Tenerife: La Laguna & Anaga hike

This Tenerife tour offering a visit to the UNESCO-listed city of La Laguna combined with a hike through the impressive laurel forests of Anaga promises a day of natural beauty, cultural insight, and authentic Canary Islands charm. While it’s not perfect and has room for improvement, the experience remains a solid choice for those eager to combine outdoor activity with cultural exploration.

We love the chance to walk among ancient trees in the primary laurel forest, the opportunity to wander through La Laguna’s historic streets, and the chance to taste local produce at a bustling market—all for a reasonable price of $65. That said, some guests found the bus rides long and the forest walk somewhat limited, so it’s worth considering your preferences before booking.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and local culture but may not be ideal if you’re looking for a quick, action-packed day or if mobility is an issue. Overall, it’s a good value for a full-day experience, especially if you’re keen to see more of Tenerife beyond the beaches.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of nature and culture makes this tour versatile and interesting.
• Comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide enhance the experience.
• Long bus rides may feel tedious, especially if you prefer shorter transit times.
• Hiking through the laurel forest offers unique flora and scenic views.
• La Laguna’s UNESCO heritage site provides a delightful stroll through history.
• Weather considerations are important—pack rainproof clothing even if the forecast looks clear.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Discovering Tenerife’s Natural and Historic Treasures

This tour provides a thoughtfully curated look at some of Tenerife’s most charming and ecologically interesting parts, all within an 8-hour window. It’s especially appealing for those who want to explore beyond the usual beaches and resorts, diving into the island’s lush landscapes and storied streets.

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transportation

Starting from three convenient pickup points—Sol Arona Tenerife, Hotel Best Tenerife, or LABRANDA Suites Costa Adeje—the journey begins with a roughly one-hour bus ride along Tenerife’s southeastern coast. The transport is generally smooth, and the guides tend to be friendly and informed, as noted by reviews highlighting the guide’s excellent storytelling about the Canary Islands’ history.

However, some guests have expressed frustration with the length of the bus rides. One reviewer mentioned that “the time on the bus took an eternity,” feeling like the entire island was being driven around just to pick up everyone. If you prefer a more direct route or shorter transfers, this might be something to keep in mind.

Exploring the Laurel Forest of Anaga

After arriving in the Anaga Mountains, the highlight is a two-hour hike through the primary laurel forest of Las Mercedes. This forest is a true gem—an ancient, verdant landscape filled with towering trees, moss-covered branches, and a peaceful atmosphere. Our guide explains the local flora, which adds an educational dimension to the walk.

The reviews reveal differing experiences here. One traveler appreciated the detailed stories about every tree and insect, while another called it “a botanist expedition,” indicating that the hike can be quite detailed and botanically focused. It’s a slow-paced walk, suitable for those interested in plant life, but perhaps less so for those looking for a quick hike or high-intensity activity.

Weather can be unpredictable in the forest, so packing rainproof clothing and warm layers is recommended—even if the forecast looks sunny. One traveler advised to “pack plenty of warm and rainproof clothing,” emphasizing that weather can change rapidly in this biosphere reserve.

A Cultural Interlude in La Laguna

Following the hike, the tour moves to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its pedestrianized streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant local markets. The visit includes a one-hour stop at the food market, where you can browse local produce and get a taste of daily life.

One reviewer noted that “the market is a highlight,” and it’s an excellent way to experience authentic Canary Island flavors. However, timing can be tricky; some visitors found that by the time they arrived, La Laguna was “practically holding a siesta,” limiting the time to enjoy the city’s atmosphere. You’ll have free time here to explore on your own, so a camera and comfortable shoes are a must.

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Return and Reflection

After the city visit, the bus makes a roughly 25-minute drive back to the coast, and then a final hour-long journey to your starting point. Many guests appreciated the comfortable transportation and the expertise of the guide, although some felt the bus rides could be longer than they’d prefer. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your original pickup locations.

Price, Value, and Practical Considerations

At $65 per person, this tour offers a decent deal—covering transportation, a guide, and entry to key sites. The value hinges on how much you enjoy nature and cultural sights. If your goal is to experience an accessible hike in a lush forest and walk through a historic city, it’s a good pick.

However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so budget extra for meals or snacks. The tour is 8 hours long, so flexibility and stamina are helpful, especially for the bus rides and walking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Are interested in botanical and ecological features of Tenerife.
• Want to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery.
• Don’t mind long bus rides if it means seeing more of the island.
• Appreciate guided explanations and free time to explore on their own.
• Are comfortable with moderate physical activity and carrying basic hiking gear.

It’s less suited for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone with respiratory or heart conditions, given the walking involved and the physical nature of the hike.

The Sum Up

This Tenerife tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the island’s natural beauty and historic charm. You’ll walk among ancient trees in the laurel forest, explore a UNESCO heritage city, and enjoy a local market—an ideal combo for curious travelers eager for authentic experiences.

While the bus rides can feel lengthy and the hike might be tailored more for botanists than casual hikers, the overall package delivers a meaningful slice of Tenerife’s diverse landscape. The knowledgeable guide and well-organized itinerary make it a worthwhile option, especially if you want to see more of the island without strenuous effort.

For those seeking an educational, scenic, and cultural day trip at a reasonable price, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for travelers with some walking stamina, an interest in nature and history, and a flexible attitude towards travel timing.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes bus transportation from three pickup locations and returns back to the same points.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable shoes, a jacket, water, and something to eat. Also, don’t forget your passport or ID card and travel insurance.

How long is the bus ride?
The initial ride to Anaga takes about an hour, with additional shorter transfers, like 25 minutes to La Laguna and back.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something at the market or nearby.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and free time.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, heart or respiratory problems, or those with low fitness levels.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak French, German, Spanish, and English.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The combination of a scenic hike through the laurel forest and a cultural stroll through La Laguna’s historic streets.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially if you want a balanced day exploring Tenerife’s landscapes and culture without strenuous effort, but be prepared for long bus rides and variable weather.

This tour balances nature, culture, and local flavor, making it a worthwhile option for those eager to see more of what Tenerife has to offer beyond its beaches.

You can check if your dates are available here: