The mild variation of subtropical climate associated with the trade winds, which correspond to the geographical position of the Canaries, experiments important local modifications due to the orography, the height of the mountains, and orientation in the case of La Gomera. This gives rise to a notable range in climate, which is reflected in the vegetation and which is influential in the distribution of the population, and the presence of numerous local climates, especially in the ravines.

Because of its orientation, the island has two climates, corresponding to the north and the south.

The first of these, exposed to the flow of the trade winds, presents a noticeable stability in its temperatures, which are very mild especially in the valleys, an appreciable degree of humidity and tenuous sunshine. This zone has been historically the most populated.
The second climate correspond to the leeward side of the island, sheltered from the trade winds, with temperatures slightly higher than those of the north, more sunshine and less humidity, reflected in the vegetation and in a smaller population.

Because of its orographic configuration, an important percentage of the land in La Gomera is over 800 m of altitude. This zone of high humidity and scarce population, is affected by the sea of clouds created by the trade winds, which cover the central area of the island almost continuously. This area is included in the Garajonay National Park and is home to the laurel forests, plant formation unique for their characteristics and degree of preservation.