Cruz del Carmen: Hiking in Anaga with Local Food Products

Exploring Tenerife’s lush Anaga Rural Park on foot with a knowledgeable guide is a refreshing way to see the island’s natural beauty and local charm. For $63, you get a 3.5-hour guided trek that takes you from the mirador at Cruz del Carmen through ancient laurel forests and toward the hamlet of Taborno, topped with sweeping views of the northeast coast. This tour stands out because it combines authentic nature with local culinary delights, making it a full sensory experience.

What we really love about this experience are two things: first, the expert guidance that enriches the walk with stories about the area’s flora, history, and customs; second, the lunch of local products that ties the journey together with taste. A possible consideration is the uphill return, which might be challenging for some, but it’s all about pacing and preparation.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, culture, and food. If you’re curious about Tenerife’s indigenous uses or enjoy guided walks that reveal hidden corners of a landscape, then this experience is a perfect fit.

Key Points

Authentic Trek: A 3.5-hour guided hike through pristine laurel forests and volcanic landscapes.
Local Flavors: Includes a delicious tasting of local Canarian products after the walk.
Expert Guides: Engaging guides who share stories, plant knowledge, and local customs.
Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of gorges and the northeast coast.
Inclusive & Practical: Transfers back to Cruz del Carmen included; bring good shoes and a light jacket.
Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Cruz del Carmen Hiking Tour

When we looked into this Anaga adventure, what immediately caught our eye was its combination of nature and culture. It’s not just a walk through a forest; it’s a chance to understand how the local people have traditionally interacted with this landscape while taking in breathtaking scenery.

Keen to taste more of Tenerife? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

The Route and Its Highlights

The tour begins at the Mirador Cruz del Carmen, a popular lookout point that offers impressive views of the lush canopy below and the rugged coastline beyond. From there, your guide will lead you on a 3.5-hour trek into the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2015. Expect to walk through ancient laurel forests, which are full of tall, misty trees that evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

The path gradually ascends toward the volcanic dome near Taborno, a tiny hamlet perched atop cliffs overlooking two gorges. Here, the scenery shifts from dense forest to spectacular cliff faces where the land drops sharply into the sea. Many reviews mention the stunning panoramic views — perfect for photo enthusiasts or anyone who loves a scenic backdrop.

What Makes the Hike Special?

One of the most praised aspects is the expert guidance. According to reviews, guides like Cao and Aaron bring deep local knowledge, not just of the plants but also the history and customs of Tenerife. Many visitors appreciated how guides quickly switch between languages, making the experience accessible for international travelers.

Several reviews mention how guides point out plants used in traditional Canarian cooking, adding a culinary layer to the walk. This insight turns a simple hike into a learning experience. As one reviewer noted, “Aaron pointed out lots of plants in the wild that are daily used in cooking,” which gives you a new appreciation for the island’s living traditions.

The Lunch: A Taste of Tenerife

After the walk, the tour includes a delicious tasting of local products. Multiple reviewers rave about the quality and authenticity of the food, describing it as a highlight of their day. It’s a chance to sit down, relax, and enjoy local cheeses, meats, or tapas, often paired with regional wines or drinks brought by the guide.

One traveler expressed appreciation for the variety and freshness of the offerings, saying, “We had a great tasting over lunch in a local restaurant,” which emphasizes that this isn’t just a snack but a well-curated experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour price of $63 includes the guided walk, transportation back to the starting point, and the local tasting. Note that it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, which is typical for such excursions—so plan your arrival at the meeting point, Mirador Cruz del Carmen.

Weather can be unpredictable in Anaga, so bring a light jacket in case of drizzle — a common occurrence. Proper footwear is a must; sturdy shoes are recommended to handle uneven, sometimes muddy, paths. The walk’s pace is relaxed, enabling most reasonably fit travelers to keep up, but the uphill sections could challenge those with mobility issues.

While in Tenerife, here are other experiences we've covered

What the Reviews Say

The glowing reviews give a good sense of what to expect. Many highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Cao was very friendly and gave a lot of relevant info,” while others praise the spectacular views and overall value.

Some mention the small group sizes—which makes the experience more intimate and personalized—while others note the enthusiasm and humor of the guides, making the walk not only informative but also enjoyable.

Deep Dive: What You’ll Experience

Morning: Meeting at Cruz del Carmen

Your adventure kicks off at the Mirador Cruz del Carmen, a location well-known for its panoramic vistas and a good starting point for exploring Anaga. From here, you’ll hop into a vehicle (if included) or meet your guide for the short transfer to the trailhead.

The Ascent Through Lauraland

As you embark on the forest trail, expect to be enveloped by the cool shade of the laurel trees, which are remnants of an ancient ecosystem. This part of the walk is particularly lush and often foggy, adding to the mystical feel. Guides are eager to point out native plants and explain their uses, which enhances the walk from just a nature hike to an educational journey.

Reaching Taborno and the Clifftop Views

The path leads you upward to Taborno, a tiny hamlet perched on the edge of cliffs. Here, the views extend across the gorges and out to the sea, making it an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the landscape. Many reviewers describe this section as “spectacular” and “breathtaking,” especially when the weather cooperates.

Descent Through the Laurel Forest and Local Life

Descending back through the dense laurel forest, you’ll see how the landscape transitions from rugged cliffs to lush greenery. Guides often share stories about local customs and historic land uses, giving you a glimpse into the mountain life of Tenerife.

Lunch and Local Products

The tour concludes with a tasting of regional products—from cheeses to tapas—often in a cozy local restaurant or a designated spot. This relaxing finale allows you to chat with your guide and fellow travelers, sharing impressions and perhaps planning your next adventure.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys nature walks with depth, this is a great choice. The knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and authentic local food combine to create a well-rounded experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than just scenic photos—they want to learn about the land and its traditions.

However, if you have mobility issues or are looking for a very easy stroll, this might be a bit challenging due to the uphill sections and uneven terrain. Also, the weather can be variable, so come prepared with appropriate clothing.

Final Words: Is This Tour Worth It?

For a modest price, you’re getting a full immersion into Tenerife’s landscape and culture, guided by passionate locals. The stunning vistas, coupled with stories about local plants and customs, make this a memorable outing. Many reviewers praised the friendly and knowledgeable guides, who make the walk not just educational but fun.

If you’re after a balanced experience combining outdoor activity, cultural insight, and delicious local flavors, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best suited for adventurers, food lovers, and those curious about the island’s indigenous roots.

In short, this is a highly recommended way to explore Anaga’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace, leaving you with beautiful memories and a fuller understanding of Tenerife’s heritage.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a transfer back from Cruz del Carmen to the starting point. However, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the mirador.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain, and a light jacket in case it rains. Packing some water and sunscreen is also a good idea.

How long is the walk?
The guided hike lasts about 3.5 hours, with the pace set to suit most fit travelers. Expect some uphill and downhill sections.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
This experience is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the uneven terrain and steep sections.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak German, French, English, and Spanish, providing helpful commentary in your preferred language.

Is the food tasting included?
Yes, a selection of local regional products is included at the end of the hike, offering a chance to sample Canarian cheeses, meats, and more.

This guided trek in Anaga offers a genuine taste of Tenerife’s wild beauty and local traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, the combination of scenery, stories, and flavors makes it a worthwhile addition to your island adventures.