Walking in Tenerife: an introduction

Walking in Tenerife: a paradise for hikers

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a hiker’s dream. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, you’ll find plenty of trails to explore. Our guide to walking in Tenerife (Orotava • Cañadas • Anaga • Teno) is your ideal companion.

Puerto de la Cruz: a gateway to Tenerife’s hiking trails

Puerto de la Cruz, a charming coastal town, is an excellent base for exploring Tenerife’s hiking trails. The town offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.

From here, you can easily access the Orotava Valley and Las Cañadas, as well as the Anaga and Teno Peninsulas — all renowned for their stunning scenery.

Exploring the Orotava Valley

The Orotava Valley is a fertile region known for its banana plantations and picturesque villages. The valley offers a variety of walks, from easy strolls around the La Caldera picnic site to challenging hikes on the heights — above Los Organos (the ‘organ pipes’).

Hiking in Las Cañadas National Park

Las Cañadas National Park is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging mountaineering routes.

Visitors can explore the lunar-like landscape of the Las Cañadas crater, 16km in diameter; the super-fit can climb to the summit of Mount Teide, while others can take a cable car to the top.

Discovering the Teno and Anaga Peninsulas

The rugged Teno and Anaga peninsulas are located on opposite sides of Tenerife. The Teno Peninsula in the west is the home of the smooth, broad El Palmar Valey and the sharp narrow Masca Valley.

The Anaga Peninsula in the east is a lush rainforest with ancient laurel forests and waterfalls. Both peninsulas offer a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes.

The best time to visit Tenerife for walking

The best time to visit Tenerife for hiking is during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

However, Tenerife can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Christmas is high season, as is Easter, when prices rise.

In summer it is usually not too hot for walking, and that has become a popular time to visit (but with climate change, it is hard to predict temperatures from one year to the next).

Tips for hiking in Tenerife

• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Our book has suggestions for what to pack.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks: Hiking can be thirsty work, so it’s essential to stay hydrated.
• Respect the environment: Leave no trace and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Check the weather forecast: Tenerife’s weather can change quickly on the heights, so it’s important to be aware of the forecast before heading out.
• Don’t take risks!: It is important to carry a mobile or smartphone, to be aware of emergency telephone numbers and to tell a responsible person where you are going and what time you plan to return. Always remember, your speed will be determined by the slowest walker in your group.

Tenerife is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse range of trails to suit all levels of fitness. If you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, try one of out ‘picnic walk’ or a challenging mountain hike (like the ascent of El Teide), you’re sure to find the perfect trail to explore. Buy our guidebook to walking in Tenerife.