Tenerife, the largest island in the Canary archipelago, is a true paradise for hiking lovers. With a wide variety of landscapes, from golden sandy beaches to towering volcanic mountains, the island offers an abundance of hiking trails for all levels.
If you are planning a trip to Tenerife and want to explore its impressive natural landscapes, here are some of the most popular trails:
El Teide
- The Teide National Park, home to the highest volcano in Spain, is one of the most visited places in Tenerife, with several trails that are impressive. The ascent to Teide, which has several routes, is one of the most popular, offering spectacular views of the island and the opportunity to be on top of one of the most emblematic mountains in the world.
The permit to climb Teide is mandatory for all people who wish to access Pico del Teide (the top) or restricted access areas. But you can also climb up to 200 meters below the peak of El Teide without the need for a permit. The permit is free and can be obtained through the official website of the Teide National Park or by hiring a tour with an official guide. You can hire it here (link to the excursion to climb El Teide). It is important to note that the permit is required to control the number of visitors in the area, protect the environment, and ensure the safety of visitors. It is advisable to request the permit well in advance, especially in the high season (summer, Easter, Christmas), since there is a daily limit of visitors. In addition, it is also important to know that the climb to Pico del Teide requires good physical condition and adequate preparation since the altitude and lack of oxygen can affect health. It is important to bring suitable clothing and footwear and enough water and food for the walk. You should also check the weather conditions before going up Mount Teide and respect the rules of the national park. We hope this information is useful to you if you plan to climb Mount Teide on your visit to Tenerife.
Anaga
Located in the northeast of Tenerife, the Anaga massif is a dream place for hiking lovers. The most popular routes include the one from Afur to Taganana, which passes through laurel forests and impressive cliffs, and the one from Punta del Hidalgo to Chamorga, which offers incredible views of the coast and the mountains.
Masca
The Masca ravine is one of the most emblematic places in Tenerife. The route begins in the town of Masca, located on top of a ravine, and descends through a spectacular landscape of cliffs, palm trees, and volcanic rocks until it reaches the sea. The walk is quite challenging, but it is worth it for the views and the unique experience of being in one of the most impressive places on the island. Currently, you need to request a permit to enjoy this trail.
El Bujero en Los Gigantes
- The Los Gigantes cliff is one of the most impressive attractions in Tenerife, and the route surrounding it is one of the most popular among visitors to the island. The hike offers spectacular views of the cliffs, sea, and coastline and is ideal for those looking for a relaxing and accessible hiking experience.
El Bosque Encantado
The El Bosque Encantado nature reserve, located in Anaga, northern Tenerife, is a magical place full of trails that meander through the lush vegetation of the forest. The most popular route is the one that leads to the Mirador de San Pedro, a place with impressive views of the forest and the coast.
Chinyero
Chinyero:If you want to enjoy a unique volcanic landscape, the Chinyero trail is for you. This circular route, located in the Corona Forestal Natural Park, takes you through a lunar landscape of ash and volcanic rock and offers impressive views of Mount Teide and the sea. It is a moderate-level walk and lasts around 3 hours.
Paisaje Lunar
The lunar landscape trail in Vilaflor is one of the most fascinating routes that can be found in Tenerife. Located in the south of the island, this route offers hikers a surprising and unique landscape that seems taken from another world. The route extends over 18 kilometers and has a maximum altitude of 1,950 meters. During the tour, you can see strange and fascinating rock formations, as well as the native vegetation of the area. The trail is moderately difficult and requires a certain level of hiking experience. However, the panoramic views obtained from the trail’s highest points make all the effort worth it. If you are looking for an exciting adventure in nature, the lunar landscape trail in Vilaflor is an excellent option.
La Gomera
The island of La Gomera, located a short ferry ride from Tenerife, boasts some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Canary Islands. The most famous route is through the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see dense laurel forests and a wealth of native flora and fauna.
These are just some of the many trails that Tenerife has to offer. Regardless of the route you choose, make sure you are prepared for the weather, bring enough water, and respect nature in order to fully enjoy the beauty of the island. Have a good trip!