Tenerife: Anaga Hiking Tour & Enchanted Forest with Pickup

Exploring Tenerife often means visiting beaches or the famous Mount Teide, but for those craving something more rugged and authentic, the Anaga Mountains offer a rewarding escape. This guided hiking tour, with convenient pickup from southeast Tenerife, takes you beyond the usual tourist spots into one of the island’s most scenic and mysterious regions. From lush, misty forests to panoramic mountain vistas and an intriguing cliffside cave village, this experience has earned a perfect 5-star rating from over 200 reviews.

We love this tour for its blend of nature, culture, and adventure, all led by guides who are passionate, knowledgeable, and fun. The opportunity to enjoy a delicious picnic amidst such breathtaking surroundings is a definite highlight. Plus, the flexible scheduling makes it an ideal choice for cruise passengers or anyone staying in the south or east of Tenerife.

A possible consideration? The hike involves some steep, narrow, and sometimes slippery sections, so sturdy shoes and a decent fitness level are important. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy scenic walking and don’t mind a bit of physical challenge.

If you’re after genuine natural beauty, fascinating local stories, and a taste of Tenerife’s wild side, this trip fits the bill perfectly. Here’s everything you need to know before booking.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience panoramic views of Mount Teide, the ocean, and volcanic ridges.
• Authentic Culture: Visit a cliffside cave village still inhabited today, carved into volcanic rock.
• Nature and Forest: Walk through the mystical Enchanted Forest and lush laurel woods.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Alex bring local stories, safety, and humor to your adventure.
• Convenient Pickup: Hotel pickup from southeast Tenerife, including flexible options for cruise guests.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, guiding, a picnic, photography, and gear, making it a comprehensive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Picking Up and Starting the Journey

The adventure begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel or accommodation in southeast Tenerife. For those staying further north, the tour will meet at La Laguna, with clear directions provided in advance. The drive up to the Anaga Rural Park is scenic, with stops to admire the breathtaking volcanic landscapes and lush greenery. The journey alone hints at the wonders waiting ahead, making this more than just a hike—it’s a full-day exploration.

Entering the Anaga Biosphere Reserve

Once we arrive in the Anaga Mountains, the first treat is the chance to walk through the Enchanted Forest, a canopy of ancient laurel trees shrouded in mist on foggy days. Reviewers mention feeling like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale, with the trees spilling down slopes like a green waterfall. The forest’s timeless beauty is amplified by the chance to see panoramic views if the clouds lift, especially of Mount Teide in the distance.

Guide Alex and other guides excel in sharing stories about the area’s flora, fauna, and history, making the walk both educational and magical—”Alex told fun stories, shared tips about other spots on Tenerife, and helped out whenever it got tricky,” as one reviewer noted. This friendly, knowledgeable approach helps make the forest feel alive and personal.

Visiting the Cliffside Cave Village

A highlight for many is passing a cliffside cave village, still inhabited today, carved into volcanic rock. It’s astonishing to see how people have lived in such rugged terrain for centuries. The homes are partly embedded into the volcanic cliffs, demonstrating a fascinating harmony between human ingenuity and nature. The fact that these structures remain in use adds a genuine cultural layer to the day, offering insight into local life beyond tourist brochures.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Main Hike: Scenic Trails with Breathtaking Vistas

From the cave village, the trail begins in earnest. Expect sweeping views over green valleys, volcanic ridges, and rugged cliffs. The trail involves ascents and descents—some sections narrow, rocky, and demanding good footwear. Reviewers frequently mention the “challenging” aspects but also emphasize the sense of achievement when reaching viewpoints that seem to stretch into forever.

The hike covers around 7 km, taking approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours of walking, with an elevation gain of about 230 meters. The terrain varies from forested slopes to open volcanic ridges, keeping the scenery constantly changing and visually stimulating.

The Unique Water Channel and the Final Climb

A particularly memorable part is passing by a historic water channel, mostly dry but possibly flowing after heavy rains. It’s a relic of old irrigation systems and offers dramatic views into hidden valleys and volcanic cliffs.

Near the end of the trail, there’s a short but physically demanding final climb. Reviewers agree it’s a true test of endurance but worth every effort for the sweeping views that crown the effort. Many describe it as a moment of personal achievement, and some mention it as the highlight of the hike.

Lunch in Nature

One of the tour’s special touches is the picnic lunch—a simple yet delicious offering of sandwiches with cheese and Spanish jamón, juice, dried fruits, and nuts. Depending on conditions and group preference, the picnic might be set on a hilltop with jaw-dropping views or inside a large cave overlooking a canyon. Reviewers often comment on how special it is to pause and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature’s grandeur.

Post-Hike and Photography

After completing the trail, you’re rewarded with 20-30 digital photos capturing your day, included for free. For a small additional fee, a 12-minute personalized video can be ordered to relive the highlights. Many reviewers express how these photos and videos help preserve memories of the trip’s most scenic moments.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts about 7 hours, including pickup and drop-off. The cost of $163 per person covers transportation, guided instruction, gear (trekking poles, flashlight, helmet), insurance, and the picnic. The inclusion of gear is especially helpful for those new to hiking or unfamiliar with Tenerife’s terrain.

Participants are advised to bring sun protection, water, snacks, a jacket, and sturdy sports shoes with good grip. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, and cloudy or rainy conditions are common. Proper footwear and layered clothing are crucial for comfort and safety.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. Reviewers mention that it’s not suitable for children under 8, people with mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights. The walk involves some challenging sections, but the effort is well rewarded with incredible views, friendly guides, and a true taste of Tenerife’s rugged beauty.

Final Thoughts

This Anaga Mountains tour from Tenerife offers an authentic, eye-opening adventure for travelers seeking more than just beaches. The opportunity to walk through ancient laurel forests, explore a centuries-old cliffside village, and conquer scenic ridges makes it a standout activity for nature lovers and explorers alike.

The guides, especially Alex, get high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills—making the experience both educational and entertaining. The included picnic and photos add extra value, turning a day of hiking into a memorable occasion.

While the hike does require a reasonable level of fitness and good footwear, the effort pays off in stunning vistas, serenity, and a sense of achievement. It’s ideal for active travelers, cruise passengers with flexible schedules, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Tenerife’s wild side.

In all, this tour offers great value for the unique landscapes, cultural insights, and personal stories you’ll take home, making it a highly recommended addition to your Tenerife itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from the southeast of Tenerife, and the exact meeting point for those staying in the north (La Laguna) is communicated in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, snacks, sunscreen, water, a jacket, and sturdy sports shoes with good grip. It’s also wise to wear layers, given the mountain weather.

How difficult is the hike?
It involves some moderate to challenging sections, including narrow, steep, and slippery parts. A reasonable level of fitness and good footwear are recommended.

Can I do this if I’m a cruise passenger?
Absolutely. The tour can be adjusted for cruise schedules, and guides will coordinate to ensure you return to the port on time.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guided hiking, picnic with sandwiches, drinks, snacks, gear (trekking poles, flashlight, helmet), insurance, and digital photos are included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not recommended for children under 8 years old due to the physical demands and terrain.

What about the weather?
Expect variable weather—sun, wind, or light rain is possible. Temperatures range from 12°C to 25°C, so dress accordingly.

Overall, if you’re after a trail that combines adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, this Tenerife hike through Anaga’s mystical landscapes is well worth the investment. You’ll return home with breathtaking photos, new stories, and a true appreciation for the island’s wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here: