Tenerife captured my heart from the moment I stepped onto its volcanic shores. This stunning island in the Canary Islands offers an incredible mix of landscapes that few destinations can match.
The island’s diversity amazed me at every turn. I found black sand beaches, lush forests, dramatic lava fields, and towering volcanoes all packed into one incredible destination.
My week exploring Tenerife’s hiking trails took me through pine forests, secret nature reserves, and up volcanic peaks where the views simply took my breath away. The changing colors of the rocks – from jet black to fiery red to pristine white – created a surreal backdrop for my adventures.
I’ll never forget watching rainbows form across the landscape as clouds drifted at different heights around me.
Beyond the mountains, Tenerife’s beaches provided the perfect place to rest my tired legs. The contrast between hiking a volcano in the morning and relaxing on unique black sand shores by afternoon made each day feel like two completely different vacations. And when the sun set? The stargazing opportunities were absolutely magical, especially after a day of hiking those boardwalk trails along the coast.
Unveiling the Majestic Teide National Park
Teide National Park stands as the crown jewel of Tenerife, home to Spain’s highest peak and some of the most otherworldly landscapes I’ve ever encountered. The park’s volcanic terrain creates an almost lunar landscape that transforms with the changing light.
Scaling Mount Teide: The Jewel of the Park
My journey to conquer Mount Teide began early in the morning. At 3,718 meters, this active volcano isn’t just the highest point in Spain – it’s a geological wonder that dominates Tenerife’s skyline.
The most popular way to ascend is via the cable car, which whisks visitors up to 3,555 meters in just 8 minutes. I watched the landscape transform below me as we rose through different climate zones.
For the final stretch to the summit, you’ll need a free permit that must be reserved well in advance. This system protects the delicate ecosystem while managing visitor numbers.
The hiking trails around Teide offer options for all abilities. The lunar-like terrain, with its strange volcanic rock formations, made me feel like I was walking on another planet.
The Altavista Refuge: Resting Under the Stars
Spending a night at the Altavista Refuge was one of my most memorable experiences in Tenerife. Located at 3,260 meters, this mountain shelter provides basic but comfortable accommodation for hikers.
I booked my spot months ahead since the refuge only has 54 beds that fill quickly. The dormitory-style rooms are simple but cozy, with bunk beds and shared facilities.
What makes the Altavista truly special is the stargazing. Teide National Park is recognized as one of the world’s best locations for astronomy due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
After sunset, I stepped outside into a blanket of stars unlike anything I’d seen before. The Milky Way stretched across the sky in dazzling clarity, making the modest accommodation completely worthwhile.
Sunrise at the Summit: A Cosmic Encounter
Waking at 4:30 AM after my night at Altavista, I began the final ascent to catch sunrise from Teide’s peak. The pre-dawn hike was challenging in the dark and thin air, but utterly worth it.
As first light broke over the horizon, the volcano’s massive shadow stretched across the Atlantic Ocean. The islands of Gran Canaria, La Palma, and La Gomera gradually emerged from darkness below.
The sunrise experience from Spain’s highest point creates a spiritual feeling that’s hard to describe. The volcanic crater glowed with warm orange light while the temperature rapidly changed from freezing to pleasant.
I recommend dressing in layers and bringing a headlamp for this adventure. The temperature difference between night and dawn can be extreme, and the terrain requires proper hiking boots.
Exploring the Diverse Trails
Tenerife offers some of the most breathtaking hiking experiences I’ve ever encountered. The island’s varied landscapes create a paradise for hikers of all skill levels, from volcanic slopes to lush forests and dramatic coastal paths.
Montaña Blanca: A Hiker’s Dream
I started my Tenerife hiking adventure at Montaña Blanca, one of the most popular trails near Mount Teide. This 8-kilometer path took me through otherworldly volcanic landscapes that felt like walking on the moon. The trail begins at 2,348 meters above sea level, making it accessible yet challenging.
The white pumice stone terrain gives Montaña Blanca its name and creates a striking contrast against the blue sky. During my hike, I spotted unique plant species that have adapted to this harsh environment, including the Teide violet which only grows here.
What makes this trail special is how it offers different viewpoints of Teide’s summit. I recommend starting early in the morning to avoid both the heat and afternoon clouds that often obscure the views.
The Masca Gorge: A Challenge for the Brave
The Masca Gorge trail provided the most thrilling hiking experience of my trip. This demanding route descends through a dramatic ravine from the tiny village of Masca down to the Atlantic Ocean.
The path winds between towering cliffs that reach hundreds of meters high, creating a sense of being swallowed by nature. I navigated over rocks, crossed small streams, and squeezed through narrow passages during the 4-5 hour descent.
Important tips for Masca Gorge:
- Bring plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person)
- Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- Use hiking poles for the steep sections
- Arrange transportation back from Masca beach or take the water taxi
The reward at the end? A secluded black sand beach where I could rest my tired legs before the return journey.
Anaga Rural Park: Where Nature Thrives
In the northeastern tip of Tenerife, Anaga Rural Park offered a completely different hiking experience. Unlike the volcanic landscapes elsewhere, here I found myself in an ancient laurel forest with mist-shrouded paths and rich biodiversity.
The Cruz del Carmen to Chinamada trail became my favorite in this area. This 5-kilometer path took me through dense forest canopies where sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a magical atmosphere.
What surprised me most was how quickly the landscapes changed. One moment I was walking through a prehistoric-feeling forest, and the next I was gazing at dramatic coastal views with the Atlantic stretching to the horizon.
Anaga feels worlds away from the tourist beaches of southern Tenerife. The trails here are well-marked but less crowded, offering a peaceful connection with nature that rejuvenated my spirit.
Beach Escapes and Coastal Wonders
Tenerife’s shoreline offers a diverse tapestry of coastal experiences, from dramatic cliffs to golden beaches. During my exploration, I discovered that each coastal area has its own distinct character and charm.
Los Gigantes: Cliffs that Touch the Heavens
The imposing cliffs of Los Gigantes left me speechless on my first visit. Rising dramatically from the ocean to heights of 600-800 meters, these basalt formations create a spectacular backdrop against the deep blue Atlantic.
I spent a peaceful morning at the small black sand beach nestled at the base of these giants. The contrast between the dark volcanic sand and turquoise waters was simply stunning.
For the best views, I took a boat tour that allowed me to appreciate the sheer magnitude of these cliffs from the water. The local marina also offers kayaking tours for those seeking a more intimate experience with these natural wonders.
The nearby town provides excellent dining options where I enjoyed fresh seafood while watching the sunset paint the cliffs in golden hues.
Adeje’s Shores: Golden Sands and Azure Waters
Adeje’s coastline quickly became my favorite beach destination in Tenerife. Unlike the island’s volcanic beaches, Playa del Duque surprised me with its imported golden sand and pristine conditions.
The beaches here offer excellent facilities such as well-maintained sunbeds and umbrellas, beachfront restaurants and bars, water sports rentals, and clean public restrooms.
I particularly enjoyed Playa de Fañabé with its Blue Flag status and calm waters perfect for swimming. The promenade connecting the beaches made for lovely evening strolls.
The upscale atmosphere of Costa Adeje provides a perfect balance of relaxation and luxury. I discovered several hidden coves between the main beaches that offered more seclusion away from the crowds.
Puerto de la Cruz: A Blend of Tradition and Leisure
Puerto de la Cruz offered me a different coastal experience, blending traditional Canarian culture with modern beach amenities. The famous Lago Martiánez complex, designed by César Manrique, features saltwater pools surrounded by subtropical gardens.
Playa Jardín was a highlight with its volcanic black sand set against lush gardens. The beach is divided into three sections: Castillo Beach, Playa Jardín, and Punta Brava.
I loved the authentic atmosphere of this northern coastal town. Unlike the more tourist-focused southern resorts, Puerto de la Cruz maintains its Canarian character.
The natural rock pools at Punta Brava provided an exhilarating swimming experience during low tide. Just remember to pack water shoes as the volcanic rocks can be sharp!
Cultural Vibes and Local Life
Tenerife’s charm extends far beyond its natural landscapes. The island pulses with a unique cultural identity that blends Spanish traditions with distinct Canarian influences, creating an authentic experience for travelers seeking to connect with local life.
La Orotava: A Historical Town with Canarian Spirit
La Orotava captivated me with its well-preserved historical center and authentic Canarian atmosphere. Walking through the cobblestone streets, I discovered magnificent manor houses with intricately carved wooden balconies that tell stories of the island’s wealthy past.
The Casa de los Balcones became my favorite spot, showcasing traditional Canarian architecture and exquisite handcrafted items. Local artisans still practice traditional woodworking and embroidery techniques passed down through generations.
The botanical gardens offered a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the valley below. Many buildings in the old town date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, creating a living museum of Canarian heritage that feels worlds apart from the tourist resorts.
The Festivals of Tenerife: Celebration and Heritage
Timing my visit with local festivals gave me incredible insights into Tenerife’s vibrant culture. The Carnival of Santa Cruz ranks among the world’s largest carnivals after Rio, filling the streets with elaborate costumes, music, and dancing for weeks.
Corpus Christi celebrations in La Orotava amazed me with their flower carpets (alfombras) meticulously created from volcanic sand and flower petals. These temporary artworks transform the town into a colorful canvas of devotion and tradition.
Rural festivals like the Romería de San Roque feature locals in traditional dress, with ox-drawn carts, folk music, and plenty of local food and wine. These celebrations offer authentic glimpses into Canarian identity that feel genuinely welcoming to visitors.
Tenerife’s Highs and Lows: Preparing for Altitude
When planning my Tenerife adventure, I didn’t fully grasp what it meant to visit Spain’s highest peak. Mount Teide stands tall at 3,718 meters (12,198 feet), making it the highest point in Spain!
The altitude shift can be quite dramatic. One morning I was swimming at sea level, and by afternoon I was hiking at over 2,000 meters. This quick change can cause altitude sickness for some visitors. Symptoms like headaches and fatigue are common.
I learned to drink plenty of water and take it slow when hiking at higher elevations. My body needed time to adjust to the thinner air.
For serious hikers planning to summit Teide, proper preparation is essential. You’ll need a free permit to reach the very top. Book it well in advance through the national park website.
Overnight Options at Altitude:
- Altavista Refuge: Located at 3,260 meters
- Camping: Not permitted within the national park
- Parador Hotel: A comfortable option at 2,150 meters
The Altavista Refuge was my choice for an unforgettable experience. Staying overnight meant I could acclimate better and catch a stunning sunrise from near the summit. The refuge offers basic accommodations with bunk beds and must be booked ahead.
Remember to pack warm layers regardless of when you visit. Even in summer, temperatures at high altitude can drop significantly, especially at night.
