Tenerife: Hiking Above the Village of Masca

If you’re eyeing a scenic trek in Tenerife, the Hiking Above the Village of Masca tour offers a compelling mix of panoramic views, lush rainforest, and mountain landscapes. We haven’t personally tried this one, but from what travelers say and the detailed descriptions available, it sounds like a solid choice for those wanting a taste of Tenerife’s natural beauty without the more challenging Masca Gorge hike.

One of the things we really like about this experience is that it provides spectacular views of the Masca Gorge and the surrounding valleys, along with a chance to walk through a sub-tropical rainforest—definitely a highlight for nature lovers. We also appreciate that the tour is guided and includes hotel transfers, making it easier to organize, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

A possible consideration is the moderate difficulty level—with about 12 km of walking and some steep sections, it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a gentle stroll or have mobility issues. Also, since it’s weather-dependent, there’s a chance your plans could be altered or canceled if rain or fog roll in, so flexibility is key.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy moderate hikes with rewarding views and are prepared for some physical activity, especially those who want a well-rounded experience of Tenerife’s diverse landscapes. It’s perfect for active families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who love nature and breathtaking scenery.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of the Masca Gorge, Masca village, Mount Teide, and lava fields.
• Guided small group experience with only 10 participants, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Includes hotel transfers, simplifying logistics and saving time.
• Explores diverse terrains: rainforest, mountain ridges, pine forests, and lush valleys.
• Moderate difficulty with some steep sections, suitable for active travelers.
• Bring your own lunch and water, as food isn’t provided.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour promises a five-hour journey filled with stunning sights and a variety of terrains. It begins with a pickup from one of three locations—Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje—making it convenient no matter where you’re staying in the southern part of Tenerife. The transport, a comfortable van, takes about 75 minutes to reach Masca, setting the stage for your adventure.

Once you arrive in Masca, the guided hike starts. Unlike the famous Masca Gorge hike, which involves descending into the ravine, this route focuses on a picturesque high ridge with undulating terrain and short steep sections. The trail takes you deep into the sub-tropical laurel forest, one of Tenerife’s most important ecosystems, offering a refreshing contrast to the volcanic landscapes.

Travelers can expect to see spectacular views of the Santiago Valley and the lava fields high above, especially on clear days. Walking along the mountain ridges, you’ll get panoramas of Mount Teide looming in the distance, adding to the sense of wilderness and adventure. The descent into a valley reminiscent of the English countryside provides a surprising touch of greenery and tranquility.

The Highlights of the Tour

The real star here is the panoramic view of the Masca Gorge and the tiny village of Masca below. It’s a view that makes the effort worthwhile, with some travelers noting that the vistas are among the most spectacular the island has to offer. The tour also offers views of the Santiago Valley and lava fields high above, which require some effort but reward hikers with breathtaking scenery.

Walking through pine forests and lush rainforests gives a sense of variety, and many mention the fabulous experience of exploring Tenerife’s subtropical ecosystems. One traveler described the mountain landscape as “out of ‘The Sound of Music’,” highlighting how picturesque and almost fairy-tale-like the scenery can be.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

The tour is led by a live English-speaking guide, who is praised for their knowledge and ability to explain the circuit clearly. The group size is small—limited to 10 people—ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention. Several reviews highlight how confident and friendly guides enhance the overall experience, with some mentioning that guides even made punctual pickups, which is helpful.

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The Practical Side: Transfers, Duration, and Price

The included transfers are a major perk, especially since organizing transportation in a foreign country can be tricky. The tour lasts about five hours, with roughly 12 km of walking, plenty of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. The price, at $68 per person, seems reasonable considering the included transport, guide, and the memorable views.

You’ll want to pack warm clothing, sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, and at least 2 liters of water and a packed lunch. Since food and drinks aren’t included, bringing your own sustenance is a must, especially for an active day like this.

Weather and Cancellations

Weather can influence the experience—fog or rain might limit visibility or lead to cancellations. One reviewer shared that their hike was canceled due to weather but appreciated the quick refund, which shows flexibility and good communication from the provider. It’s always smart to have a backup plan or be prepared for possible changes.

What Do Travelers Say?

The feedback is generally very positive, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 7 reviews. People love the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views. For example, one reviewer said their guide explained the circuit “perfectly,” making the hike both enjoyable and educational. Another appreciated the decision to reroute the hike due to weather, highlighting the flexibility and care of the guides.

Some mention the walking difficulty as moderate, but most agree it’s manageable if you’re used to hiking or active outdoor pursuits. The small group size is also a common positive, allowing for a more personal experience and easier communication.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves scenic mountain hikes, values guided experiences, and doesn’t mind a few steep sections, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want great photo opportunities and appreciate ecosystems like laurel forests and volcanic landscapes.

However, if you’re not comfortable with moderate physical activity, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, you might want to look for a gentler outing. Also, remember that an active day outdoors means packing smartly—don’t forget your waterproofs, sun protection, water, and a packed lunch.

All in all, this experience offers a beautiful, varied hike with impressive views and a knowledgeable guide to enhance your understanding of Tenerife’s natural features. It’s a lovely way to see some of the island’s more remote and scenic spots without the need for technical mountain climbing or long descents.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for active travelers and older children who are comfortable with moderate hikes. Since it involves some steep sections and a full day of walking, it may not be ideal for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How long is the hike?
The hike covers about 12 km and lasts approximately five hours, including transfers.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, a hat, good walking shoes or boots, at least 2 liters of water, and a packed lunch.

Are food and drinks included?
No, you need to bring your own lunch and water, as they are not provided.

What is the difficulty level?
It’s rated as moderate, with some steep sections and undulating terrain that require a reasonable level of fitness.

What if the weather is bad?
The hike might be canceled if weather conditions are poor, but refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Are hotel transfers included?
Yes, transfers are included to and from selected locations in Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje.

What time does the tour start?
Starting times vary; check availability when booking.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide will lead the hike, providing explanations and ensuring safety.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, ecosystem exploration, and manageable physical activity. If you’re after a memorable day out with fantastic views and a knowledgeable guide, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for the weather and pack your essentials—the landscape in Tenerife can surprise you in the best ways.

You can check availability for your dates here: