Roque de Tarucho hike over Masca village

Exploring the Roque de Tarucho Hike Over Masca Village

If you’re dreaming of hiking in the rugged mountains of Tenerife with a sense of adventure and seclusion, the Roque de Tarucho trail might just be the experience you’re seeking. This guided trek offers a chance to wander through untouched landscapes, boasting breathtaking views of the Teno Mountains and the iconic Masca Gorge—without the hordes of travelers.

What we particularly love about this experience is its exclusive access to hidden trails that are rarely visited, allowing a more authentic connection with nature. The fact that most of the route is shared with mountain goats and offers panoramic volcanic vistas makes every step feel special. However, a potential consideration is that some descents are quite steep and require hands-on assistance, which might not suit travelers with mobility or height fears.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy active days outdoors, are comfortable with uneven terrain, and want to discover lesser-known corners of Tenerife. If you’re after substantial scenery, photo opportunities, and quiet mountain solitude, this hike hits the mark.

Key Points

• Exclusive Trails: Access hidden paths that avoid tourist crowds.
• Breathtaking Views: Panoramas of Masca, Teide, and volcanic landscapes.
• Moderate Challenge: Mix of ascents, descents, and some steep sections requiring hands.
• Small Group: Intimate experience with a maximum of 6 participants.
• Photographic Opportunities: Unique viewpoints perfect for snapping memorable shots.
• Authentic Nature: Mainly shared with goats and surrounded by wild landscapes.

A Deep Dive into the Roque de Tarucho Trek

We’ll take you through what makes this hike so special, what to expect along the way, and some insights from those who’ve already experienced it.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure begins in a lush pine forest, where the scent of pine and the sounds of chirping birds set a peaceful tone. This initial stretch is quite gentle but quickly gives way to more dramatic scenery as you ascend about 200 meters. The trail here is well-balanced—challenging enough to feel like a proper adventure but accessible for most active hikers.

From the outset, you get sweeping views of the volcanic terrains, which serve as a reminder of Tenerife’s volcanic origins. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot some canarian goats grazing—part of the local scenery—adding to the sense of being in a truly wild space.

The Panoramic Breaks and Viewpoints

As you climb to around 1300 meters, you’ll pause at some of the best photo spots. From here, the views stretch across the Masca village, with its clusters of traditional Canarian houses, and the distant Teide volcano—often cloaked in clouds but still imposing. One reviewer, Claire from France, noted that “Eugenio, the guide, showed us magnificent views and kept us motivated,” making the experience both scenic and educational.

The highlight here is a unique viewpoint that offers a perfect spot for photographs—think sweeping valleys, jagged cliffs, and the distant ocean. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to spend a few extra minutes just soaking it all in.

Descending to Roque de Tarucho and the Secret Trail

After the viewpoint, the journey continues downwards toward Roque de Tarucho, taking roughly 90 minutes. This part of the trek is where the adventure ramps up. The trail here is described as a “secret trail”, recently discovered and rarely traveled—that’s what makes this hike stand out.

Some descents are quite steep and require you to use your hands for balance and support. The guide will often remind everyone to proceed carefully, especially on the sections that are rugged or uneven. As you go, the views of the Teno Mountains and the famous road to Masca are utterly stunning—high above the traffic jams typical of the village itself.

One reviewer mentioned, “You’ll love the views from high above the crowded Masca road, feeling like you’re in your private mountain world.” This sense of solitude is what makes the route so appealing—no crowds, just you, nature, and your fellow hikers.

The Return Journey and Different Perspectives

The walk back is about 90 minutes and follows old goat paths, giving a different perspective of the landscape. This section is also scenic, with new angles on the mountains and gorges. Traveling through a neighboring gorge offers a bit of variety, and you’ll notice how the route makes good use of the natural terrain, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

Overall Route and Distance

Covering roughly 7.5 km with an elevation gain of around 450 meters, this route strikes a good balance between challenge and enjoyment. It’s enough to get your heart pumping but not so strenuous that it would be overwhelming—assuming you’re in decent shape and have proper hiking shoes.

Authenticity and Secluded Experience

One of the biggest draws is the absence of crowds—a rare find in popular tourist spots like Masca. As the only group on the trail, you’ll feel immersed in nature, with only the sounds of your footsteps and maybe some goats for company. It’s an experience that offers genuine peace and the chance to witness the landscape from new, often inaccessible angles.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour, priced at $99 per person, offers excellent value considering the exclusivity and the physical effort involved. The guided aspect ensures safety and insightful commentary throughout, with multilingual guides speaking English, Spanish, and Russian.

Because transportation to the trailhead isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way there. The tour is available in small groups (limited to 6 participants), which guarantees a more personalized experience and plenty of room for questions.

What to Bring and Wear

To make the most of your day, be sure to come prepared with a hat, camera, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and ample water. The terrain can be rugged and steep, so good shoes and hydration are essential. Also, keep in mind that some parts of the route are steep and may require a bit of climbing; it’s not suitable for those with vertigo or mobility issues.

The Guide and the Experience

Eugenio, the guide praised in reviews, combines professionalism with passion. His tips on how to navigate difficult sections and his stories about the landscape make the hike more enjoyable and educational. As Claire noted, Eugenio’s encouragement and expertise made the hike memorable and comfortable—even for first-timers.

Who Should Consider This Hike?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who crave off-the-beaten-path adventures and are comfortable with uneven terrain. It’s an excellent choice for those who want panoramic views, authentic mountain encounters, and a break from tourist crowds.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or those with mobility, back, heart, or height-related concerns. If you’re someone who appreciates a challenge but also values safety and guidance, this is a solid option.

The Sum Up

The Roque de Tarucho hike over Masca village offers a unique blend of adventure, solitude, and breathtaking scenery. The route’s hidden trails and stunning viewpoints give travelers a chance to see Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes from angles few get to enjoy. The small group size and expert guide make it both safe and personal, ideal for those who want a genuine mountain experience without the crowds.

This trek is a fantastic choice for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and adventurous hikers eager to discover Tenerife’s lesser-known trails. If panoramic views, authentic trails, and quiet mountain escapes appeal to you, this experience delivers in spades.

In short, it’s a memorable journey that balances physical challenge with scenic reward—an authentic slice of Tenerife’s wild side.

FAQ

Is transportation to the starting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the trailhead, but once there, the guide takes care of the rest.

How difficult is the hike?
The route involves some steep descents and sections where you’ll need to use your hands for balance. It’s moderate but requires good footwear and a reasonable level of fitness.

How long does the hike last?
The entire adventure lasts roughly 4.5 to 7 hours, including breaks and photo stops. The hike itself covers about 7.5 km.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water to stay comfortable and safe.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide.

Would this be suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 16, especially due to the steep descents and rugged terrain involved.

In essence, if you’re seeking an authentic, scenic, and peaceful mountain trek in Tenerife, the Roque de Tarucho hike offers a rewarding escape into nature’s quieter side.