Canyoning Tenerife: Canyoning Los Arcos la Orotava

Setting out on a canyoning tour in Tenerife, especially through the stunning Los Arcos canyon in La Orotava, promises an exciting mix of adventure, awe-inspiring scenery, and physical challenge. This 6-hour experience, led by trained guides from 8 Mosqueterones Adventure, has earned a perfect 5-star rating from enthusiastic travelers who can’t stop praising its safety, scenery, and sheer fun.

What really caught our eye was the combination of safety and thrill — you get to push your limits while feeling fully supported by expert guides. However, it’s worth noting that this activity is best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness, as it involves walking, climbing, and rappelling. If you’re up for a day of adventure in nature and don’t mind getting a little wet, this canyoning trip is likely to become a highlight of your Tenerife trip. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and memorable experiences, but not ideal if you’re pregnant, have back problems, or are over 110 kg.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and committed to safety, guides like Bentoray make all the difference.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect natural rock formations, caves, and wild, majestic canyon walls that will leave you in awe.
• Safety & Equipment: Approved gear, liability insurance, and thorough safety briefings ensure peace of mind.
• Authentic Adventure: This experience combines adrenaline with the chance to explore an undisturbed part of Tenerife’s natural beauty.
• Group Size: Small groups (limited to 7) make for a personalized, engaging experience.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 12 or those with certain health conditions, so check your suitability first.

An In-Depth Look at the Canyoning Experience

The Location and Starting Point

Our journey begins at the Mirador Vista a La Palma, a popular viewpoint along the Orotava provincial road, offering a scenic backdrop before the adrenaline kicks in. From here, the group heads via vehicle to the canyon’s starting point, the Barranco Los Arcos de Chimoche, about a 20-minute drive. This setup means you can enjoy some initial landscape views and get excited about what’s ahead.

The Safety Briefing & Preparation

Once at the canyon, you’ll receive a 20-minute safety briefing. This is where the guides clearly explain what to expect, how to use the equipment, and safety protocols. According to reviews, guides like Bentoray manage to strike a perfect balance of professionalism and humor, making nervous beginners feel at ease. We loved the way guides encourage and support, especially when rappelling or navigating tricky sections.

Hiking and Exploring

After gearing up, the group embarks on a 35-minute hike to the canyon’s head, where the real adventure begins. The walk itself offers a sneak peek into the lush surroundings, with whimsical formations shaped by wind and water erosion. Expect to walk through narrow passages, over natural bridges, and around intriguing rock features that look almost sculpted.

The Guided Descent

The core of the tour spans about 4.5 hours, during which you’ll descend various walls and caves. One reviewer, Simo, described it as “breathtaking, wild, and full of natural beauty” — and that’s exactly what makes this trip stand out. Rappelling down vertical walls, sliding through natural water slides, and walking through caves gives a real sense of adventure, but safety is never compromised thanks to top-quality gear and expert supervision.

The Return Hike & Final Views

After the descent, there’s a short 30-minute hike back to the starting point, giving everyone time to process the experience and take in the natural surroundings. Many find this part reflective, often sharing their amazement at the canyon’s natural artistry. The tour concludes back at Mirador Vista a La Palma, where you can soak in the views and perhaps share a well-earned drink with fellow adventurers.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour package includes high-quality, approved canyoning gear, an accredited guide, liability insurance, and a small bottle of water. This setup ensures your safety and hydration without the need to worry about equipment or insurance logistics.

It’s worth noting that transport to the start point is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the Mirador Vista a La Palma parking area. The tour runs for around 6 hours, with starting times varying; check availability when booking. Most groups are limited to 7 participants, making it a personalized experience with plenty of room for questions and support.

What to Bring

• Sports shoes with good grip
• Sportswear suitable for getting wet and muddy

Not Allowed

• Smoking, alcohol, or drugs during the activity

Additional Tips

Being prepared means bringing suitable footwear and clothing, and arriving ready for physical activity. Since the activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, it’s best to assess your fitness and health beforehand.

Real Travelers’ Insights

Several reviews highlight guides like Bentoray as a key part of the experience. One reviewer mentioned: “His perfect mix of encouragement, humor, and professionalism made the whole adventure feel exciting rather than intimidating.”

Another traveler, Andrej, shared: “We loved every step of it! Weather was great, views breathtaking, and our guide was amazing.” Such feedback underscores how guides enhance the experience, making even challenging sections enjoyable.

The natural beauty of Los Arcos, with its majestic formations and wild charm, clearly resonates with adventurers. Taylor remarked: “The rock formations are beautiful, and the rappelling was so fun.” This suggests the experience offers both visual delight and adrenaline rush, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Practical Considerations and Value

The cost of this canyoning tour reflects its quality and small-group setup. With all safety equipment supplied, expert guides, and insurance included, you’re paying for peace of mind along with adventure. While the activity doesn’t include transportation or food, the overall experience is well worth it for anyone seeking an active, nature-filled day in Tenerife.

Given the varied reviews praising the professionalism of guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the well-organized logistics, this trip offers strong value for those eager to explore Tenerife’s rugged beauty in an adventurous way.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This canyoning experience appeals most to those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, are comfortable with moderate physical activity, and crave authentic natural encounters. It’s ideal for travelers who want a memorable adventure with expert guidance and minimal crowds. If you’re traveling with people over 12 who are in good health and looking for a unique way to see Tenerife’s wilderness, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

However, if you’re pregnant, have back problems, or prefer less physical activities, this might not be suitable. Also, be prepared for a full day of activity, which means good hydration, comfortable clothing, and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the starting point at Mirador Vista a La Palma.

What should I wear for canyoning?
Wear sports shoes with good grip and sportswear that can get wet and muddy. This will keep you comfortable and safe during the activity.

Can children participate in this canyoning tour?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 12 years old, as it involves physically demanding sections like rappelling and walking through uneven terrain.

Is the activity safe?
Yes, safety is a priority. The tour includes approved canyoning gear, liability insurance, and a thorough safety briefing from accredited guides like Bentoray, ensuring a secure experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience spans about 6 hours, including briefing, hiking, the canyon descent, and returning to the starting point.

What are the group sizes?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 7 participants, offering a more personalized and engaging experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during busy seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

Canyoning Los Arcos in Tenerife offers a compelling mix of stunning scenery, adrenaline-pumping activity, and professional guidance. It’s perfect for travelers craving an active day in nature and eager to explore Tenerife’s wild side. With excellent reviews highlighting safety, natural beauty, and fun guides like Bentoray, it’s clear this trip provides not just a thrill but also a deep connection with the island’s rugged landscapes.

While not suitable for very young children or those with certain health conditions, this adventure is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves outdoor challenges and unforgettable vistas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking to push your limits, or simply want to experience the best of Tenerife’s natural formations, this canyoning trip promises a memorable day out.

In summary, if you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and adrenaline-filled activity that balances safety with excitement, this canyoning adventure in Los Arcos ticks all those boxes. It’s one of the most authentic ways to experience Tenerife’s wild beauty, leaving you with stories and memories that will last a lifetime.