The 7 Very Best Hikes In Tenerife (Map + Tips Included)

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Hey there, fellow adventurers and nature enthusiasts! Welcome to my detailed blog post, where we’re going to dive into the breathtaking world of hiking in Tenerife.

This sun-kissed island, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, isn’t just about beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife; it’s a hiker’s paradise with a surprising variety of trails.

From the rugged, lunar landscapes of Teide National Park to the lush greenery of Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife offers a plethora of paths for every level of hiker.

Whether you’re looking to conquer challenging peaks, wander through ancient forests, or just enjoy leisurely walks with stunning ocean views, Tenerife has it all.

In this post, I’m going to share with you the cream of the crop – the best hikes that you absolutely must try on this diverse and enchanting island. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and let’s embark on a journey to discover the top hiking trails that make Tenerife a true hiker’s haven. Let’s get started!

Oh and PS: We did all of these hikes together with our little adventurer César while he was in his baby carrier. Who says adventurous travel stops after having a baby???

The 7 Very Best Hikes In Tenerife — The Very Best Hikes In Tenerife

Table Of Contents

The 7 very best hiking trails in Tenerife
The best time to hike in Tenerife
Essential tips for hiking in Tenerife
Map of the best hiking trails in Tenerife
Where to stay when hiking in Tenerife
Other Tenerife Blog Posts

The 7 very best hiking trails in Tenerife

1. Roques de Garcia Trail – Lunar landscape in Teide National Park

Hiking distance – 3.5km

Elevation – 175m

Route Type – Loop

Duration – 1.5 hour

Level – Easy. A big part of the trail is paved and accessible to prams and wheelchairs. Halfway through the terrain becomes rockier and is only suitable when wearing proper hiking boots

Parking Lot – There’s a pretty spacious parking lot at the start of the trail.

Best time to visit – In my dream scenario we would have completed this hike during sunset. The crowds have faded away and the light up in Teide National Park is spectacular. But since we were hiking with our 3 month old baby we arrived at around 10am.

This relatively easy and accessible trail, located in the heart of Teide National Park, offers some of the most iconic views of Tenerife, including the famous Roque Cinchado and the imposing Mount Teide.

The looped trail is approximately 3.5 kilometers long and takes around an hour and a half to complete, making it a great option for families and those looking for a less strenuous hike.

As you meander through the path, you’ll be treated to a stunning array of geological formations, contrasting landscapes, and unique flora that thrive in this otherworldly environment. The trail is well-marked and offers various vantage points for capturing the perfect photo of the park’s rugged beauty.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and layer up, as the weather can change rapidly at this altitude. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk with incredible views, the Roques de Garcia trail is a Tenerife hiking highlight not to be missed.

📖 READ MORE – The Spectacular Roques de Garcia Hike In Tenerife

2. Santiago del Teide to Masca – One of the most beautiful hikes in Tenerife

Hiking Distance – 9.5km

Elevation – 350m

Route Type – Point to point

Duration – 3.5 hours (with a small detour to Risco Verde included)

Level – Moderate. The trail starts with a steady inclination. Once you’ve reached the top it only goes downwards until you reach the Masca Valley.

Parking Lot – Park your car on Av. de la Iglesia next to Merendero Santiago del Teide. That way you’re pretty close to the start of the hiking trail.

Best time to visit – I recommend starting your hike in the morning. The Teno mountains are often covered in clouds and in the morning there’s less chance of high coverage and rain.

Santiago del Teide to Masca – View from Risco Verde

Despite what AllTrails says I really don’t recommend completing this hike as a loop. After reaching Masca the trail indicator tells you to follow the road back to Santiago del Teide. But this is a main road that winds through the Teno mountains with cars passing by the entire time. So very dangerous if you ask me.

It’s best to take bus 355 from Masca to Santiago del Teide. It doesn’t run that frequently so it’s best to check their timetable from before.

The first part of the trail is actually pretty boring. But I promise you, once you’ve reached the first top, the views only get better!

Make sure to make a quick detour to Risco Verde, from where you’ll have an incredible panoramic view over the Teno mountains.

Spanning approximately 10 kilometers, the trail takes you through a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to lush valleys, showcasing the diverse natural beauty of the island. As you trek, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the rugged Teno mountains and the deep gorges that carve through them.

The path descends into the Masca Gorge, revealing breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to explore the village of Masca, known for its traditional Canarian architecture and stunning mountain setting.

📖 READ MORE – The Incredible Santiago del Teide to Masca Hike In Tenerife

3. Roque de Taborno Hike – A stunning hike in Anaga Rural Park

Hiking distance – 3.9km

Elevation – 220m

Route Type – Loop

Duration – 1.5 hour

Level – Easy

Parking Lot – You’ll have to park your car in the small town of Taborno. There’s very little parking space so make sure to arrive on time.

Best time to visit – Early in the morning, otherwise it will be absolute mayhem to find a parking spot.

Known as the ‘Matterhorn of Tenerife‘, Roque de Taborno is a striking rock formation located in the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its ancient laurel forests and rugged terrain.

The hike to Roque de Taborno offers a moderate challenge, suitable for hikers with some experience. It weaves through the lush greenery of the Anaga mountains, providing hikers with stunning views of the rugged coastline and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean.

As you reach the summit, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking panorama that encompasses the vast ocean, neighboring islands, and the unique landscapes of the park.

The trail is well-marked, but it’s essential to wear good hiking boots as the path can be rocky and steep in places. Also, remember to bring water, snacks, and sun protection, as the trail offers limited shade.

📖 READ MORE – The Spectacular Roque de Taborno Hike In Tenerife

Stunning views along the Roque de Taborno trail in Tenerife

4. Punta del Hidalgo – Chinamada hike

Hiking distance – 9km

Elevation – 607m

Route Type – Out & Back

Duration – 4 hours

Level – Moderate to hard. The hike up to Chinamada is pretty steep but the views along the way make it an absolute dream come true. I recommend bringing hiking poles for this particular hike.

Parking Lot – Park your car at Punta del Hidalgo. There isn’t that much parking space so make sure to start your hike in the early morning.

Best time to visit – I recommend starting in the morning. Almost the entire trail is exposed and due to the level of elevation it can get pretty hot and sweaty during the day.

The Punta de Hidalgo to Chinamada hike in Tenerife is a hidden gem for those who love coastal trails with a mix of cultural insights. This moderately challenging hike starts in the small, picturesque coastal village of Punta de Hidalgo, located in the northeastern part of the island.

As you ascend, the path offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. One of the highlights of this hike is the opportunity to explore Chinamada, a unique hamlet where inhabitants still live in traditional cave houses carved into the mountainside.

It’s essential to wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be uneven, and to carry plenty of water and snacks. The trail can also be quite exposed to the sun, so sun protection is a must.

Don’t bother hiking to Mirador Aguaide cause it is closed.

📖 READ MORE – The Incredible Punta del Hidalgo To Chinamada Hike In Tenerife

5. Path of the Senses – An easy hike in Tenerife

Hiking distance – 1.4km

Elevation – 79m

Route Type – Loop

Duration – 30 minutes

Level – Easy

Parking Lot – You’ll have to park your car at Cruz del Carmen. It’s one of the busiest trails in Anaga Rural Park so if you arrive a bit later in the day you might have to circle around a bit to find a decent spot.

Best time to visit – We visited in the afternoon and had a lovely experience.

The Path of the Senses, or ‘Sendero de los Sentidos’, in Tenerife is a unique and enchanting hiking experience that truly lives up to its name.

Located in the lush Anaga Rural Park, this trail is designed to engage all your senses as you explore the beauty of the laurel forest, a relic of the Tertiary period.

The path is split into three routes of varying lengths, with the shortest being just 340 meters, making it accessible to hikers of all abilities, including those with limited mobility.

As you walk, you’re invited to touch the diverse textures of the forest, listen to the symphony of bird songs and rustling leaves, smell the fresh, earthy scents of the vegetation, and feast your eyes on the verdant greenery and occasional glimpses of the ocean in the distance.

Informative panels along the route provide insights into the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspect of the hike.

A stunning laurel forst walk in Tenerife

6. La Rambla de Castro

Hiking distance – 4km

Elevation – 457m

Duration – 2 hours

Route Type – Out & back

Level – Moderate

Parking Lot – You can park your car near Restaurante Cafetería Mirador San Pedro.

Best time to visit – We visited halfway through the morning and after our walk we had lunch at Restaurante Cafetería Mirador San Pedro. I tried their grilled octopus and Christof the meat croquettes and both meals were delicious.

This relatively easy trail, located in the north of the island near the town of Los Realejos, offers a leisurely walk through one of the most historically rich and ecologically diverse areas of Tenerife.

The hike is about 4 kilometers long and takes roughly two hours to complete, meandering through banana plantations, rustic bridges, and alongside cliffs offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Along the way, you’ll encounter charming historical landmarks, including the 18th-century Hacienda de Castro and the Fortín de San Fernando, a small fortification that once guarded the coast from pirates.

The path also leads to the beautiful Playa de los Roques, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sea breeze. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all ages, making it a great option for a family outing.

La Rambla de Castro – A stunning hike in northern Tenerife

7. El Draguillo Trail from Benijo

Hiking Distance – 10.9km

Elevation – 961m

Route Type – Loop

Duration – 6 hours

Level – Moderate to hard

Parking Lot – You can park your car in Benijo. Make sure to arrive early in the day cause there’s not a lot of parking space. Especially on the weekend this area can be incredibly crowded.

Best time to visit – Best to start your hike as early as possible.

Hiking El Draguillo in Tenerife is an adventure that takes you off the beaten path, offering a peaceful escape into the island’s rugged and lesser-known landscapes.

Located in the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the northeastern part of Tenerife, this trail is a hidden treasure.

As you traverse the trail, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the dramatic coastline, the deep blue ocean, and the quaint remote villages that dot the landscape.

We were only able to complete part of the hike since a part of the trail got washed away due to heavy rainfall.

The best time to hike in Tenerife

When it comes to picking the best time to hit the trails in Tenerife, you’re in luck – this island is a year-round hiker’s dream!

However, if we’re talking about the absolute prime time for hiking, it’s generally considered to be from late spring to late fall, roughly October until April.

During these months, you’ll find the weather pleasantly warm, but not too hot, making it ideal for those long, scenic hikes. The skies are usually clear, offering unobstructed views of Tenerife’s stunning landscapes.

Winter in the Canary Islands, from November to March, offers its own charm, especially in the lower altitude areas where the temperatures are milder and the trails less crowded. So, whether you’re looking for lush green paths or wanting to explore the volcanic terrain under the warm summer sun, Tenerife’s diverse trails are welcoming almost all year round.

Just remember to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you set off, as they can vary depending on the time of year and altitude. Happy hiking!

Essential tips for hiking in Tenerife

Hiking in Tenerife is an unforgettable experience, but like any adventure, it pays to be prepared! Here are some essential tips to make your trek both enjoyable and safe.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to always be prepared before you embark on any hiking trail. Familiarize yourself with the trail you plan to hike, including its difficulty level, distance, and elevation gain. Make sure to pack appropriate gear such as sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, layers for changing weather conditions, a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

My favorite app to prepare myself for every hike

Always check the weather forecast before you head out. Tenerife’s weather can be quite variable, especially in higher altitudes like Teide National Park. Dressing in layers is key, as temperatures can fluctuate dramatically.

Next, sturdy hiking boots are a must – the terrain here ranges from sandy paths to rocky trails, so proper footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.

Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and some snacks. Hydration is essential, especially on warmer days, and a little energy boost can be a lifesaver on longer trails.

Sun protection is another must-have, regardless of the season; the island sun can be quite strong, so hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are your best friends. If you’re venturing into remote areas or planning a challenging hike, it’s a good idea to inform someone about your itinerary.

Lastly, while it’s tempting to go off the beaten path, sticking to marked trails is always safer and helps protect the island’s delicate ecosystems. With these tips in mind, you’re all set to explore the amazing hiking trails of Tenerife!

Map of the best hiking trails in Tenerife

🗺️ How to Use This Map: Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu button, go to “Your Places,” click Maps, and you will see this map on your list.

Where to stay when hiking in Tenerife

If the goal of your holiday in Tenerife is a combination of adventure and luxury, then the following hotel selections will be right up your alley!

I decided to base ourselves in two different places. One perfect to explore the region of Anaga Rural Park and the other to discover the rest of the island.

Where to stay when exploring Anaga Rural Park

When visiting Anaga Rural Park we choose to stay 3 nights in San Cristobal La Laguna. This way we were close to the entrance and most of the hikes. Especially when you’re traveling with a young baby you try to limit your travel time.

La Laguna Gran Hotel

La Laguna Gran Hotel provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi and a garden.

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Where to stay when exploring Teide NP and Teno Mountains

I can’t recommend The Ritz Carlton Abama enough but staying here is what made our trip absolutely unforgettable. It’s only a short drive away from most hiking trails and you won’t have to deal with the daily traffic jams in the south of Tenerife.

We stayed at their Villa Club Deluxe which comes with a semi private heated pool, exclusive access to El Mirador for breakfast and includes complimentary drinks and snacks by the pool.

All in all it was the perfect hotel to stay in Tenerife with our baby.

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