Tenerife’s volcanic terrain offers some of Europe’s most unique hiking experiences. From the lunar-like landscapes of Teide National Park to the lush forests of Anaga, trails reveal a stunning mix of rugged peaks, lava fields, and hidden valleys. The island’s diverse scenery makes it a paradise for explorers.
For those planning Tenerife holidays, venturing beyond the beaches offers a deeper connection to its wild beauty. Routes like the Roques de García loop or Masca Gorge descent showcase dramatic landscapes, while coastal paths provide breathtaking Atlantic views.
Adding hiking to your holidays to Tenerife brings adventure beyond the resorts. With all-inclusive holiday deals from online travel agencies like Travelodeal, visitors can experience Tenerife’s landscapes, culture, and relaxation all in one seamless trip.
1. Teide National Park: A Hiker’s Dream
No trip to Tenerife is complete without exploring Teide National Park, home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of the most surreal landscapes in the world, with vast lava fields, jagged rock formations, and panoramic views stretching across the island.
Best Trails in Teide National Park:
- Montaña Blanca to Mount Teide Summit – A challenging yet rewarding trek leading to the summit at 3,715 meters, offering sunrise views above the clouds.
- Roques de García – A shorter, scenic loop featuring iconic rock formations and breathtaking volcanic scenery.
Pro tip: If you want to reach the peak without a strenuous hike, take the Teide Cable Car and hike the final stretch to the summit. Just remember to get a permit in advance!
2. The Lunar Landscape of Vilaflor
Nestled in the hills below Teide, Vilaflor is Tenerife’s highest village and the gateway to one of its most unique hikes—Paisaje Lunar (Lunar Landscape). This hidden gem features striking white volcanic rock formations, shaped over thousands of years by erosion and wind.
The circular trail from Vilaflor takes you through pine forests, ancient lava flows, and eerie moon-like formations. It’s an off-the-beaten-path experience perfect for those seeking a quiet and otherworldly hike.
3. The Wild Beauty of Anaga Rural Park
For a complete contrast to Teide’s dry, rocky terrain, head to Anaga Rural Park, located in the island’s northeast. Here, lush laurel forests give way to rugged volcanic peaks, misty trails, and untouched coastal paths for unforgettable Tenerife holidays.
Must-Do Hikes in Anaga:
- Taganana to Benijo Beach – A stunning coastal trek leading to one of Tenerife’s most spectacular and uncrowded beaches.
- Chinamada Cave Trail – A moderate hike passing cave dwellings still inhabited by locals, with breathtaking views over the Anaga mountains.
This is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering some of the most dramatic and greenest landscapes on the island.
4. Masca Gorge: A Hike Through Time
If you’re up for a challenge, the Masca Gorge Trail is one of Tenerife’s most famous hikes, leading from the remote village of Masca through a steep canyon down to the ocean. The trail winds through towering cliffs, hidden caves, and lush valleys, offering an Indiana Jones-style adventure like no other.
Pro tip: The original route to the sea is sometimes closed due to safety reasons, so check in advance and consider a guided hike for the best experience.
5. The Enigmatic Teno Mountains
For a wild and rugged adventure, the Teno Mountains in the island’s northwest offer some of Tenerife’s most breathtaking and lesser-known trails. The trails here lead to panoramic cliffs, ancient forests, and remote hamlets, where time seems to stand still.
Best Hikes in Teno:
- Punta de Teno Coastal Trail – A peaceful coastal walk with unbelievable ocean views and Tenerife’s most famous lighthouse.
- El Palmar to Teno Alto – A picturesque trail through green valleys and traditional villages, perfect for those who love authentic local experiences.
Step Off the Beaten Path and Experience Tenerife Like Never Before
Tenerife isn’t just about beaches and resorts—it’s a volcanic wonderland waiting to be explored. Whether you choose to hike through Teide’s alien-like terrain, the wild Anaga forests, or the dramatic gorges of Masca, each trail will bring you closer to the island’s untamed beauty.