Tenerife: Hike Above Masca in Enchanted Forest with Pick-up

Planning a trek through Tenerife that combines breathtaking scenery, lush forests, and local insights? This guided hike above Masca offers just that. With hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and plenty of picture-perfect moments, it’s a fantastic way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes in just half a day. The experience is praised for its stunning views, intimate group size, and the chance to walk through an enchanting laurel forest.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances adventure and comfort, making it accessible without sacrificing the wow factor. However, a potential consideration is the moderate 8-kilometer route with some elevation gain—it’s not overly demanding but might be less suited for those with very low fitness levels. This hike seems best suited for active travelers who love nature, scenery, and some engaging stories from guides who truly know their stuff.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines scenic viewpoints, a lush forest walk, and a picnic.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides who share interesting facts and help at every step.
• Stunning Visuals: Views of Mount Teide, Masca village, and Los Gigantes cliffs are unforgettable.
• Well-Organized Logistics: Includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and digital photos of your adventure.
• Moderate Fitness Level Needed: About 8 km of hiking with some elevation—great for those with decent mobility.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off with a free hotel pickup from locations along Tenerife South, including popular resorts like Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, Adeje, and others. If you’re staying outside this zone, there’s a meeting point in Santiago del Teide, which is still very accessible. The convenience of door-to-door service means no fuss about transportation, giving you more time to enjoy the scenery.

The first stop on the route is at the Teno Rural Park, where you’ll briefly pause for photos and a guided introduction. From here, you’re treated to views of Teide National Park, with its distinctive volcanoes, including the last erupted Chinyero volcano. You’ll get a chance to admire lava flows and ancient cliffs that showcase Tenerife’s volcanic past. Many reviews mention how Elena, the guide, shares fascinating insights into the island’s geology and history, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

After a scenic break, you’ll enjoy a light picnic at a historic site—passersby might just envy your lunch amid such stunning surroundings. The picnic includes pastry, juice, and a cereal bar, enough to energize you for the next part of the hike.

Next, the real magic begins as you venture into the Enchanted Laurel Forest – a moss-covered, fern-draped landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale. We loved the way the forest creates an atmosphere of quiet mystery, especially when clouds and mist roll in, giving a sense of stepping into another world. As one reviewer put it, “The hike was very scenic, and Elena’s enthusiasm definitely added to the experience.”

Throughout the walk, you’ll pass through about 4 climate zones, experiencing different vegetation and atmospheric conditions. The route is approximately 8 km long with a 300-meter elevation gain—moderate enough for most active travelers, but a consideration if you have mobility issues. Trekking poles are provided, which help with stability, especially in the forest’s more uneven terrain.

The panoramic viewpoints are truly highlights, offering spectacular vistas of Mount Teide, Masca village, and the Los Gigantes cliffs. These spots are perfect for snapping photos—expect to be asked to pose or even get some professional-looking shots taken by your guide. The reviews frequently praise Elena and Alex for their friendly professionalism and their story-sharing, which enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The tour concludes with a drop-off back at your accommodation or meeting point. As a bonus, you’ll receive a link with 20-40 digital photos—a great way to remember your day without fussing over selfies or camera settings.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $104 per person, this experience provides a full 5-hour adventure with guided expertise, transportation, a picnic, and professional photos included. When you factor in all these components, plus the small group size that ensures personalized attention, it becomes clear this offers excellent value for an immersive outdoor activity. Many reviews mention how well-organized and relaxed the day feels, which is crucial for making the most of your limited holiday time.

The hike strikes a balance—it’s not overly challenging, but offers enough variety and stunning scenery to make it memorable. The inclusion of trekking poles, a wind jacket on request, and flexible meeting points reflects thoughtful planning on the provider’s part. Plus, the small group size limits crowds and noise, leading to a more intimate experience—something many seasoned hikers appreciate.

The Highlights: Why You Should Consider This Tour

• Breathtaking Views: From Mount Teide to the cliffs at Los Gigantes, the scenery is consistently impressive.
• Lush, Enchanting Forest: Walking through moss, ferns, and clouds makes this feel like stepping into a fantasy world.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Elena and Alex are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Flexible Logistics: Hotel pickup, drop-off, and meeting points make it easy regardless of where you’re staying.
• Photos and Memories: Digital images help you remember the trip as vividly as the views.
• Accessible Yet Authentic: The moderate route suits most active travelers but doesn’t shy away from showcasing Tenerife’s natural beauty.

What To Know Before Booking

You’ll want to bring a windbreaker, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and water. The terrain can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Since the hike includes diverse climates, dressing in layers is advisable—expect it to be cooler at higher elevations, especially if clouds roll in. The tour is not suitable for those with low fitness levels due to the 8 km route and some elevation gain.

The tour lasts about 5 hours, including stops and walks, and is offered in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. For those with dietary restrictions, the included picnic is light but sufficient; bringing your own snacks is a good idea if you’d prefer additional options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are included from locations along Tenerife South, from Los Cristianos to Los Gigantes.

What if I stay outside the area?
You can meet the tour in Santiago del Teide or one of the specified towns, making it flexible for travelers outside the southern zone.

How long is the hike?
The route is approximately 8 km, with a moderate 300-meter elevation gain, suitable for most active travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a windbreaker, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, and layers for changing weather conditions.

Is the hike difficult?
It’s moderate; the terrain is manageable for those with decent fitness, but the route’s length and terrain may be challenging for very low fitness levels.

Are there photos included?
Yes, you’ll receive 20-30 digital photos from the tour, capturing your memorable moments.

Do I need special equipment?
Trekking poles are provided, but sturdy shoes and appropriate clothing are essential.

Can children join?
While the tour is suitable for most active individuals, it’s best for children who can handle the moderate hike and terrain.

Final Thoughts

This guided hike above Masca is a true treasure for anyone wanting to experience Tenerife’s varied landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail. The small group setting, expert guides, and stunning scenery make it a standout day trip. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or just looking for a break from beach lounging, this experience offers a chance to see a different side of Tenerife—its lush forests, volcanic vistas, and hidden viewpoints.

The tour’s ability to balance comprehensive storytelling, scenic beauty, and manageable hiking makes it perfect for travelers who appreciate authenticity and value. It’s well-suited for those who want a memorable outdoor adventure with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning, all wrapped into a well-organized package.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic hike that showcases the island’s natural diversity and includes expert guidance, this trip is definitely worth considering. Just remember to wear your sturdy shoes, pack your layers, and prepare for some truly stunning views of Tenerife’s wild side.