.
Check official government wind and fire hazard warnings before heading out, as high winds often close trail access for safety.
Carry a physical map or GPS device, as mountain fog can obscure marked trails very quickly.
Ensure you have high-grip footwear, as the limestone rocks in this region are exceptionally slick even when dry.
Attempting high-altitude climbs like La Maroma during winter months without technical mountaineering equipment and snow experience.
Trails may be restricted or closed during extreme summer heat due to high forest fire risk.
Strict 'no fire' policy year-round; leave no trace; keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife like the Spanish ibex.
