Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva Santiago del Teide

Exploring the Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva Tour in Santiago del Teide

If you’re craving a day of stunning scenery, volcanic history, and authentic Canary Island landscapes, the Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva tour offers a compelling option. This 5-hour journey, led by a knowledgeable local guide from Natura Xtreme Tenerife, promises a well-rounded experience that blends high-mountain vistas with lush forests and unique volcanic terrain.

What makes this hike particularly appealing? First, the panoramic views of Teide, Masca, La Gomera, and La Palma are breathtaking. Second, the route through black lava flows from the 1909 eruption delivers a raw, volcanic atmosphere that feels both ancient and powerful. Third, walking through the Bosque de los Enigmas (the Forest of Enigmas) adds a mysterious, lush touch to the landscape.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. This is a physically moderate hike, with some sections requiring good footwear and a moderate fitness level. Overall, it’s well suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone interested in authentic Tenerife scenery beyond tourist hotspots.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Stunning panoramic views of Teide, Masca, and neighboring islands
• Volcanic landscapes including black lava flows from historic eruptions
• Forest walks through pine groves with spectacular mountain vistas
• Local guides enrich the experience with detailed insights into flora, fauna, and geology
• Authentic rural setting, starting in Santiago del Teide, away from busy tourist spots
• Value for money at $56 per person for a comprehensive, guided 5-hour adventure

An In-Depth Look at the Santiago del Teide Hiking Experience

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins in the charming village of Santiago del Teide, a peaceful spot that offers a glimpse of traditional Tenerife life. The meeting point is conveniently located at the church square, with free parking nearby, and good bus access—ideal for those staying locally or arriving via public transport.

Over the next five hours, you’ll be guided through varied terrain, with a focus on showcasing the diverse landscapes of the Teno Rural Park. The small group setting (sometimes just you and your guide) means plenty of personalized attention, which we think is a major plus for a more intimate experience.

The Lava Fields of Chinyero

Your journey kicks off with a walk through historic black lava flows—the remnants of Tenerife’s last major eruption in 1909. Walking among these ancient, hardened flows, you’ll get a visceral sense of the island’s volcanic power. As one reviewer noted, walking among these “timeless traces of fire” makes you feel the raw force of nature, quite unlike the more polished tourist spots.

This part of the route is accessible but does require comfortable hiking shoes—hard-soled boots are recommended, as some sections can be uneven or slightly rugged. The experience of standing amidst volcanic rock is both educational and visually stunning, especially with the contrast of the dark lava against the vibrant greenery of the surrounding landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Vineyards and Volcanic Soil

From the lava fields, the trail transitions into regions dotted with vineyard fields—a reminder of how tightly intertwined agriculture is with Tenerife’s volcanic terrain. Vines thrive in the island’s unique soil, giving the landscape a patchwork appearance that’s both picturesque and evocative of local life.

Walking through these vineyard areas allows for some great photo opportunities—expect to capture scenes of terraced fields set against the backdrop of volcanic mountains. The guide will tell you about the significance of these vineyards, and how the volcanic soil contributes to the flavor of local wines, adding a layer of cultural insight.

Climbing Toward Cumbres de Bolico

The ascent toward the Cumbres de Bolico is one of the highlights, taking you through a pine forest that feels surprisingly cool and refreshing compared to the volcanic landscape below. The forest walk offers some respite on warmer days and provides some of the most spectacular views of Pico del Teide, Bilma, Pico Viejo, and the Chinyero volcano.

Reaching the summit, you’re rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the Masca Valley, one of Tenerife’s most iconic sights. As one reviewer pointed out, the views from here are “unforgettable” and make the whole effort worthwhile. It’s worth carrying a camera or your smartphone to capture the dramatic scenery that spreads out before you.

The Forest of Enigmas

The final stretch takes you into the Bosque de los Enigmas, a lush, green forest area that feels worlds away from the volcanic terrain. Here, the mixture of tall pines and fern-covered ground creates a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere.

This part of the walk is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in the flora of the Canary Islands. The guide’s expertise comes into play here, sharing insights on local plant species and the ecosystem. It’s a fitting end to a diverse day of hiking that combines volcanic history with lush forest scenery.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The Itinerary

Starting at Av. de La Iglesia, 66, the tour includes a guided hike through the volcanic and forested areas, with a stop in Buenavista del Norte—a peaceful village that acts as a gateway to the park. The entire experience lasts around 6 hours (including time for transportation and breaks), with most of the walking concentrated in the 5-hour guided section.

Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter spectacular viewpoints, including those overlooking Masca, Teide, and other volcanic peaks. The route is designed to be moderate in difficulty, suitable for those with decent fitness levels but not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a certified local guide, accident insurance, and photos of the activity—great for sharing your adventure afterward. As for what to bring, hikers should pack good hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, a small snack, and ID.

Food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to carry some snacks or a packed lunch, especially if you want to enjoy the views without rushing.

Group Size and Language

The guides speak both English and Spanish, and the small group setting enhances the experience by allowing more interaction and personalized insights.

Practical Considerations

The tour operates with free cancellation if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility. The start times vary, so checking availability when booking is advised.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Looking at reviews, hikers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning that Alex provided detailed information about flora and fauna, enriching the walk. The views, especially from the mountain summits, are described as “wow,” and the chance to see Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes up close is a major selling point.

Many found the experience to be “medium difficulty,” manageable for those with some hiking experience, but not overly strenuous. It’s a fantastic way to see a side of Tenerife that most travelers miss—wild, volcanic, and surrounded by natural beauty.

The Sum Up

This tour is a fantastic pick for travelers eager to explore Tenerife’s natural beauty beyond the beaches. It offers a well-balanced mix of volcanic landscapes, forested mountain walks, and stunning viewpoints—all within a manageable 5-hour window. The small-group guided approach ensures a personal touch, making it easier to learn about the land and take memorable photos.

The €56 price point reflects good value considering the inclusions—an experienced guide, insurance, and a rich, layered experience. It’s particularly suited for active travelers, nature lovers, and those interested in Tenerife’s volcanic and agricultural heritage.

While not suited for those with mobility limitations or very young children, the tour delivers a genuine, immersive experience that showcases the island’s wild side. Expect breathtaking vistas, volcanic majesty, and a peaceful escape into the island’s lush forests.

If you’re after an authentic, scenic adventure that balances physical activity with spectacular views, this hike is a worthy choice. Just remember to bring your camera, sturdy hiking shoes, and a sense of curiosity about the island’s volcanic roots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 due to its moderate difficulty level.

What should I bring on the hike?
Pack hiking shoes, water, sunscreen, hiking pants, food, and your ID or passport.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The active hiking portion lasts about 5 hours, with the total experience around 6 hours including transportation and breaks.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Av. de La Iglesia, 66, in Santiago del Teide.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish.

What kind of scenery will I see?
Expect volcanic lava flows, vineyard fields, mountain panoramas, pine forests, and lush forests.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bring snacks if needed.

The Volcanes, Viñedos y Laurisilva tour provides a rich mix of Tenerife’s volcanic history, lush landscapes, and panoramic vistas—perfect for anyone wanting an authentic taste of the island’s natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: