Tenerife offers a wealth of natural wonders, and one such gem is the captivating hike above the quaint village of Masca. This moderate 5-hour trek promises breathtaking panoramic views of the Masca Gorge and Santiago Valley, showcasing Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. Accompanied by an experienced English-speaking guide, hikers can enjoy the lush laurel and sub-tropical forests, making this a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the island. With convenient van transfers and a 5/5 customer rating, this small-group adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression. But what makes this hike truly remarkable lies in the journey itself, where each step unveils the island’s natural splendor.
Key Points
- The "Tenerife: Hiking Above the Village of Masca" is a 5-hour, moderate-difficulty hiking tour covering 12 kilometers and reaching an altitude of 1,100 meters.
- The tour features panoramic views of the Masca Gorge, Santiago Valley, and lava fields, as well as immersive experiences in laurel and sub-tropical rainforests.
- Participants are transported from their hotels to the hike starting point and back, ensuring a hassle-free experience focused on scenic landscapes.
- The tour is led by an experienced, English-speaking guide who provides attentive support and insightful commentary, enhancing the immersion in the stunning landscapes.
- The hike is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users, as it requires good physical condition and the ability to navigate uneven terrain.
Activity Overview
This hiking tour, titled "Tenerife: Hiking Above the Village of Masca," promises an exhilarating 5-hour adventure through the rugged landscapes of Tenerife.
Priced from €60 per person, the 12-kilometer hike covers an approximate gradient of 375 meters, reaching a maximum altitude of 1,100 meters.
Classified as a moderate-difficulty trek, the tour is available every Tuesday.
Guests can expect panoramic views of the Masca Gorge and hamlet, as well as the Santiago Valley and lava fields.
The guided tour, limited to 10 participants, allows for exploration of the laurel forest and sub-tropical rainforest, offering a picturesque experience reminiscent of "The Sound of Music."
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Van transfers are provided for this hiking tour, with pickup and drop-off locations in Los Cristianos, GF FAÑABÉ, and Playa de las Américas.
The transfer takes approximately 75 minutes each way, transporting participants from their hotels in these southern Costa Adeje areas to the starting point of the hike.
At the end of the excursion, the van will return hikers to the same pickup locations.
This convenient transportation ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing participants to focus on the stunning mountain landscapes and lush forests that await them on the trail.
Hiking Highlights
The hiking tour offers several breathtaking highlights, including panoramic views of the Masca Gorge and hamlet.
Participants will also enjoy sweeping vistas of the Santiago Valley and lush lava fields.
The hike takes trekkers through a laurel forest and sub-tropical rainforest, providing an immersive experience in the island’s diverse ecosystems.
The landscapes are reminiscent of the iconic film "The Sound of Music," offering a truly picturesque backdrop for the excursion.
An experienced, English-speaking guide leads the small group of up to 10 participants, sharing insights about the region’s natural and cultural heritage throughout the journey.
Guided Tour and Group Size
An experienced, English-speaking tour guide leads the small group of up to 10 participants on this hiking excursion.
The limited group size ensures a personalized experience, allowing the guide to provide attentive support and insightful commentary throughout the trek.
With their deep knowledge of the local area, the guide shares fascinating details about the natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unique geological features encountered along the way.
This guided approach enhances the overall hiking experience, enabling participants to fully enjoy the stunning landscapes of Masca without having to worry about navigation or missing key highlights.
What to Bring
For this hiking excursion, participants should come prepared with a few essential items. These include warm clothing to protect against changing weather conditions, sunscreen to safeguard against the sun’s rays, and at least 2 liters of water per person to stay hydrated throughout the hike. Plus, a picnic lunch and a waterproof jacket are recommended. Proper footwear, such as good trainers or walking shoes, is a must, as open-toe sandals are not suitable. The hike is not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users.
| Essential Items | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Warm Clothing | 1 Set |
| Sunscreen | 1 Bottle |
| Water | 2L |
| Picnic Lunch | 1 |
| Waterproof Jacket | 1 |
Unsuitable for
This hiking excursion may not be suitable for certain individuals.
Pregnant women, for instance, should avoid this activity due to the moderate difficulty and physical demands of the trail.
Similarly, those with back problems may find the hike challenging, as the uneven terrain and gradual ascent could exacerbate any existing conditions.
Plus, wheelchair users wouldn’t be able to navigate the trails, which aren’t accessible for those with mobility limitations.
The tour organizers recommend that participants be in good physical condition and able to walk for extended periods over varied terrain to fully enjoy this breathtaking Tenerife experience.
Reservation and Cancellation
As an alternative to upfront payment, customers can reserve their spot on this Tenerife hiking excursion without any advance charges. The company offers a flexible booking system, allowing guests to reserve their place and pay later. Plus, the cancellation policy is generous, with a full refund available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
| Reservation | Cancellation |
|---|---|
| Reserve now & pay later | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |
| No upfront payment required | Full refund provided |
This booking flexibility and lenient cancellation terms make it easy for customers to plan and adjust their Tenerife adventure as needed.
Customer Reviews
The excursion’s overall customer rating of 5/5, based on a single review, highlights a well-organized outing with breathtaking landscapes and knowledgeable guides.
According to the feedback, the tour is praised for its excellent organization and the guides’ extensive knowledge of the area.
Reviewers emphasize the stunning vistas of the Masca Gorge and hamlet, as well as the enchanting views reminiscent of "The Sound of Music."
The hike through the laurel forest and sub-tropical rainforest is also noted as a highlight.
With limited group sizes, this activity provides an intimate and enjoyable experience for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of Tenerife.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Weather Like During the Hike?
The weather during the hike is generally sunny and mild, with temperatures averaging 20-25°C. Hikers should bring warm clothing, as the higher elevations can be cooler, and be prepared for the possibility of occasional wind or light rain showers.
Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?
The hiking trail does not have dedicated restroom facilities along the route. Hikers should plan accordingly and make use of any facilities available in the village of Masca before or after the hike.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?
No, pets are not allowed on this hike. The activity details state it’s not suitable for individuals with back problems, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, indicating the trail may not be accessible or safe for pets to join.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The activity does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, so very young children may not be able to safely participate in the hike.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for My Group?
Unfortunately, this hike doesn’t offer customizable itineraries. The tour follows a set route and schedule to ensure a safe, well-organized experience for all participants. However, the group size is limited, so you can discuss any special needs with the tour provider.
Recap
The Tenerife: Hiking Above the Village of Masca offers an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can expect stunning panoramic views, knowledgeable guidance, and a hassle-free experience. With a flexible booking policy and excellent customer ratings, this moderate 5-hour trek through lush landscapes is a must-do for nature enthusiasts exploring Tenerife’s natural beauty.