Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest small group max. 10

The Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest offers a captivating journey through one of the Canary Islands’ most breathtaking landscapes. Priced at $32 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour is perfect for nature lovers and those with a good level of fitness who want to explore Tenerife’s lush greenery. With a small group limit of just 10 participants, the experience feels intimate and personalized, allowing for better interaction and flexibility in route choices.

Set at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, the tour starts at an altitude of about 1,000 meters, giving you a taste of the mountain’s cooler climate and misty atmosphere. The 5 km circular hike takes you through moss-covered trees, ferns, and a fairy-tale laurel forest, all framed by spectacular views of deep valleys and gorges. The tour covers Tenerife’s volcanic origins and shares insights into the culture and history of the Guanches, the island’s indigenous people. It is suited for those in good physical shape, thanks to the easy to moderate difficulty level.

Key Points

• Small group size of maximum 10 participants ensures a more personal experience.
• Tour guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish, catering to a diverse range of guests.
• Price of $32 offers good value for a 3-hour guided nature walk.
• Flexibility in route adjustment allows guides to tailor the hike based on weather and group preferences.
• Includes rental of hiking poles and rain gear, although availability is limited.
• A perfect choice for anyone with good fitness, interested in both nature and local history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint

The tour begins at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, a well-known spot in the Anaga Mountains. The meeting point at this high-altitude location offers breathtaking views and sets the tone for the lush journey ahead. From here, the guide leads the group along stony, sometimes slippery paths through the evergreen forests, emphasizing safety with the optional rental of hiking poles.

This starting location is ideal for experiencing the cooler mountain air and mist that characterizes the laurel forest. Guides recommend bringing warm clothing and rain protection, as the weather can change quickly with fog and trade winds. The accessible starting point makes the tour suitable for those prepared with sturdy hiking shoes and necessary gear.

Navigating the Easy to Moderate Circular Route

The 5 km circular route lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable outing without feeling rushed. The trail is designed for participants with a good level of fitness, but the easy to moderate difficulty ensures it remains accessible for most outdoor enthusiasts. The route is carefully adjusted by guides to suit weather conditions and group preferences, providing a comfortable yet immersive experience.

Expect to encounter moss-covered trees, lush ferns, and the enchanting atmosphere of the laurel forest, often cloaked in gentle fog. The scenery creates an almost fairy-tale setting that captures the imagination. As the hike progresses, the guide shares stories about Tenerife’s volcanic formation and indigenous Guanche culture, adding depth to the visual feast.

Stunning Views of Valleys and Gorges

One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to see breathtaking views of deep valleys and steep gorges. These vistas showcase the geological drama that shaped Tenerife. The elevated vantage points and open stretches along the route allow for perfect photo opportunities and moments of quiet reflection amid nature.

While the forest provides a cool and misty environment, the views from certain points highlight the vastness and rugged beauty of the Anaga Mountains. The combination of lush greenery and dramatic landscape makes every step visually rewarding.

Expert Guides and Multilingual Support

Guided by knowledgeable professionals, the tour guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and cultural exchange. The guides are praised for their friendly manner and extensive knowledge about the flora, fauna, volcanic history, and local legends of Tenerife.

They are also flexible, willing to adjust the route based on weather or group preferences, which enhances the overall experience. Guests appreciate the informative commentary and the opportunity to ask questions about the landscape and local history. During the walk, the guide often shares legends and interesting facts about the laurel forest and the indigenous Guanche people.

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Practical Equipment and Weather Considerations

Participants are advised to bring hiking shoes for secure footing on uneven and potentially slippery paths. At least 1 liter of water is recommended to stay hydrated during this physically engaging walk. It can be significantly cooler at the start, so warm clothing is advisable, especially if fog or rain develop.

The tour supplies rain gear and hiking poles when available, though supplies are limited. Wind and rain protection are important, as the mountains are often covered in fog or rain, especially during trade wind conditions. Sunscreen is also recommended for the parts of the route exposed to sunlight.

Wildlife, Vegetation, and the Laurel Forest

The laurel forest (Laurisilva) is a key feature of this tour. Expect to see moss-covered trees, ferns, and wisps of mist creating a mystical, fairy-tale environment. The dense greenery and cool atmosphere make the walk especially refreshing on warmer days. The forest’s unique ecosystem supports a variety of plant life, many of which are endemic to the region.

This lush vegetation provides an excellent opportunity for nature photography and wildlife observation. The guide’s explanations enrich the experience, highlighting the plants’ ecological roles and adaptations to the mountainous environment.

Engaging Stories and Local Legends

Beyond the natural scenery, the guide shares stories about Tenerife’s volcanic origins and the culture of the Guanches. These anecdotes make the hike more engaging and provide context for the landscape’s formation. The stories are communicated in a friendly manner, making the walk both educational and entertaining.

The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling ability add a layer of cultural depth to the natural beauty, leaving participants with a better understanding of Tenerife’s history and legends.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour is best suited for individuals with good physical fitness, as it involves walking on stony paths at altitude. It is not suitable for children under 8 years, those with mobility impairments, or individuals with heart or respiratory issues. The route is not wheelchair accessible, and babies under 1 year are not allowed on this hike.

Participants should be prepared for variable weather conditions and carry the recommended gear. The walk is designed to be accessible for most in average health, but it demands a reasonable level of stamina and balance.

Value and Overall Experience

At $32, this guided hike offers excellent value considering the small group size, expert guides, and the immersive nature experience. The inclusion of rain gear and hiking poles adds convenience, and the personalized approach enhances the quality of the tour.

The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with many praising the guides’ friendly attitude, extensive knowledge, and the stunning scenery. The opportunity to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic landscape and indigenous culture makes this outing more than just a walk—it becomes a meaningful exploration of the island’s natural and cultural heritage.

The Sum Up: A Must-Do for Nature and Culture Enthusiasts

The Tenerife Anaga Mountains circular hike in the laurel forest presents a beautiful blend of nature, history, and local legend. The small group setting and multilingual guides ensure a personalized experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.

While the 3-hour duration makes it accessible, the route’s easy to moderate difficulty suits most outdoor enthusiasts with a good fitness level. The spectacular views, moss-covered forests, and insightful stories make this hike a rewarding outing.

It’s especially recommended for those who appreciate cool mountain environments, want to learn about Tenerife’s volcanic past, and enjoy guided nature walks. The only caveats involve weather variability and the physical demands of mountain hiking, so proper preparation is advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years due to its physical nature and terrain.

What should I bring for the hike?
Participants should bring hiking shoes, water (at least 1 liter), warm clothing, rain protection, and sunscreen.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish.

How long is the hike?
The circular route covers about 5 km and lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What is the difficulty level?
The hike is rated as easy to moderate, suitable for those with a good fitness level.

What is included in the price?
The price includes hiking poles, rain gear (limited availability), accident insurance, and a first aid kit.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint in the Anaga Mountains.

Can the route be adjusted?
Yes, guides can flexibly adjust the route based on weather, group preferences, or other considerations.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby