Amazing Anaga

Our review of the Amazing Anaga tour offers a glimpse into one of Tenerife’s most captivating outdoor experiences. Designed for nature lovers and active travelers alike, this guided hike takes you into the heart of the Anaga Rural Park, a protected landscape teeming with lush laurel forests, rugged coastlines, and charming villages. While we haven’t done the tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this is a memorable way to connect with Tenerife’s wild side.

Two features that stand out immediately are the expert guidance that ensures safe navigation through remote trails and the spectacular scenery—think ancient forests and panoramic views—that await at every turn. A potential consideration is the moderate to challenging terrain, which means you’ll want to be comfortable on foot for about five hours. This tour suits active travelers who love nature, want to learn about local flora and geology, and enjoy small-group settings where personal attention is a plus.

Who will love this tour? If you’re up for a full day of moderate hiking, fascinated by unique landscapes, and eager to explore Tenerife away from the crowds, this experience could be perfect. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in ecological diversity and want a knowledgeable guide to enrich your adventure.

Key Points

• Guided exploration ensures safe navigation through remote trails
• Ancient laurel forests showcase rare, primitive ecosystems
• Scenic vistas of coastlines, ravines, and mountain villages
• Small-group format offers a more intimate experience
• Educational commentary on geology, flora, and local history
• Flexible itinerary with manageable distances and elevation gains

An Introduction to the Tenerife Hiking Experience

The Anaga Mountains occupy a large section of Tenerife’s northeast, and this tour gives you a taste of their wild beauty without the risk of getting lost. The journey begins with a private vehicle transfer from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making the experience smooth and comfortable from the start. Once you arrive at the trailhead, your guide—Andy, who is praised for his knowledge and friendliness—takes over, leading your small group through some of the most scenic and ecologically significant parts of the park.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with education. You’re not just walking aimlessly; Andy points out native flora, discusses the geology, and shares stories about the region’s villages and conservation efforts. The highlight for many is exploring the ancient laurel forest (laurisilva), a UNESCO-worthy relic that dates back millions of years. This forest’s dense canopy and moss-covered branches transport you to a different time, and it’s a rare sight in the world, only found in the Canaries, Madeira, and a few other islands.

The walk is about 12 kilometers long, with some sections involving up to 600 meters of ascent or descent. While not suited for casual stroller-type walks, those with moderate fitness will find it satisfying without being overwhelming. The terrain varies from forest trails to more exposed ridges, offering a balanced challenge and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

The Highlights and Natural Wonders of Anaga

Exploring the Ancient Laurel Forest

Walking beneath the canopy of laurisilva is like stepping into a prehistoric world. These trees, some of which are endemic to the Canary Islands, have survived since the Tertiary Period. As one reviewer pointed out, the dense, moisture-retentive foliage is essential for the local ecosystem—it feeds the aquifers and keeps the soil fertile. Expect to be surrounded by towering trees, hidden streams, and the occasional glimpse of endemic plants that you won’t find anywhere else.

Breathtaking Vistas

Throughout the hike, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of coastal cliffs, lush ravines, and small villages perched on the hillside. These vistas are what make the effort worthwhile, and your guide makes sure you don’t miss a thing. As one reviewer noted, the scenery includes “great mountain views” and “spectacular contrasts,” a true testament to the landscape’s diversity.

Native Flora and Fauna

A big part of this experience is the chance to learn about local plants and wildlife. Andy’s commentary highlights native species and ecological importance, making the walk educational as well as scenic. Travelers have appreciated how knowledgeable guides help identify flora that might otherwise go unnoticed, adding depth to the walk.

Remote Villages and Cultural Insights

While the focus is on the natural environment, the tour also includes passing through or viewing some of the small, remote villages scattered throughout the park. These tiny hamlets, with their traditional Canary architecture, add a cultural dimension to your adventure. It’s astonishing that people still live in these isolated spots, and the experience offers a glimpse into their livelihood and history.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour features private transportation to and from the start point, which enhances comfort and efficiency. Andy, your guide, provides interesting insights into the geology, geography, and history of the area, enriching your understanding. Insurance coverage for rescue and liability is also included, ensuring peace of mind.

While the price is $88.24 per person, this cost reflects excellent value for a full day of guided hiking, transportation, and expert commentary. You’ll want to bring your own hiking gear, especially sturdy shoes, and pack some water and snacks to keep fueled. Lunch isn’t included, so consider bringing something portable, or plan to enjoy local tapas afterward.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The consistent theme in reviews is how stunning the scenery is, with many describing the hike as “beautiful” and the views as “gorgeous.” One reviewer noted, “I think I saw the best parts of Tenerife during Christmas when it was very green and flowers were blooming,” highlighting how lush and vibrant the landscape can be. Others appreciated the interesting geology and interesting fauna—these details add layers to the experience.

The guiding quality is highly praised, with comments like “Andy did a great job leading the hike,” and “he always searched for safe alternative pathways if some trail was closed.” This attentiveness makes a real difference in remote terrain, ensuring safety and confidence.

Many reviewers recommend this tour to those able to walk several hours on uneven paths, emphasizing the moderate difficulty level. The small group size—limited to 14 participants—ensures personalized attention and a more engaging atmosphere.

Potential Drawbacks

One common observation was that some wished for more time to absorb the scenery and enjoy a proper lunch. The tour is around five hours long, so it’s a fair trade-off for the comprehensive exploration but may feel rushed if you want longer breaks or to linger at viewpoints.

How This Tour Fits Into Your Tenerife Adventure

This guided walk is an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just the typical tourist spots. It’s well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, ecological buffs, or anyone eager to see the “real” Tenerife beyond beaches and resorts. It’s also perfect for those who value expert-guided learning and small-group intimacy, making it easier to ask questions and gain insights.

While the terrain requires some fitness and walking ability, the moderate length and manageable elevation gains make it accessible for most active travelers. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic hikes, nature photography, or learning about local ecosystems, this tour delivers on all fronts.

The Sum Up

The Amazing Anaga tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Tenerife’s natural riches. With expert guiding, breathtaking vistas, and a focus on ecological and cultural insights, it’s a memorable way to spend a day in Tenerife’s mountains. It provides excellent value for the price, especially given the inclusion of private transportation and insurance.

This trip is particularly ideal for visitors who love outdoor activities, want an eco-focused adventure, and appreciate small-group settings. While it’s not suited for those seeking a leisurely stroll or a casual walk, active travelers eager to explore will find it rewarding.

In short, if your goal is to see Tenerife’s lush, ancient landscapes and learn about its unique ecology from a friendly local guide, this is an experience you’ll cherish—and probably want to do more than once.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the hike?
The hike covers roughly 12 kilometers, with a duration of about 5 hours. It includes some up to 600 meters of ascent or descent, making it a moderate challenge suitable for most active travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Kids comfortable with hiking for several hours and uneven terrain could enjoy it with proper preparation.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, a knowledgeable guide (Andy), full public liability and rescue insurance, and educational commentary on geology, geography, and history.

Do I need to bring my own hiking equipment?
Yes, hikers should bring their own gear—sturdy walking shoes, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour doesn’t include equipment, so be prepared.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you’re not out of pocket for plans that can’t happen in rain or storms.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 29 days in advance, suggesting it’s popular and worth securing your spot early. The tour has limited availability, especially in high season.

Can I customize this experience?
The tour is fixed in its itinerary, but the small-group format allows some flexibility in pacing and discussion. For tailored adventures, speak to the provider beforehand.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, nature lover, or simply seeking a deeper connection with Tenerife’s wilderness, the Amazing Anaga tour promises a rewarding day of exploration in one of Spain’s most beautiful and ecologically significant areas.