Tenerife Anaga Mountains: Circular hike in the laurel forest small group max. 10

If you’re planning a trip to Tenerife and want to step away from the crowded beaches, a walk through the Anaga Mountains’ laurel forest might be just what you’re looking for. This circular hike, offered by HikIn Kanarii, promises a peaceful, scenic experience amid moss-covered trees, fern-filled gorges, and the quiet whisper of ancient landscapes. It’s a manageable 5 km route that balances ease with enough interest to keep you engaged, making it perfect for those with a decent fitness level but not necessarily seasoned hikers.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its small group size—no more than 10 people—which means you get plenty of space and personalized attention from the guide. Plus, the flexibility of the route allows the guide to adapt based on the group’s pace and interests, which can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. The second standout feature is the guides’ multilingual skills—they speak German, English, French, and Spanish—making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

However, a thing to keep in mind is that this hike is not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. The terrain can be a bit stony and occasionally slippery, especially if the weather turns rainy or foggy, which is quite common in the mountains. Also, since it’s a mountain route, it’s best suited for anyone in good shape with a decent level of fitness.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Tenerife’s lush, ancient forests with a knowledgeable guide by their side. If you’re after an authentic, small-group experience with plenty of educational moments and breathtaking scenery, this hike should be on your list.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Max 10 participants for a more personal, comfortable walk.
• Multilingual Guides: Guides speak German, English, French, and Spanish.
• Flexible Route: The hike can be adjusted based on the group’s preferences.
• Rich Nature & Culture: Learn about Tenerife’s volcanic origins and Guanche history.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Moss-covered trees, deep valleys, steep gorges.
• Good Value: At $32, it offers a lot of scenic and educational value for the price.

The Anaga Mountains are a true highlight of Tenerife, offering a landscape that’s often described as a fairy-tale setting. This circular hike takes you through Laurisilva, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where the moss-draped trees and ferns create a cool, almost mystical atmosphere. Whether you’ve been to Tenerife before or are visiting for the first time, walking through this ancient forest is a must for nature lovers.

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What to Expect from the Tour

This roughly 2.5-hour, 5 km circular route is designed to be easy to moderate, making it accessible to most people with a good fitness level. The start point is at the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, a significant spot that offers initial scenic views before heading into the forest. From there, the terrain shifts between forest paths and rocky stretches, so sturdy hiking shoes are a must.

The guide will provide insights into Tenerife’s volcanic past, explaining how the landscape was shaped over millions of years. You’ll also get a taste of Guanche culture, the indigenous inhabitants of the island, with stories that add a layer of history to the natural beauty. The guide’s ability to speak multiple languages ensures that everyone can understand and appreciate the stories and facts shared along the way.

The Natural Beauty and Views

Once inside the forest, the atmosphere shifts to one of quiet wonder. The moss-covered branches and ferns seem straight out of a storybook, especially with occasional wisps of fog drifting through. The landscape offers spectacular views of valleys and gorges, some of which you may glimpse through breaks in the trees. The combination of lush greenery and rugged terrain makes for some striking photo opportunities.

Travelers who have participated in the tour consistently praise the stunning scenery. As one reviewer from France shared, “The mountains are really unique and beautiful, it’s worth hiking there.” Others appreciate the cooler microclimate of the forest, a refreshing contrast to Tenerife’s usually warm weather—perfect if you’re visiting during the hotter months.

The Guide and Group Dynamic

What sets this tour apart is the knowledgeable and friendly guides. As one reviewer put it, “Sandra gave us a ton of info about the Anaga. A really nice time sharing and learning.” Guides are also attentive to the group’s pace and needs, making sure everyone is comfortable and engaged.

The small group size ensures that conversations flow easily and that you don’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. The guides also carry rain gear and poles, which they offer to borrow if needed, adding extra comfort, especially in unpredictable mountain weather.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour costs $32 per person, which is excellent value considering the guided experience, insurance, and included gear. While it’s not a physically demanding hike for most, you’ll want to be prepared with hiking boots, at least 1 liter of water, and rain or wind protection. Temperatures at 1,000 meters elevation can be cooler, so layering your clothing is wise.

Since the terrain can be rocky and sometimes slippery, good footwear is essential for safety and comfort. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so bringing a snack and water is advisable. The route’s flexibility means the guide can adjust the difficulty, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

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Authentic Cultural Insights

Besides the natural wonders, the tour offers interesting cultural insights. You’ll learn about Tenerife’s volcanic origins and the Guanche people, adding depth to your understanding of the landscape. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the guide’s storytelling and the kind, friendly atmosphere created during the walk.

The Experience With Locals & Other Travelers

Many travelers mention how the guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience. The presence of Coco, the guide’s dog, is also a highlight—adding a friendly, relaxed vibe. As one traveler noted, “Sandra & Coco were the best guides we could have hoped for. It was informative and a beautiful walk.”

This walking experience is ideal for adventurers who appreciate nature and culture in equal measure, looking for a manageable, informative hike rather than a strenuous trek. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy small groups and personalized attention, as well as those interested in learning about local history along with scenic landscapes.

If you’re traveling with kids over 8 years old who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain, this can be a lovely family outing too. But if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, this route might be less suitable.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to explore Tenerife’s lush laurel forests, this circular hike offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and personal connection with guides who speak your language. It’s a peaceful, scenic escape into one of the island’s most enchanting landscapes, all within a small, friendly group.

The value for money is impressive, considering the guides’ expertise, inclusion of gear, and the intimate setting. It’s a great way to spend a few hours away from the beach, especially if you’re interested in learning about Tenerife’s volcanic origins and indigenous history. The views, the forest atmosphere, and the chance to breathe in the mountain air make this tour a memorable part of any trip.

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet engaging outdoor activity that combines nature, culture, and good company, this Anaga Mountains hike could be just what you need. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely walk with plenty of meaningful stops and the comfort of a small group.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Only children over 8 years old are advised to join, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven. It’s best suited for kids who are comfortable walking on mountain paths.

What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides are fluent in German, English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

How long does the hike take?
The hike lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 5 km in a circular route.

What should I bring?
Bring hiking shoes, at least 1 liter of water, sunscreen, rain gear, and warm clothing if the weather looks cooler or foggy.

Can I adjust the route or pace?
Yes, the route is flexible and can be adjusted based on the group’s preferences or weather conditions.

Is transportation included?
No, the meeting point is at Cruz del Carmen viewpoint. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

What is the price?
The tour costs $32 per person, offering good value considering the guided experience and included gear.

Is the terrain difficult?
It’s rated as easy to moderate, suitable for most people in good shape, but some parts are rocky and possibly slippery.

What’s the weather like in the mountains?
The mountains can be shrouded in fog or rain due to trade winds, so be prepared for cooler and wetter conditions than the coast.

This hike is a fantastic chance to experience Tenerife’s most lush and ancient landscapes at a relaxed pace, with knowledgeable guides making sure you get the most out of your visit. Whether you’re into nature, history, or beautiful views, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that’s worth considering during your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: