Tenerife: Hiking Tour in Anaga Mountains & Enchanted Forest

Tenerife: Hiking Tour in Anaga Mountains & Enchanted Forest
Rating: 5.0 (71 reviews)
Review Count: 71
Location: Tenerife, Spain
Price: $149.78 per person
Supplier: 10X. Tenerife eXperience. Hiking Adventure.
Duration: Approx. 7 hours

Quick overview:
This full-day adventure takes you into Tenerife’s lush landscapes — starting from the southern coast, driving north to the UNESCO-protected Anaga Mountains. You’ll explore one of Europe’s last ancient laurisilva forests, walk through a green tunnel of 10,000-year-old trees, visit a cave village perched on cliffs, and hike along a water channel into untouched wilderness. All this topped with a picnic in a natural cave overlooking a canyon, plus breathtaking views of Mount Teide.

Two things we love:
First, the guides’ detailed knowledge and friendly approach—they make the experience informative without overwhelming, and their encouragement really boosts confidence. Second, the stunning scenery, from misty forests to dramatic cliffs, makes every step visually rewarding.

One consideration:
While the hike is described as suitable for “everyone,” it does involve challenging terrain and some physical effort. Travelers should be comfortable with moderate activity and wear appropriate clothing, especially considering the possibility of changing weather.

Who is this best for?
It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are ready for a physical challenge, and want to see the wild, untouched parts of Tenerife. It’s also great for cruise passengers seeking a full day of authentic exploration.

Key Points

• Authentic Nature Experience: Trek through Europe’s last laurisilva forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with ancient trees and mossy tunnels.
• Stunning Views: From viewpoints of Mount Teide to canyon vistas, the scenery is consistently jaw-dropping.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Elena and Alex are praised for their knowledge, encouragement, and friendliness.
• Well-Organized Tour: Pickup from the southeast, comfortable vehicle, and all needed gear make logistics smooth.
• Challenging but Rewarding: Expect a 7 km hike with 230m elevation change—not a walk in the park, but doable for most with moderate fitness.
• Authentic Meal: A picnic in a natural cave with sandwiches, juice, and sweets adds a special touch.

An In-Depth Look at the Tenerife Hiking Experience

The Itinerary: Exploring the Best of Anaga

Starting around 9:00 am, the tour begins with pickup from the southeastern coast, a smart move that spares you the hassle of navigating Tenerife’s winding roads. The roughly 7-hour trip includes several highlights, each carefully chosen to showcase the island’s natural beauty and history.

First stop: a breathtaking viewpoint of Mount Teide. From here, you get an initial taste of Tenerife’s volcanic grandeur. The views are often described as mesmerizing, with some reviews mentioning that the panorama alone makes the trip worthwhile. One traveler noted, “We loved the way Elena guided us through this stunning scenery,” emphasizing how guides enhance these moments.

Next, you enter the ancient laurisilva forest, a green tunnel where towering moss-covered trees create an almost mystical atmosphere. This forest has been preserved for over 10,000 years, making it one of Europe’s last remnants of this type of woodland. Visitors consistently praise the enchanting, moss-draped environment, with one reviewer claiming it was “breathtaking in every sense!”

Visiting the Cave Village

After the forest walk, the tour takes you to a cave village perched on a cliff ledge. This site offers a glimpse into Tenerife’s historical landscape, where traditional cave dwellings cling to cliffsides. While brief, these stops add a layer of authenticity to the day, transporting visitors back in time.

The Hike Along the Water Channel

The core of the experience is a hike of about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, covering approximately 7 km with an up and down of around 230 meters. The path follows an old water channel, winding through harsh, untouched terrain that feels wonderfully remote. Many reviews highlight this section as the highlight—a true adventure.

Expect to see dramatic landscapes, with steep canyon walls and possibly falcons soaring overhead. The guide will point out local flora and fauna, enriching the experience with insights into Tenerife’s biodiversity.

The Picnic in a Natural Cave

Midway, you’ll stop for a picnic in a natural cave with panoramic views of the canyon below. The picnic includes sandwiches, juice, sweets—simple but delicious, and served in a setting that’s hard to beat. Reviewers often mention this as a special moment, with one saying, “The sandwiches were delicious, and the view was unforgettable.”

End of the Day and Return

The tour wraps up after the hike and picnic, typically around 4:00 pm, with a comfortable drive back to your starting point. The total experience, around 7 hours, offers an immense sense of achievement and connection to nature.

What the Reviews Reveal About the Tour

Reviewers consistently praise Elena and Alex for their expert guidance. Comments like “their knowledge and encouragement made a tough hike enjoyable” show how much good guides can elevate the experience. Many mention that despite the physical challenge, most hikers in their 70s or with moderate fitness still felt capable, thanks to supportive leadership.

The scenery is a recurring highlight. Travelers describe the walk through the mossy forest and along rugged cliffs as breathtaking. Views of Mount Teide sometimes appear as a backdrop, reminding visitors of the island’s volcanic origins.

The value for money also receives recognition. At around $150, the tour includes snacks, gear (hiking poles, helmets, flashlights), and professional guidance—all within a well-organized structure that minimizes hassle.

The Challenge Factor

Some reviews mention the physical effort involved. While the trail is rated easy to moderate, the terrain can be uneven and steep in parts. A few users found it more challenging than expected, but most agreed that the sense of accomplishment and spectacular scenery made it worthwhile. Elena’s sandwiches, snacks, and encouragement helped make the effort more manageable.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts who want an authentic, active day. It suits those with moderate fitness levels and a sense of curiosity about history and wilderness. Given the small group size (max 8), it’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Transportation: Pickup from the southeast coast, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Duration: About 7 hours, including stops.
• Hiking Details: Approx. 3.5 to 4.5 hours, 7 km, 230m ascent/descent.
• Group Size: Limited to 8 travelers for a more intimate experience.
• Inclusions: Snacks, picnic, hiking poles, flashlights, photos, helmets.
• Exclusions: Bottled water (so bring your own).
• Confirmation & Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours ahead, which adds a layer of flexibility.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While rated as easy to moderate, the hike involves some uneven terrain and a bit of climbing. Most people with moderate fitness should be comfortable, but if you’re very unsteady on your feet or have mobility issues, check with the provider.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water (not included), and dress in layers—weather can be changeable. Long trousers and warm tops are recommended, especially in cooler or misty conditions.

Are the guides experienced and friendly?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides like Elena and Alex as knowledgeable, encouraging, and fun, making the challenging sections more manageable.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks and a picnic in a cave, hiking poles, flashlights, helmets, and photos/videos of your trip are provided—making it a great value.

Can I do this if I’m visiting Tenerife on a cruise?
Yes, it’s especially suitable for cruise passengers with a day in Santa Cruz, as the tour is designed for a full day’s adventure and offers pickup from the southeast coast.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife hiking tour in the Anaga Mountains and Enchanted Forest offers an authentic, scenic, and physically rewarding experience. It’s a great way to see Tenerife’s wild side—from ancient forests and rugged cliffs to hidden cave villages and breathtaking vistas. The knowledgeable guides, supportive atmosphere, and unique picnic spot make it stand out among outdoor activities.

If you’re looking for a memorable adventure that combines nature, history, and a bit of physical challenge, this tour could be a perfect fit. The small group size ensures plenty of personal attention, and the value packed into the day makes it well worth the price.

For active travelers eager to explore Tenerife beyond its beaches and resorts, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with the island’s true character. Just pack your sense of adventure, sturdy shoes, and an appetite for unforgettable views.

End of review.