Tenerife: La Laguna & Anaga hike

This tour offers a glimpse into two of Tenerife’s most captivating spots: the lush laurel forest of Anaga and the charming, UNESCO-listed city of La Laguna. For $65, you’ll spend a day exploring Tenerife’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The experience typically lasts a day, including transportation, a moderate hike, and free time in La Laguna.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature and history—you get to walk among the ancient trees of the laurel forest while also strolling through a city full of history and local color. The chance to feel the atmosphere of a bustling produce market adds an authentic touch. On the downside, some travelers have found the bus trip long and the itinerary somewhat limited in scenic viewpoints, which is worth considering if you’re after more panoramic vistas.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy moderate outdoor activity and cultural exploration. It’s a good option if you want a manageable day trip that covers both natural and urban highlights without the need for extensive planning. However, those with mobility issues or a low fitness level might want to evaluate the walking involved, as the tour has some physical requirements and isn’t suitable for everyone.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of nature and culture in Tenerife
• Guided walk through an ancient laurel forest with detailed botanical insights
• Free time to explore La Laguna’s pedestrian streets and local markets
• Comfortable transportation included, with hotel pickup from select areas
• Limited food options; bring your own snacks and drinks
• Some travelers report long bus rides and limited scenic views along the route

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tenerife: La Laguna & Anaga hike

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off with a pickup from a central location close to your hotel—an arrangement that simplifies logistics and saves you from wandering around to meet the group. Once everyone is on board, the driver takes you along Tenerife’s southeast coast toward the Anaga Mountains, a rugged, green landscape famous for its ancient laurel forests.

The highlight of the day is a hike through Las Mercedes, where your guide will explain the intricate details of the local flora. If you’re into botany or simply love walking in woods, you’ll appreciate the immersion in nature here. The forest is described as a primary laurel forest, meaning it’s a pristine, untouched ecosystem that feels like stepping into a different world—cool, shaded, and full of sounds from insects and birds.

After the forest walk, the trip continues to La Laguna, a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll have time to wander the pedestrian streets, soak in the colonial architecture, and perhaps visit some local produce markets. It’s a lively place, though some visitors note that arriving during the “siesta” period can mean many shops and attractions are closed. Our reviews mention that the town’s atmosphere is vibrant but that the trip’s timing could be better to maximize sightseeing.

The Guide and Group Size

Guides are generally well-informed, offering detailed stories about the flora and history of the region. One reviewer praised a guide named Mario for his “brilliant” explanations. The typical group size isn’t specified but appears to be small enough to allow some personal interaction, especially in the forest.

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation is by bus, included in the price, with pickup and drop-off at designated points. The journey to and from the forest can feel lengthy—some reviews mention a bus ride of around half an hour—which might seem tedious if you prefer scenic drives or shorter trips. It’s worth noting that the route involves a fair amount of driving around the island to pick up guests, which can extend the overall time on the bus.

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What to Bring and Prepare

Given the outdoor nature of the hike, packing hiking shoes and comfortable clothes is essential. Tenerife’s mountain climate can vary—bringing a jacket is advised. Since you’ll be walking in a forested area, don’t forget water, some food, and your ID. A daypack makes carrying essentials easier. Travelers should also check their travel insurance and consider their health situation, as the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people with certain health conditions.

The Experience: What You Might Expect

The reviews paint a mixed picture. Some travelers, like Léo, found the trip “perfect”, loving the combination of nature and the quaint city. Others, however, expressed disappointment. One traveler mentioned that the forest walk felt more like a botanist’s exploration—“detailed stories about trees and insects”—but lacked significant scenic viewpoints or broader landscape views.

Another reviewer noted that the bus ride feels quite lengthy and that the timing in La Laguna can be inconvenient due to siesta hours, which limit sightseeing opportunities. If you’re a city lover, the free time in La Laguna might be the highlight, offering the chance to stroll historic streets and check out local markets, but be prepared for a quick visit if you arrive when many shops are closed.

Cost and Value

At $65 per person, the tour is competitively priced considering it includes transportation, a guide, and some outdoor activity. For travelers interested in nature walks and cultural exploration without the hassle of planning, it offers a good balance. However, if you’re after spectacular scenery or a more leisurely city visit, you may find the experience somewhat limited—particularly given the long bus rides and the fact that food and drinks are not included.

Who is this tour best for?

This trip suits active travelers who are comfortable walking in uneven terrain and enjoy discovering flora and local culture. It’s ideal if you want to get out of the city and experience Tenerife’s unique natural environment while also soaking up some historic ambiance. However, if you prefer more scenic views, a relaxed pace, or a private, tailored experience, you may want to explore other options.

Those with mobility limitations, respiratory issues, or who prefer minimal physical activity should consider whether the walking and bus trip fit their needs, as some reviews suggest the trip isn’t designed for those with low fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a hike and some walking, so it might be suitable for older children or teens who are comfortable with outdoor activities. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

How long is the bus ride?
The bus ride to the laurel forest and La Laguna takes roughly half an hour each way, but some reviews mention the overall time on the bus can feel long due to island-wide pickups.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, a jacket, water, snacks, and your ID. A daypack will help carry your essentials during the hike.

Is the food included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for the day.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or low fitness due to walking and uneven terrain.

What language is the tour in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, French, and German, making it accessible for a diverse group.

What if it rains?
Bring rainproof clothing, as the forest walk can be wet and muddy. The forest environment can be quite humid, so prepare accordingly.

How much free time will I have?
In La Laguna, you’ll have some free time to explore the streets and market, but the timing may be limited if shops are closed during siesta hours.

What’s the value for money?
Considering transportation, a guided hike, and cultural exploration, the price of $65 offers a decent experience, especially for those keen on nature and history. However, long bus rides and the limited scenic viewpoints may influence perceived value.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Tenerife’s natural and cultural landscape. If you’re someone who enjoys moderate hikes, learning about local flora, and strolling through historic towns, it could be a good fit. But keep in mind the long bus rides and limited scenic vistas—some reviews hint that this trip is more about authentic experiences than picture-perfect scenery.

Ultimately, it’s a solid choice for curious travelers who want a manageable, guided day out, provided your expectations are aligned with the tour’s focus on nature and heritage rather than spectacular lookout points or luxury comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: