Teno Waterfalls and the Tropical Jungle of Tenerife

If you’re looking for a way to see a different, more rugged side of Tenerife, this guided tour of the Teno Mountains might be just what you need. It promises a day full of stunning scenery, active exploration, and authentic moments amid Tenerife’s natural beauty. From winding mountain roads to lush jungle trails and hidden waterfalls, this experience offers a good mix of adventure and tranquility.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines an energetic hike with scenic vistas and the chance to cool off in natural springs. Plus, the inclusion of a light canyoneering element adds a dash of excitement. On the flip side, it’s not suitable for everyone—those with mobility issues or vertigo should think twice. Still, if you’re comfortable with moderate activity and love discovering off-the-beaten-path spots, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a blend of nature, adventure, and photography. It’s perfect for those wanting to escape touristy areas and truly connect with Tenerife’s wild landscapes — and don’t worry, you’ll get plenty of photos to remember it by.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Tenerife’s rugged Teno Mountains and scenic coastal landscapes.
• Varied Terrain: The hike combines plantations, jungle trails, waterfalls, and natural springs.
• Active but Manageable: The tour involves about 5.3 km of walking and some moderate elevation gain.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy exploring lesser-known spots, away from heavily crowded tourist areas.
• Photo Opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture memories in beautiful natural settings.
• Suitable for Adventurers: Participants should be comfortable with heights, swimming, and moderate physical activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Teno Waterfalls and Jungle Tour

An Inviting Introduction to Tenerife’s Wild Side

While many travelers stick to the more popular sights like Mount Teide or Loro Parque, those seeking a more genuine, nature-filled adventure might love this tour through Tenerife’s Teno Mountains. The experience offers a mix of scenic drives, active hiking, and hidden gems—think of it as a peek behind the curtain of Tenerife’s lush, less-explored wilderness.

We liked that the tour starts with a drive along a winding mountain road, often described as breathtaking. It’s a chance to get your first real taste of Tenerife’s rugged landscape, with many calling the descent into Masca Gorge the highlight. The views here are often compared to Machu Picchu, giving an idea of the dramatic scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Among the things we love is the combination of activities—from plantation visits to jungle walks and waterfall swims. The tour isn’t just a walk; it’s an active day that includes light canyoneering—a gentle introduction for those interested in adventure sports but not looking for something too extreme. It’s a way to truly feel like you’re exploring the “wild side” of Tenerife.

Another aspect worth noting is the photo opportunities. With views of lush plantations, cascading waterfalls, and scenic valleys, you’ll want your camera ready. Many reviews mention the plenty of photo moments and how they appreciated the chance to capture the natural beauty around them.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience works best for active travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity, heights, and swimming. If you’re traveling with kids or mobility-challenged, it’s probably not the best fit, as the hike involves some elevation change and walking along jungle edges. Still, if you’re looking for an authentic, nature-based day out with plenty of visual rewards, this is a solid choice.

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The Detailed Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Early Drive

The tour begins at a meeting point in front of a restaurant in Santiago del Teide or other designated locations, depending on your booking option. From there, your guide will take you on a scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to a viewpoint that offers spectacular vistas of the Teno Mountains and the coast.

Masca Gorge Stop

Next, expect about 30 minutes at the famous Masca Gorge. This tiny village and gorge are often called the “Canarian Machu Picchu” for their dramatic beauty. Here, you’ll get a chance to snap photos and soak in the landscape—an iconic Tenerife moment.

Buenavista del Norte – A Hiker’s Paradise

The tour continues with a 75-minute hike in the Buenavista del Norte area. This part features walking past banana, avocado, and citrus plantations as you ascend in elevation. The lushness of the plantations offers a vibrant contrast to the rugged mountains and provides excellent photo material.

Teno and the Waterfall Walk

A highlight of the day is walking along the jungles edge toward a waterfall and rapids. This part combines forested terrain with open views, where the sound of rushing water adds to the sense of adventure. Expect to change into swimwear, and then you’ll explore natural springs—a refreshing break to cool off after the hike.

Many reviews mention how the swimming experience is both invigorating and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the waterfalls and rapids.

Hidden Gem Exploration

Next, your guide will take you to a lesser-known, “hidden” spot for a walk or light hike lasting about 1.5 hours. This part is often praised for its solitude and untouched scenery, perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and see more authentic parts of Tenerife.

Scenic Drive Back and Drop-offs

The final part of the day involves a 75-minute scenic drive back along the coast, with glimpses of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. The tour concludes with drop-offs at convenient locations such as Santiago del Teide, Siam Mall, the Santa Cruz cruise terminal, or Loro Parque.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes a guided hike, photos of your adventure, and transportation, making it a convenient all-in-one package. Transfer services can be arranged for an extra fee, providing flexibility for travelers staying outside the pickup zones.

What to bring is straightforward: comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water are essential. It’s a moderate hike, so don’t forget to dress for activity and sunshine. No drones, alcohol, or fireworks are allowed, and participants should be comfortable with heights and swimming.

Price and Value

While the exact price isn’t listed here, reviews suggest that the value is high for an all-day, guided outdoor experience that combines transportation, activity, and memorable scenery. For travelers seeking a more active, off-the-beaten-path excursion at a reasonable cost, this tour offers a lot for the budget.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Many travelers appreciate the authenticity of this tour, mentioning the beautiful scenery and the chance to discover Tenerife’s less touristy spots. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the hike combined plantations, jungles, and waterfalls — it felt like a real adventure.” Others highlighted how the photos they received were “plenty and stunning,” capturing moments they didn’t want to forget.

Some reviews mention the moderate physical activity involved, so it’s best suited for those in decent shape and comfortable with outdoor pursuits.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and local charm. It’s ideal for active travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see more of Tenerife’s wilderness. If you want to escape the crowds and explore the island’s hidden corners, this experience delivers.

However, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues, vertigo, or very young children. Expect to get your hands (and feet) a little dirty and your heart a little lighter as you discover Tenerife’s wild, scenic side.

This experience offers stunning views and authentic moments that will appeal to those seeking a memorable outdoor adventure in Tenerife.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves moderate physical activity, so children should be comfortable with walking, heights, and swimming. It’s best suited for active kids or teenagers.

What should I wear for the hike?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain, and bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Participants should be comfortable with swimming, as natural springs are part of the experience. If you’re not a confident swimmer, inform your guide and take extra precautions.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour price. Transfers to the start point can be arranged for an additional fee.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 6 to 7.5 hours, depending on the starting time and group pace.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Drones, alcohol, fireworks, and fire-making are not allowed. The hike involves some elevation and moderate activity, so those with mobility impairments or vertigo should consider if it’s suitable.

What makes this tour different from other Tenerife excursions?
It offers a genuine, scenic exploration of Tenerife’s less-known natural corners, combining active hiking, stunning scenery, and the chance to swim in natural springs—beyond typical sightseeing.

To sum it up, this Teno Waterfalls and Tropical Jungle tour is a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Tenerife’s wild landscapes in an active, authentic setting. It rewards those willing to trek, explore, and enjoy the island’s lush, scenic corners away from the crowds. If you’re craving a memorable day surrounded by nature’s beauty, this experience should be on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: