Tenerife is best known for its beaches and volcanic landscapes, but the island is also a fantastic destination for hiking. Beyond the popular Teide National Park, you will find the Anaga Mountains in the northeast, one of the most unique and scenic regions of Tenerife.
Together with areas like the Teno Mountains and the island’s coastal trails, Anaga shows just how diverse hiking in Tenerife can be.
With its dense laurel forests, steep cliffs and remote coastal views, Anaga feels completely different from the rest of the island. If you are looking for varied and scenic routes, this is one of the best places to explore.
In this guide, I will show you four of the best hikes in Anaga that I have done myself, from misty forest trails to remote mountain routes and short, easy walks.
Hiking in the Anaga Mountains
The Anaga Mountains are one of the greenest and most impressive regions in Tenerife. This protected area is known for its ancient laurel forests, rugged terrain and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Many trails lead through dense forests, along narrow paths and across scenic ridgelines with views of the Atlantic Ocean. The atmosphere is often misty and almost mystical, making hiking in Anaga a completely different experience compared to the drier parts of the island.
In this article, I’ll introduce four different hikes that highlight the variety of the region — from forest trails and coastal viewpoints to more remote and adventurous routes.
Overview of the Hikes
These four hikes offer very different experiences in the Anaga Mountains. From the famous laurel forest trails of El Pijaral to the remote landscapes around Chamorga, the classic routes near Taganana and the short and easy Sendero de los Sentidos, there’s something for every level and preference.
Which hike is right for you?
This article features several hikes in the Anaga Mountains, varying in distance, elevation, and terrain.
Use the tool below to quickly find out which hike matches your current fitness level.
Compact Travel Information
The Anaga Mountains are green, humid and heavily forested. Narrow trails and frequent mist create a unique hiking atmosphere.
Hiking in Anaga is possible all year round. Conditions can change quickly due to clouds and fog, so flexibility is helpful.
Most hikes are suitable as half-day or full-day trips, depending on the route.
A rental car is the easiest way to reach trailheads. Public transport is available but requires more planning.
Good bases for hiking in Anaga include San Cristóbal de La Laguna or nearby coastal villages.
Sturdy shoes are recommended, as trails can be narrow, uneven and sometimes slippery due to moisture.
How to Get to Tenerife
The easiest way to reach Tenerife is by flying to Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofía). There are direct flights from many European cities.
I personally use Skyscanner* to search for flights because it makes it easy to compare prices and routes.
How to Get to the Anaga Mountains
By Car
The main road TF-12 connects La Laguna with the Anaga Mountains and continues towards San Andrés. The drive itself is very scenic, but the road is narrow and winding in some sections.
There are several official viewpoints and small parking areas along the route.
By Bus
The Anaga region is connected to Tenerife’s bus network, and many trailheads can be reached by public transport. However, reaching more remote starting points may require additional planning.
Renting a car in Tenerife – is it worth it?
Many of the best places in Tenerife – especially in Anaga Park or along the coast – are difficult to reach without a car. Public transport is often slow and inconvenient.
That’s why I always book my rental car in Tenerife online in advance – usually via DiscoverCars, as I often find the best deals and the widest selection there.
🌍 My recommendation:
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Good to know:
- Mountain roads can be steep and winding
- Choose full insurance with zero excess
- Small cars are usually sufficient
Hiking trail 1: La Ensillada – El Pijaral
Misty Laurel Forest Hike in Anaga
The circular hike around El Pijaral is one of the most beautiful short walks in the Anaga Mountains. Starting near La Ensillada, the route leads through dense laurel forest, moss-covered trees and a unique, almost mystical landscape.
Despite its relatively short distance, the hike offers a great variety of scenery — from quiet forest trails and narrow paths to scenic ridgelines with views of the north coast of Tenerife.
If you’re looking for a short but unforgettable hike in Anaga, this is one of the best options.
Permit Required
Please note that this hike requires a permit, as access to parts of the El Pijaral trail is restricted to protect the sensitive laurel forest.
You need to apply for a free permit in advance, and the number of daily visitors is limited.
👉 Check the official website for current information and reservations.
- 6.5 km
- ↑↓ 255 m
- Easy
- Parking area at La Ensillada
- Forest paths, narrow trails
How to Get There
El Pijaral is located along the TF-123, which branches off from the main road TF-12. The road is narrow and winding in some sections, so careful driving is required.
There are a few small parking areas near the trailhead at La Ensillada.
Through the Laurel Forest
The hike starts at the parking area and initially follows a wide path before quickly leading into the dense laurel forest. Moss-covered trees, ferns and lush vegetation create a unique atmosphere that feels almost otherworldly.
The trail gently climbs and descends along the ridge, offering occasional openings with views towards the rugged coastline.
Views and Forest Sections
Along the way, you’ll pass several viewpoints, including areas near Cabezo del Tejo, where the forest opens up and reveals wide views over the Anaga Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
Most of the route, however, remains within the forest — and that’s exactly what makes this hike so special. The dense vegetation, filtered light and quiet surroundings create a truly unique hiking experience.
Return to La Ensillada
The return follows a wider forest track back towards the starting point. While this section feels more open, the scenery remains lush and green.
Shortly before the end, the trail narrows again and leads once more through dense vegetation — a final reminder of the distinctive atmosphere that defines this hike.
Hiking trail 2: Chamorga – Faro de Anaga – Roque de Bermejo
Remote Coastal Hike in Anaga’s Wildest Region
This hike near Chamorga takes you through one of the most remote and rugged areas of the Anaga Mountains. The route combines mountain ridges, coastal views and a descent to the small fishing village of Roque Bermejo.
It is more demanding than other hikes in this guide, but the scenery is exceptional and far less crowded.
- 8.8 km
- ↑↓ 704 m
- Moderate
- Chamorga village
- Narrow mountain paths
How to Get There
Chamorga is located at the end of the TF-123, a narrow and winding road that branches off from TF-12. The drive from La Laguna takes about one hour.
Parking is available near the village.
From Chamorga to the Ridge
The hike starts in Chamorga and quickly leads onto a narrow trail heading uphill. After the first ascent, you reach open sections with wide views over the Anaga Mountains and the north coast.
The path continues along the slopes and ridgelines, offering a mix of green hills, rocky sections and constant ocean views.
Towards Faro de Anaga
As you follow the trail along the coast, the landscape becomes more exposed. Steep cliffs, open terrain and views of the Atlantic define this part of the hike.
Near Faro de Anaga, you reach one of the most remote points in the region. The lighthouse itself is not accessible, but the surrounding viewpoints are impressive.
Descent to Roque Bermejo
From the ridge, the trail descends towards Roque Bermejo, a small and quiet fishing village. The contrast between the rugged mountains and the coastline is especially noticeable here.
At the beach, you can take a break before continuing.
Return via the Barranco
The return follows a steep path through the Barranco de Roque Bermejo back towards Chamorga. This section requires some effort, but the scenery remains varied.
After the climb, the trail leads back to the village, completing the loop.
Hiking trail 3: El Bailadero – Las Vueltas – Taganana – Roque de las Anima
Diverse Hike Through Laurel Forest and Coastal Landscapes
This hike starts at El Bailadero and leads through the heart of the Anaga Mountains down to the coastal village of Taganana. It combines dense laurel forest, mountain trails and wide coastal views, making it one of the most varied hikes in the region.
The route is longer and includes a significant descent, so it requires a bit more endurance than the other hikes in this guide.
- 11 km
- ↑ 394 m ↓ 1110 m
- Moderate
- El Bailadero / Montes de Anaga Hostel
- Forest paths, rocky trails, some paved sections
How to Get There
The hike starts near El Bailadero, which can be reached via the TF-12. Parking is available near the road.
Public buses also connect Santa Cruz and La Laguna with El Bailadero and Taganana.
From El Bailadero into the Laurel Forest
The route begins near the road and quickly leads into the dense laurel forest. Narrow trails, ferns and twisted trees create a typical Anaga atmosphere.
After a short section, the path connects to the marked trails PR-TF 3 and PR-TF 8, which guide you deeper into the forest.
Through the Forest Towards Taganana
Most of the hike runs through shaded forest paths. The terrain is uneven in parts, and after rain the ground can be slippery.
As you descend, the vegetation slowly opens up and the first views towards the coast appear.
Taganana and Coastal Views
After a long descent, you reach the village of Taganana, one of the most scenic places in Anaga. The contrast between the green mountains and the ocean is especially striking here.
From the surrounding viewpoints, you get wide views of the coastline and the characteristic rock formations of the region.
Optional Extension
From Taganana, you can continue towards viewpoints above the coast for additional views. Some paths are steep and not always clearly marked, so caution is required.
Hiking trail 4: Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses)
Short and Easy Walk in the Anaga Forest
The Sendero de los Sentidos is one of the easiest and most accessible walks in the Anaga Mountains. Starting at the visitor centre near Cruz del Carmen, the trail leads through the dense laurel forest on well-maintained paths.
Despite its short distance, the walk offers a good impression of the unique vegetation and atmosphere of Anaga.
- 1.3 km
- ↑↓ 85 m
- Easy
- Anaga Visitor Centre (Cruz del Carmen)
- Forest paths, wooden walkways
What to Expect
The trail follows clearly marked paths through the forest, with wooden walkways, steps and shaded sections. Along the way, you’ll pass different viewpoints and sections that highlight the flora and landscape of the region.
There are several route options of varying lengths, making it easy to adapt the walk to your available time.
Views and Highlights
One of the highlights is the viewpoint near Cruz del Carmen, which offers wide views over the Anaga Mountains and, on clear days, even towards Mount Teide.
The surrounding forest, with its dense vegetation and twisted trees, creates the typical Anaga atmosphere even on this short walk.
Who Is This Hike For?
This trail is ideal if you’re looking for a short and easy walk or want to experience the Anaga forest without a longer hike.
It’s also a good option for a quick stop while exploring the region.
Guided Hikes in the Anaga Mountains
The hikes in the Anaga Mountains can easily be done on your own, as most trails are well marked. However, weather conditions can change quickly, and fog is common, which can make navigation more challenging.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience or want to learn more about the region, joining a guided hike can be a good option. Local guides know the area well and can adapt routes depending on conditions while showing places that are easy to miss on your own.
Where to Stay in Anaga
For hiking in the Anaga Mountains, it’s best to stay on the western side of the region. Towns like Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna offer good infrastructure and easy access to multiple trailheads.
Alternatively, you can stay in smaller villages closer to the mountains if you prefer a quieter and more remote setting.
Final Thoughts: Hiking in the Anaga Mountains
Hiking in the Anaga Mountains is one of the most unique experiences in Tenerife. The combination of lush forests, rugged terrain and coastal views makes this region very different from the rest of the island.
With routes like El Pijaral, Chamorga, Taganana and the Sendero de los Sentidos, you’ll find a great variety of hikes for different levels and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a short walk or a more challenging hike, Anaga is one of the best places to explore nature in Tenerife.
Explore More Hiking in Tenerife
If you enjoyed hiking in the Anaga Mountains, you might also like exploring other regions of the island.
👉 Discover more routes in the Teno Mountains – rugged landscapes, deep ravines and some of Tenerife’s wildest trails.
👉 Or check out these easy coastal hikes in Tenerife for relaxed walks with ocean views.
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