5 Best Hiking Trails In Tenerife That Will Take Your Breath Away
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands in Spain’s southernmost archipelago. Besides being one of the most popular travel destinations in the country, Tenerife also serves as a hub for some incredible hiking trails. With a dormant volcano as the island’s tallest peak and 360-degrees of pristine beaches, Tenerife has something to offer to all hikers.
In fact, the sheer number of available hikes may overwhelm some travelers. Despite being a relatively small island, a majority of Tenerife is part of a protected national or state park. Hiking trails are bountiful in these areas. To help make the decision easier, here are five of the best hiking trails in Tenerife.
#1 Teide National Park
The Teide National Park is the largest national park in the Canary Islands and one of the most popular parks in the entire country. Locals and foreigners alike flock to this national park to see stunning landscapes while experiencing excellent weather conditions.
The national park is named after Mount Teide, the highest peak on the island. All of the hiking trails within the park lead to the summit of this towering mountain.
Teide National Park, Tenerife.
Most hikers need around five hours to make it to the summit of the mountain, so a small hiking backpack might come in handy to carry water and other supplies. Hikers will enjoy views of the mountain and surrounding brush at the beginning of the hikes.
Higher up the mountain, visitors will be rewarded with views of Tenerife's coastline.
#2 Anaga Forest
The Anaga Forest is perhaps the second most popular hiking destination in Tenerife. Located on the northernmost tip of the island, this forest is home to several hiking trails that wind through the dense fog and lush flora.
Hikers can choose from a wide range of different hikes in this area. There are some that wind along the coastline, and others that cut directly through the Anaga Forest.
Anaga Forest, Tenerife
These hikes can last anywhere between two and eight hours depending on how far hikers want to venture. These hiking trails often intersect each other, so it is easy to take different routes when desired.
Here’s a useful guide on how to hike in the woods, for your convenience.
#3 Carrizales Mountain Trail
The Carrizales Mountain Trail is located on the southwestern portion of the island. Although this trail isn't in a national or state park, the views are just as beautiful.
In fact, this area receives much less foot traffic from tourists. Hikers who choose to do this hike early in the morning or later into the evening may be able to complete the entire trail without seeing anybody else.
Carrizales Mountain Trail
The Carrizales Mountain Trail offers excellent views of the coastline when the altitude is high enough. The hike is 4.7 kilometers long and takes a little over two hours to complete.
Despite being further away from the popular tourist destinations, there is still a bus station at the start of the trail.
#4 El Roque De San Miguel
El Roque de San Miguel is a popular hike amongst locals and lesser-known by tourists. This makes it the perfect trail for hikers who are tired of dealing with crowds of tourists at every turn and resting spot.
El Roque de San Miguel is the name of a rock where the hiking trail ends. Many hikers will attempt to reach this point by evening in order to watch the sunset over the nearby town.
El Roque de San Miguel
Hikers can expect a moderate hike with some steep points, especially towards the end. An entire trip will take three to four hours depending on where a hiker starts.
Due to the dryness of this part of the island, the actual hiking trail isn't as structured.
#5 Barranco Del Infierno
The Barranco del Infierno hiking trail is named after the gorge through which it runs. This ravine, which translates to Hell's Gorge, is located near the small town of Adeje.
The hiking trail winds through the ravine and leads hikers to the tallest waterfall on the island. Access to the trail is limited by the number of visitors. It is important for hikers to reach the entrance of Barranco del Infierno early in the morning to ensure that entry is not restricted.
Barranco Del Infierno.
Reservations can actually be completed online for those who want to secure a spot ahead of time. While hiking this trail, visitors can enjoy dryer landscapes, interesting rock formations, and hundreds of different caves.
The hike takes two to three hours to complete.
Conclusion
Tenerife is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain. Many visitors are surprised by the extent of biodiversity on the island. There are hiking trails through dense forests, along rocky coasts, and up towering mountains.
Asen Stoyanchev
Founder of this website, Asen is a passionate hiker and writer who is also a gear nerd. He’s been featured on many established hiking websites where he gives hiking advice & tips. When he is not trekking with his family or friends, he is writing articles and product reviews. Asen spends most of his time in Bulgaria but he constantly travels the world in seek of more unforgettable experiences. Read more about Asen here.
