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

Embarking on a walk through Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains offers a blend of lush greenery, breathtaking views, and stories of volcanic origins. This particular tour, which has earned a stellar 4.9-star rating from 10 reviews, is designed to give visitors a taste of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve’s beauty without demanding strenuous effort.

What makes this experience especially appealing? First, the small group size of no more than 10 people ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and soaking in the surroundings. Second, guides fluent in multiple languages—German, English, French, and Spanish—mean you’ll get clear, engaging explanations tailored to your language preference. Third, the flexible route adjustments cater to different fitness levels and interests, adding a level of customization many tours lack. The only potential consideration? It’s an easy to moderate walk, so if you’re not comfortable on uneven terrain, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Designed for those with good fitness levels, this tour suits nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a manageable yet immersive outing. If you’re after a deep dive into Tenerife’s landscapes with knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, this hike is an excellent choice.

Good To Know

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personal attention.
• Multilingual guides make the experience accessible for diverse travelers.
• Flexible route options allow adaptation to different fitness levels and interests.
• Authentic insights into Tenerife’s volcanic origins and indigenous Guanche culture.
• Stunning scenery including moss-covered trees and deep valleys.
• Affordable price point offers great value for a memorable half-day adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains: What You Can Expect

This 5 km circular hike (lasting approximately 2.5 hours) takes you through one of the most striking parts of Tenerife—its ancient laurel forest. Starting at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, situated around 1,000 meters above sea level, you’re met with crisp mountain air and panoramic views that make every step worthwhile.

The Route and Terrain

The route is described as easy to moderate, meaning you’ll be walking on stony, sometimes slightly slippery paths. Reviewers mention that the terrain is manageable for those with a good level of fitness, but it’s wise to wear hiking boots to ensure safety and comfort. The trail gently winds through moss-laden trees, ferns, and wisps of fog that lend the forest a fairytale quality. Some sections may involve slight inclines, but nothing too strenuous, making it suitable for most active travelers.

What You Will See

Expect to encounter stunning landscapes of steep gorges and deep valleys, carved out over 79 million years of volcanic activity. The lush Laurisilva forest — a UNESCO World Heritage site — thrives here, with moss hanging from branches, ferns hugging rocks, and an overall feeling of walking through an enchanted, living museum.

The Guides’ Insights

Guides, like Sandra, who many reviewers praised for her extensive knowledge, will share stories about Tenerife’s volcanic roots, helping you understand the landscape’s formation. They also shed light on the culture and history of the Guanches, the island’s indigenous people. Such storytelling elevates the walk from a simple hike to an educational experience.

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Authentic Touches from Reviewers

Multiple guests mention how Sandra’s friendly approach and storytelling added depth to their walk. One reviewer appreciated her knowledge of fauna and flora, and another highlighted her ability to adapt the route to suit the group’s needs. Coco, her friendly dog, also played a part in creating a relaxed, joyful atmosphere.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting Point & Starting Off

The tour kicks off at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint—an iconic starting point that offers your first sweeping views of the mountains and forest below. From here, your guide will give a brief overview of what’s ahead before setting off on the trail.

The Forest Walk

As you step into the Laurisilva, you’ll notice the almost fairy-tale environment: moss-covered trees, ferns, and mist that often shrouds the landscape. This cool, shaded environment provides a welcome break from the hotter parts of Tenerife, especially in summer. Reviewers note that the forest’s coolness “is especially appreciated on hot August days.”

Throughout the walk, your guide will share snippets about the forest’s unique ecosystem and how the landscape has been shaped by volcanic activity over millions of years. For example, one reviewer mentioned how their guide explained the formation of the mountains and the island’s volcanic origins in a clear, engaging manner.

Viewpoints and Scenic Highlights

The hike offers several spectacular viewpoints overlooking steep gorges and valleys, perfect photo opportunities. Expect to pause for panoramic shots and to listen to tales about the legends tied to the landscape.

Learning and Cultural Insights

Beyond scenery, the tour offers rich cultural context. Guides discuss the history of Tenerife’s indigenous Guanche people, their traditions, and how they thrived in this environment. Some reviews mention how the guides’ stories about local legends and history added an extra layer of interest.

Wildlife & Flora

The forest is teeming with native plants and birds, which guides often point out. Reviewers have enjoyed hearing about the diverse flora, including the mosses and ferns, as well as the presence of friendly dogs like Coco, who interact with visitors, adding a warm, human touch to the experience.

Route Flexibility & Comfort

The route can be adjusted based on the group’s fitness and interests, thanks to the guide’s flexibility. This makes the experience accessible for most active individuals and ensures that no one feels rushed or overwhelmed.

Practical Details & Tips

Equipment & Preparation

Travelers are advised to wear hiking boots for safety on uneven paths and bring at least 1 liter of water — especially during warmer days. Since the mountains can be foggy or rainy, wind and rain protection are recommended, along with warm clothing if starting early in the morning. Optional hiking poles can be borrowed from the guide, which is helpful for stability.

Cost & Value

At $32 per person for a roughly 3-hour guided walk, this experience offers impressive value considering the personalized attention, expert guides, and immersive scenery. The small group size enhances value by allowing for more interaction and customization.

What’s Included & What You Should Bring

Included are accident insurance, a first aid kit, and limited rain gear and hiking poles. Participants should bring hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, rain gear, and sports shoes. The tour does not include transportation to Cruz del Carmen or food and drinks, so plan accordingly.

Reviews: Authentic Feedback

From glowing reviews, a few key points stand out. One guest from France appreciated Sandra’s “kindness and all the explanations,” while a traveler from Germany highlighted how Sandra’s friendly manner and extensive knowledge made the hike memorable. Many loved the comfortable pace and the beautiful scenery, with comments about how the forest felt cooler and more mystical than expected.

A German visitor described the experience as “not too tough and very doable in warm weather,” which is reassuring for most travelers. The mention of Coco, Sandra’s friendly dog, added a charming, personal touch that many found delightful.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hike is perfect for nature lovers who want an authentic experience in Tenerife’s forests without excessive physical strain. It suits adventurers interested in geology and culture, especially those keen to understand the Guanche heritage and volcanic landscapes. The small group setting and multilingual guides make it friendly for international travelers, and the flexible route ensures it’s accessible for various fitness levels.

If you’re after a balanced experience — scenic, educational, and intimate — this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also ideal for travelers looking to combine a bit of physical activity with cultural insights and stunning natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife Anaga Mountains circular hike offers a well-rounded, accessible way to explore one of the island’s most enchanting landscapes. With expert guides, small groups, and the chance to see spectacular vistas and lush forests, it delivers an authentic, memorable outdoor experience at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, you’ll enjoy the personal touch and the stories that make Tenerife’s mountains so special.

The combination of stunning scenery, informative guides, and cultural storytelling makes this tour stand out as a top choice for anyone wanting to experience Tenerife’s natural beauty without the hassle of a strenuous trek. Just remember to pack your hiking shoes, rain gear, and a sense of adventure — and you’re set for a truly magical day in the mountains.

FAQ

Is this hike suitable for children?
This tour is recommended for those aged 8 and above with a good fitness level. It involves walking on uneven, sometimes slippery paths, so children should be capable and supervised.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish, offering clear explanations in your preferred language.

How long does the hike last?
The circular hike is approximately 2.5 hours long, covering about 5 km, with additional time for stops and explanations.

Do I need special equipment?
Hiking boots are recommended for stability on rocky paths. You should also bring water, rain protection, and warm clothing if necessary.

Can I adjust the route or pace?
Yes, the guide can flex the route to suit the group’s fitness and interests, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s best to bring your own water and perhaps a snack, especially if you plan to extend your day with other activities.

This detailed, balanced review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Tenerife Anaga Mountains circular hike. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the island’s natural and cultural heart, all while enjoying a relaxed, small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: