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

Exploring the lush, ancient landscapes of Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains is an experience many travelers yearn for when visiting the Canary Islands. This well-reviewed circular hike offers a gentle yet captivating journey through a moss-covered laurel forest, revealing the natural beauty and volcanic past of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

What sets this tour apart is the small group size, limited to just 10 people, which ensures an intimate setting where you can truly savor the scenery and ask plenty of questions. The flexible route adjustment by the guide means your experience can be tailored to the weather, energy levels, or special interests—making it a personalized adventure.

One thing to consider is that the hike involves some uneven, stony paths that may get slippery in fog or rain. So, good footwear and proper preparation are essential. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy nature walks with a cultural twist—offering breathtaking views, intriguing legends, and a taste of Tenerife’s indigenous Guanche culture—all within a manageable 3-hour window.

Key Points

• Small group size promotes personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Multilingual guides provide detailed insights in German, English, French, and Spanish
• Flexible route allows for adjustments based on weather and group preferences
• Accessible for active travelers with a good fitness level, but not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors
• Includes essential safety gear like rain protection and hiking poles
• Excellent value at around $32, offering a combination of nature, culture, and stunning scenery

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Starting Point: Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint

The adventure begins at Cruz del Carmen, a well-known lookout point perched at about 1,000 meters in the Anaga Mountains. Here, the air is often cooler and crisper, setting the tone for the forest walk ahead. Arriving at this spot, you’ll notice how the landscape seems to rise up around you, framed by the dramatic volcanic terrain that characterizes Tenerife’s northern flank.

The 5 km Circular Trail

The route is designed as a circular walk of approximately 2.5 hours, covering around 5 km through an enchanting laurel forest. This ancient woodland, called Laurisilva, is a living relic of what once covered much of southern Europe. It is characterized by moss-covered trees, ferns, and a gentle mist—creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that makes every step feel like entering a different world.

Reviewers like Laurent from France appreciated that the guide, Sandra, provided a lot of information about the forest’s uniqueness. She explained how this landscape has survived for 79 million years and why it’s so precious. People are often captivated, especially when the forest is shrouded in fog, enhancing the mystical vibe.

The Vegetation and Views

As you walk, you’ll notice the variety of mosses and ferns, which thrive in the humid, shaded environment. The moss-covered trees, combined with the occasional wisps of fog, evoke a fairy-tale scene—a highlight for many nature lovers.

The trail also offers breathtaking views of deep valleys and steep gorges, with some perspectives revealing Tenerife’s volcanic origins through rugged terrain and volcanic formations. Since the route is flexible, guides might tailor the path to include viewpoints that showcase the landscape’s most striking features.

Learning About Tenerife’s Past and Culture

Besides the natural beauty, this tour provides fascinating insights into the island’s history. Guides discuss Tenerife’s volcanic formation, the indigenous Guanches, and their legacy. As Sascha from Germany noted, Sandra’s wealth of background knowledge added depth to the experience, making it more than just a walk.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

What many guests love is the small group setting, which fosters a friendly, informal atmosphere. Sandra, the guide, is often praised for her enthusiasm and adaptability, adjusting the route based on weather and the group’s interests. Her multilingual skills make her accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Coco, her friendly dog, often accompanies the tour, adding a cheerful touch that many find endearing—reviewers like Artur from Poland enjoyed the company of Coco during the walk.

Practicalities and Equipment

To make the most of the experience, it’s recommended to bring hiking boots, at least 1 liter of water, and rain or wind protection. The mountains can be misty or rainy, especially given Tenerife’s trade winds, so staying dry is key. Warm clothing is advised since it can be significantly cooler at 1,000 meters altitude.

Hiking poles are optional but helpful, and guides often have some available for borrowing—making it accessible even for those without their own gear.

The Value for Money

At $32 per person, this tour is very reasonably priced given the quality of the experience: intimate group size, expert guiding, and a memorable journey through an extraordinary landscape. Reviewers frequently mention how much they learned and enjoyed the scenery, feeling it was excellent value.

The Challenges

While the tour is rated as easy to moderate, some parts of the path can be uneven or slightly steep, which might pose issues for those with mobility impairments. The route’s flexibility helps mitigate this, but it’s best suited for physically active travelers with a good fitness level.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to nature enthusiasts who enjoy gentle hikes and cultural stories. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate small, personalized groups and guides with extensive local knowledge. Those with an interest in flora and fauna, or wanting to learn about Tenerife’s indigenous history, will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Because of the moderate difficulty and the need for suitable footwear and weather gear, it’s ideal for active travelers rather than casual stroller-type outings. The short duration makes it suitable for those with limited time but who still want an authentic taste of Tenerife’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This circular hike through the laurel forest of the Anaga Mountains offers a wonderful mix of stunning scenery, fascinating natural history, and cultural insights. The small group size and multilingual guides ensure an engaging, personal experience, while the flexible route allows for a tailored journey through one of Tenerife’s most enchanting landscapes.

If you’re looking for a moderate, well-organized nature walk that combines breathtaking views, lush forest scenery, and a touch of local culture, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to learn more about Tenerife’s unique natural environment without strenuous hiking or lengthy commitments.

For a balanced, value-packed experience in Tenerife’s wild heart, this tour delivers on every front—making it a memorable addition to your island adventure.

FAQ

Is this hike suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old, mainly because of the uneven paths and the moderate physical demand.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long does the hike last?
The circular hike lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering around 5 km, with total duration including meeting and briefing around 3 hours.

What should I bring with me?
Bring hiking shoes, water (at least 1 liter), rain or wind protection, warm clothing, and optionally hiking poles. Some gear like rain protection and poles can be borrowed from the guide.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those requiring wheelchair access.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to around 10 participants, ensuring a relaxed, intimate experience.

Is the route adjustable?
Yes, the guide can adjust the route based on weather conditions, group preferences, and fitness levels.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided walk, accident insurance, a first aid kit, and limited hiking poles and rain gear.

This well-rounded experience in Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains promises a memorable day of discovering lush forests, stunning vistas, and stories that bring the landscape to life. Whether you’re a nature lover or a curious traveler, it’s a fantastic way to connect with the island’s natural and cultural treasures.