Tenerife: Hike Above Masca in Enchanted Forest with Pick-up

If you’re looking to truly experience Tenerife beyond the beaches and bustling resorts, this guided hike through the Enchanted Laurel Forest might be just what you need. It’s one of those tours that promises a mix of spectacular scenery, expert guidance, and a taste of the island’s lush, mysterious nature — all wrapped up in a manageable 5-hour adventure.

What really caught our eye is how this tour combines breathtaking viewpoints of Mount Teide and Masca Village with a walk through a forest that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes life easy, especially if you’re staying in the South. But, to keep it real, the hike’s about 8 kilometers with some moderate elevation, so it’s best suited for those with at least a decent level of fitness.

One potential consideration? The terrain can be slippery and the hike isn’t overly demanding, but it’s not suitable for anyone with low fitness levels or those who dislike walking on uneven ground. Still, if you’re comfortable with a brisk walk and love nature, this could be a highlight of your trip. It’s especially a good fit for curious travelers who enjoy learning about local flora, stunning landscapes, and want some memorable photos while connecting with nature.

Key Points

• Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, making it more personal and flexible.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides who share lots of interesting facts.
• Stunning scenery: From volcano views to mystical forests.
• All-in-one experience: Includes transportation, a scenic picnic, and digital photos.
• Moderate effort: About 8 km of walking with some elevation, suitable for most healthy travelers.
• Great value: For around $104, you get a well-organized tour with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Magic of Tenerife’s Landscape

Our first impression of this tour was that it offers a fantastic way to see Tenerife’s diverse environment without straying too far from the south coast. The journey begins with hotel pickup across several key locations — from Playa de las Américas to Los Gigantes — making it super convenient, especially if you don’t want to fuss with transport.

Once we’re on our way, the stops at Teno Rural Park are worth noting. The first includes a photo stop and a quick guided tour that showcases the park’s volcanic scenery and lush vegetation. These areas are great for snapping some initial shots, and the guide’s explanations add a layer of understanding to the natural beauty around us. The fact that the tour includes a light picnic adds a nice touch — enough to refuel without feeling heavy — with some pastries, juice, and a cereal bar.

The Scenic Viewpoints

One of the most praised aspects of this experience is the panoramic viewpoints. Here, you’ll see Tenerife’s natural duality: the craggy cliffs of Masca Gorge on one side, and the volcano-laden landscape of Mount Teide on the other. The views are spectacular, and from above, the island’s volcanic origins are on full display. This moment is perfect for photos, and many reviews mention how unforgettable these vistas are — “wonderful,” “magical,” and “breathtaking” are terms that pop up often.

The Enchanted Laurel Forest

But the real highlight? Walking through the Enchanted Laurel Forest. This lush, moss-covered world feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Think ferns, moss, and mist clouding the trees, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Travelers have shared how it seems like a trip back in time, especially when clouds drift through, adding a dreamy layer to the scenery.

The forest’s proximity to the southern part of Tenerife makes it feel surprisingly untouched and wild. Many reviewers, including those who compare it to the nearby Anaga Forest, point out that it’s a much more accessible experience, yet just as enchanting. The trail through this green haven is about 8 kilometers long, with an elevation gain of 300 meters, so it’s moderate and doable for most, but not ideal for those with very low fitness levels.

The Guided Experience and Photos

Guides like Elena and Alex consistently receive high praise. They’re described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, making the hike both educational and fun. As one reviewer put it, Elena was “smiling and giving lots of information,” which makes a big difference when navigating the forest and viewpoints.

Along With the scenic journey, the tour includes 20-30 digital photos of the participants. Many say this is a real bonus, as it allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery without constantly worrying about capturing the perfect shot. Plus, the photos tend to be well-timed and natural, reflecting the fun and awe of the day.

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The Logistics: What’s Included and What’s Not

For €104 per person, this tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, a picnic, trekking poles, and digital photos. It’s clear the organizers aim to keep things smooth and convenient, which is appreciated.

The only thing you’ll need to bring is water and appropriate clothing — a windbreaker, sun hat, and sturdy shoes are recommended. The tour lasts about 5 hours, which balances sightseeing with enough time for breaks and photos. The group size is limited to 8, making it feel more personalized, and the reviews often mention the friendly atmosphere.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a nature lover, enjoy moderate hikes, and want to see Tenerife’s varied landscapes — from volcanic views to lush forests — this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insights into the local environment and enjoy small-group experiences. It’s also well-suited for travelers looking for an active outing that isn’t physically demanding but still rewarding.

However, if you’re not keen on walking on uneven, sometimes slippery terrain, or have low fitness, you might find this a bit challenging. It’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues, but active teens and adults should find it manageable and enjoyable.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Experience

Morning pickup and initial stops

Your day starts with a free hotel pickup from locations across the southern coast — from Playa de las Américas to Los Gigantes. This reduces the hassle of organizing transport and ensures a comfortable start to your adventure. You’ll meet your small group, with a maximum of 8 people, and then head out to the scenic Teno Rural Park.

First viewpoints and sightseeing

The first stop includes a photo opportunity and a guided explanation of the landscape. These viewpoints are well worth a quick stop — you’ll see the massive volcanic craters and the rugged coastline. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the explanations engaging and accessible.

The picnic break

Next, a short picnic break at a historical site offers a chance to soak in the surroundings while enjoying some light snacks. It’s a simple, thoughtful gesture that adds a relaxed element before heading into the forest.

The enchanted forest walk

Once in the forest, it’s about two hours of walking through the verdant, mossy landscape. Here, the forest feels almost untouched, thanks to the lush greenery and mist that often drifts through. The trail is gentle but can be slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Throughout the walk, your guide shares interesting facts about the local flora, which many reviews highlight as a standout feature.

Scenic views on the way back

The final part of the hike offers more breathtaking views as you descend back down. The scenery is varied, changing from dense forest to open volcanic landscapes, providing ample photo opportunities.

End of tour and return

After a few hours of exploring, you’ll head back to your hotel or designated meeting point. Many reviews mention feeling satisfied, relaxed, and filled with stunning images and new knowledge.

The Value and Who It’s Perfect For

Considering everything included — transportation, a knowledgeable guide, scenic stops, a picnic, and photos — the $104 price point feels fair for a thoughtfully curated experience. This isn’t just a walk; it’s a well-rounded adventure that balances nature, culture, and comfort.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who love nature, want to avoid overly strenuous hikes, but still crave a meaningful outdoor experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about the environment from passionate guides, taking photos of unforgettable scenery, and sharing a small, friendly group with like-minded travelers.

While not designed for very low fitness levels, most active, reasonably fit individuals will find it rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you’re staying in the south and want an organized, hassle-free way to explore Tenerife’s wild side.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included from locations along the southern coast of Tenerife, including Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje, and others. If you stay outside this zone, you can meet at Santiago del Teide.

How long is the hike?
The route covers about 8 kilometers, with an elevation gain of approximately 300 meters, making it a moderate hike suitable for most healthy travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a windbreaker or warm clothes if needed, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and water. The tour provides trekking poles if desired.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but the hike is gentle enough for most active teens or older children. Keep in mind it involves walking on uneven terrain.

What’s included in the price?
You get hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, a picnic, trekking poles, digital photos, and insurance coverage.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

What kind of guide will I have?
Guides like Elena and Alex have received praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the experience enjoyable and informative.

How are the views?
Expect panoramic vistas of Teide, Masca village, and Los Gigantes Cliffs. Many reviews describe the views as “spectacular,” “magical,” and “breathtaking.”

Is the terrain slippery?
Yes, the forest trail can be slippery, especially when wet. Wearing sturdy, non-slip footwear is recommended for safety and comfort.

If you’re after a satisfying outdoor experience in Tenerife that combines stunning scenery with expert guidance, this hike offers a lot. It’s a chance to see the island from above, walk through a forest that feels like a scene from a fantasy, and come away with beautiful photos and new insights about Tenerife’s natural environment.

The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal, while the scenery makes it memorable. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want an active morning without pushing their limits, and who value a well-organized, scenic adventure.

This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and comfort, making it a great choice for anyone serious about experiencing Tenerife’s wild beauty beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s one of those outings that’s likely to leave you feeling both inspired and connected to nature.

Happy hiking, and I hope you get to discover some of Tenerife’s hidden gems just like this.

You can check availability for your dates here: