Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest

Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains are one of the island’s most captivating natural areas, and a guided hike through their lush laurel forests offers a wonderful way to experience this unique landscape. The tour, organized by HikIn Kanarii, takes you on a roughly 5 km circular route that showcases Tenerife’s endemic flora, rugged valleys, and the awe-inspiring greenery that sets this part of the island apart. It’s a leisurely walk designed for those who love nature, want to learn more about Tenerife’s volcanic origins, and appreciate smaller, more intimate groups.

What I particularly like about this experience is how flexible the route is — your guide can adjust based on weather or group interest, making each hike feel personalized. Plus, the small size of the group (capped at 10) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you get plenty of chances to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery at your own pace. The guides are fluent in several languages including German, French, English, and Spanish, which helps make the experience accessible for a variety of travelers.

One potential consideration is that the tour starts at approximately 1000 meters elevation, so packing warm clothes and rain protection is wise — even on sunny days, weather in the mountains can shift suddenly. Also, this hike isn’t suitable for very young children, those with mobility issues, or anyone unaccustomed to light outdoor activity — the terrain requires some steady footing. But for those prepared and eager to explore Tenerife’s quieter, verdant side, it’s an experience worth considering.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, allowing for personalized attention and a relaxed, engaging atmosphere.
• Multilingual Guides: Knowledgeable guides fluent in German, English, French, and Spanish enhance the learning experience.
• Flexible Route: Adaptable to weather and group interests, ensuring a comfortable and tailored journey.
• Authentic Laural Forest: Explore Tenerife’s endemic flora and learn about the unique ecosystems that thrive in this lush environment.
• Spectacular Views: Expect panoramic vistas of valleys, gorges, and forests that are often hidden from typical tourist routes.
• Practical Equipment: Hiking boots, water, and weather gear are recommended — guides can lend rain gear and hiking poles if needed.

Discovering Tenerife’s La Laural Forest: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point: Cruz del Carmen Visitor Center

The tour begins at the Cruz del Carmen Visitor Center, a well-known gateway to the Anaga Mountains. This spot is significant not just as a starting point but as a hub of information on the natural and cultural history of the area. From here, you’ll set out into the forest, immediately surrounded by the cool, green shade of towering trees and the fresh mountain air.

Why the Anaga Mountains Are Special

This is no ordinary woodland. The laurel forests in the Anaga region are a rare remnant of ancient forests that once covered much of Europe and North Africa. Their thick canopy, dripping with mosses and lichens, makes you feel like walking through a natural cathedral. Guides often mention that these trees are endemic to the Canary Islands, meaning you won’t find them anywhere else in the world — a fact that makes this hike both educational and special.

The Flora and Fauna: What You’ll Learn

Your guide will point out different types of laurel trees, explaining how they adapted to the mountain climate. Expect to see species like the Laurus novocanariensis, and learn how the forest’s microclimate supports a variety of plants and insects. If you’re lucky, you might spot some endemic bird species or listen to their calls echoing through the trees.

The Views: Valleys, Gorges, and Beyond

While much of the focus is on the forest itself, the hike rewards you with spectacular vistas over the deep valleys and gorges that carve through the mountains. These views are often described as “breathtaking,” and many reviews highlight how the landscape feels untouched by large-scale tourism. It’s a reminder of how Tenerife’s volcanic roots shape both its scenery and its ecosystems.

The Cultural Context

Beyond the natural beauty, your guide shares stories about Tenerife’s indigenous people, the Guanches, and how they lived in harmony with this environment. Answers to questions about the island’s volcanoes and volcanic soil often come up, adding layers of depth to the scenic walk.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a leisurely but fulfilling outing. The route can be adjusted for weather or group interest, ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Remember to wear hiking boots — the terrain can be uneven — and bring at least 1 liter of water. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so rain gear and warm clothing are recommended, especially since the start point is at around 1000 meters altitude.

Guides and Group Dynamics

The guides are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and able to switch seamlessly between languages. They’re often locals who genuinely love sharing their knowledge of Tenerife’s natural environment. The small group size not only fosters a relaxed atmosphere but also provides plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized insights.

Cost and Value

For around three hours of guided hiking, the price offers good value considering the personalized service, expert guidance, and included equipment like rain gear and hiking poles. The tour is also insurance-covered, giving peace of mind. Keep in mind that transport to Cruz del Carmen isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Who This Tour Is For

This experience suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone interested in seeing a less-visited, lush part of Tenerife. It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain and prepared for mountain weather. It’s less suitable for children under eight, those with mobility issues, or anyone expecting a very strenuous hike.

Concluding Thoughts

This circular hike in the Anaga Mountains offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist spots of Tenerife. It’s a chance to wander through ancient laurel forests, see spectacular mountain views, and learn about the island’s natural and cultural history from friendly, fluent guides. The small group setting ensures a relaxed, engaging experience, making it perfect for travelers looking for an authentic connection to Tenerife’s wild side.

For those who value intimacy, authenticity, and scenic beauty, this tour delivers. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to explore Tenerife beyond the beaches and resorts, seeing the island’s vibrant, green heart.

FAQ

Is this hike suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 8 years old, mainly because of the terrain and the need for steady footing.

What should I wear for the hike?
Hiking shoes are essential. Also bring sunscreen, water, rain gear, and warm clothes, especially since the start point is at about 1000 meters elevation.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides are fluent in German, English, French, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to a broad range of travelers.

How flexible is the route?
The route can be adjusted based on weather conditions or group interest, ensuring a comfortable experience for all.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the guide service, accident insurance, a first aid kit, and some equipment like hiking poles and rain gear (subject to availability).

How do I get to the starting point?
Transport isn’t included, so you’ll need to make your own way to Cruz del Carmen Visitor Center, a key access point to the Anaga Mountains.

In summary, this guided circular hike through Tenerife’s laurel forest in the Anaga Mountains offers a mix of scenic beauty, educational insights, and genuine connection to the island’s natural heritage. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a slower pace, small groups, and the chance to see some of Tenerife’s most lush, undisturbed landscapes. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful mountain walk, this tour is a fine way to learn about the wild, green heart of Tenerife.