Tenerife: Hiking Above the Village of Masca

Imagine standing atop a high ridge, surrounded by sweeping views of lush forests, dramatic gorges, and distant volcanoes. That’s what this guided hike above the charming village of Masca promises—without the intense effort of the classic Masca Gorge trek. Instead, you’ll enjoy a scenic, moderate walk that offers some of the best vistas Tenerife has to offer, including glimpses of Mount Teide and the lava fields that give the island its volcanic character.

What we love about this experience is how it balances accessible hiking with spectacular scenery. The route is designed to be enjoyable without being overly strenuous, and the small group size means you get more personalized attention from the guides. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t the full Masca Gorge adventure, so if you’re craving that iconic descent, this might serve as a fantastic preview instead.

This tour suits travelers who want a beautiful, less challenging alternative to the more famous Masca Gorge hike, especially those interested in panoramic views, lush forests, and a taste of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. It’s perfect if you’re after a well-organized, scenic day out with professional guides and convenient hotel transfers.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Masca Gorge, the Santiago Valley, Mount Teide, and lava fields.
• Moderate Difficulty: About 12 km over 5 hours, with short steep ascents—perfect for most fitness levels.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who explain the landscape and ecosystem along the way.
• Convenient Transfers: Hotel pickup and drop-off in Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje included.
• Unique Ecosystem: Explore sub-tropical rainforest and pine forests, revealing Tenerife’s ecological diversity.
• Flexibility & Safety: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund; weather-related cancellations are promptly refunded.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or resort in Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje. The small group size, limited to just 10 participants, ensures a more intimate experience—something many travelers appreciate after a long flight or busy sightseeing schedule. The transfer lasts approximately 75 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and chat with your guide, who will be there to answer questions and provide insights into Tenerife’s landscapes.

Starting Point: Masca Village

Reaching Masca, the picturesque village famous for its narrow streets and traditional charm, is a beautiful way to start the adventure. From here, the guide will lead you on a 12 km route that takes around five hours, covering a variety of terrains from lush forests to mountain ridges.

Exploring the Highlands and Forests

Instead of heading straight into the famous gorge, this hike focuses on the highlands surrounding Masca. We loved the way the trail winds along an undulating ridge, offering spectacular views of the Masca Gorge and the surrounding peaks. The path includes some short, steep ascents, but they’re manageable for most hikers with a moderate level of fitness. The route takes you deep into the sub-tropical laurel forest, which is a vital ecosystem on the island, rich with greenery and the sounds of birdlife.

One reviewer, Laurence from Belgium, said, “Andy explains perfectly the circuit and it was magnificent, with some pleasant surprises.” The guides are typically knowledgeable, eager to share interesting facts about the local flora, fauna, and volcanic history, making the hike both scenic and educational.

The Mountain Vista

A highlight of the hike is reaching a mountain landscape that looks straight out of a movie—think rolling green hills and dramatic peaks. From here, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views. On clear days, Mount Teide appears in the distance across the Santiago Valley, adding a volcanic backdrop to your photos. You might even catch a glimpse of the lava fields high above, showcasing Tenerife’s volcanic origins.

Bret, another reviewer, mentioned, “Made a command decision to alter the hike to a different location that was not raining; the alternate hike was gorgeous.” This flexibility is part of what makes the experience enjoyable, especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Descending into the Countryside

After the mountain views, the trail gently descends through pine forests and open valleys resembling the English countryside. It’s a gentle, scenic walk that allows plenty of time for photos and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The route concludes in a valley that feels unexpectedly tranquil, providing a perfect ending to the day.

Practical Details & What to Prepare

The entire journey lasts around five hours, covering about 12 km with a maximum altitude of 1,100 meters. The gradient is moderate, but some steep sections require good footwear and a bit of stamina. All participants are advised to bring warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and at least 2 liters of water—the rainforest and mountain sun can be unpredictable.

While the tour doesn’t include food, travelers are encouraged to bring a packed lunch. Many hikers find the opportunity to picnic amidst such breathtaking scenery a real highlight.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes hotel transfers, a guided hike, and stunning views of key landscapes. It does not include food and drinks, but the guides often share interesting tidbits along the way, making the experience more enriching. As Nico from Belgium pointed out, the weather can impact plans—his hike was canceled due to rain, but the refund was immediate, showing the provider’s reliability.

Additional Info & Tips

• The hike suits most people who are comfortable walking 12 km over five hours, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.
• Be sure to wear sturdy trainers or walking boots, as open-toe sandals won’t cut it on uneven terrain.
• The guides speak English, and the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see Tenerife’s diverse landscapes without the intensity of the full Masca Gorge trek. It’s perfect if you’re after scenic views, ecological exploration, and a relaxed pace. If you’re traveling with kids or less experienced hikers, the moderate difficulty and manageable distance make it a great choice.

Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to explore a lush laurel forest and pine groves, while photo enthusiasts will find plenty of stunning vantage points. The inclusion of hotel transfers and a small group size adds to the convenience and comfort, especially if you prefer a more personalized touch.

The Sum Up

This guided hike above Masca offers a fantastic blend of scenic beauty, ecological interest, and accessibility. It’s a well-organized outing that provides spectacular views of Tenerife’s volcanic and lush landscapes without the physical challenge of the full gorge trek. The expert guides and small group setting create a relaxed, informative atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.

While it’s not the most challenging hike, it still offers enough variety and elevation to keep things interesting, especially with the chance to see Mount Teide and the island’s verdant forests. The included hotel transfers make logistics simple, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying the scenery and your company.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a beautiful, manageable adventure that balances nature, panoramic views, and cultural insights. Whether you’re a casual walker or a nature enthusiast, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Tenerife’s stunning landscapes—and plenty of photos to prove it.

FAQ

Is this hike suitable for children or less experienced hikers?
Yes, the hike is moderate and about 12 km long, with some short steep sections. It’s suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, but very young children or those with health issues might find it challenging.

What should I bring with me?
Bring good walking shoes or trainers, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat for sun protection, and at least 2 liters of water. Also, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy during or after the hike.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, and Costa Adeje.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the hike?
The highest point on the route is approximately 1,100 meters above sea level.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions lead to the cancellation, your booking is fully refundable, and the company will notify you accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

This guided hike above Masca is a wonderful way to experience Tenerife’s natural beauty—balancing easy access, breathtaking scenery, and expert guidance. Whether you’re after a peaceful walk through forests or spectacular mountain views, this tour offers an engaging, scenic escape from the coast.