Explore Anaga’s hidden gems.

Exploring Anaga’s Hidden Gems: A Detailed Review

This Tenerife tour offers an authentic glimpse into the rugged beauty and vibrant culture of the Anaga mountain range. From walking through ancient laurel forests to marveling at panoramic vistas, this experience is packed with sights that truly capture the island’s wild side. It’s perfect if you love nature, scenic drives, and discovering local villages that feel like stepping back in time.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances in-depth exploration with relaxed, manageable walks. The knowledgeable guides, especially Mike, make the journey engaging and informative, turning a day in nature into a memorable cultural experience. That said, with a few optional hikes and varied terrain, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with light to moderate walking.

One possible consideration is the length and physical activity involved—while most of the paths are accessible, some steep sections and tunnels might challenge very frail or less mobile travelers. This tour suits active explorers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Tenerife’s less touristy, more authentic side.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Walk through a pristine laurel forest and visit cave-dwelling locals.
• Stunning Views: Multiple observation decks provide vistas comparable to “Canarian Switzerland.”
• Cultural Insights: Explore a unique village and taste original Canarian dishes.
• Flexible Hiking: Optional short walk to an incredible viewpoint, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Diverse Microclimates: Experience Tenerife’s contrasting environments—from lush forests to wild beaches.
• Professional Guide: Knowledgeable, engaging guides add depth and local flavor to the trip.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Pickup

With 16 pickup locations across Tenerife—from Santa Cruz to Los Gigantes—getting to the start point is straightforward. The tour begins early, ensuring you maximize your day exploring the island’s highlights. The pickup service is included, making transportation hassle-free, whether you’re staying in a hotel, apartment, or Airbnb.

Scenic Drive to Anaga Rural Park

The journey itself sets the tone for the day. As you traverse Tenerife’s winding roads, you’ll enjoy commentary from your guide, often highlighting local stories and points of interest. This scenic drive is a highlight in itself, with lush landscapes unfurling outside your window.

Mirador De Jardina

The first stop is at this popular viewpoint, where you get your first taste of the spectacular landscape. It’s a quick 20-minute break, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in views that showcase the verdant valleys below. It’s a great way to acclimate to the elevation and get your camera ready.

Pico del Inglés

Next, a brief 10-minute stop at this well-loved viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and coast. It’s ideal for a quick, refreshing look at the landscape, and guides often share interesting facts about the geography and flora of the area.

Tunel de las Hadas

A short 10-minute walk through this tunnel adds a touch of adventure. It’s a fun, manageable experience that provides a moment to appreciate the natural and man-made blend in Anaga. The tunnel leads to another breathtaking viewpoint, where you’ll be glad you brought your camera.

Exploring the LauriSilva Forest

The core of the trip is the walk through the ancient laurel forest—a relict woodland that feels like stepping into a prehistoric world. The moss-covered trees and cool microclimate make it a lush, mystical setting. The guide will point out endemic plants and explain the significance of this UNESCO-listed landscape. We loved how this forest showcases the unique microclimates that Tenerife hosts, thanks to its complex terrain.

Visiting the Cave Village

A highlight for many is the chance to see a local village where residents live in caves. This authentic community offers a rare glimpse into traditional Canarian life. Walking through the village, you’ll notice the homes carved into the hillside, blending seamlessly into the environment. It’s a striking reminder of how locals have adapted to their rugged surroundings over centuries.

Optional Short Walk to a Stunning Viewpoint

For those who enjoy a light walk, there’s an approximately 45-minute trail that leads to an extraordinary overlook. Although participation is optional, many travelers find this a rewarding part of the day—offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Tenerife’s landscape. Weather permitting, this spot is perfect for photos that will stand out in your travel album.

Lunch and Local Cuisine

Midday, you’ll stop at a local eatery to enjoy authentic Canarian dishes. The guide often recommends trying fried goat cheese, stewed goat meat, Papas Arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), and Gofio (a traditional roasted grain flour). These dishes provide a delicious taste of regional flavors and are typically served in small, tapas-style portions, allowing you to sample multiple specialties.

The Wild Beaches of Benijo

The tour culminates at Benijo, situated in Tenerife’s most remote part of Anaga. Here, you’ll encounter three of the island’s most stunning wild beaches. Benijo Beach is renowned for its untamed energy and powerful surf, especially during low tide. This is a perfect spot for relaxing, taking photos, or simply soaking up the raw nature that surrounds you.

Flexibility with Tides

The timing of your visit to Benijo depends on the tides, which could be in the morning or evening. The guide will adjust plans to ensure you experience the best conditions, but it’s good to be aware that your beach experience might vary slightly based on the tide schedule.

The Experience Provided by Trektenerife

Guided Expertise

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially Mike, for their knowledge, friendliness, and accommodating nature. According to a traveler who called it a “10/10 experience,” Mike’s engaging storytelling and fluency in English made the day especially memorable. His insights about Tenerife’s landscape and culture added depth beyond just sightseeing.

Transportation and Group Size

The scenic drive in a comfortable vehicle, combined with small or private group options, ensures a relaxed and personalized experience. This is particularly valuable for those who prefer a more intimate setting over large tour buses.

Duration and Pace

Spanning 6 to 8 hours, the tour balances sightseeing, walking, and resting. The varied pace allows for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed, accommodating those who want to soak in the scenery at their own pace.

Price and Value

At $132 per person, the tour’s price includes guide, insurances, scenic drives, and transfers—making it a worthwhile investment for those keen to explore Anaga’s hidden side. Since food isn’t included, plan for a modest additional budget for lunch, but this allows flexibility to choose what and where to eat.

Authenticity and Cultural Touches

The tour’s focus on local villages and cuisine adds a genuine cultural layer. Sampling traditional dishes like Gofio and fried goat cheese provides a taste of the island’s heritage. Visiting cave homes, still inhabited by locals, offers an unmatched window into traditional Canarian life—something many visitors find fascinating and rare.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who want an immersive day surrounded by nature and local culture. It’s suited for those with a moderate level of fitness, as the terrain includes gentle paths, tunnels, and some steep sections. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of environments—forests, mountains, viewpoints, and wild beaches—all within one day.

If you enjoy engaging guides who share stories and insights, this tour will resonate. Food lovers will also enjoy the authentic Canarian dishes and the chance to explore a village that feels like a step back in time.

Final Thoughts on Value

At a reasonable price for a full-day adventure, this tour offers an excellent way to experience Tenerife’s lesser-known treasures. The combination of scenic views, cultural insights, and manageable walks makes it a well-rounded choice. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

For travelers seeking an active, authentic taste of the island’s natural beauty and traditional life, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for those who want to see Tenerife beyond the popular tourist spots, seeing its wild landscapes and local stories.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or less mobile travelers?
While most paths are gentle, some terrain includes steep sections and tunnels. It’s best suited for active children or travelers comfortable with light to moderate walking.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour stops at local eateries where you can try traditional Canarian dishes like Gofio, fried goat cheese, and Papas Arrugadas.

Can I participate in the optional short walk?
Yes, participation in the 45-minute trail is entirely optional. It leads to an incredible viewpoint, but if you prefer a more relaxed day, you can skip it.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Slovak, ensuring a clear and engaging experience for diverse travelers.

How long is the overall tour?
The total duration is between 6 and 8 hours, including sightseeing stops, walking, and lunch.

Are pickup and transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is included, and transportation is by scenic, comfortable vehicle.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, sun protection, and a light jacket in case it gets cool in the forest or at higher viewpoints.

Is this a private tour?
You can choose private or small group options, depending on your preference, which allows for a more personalized experience.

This Anaga tour offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and authentic local flavor—all within a day’s adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply a lover of scenic landscapes, it’s a memorable way to experience Tenerife’s rugged, unspoiled side.