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Anaga Rural Park is among the most stunning laurel forests on the Canary Islands, which explains its reference in our guide on activities to participate in Tenerife.
The forest of Anaga is found in the most northwestern region of Tenerife and covers over 37,000 acres, encompassing parts of La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Tegueste. The park has also been designated as a Biosphere Reserve, therefore I can assure you it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Tenerife, particularly if you enjoy nature walks.
We were immediately captivated by this area since entering transports you into a magical world. The natural scenery consists of laurels, lichens, willows, fayas, and other plant species lending an ethereal feel. Additionally, Anaga features interesting geological structures such as stones, dikes, cliffs, and ravines along with a mystical haze. Undoubtedly a must during any trip to Tenerife!
To assist you in planning your visit, this guide includes:
- Sensory trail experience
- Other hiking routes
- Best beaches
- Best viewpoints
- Where to stay
- Where to eat
- Map
Additionally, while exploring Anaga Rural Park independently is possible, this escorted excursion offers a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the area in an informative manner, and it ranks among the finest activities accessible in Tenerife.
Table of Contents
Trail of the Senses in the Anaga Forest
Several hiking routes exist in Anaga, Tenerife, but a notably popular one is the Trail of the Senses, which once connected the towns of Anaga and La Laguna.
As implied by its name, this route offers a multi-sensory experience filled with sceneries, aromas, sounds, and textures one can feel. Of course, to safeguard this natural environment, you must follow the interpretive signs along the path, which will indicate where to look, smell, listen, and touch. Because of this, the Trail of the Senses is one of the most popular hikes in Tenerife.
This route through the Anaga forest consists of three paths. Trail 1 is the simplest; a 1,115-ft path. The terrain remains fairly level throughout, so it’s suitable for children and wheelchairs. Also, this trail reaches the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, where you can appreciate beautiful views of the park.
Trail 2 takes a circular route that is a bit more extended, measuring around 1,800 feet, but it remains straightforward. This path goes through the walkway and a dirt road, so it offers a good choice for those with less time yet wanting to see the laurel forest. Similar to the first route, it passes through the Cruz del Carmen viewpoint.
Lastly, Trail 3 is the longest and likewise the most scenic because it permits you to venture deeper into the laurel woodland and detach from the more touristy region. This loop is about 4,170 feet long and includes Trails 1 and 2. You’ll pass by the Cruz del Carmen and the Llano de los Loros viewpoints, so if you have the time, I undoubtedly recommend doing this one. We did this during our week trip to Tenerife but if you only have 5 days in Tenerife or less, it is still worthwhile.
All three routes begin from Cruz del Carmen, which is where the parking area is situated. From there, you can take Path 1 and, subject to your schedule and physical condition, you can continue along Path 2, which connects to Path 3. You can gain a clearer understanding of the trail network by checking this map.
Other hikes in Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife
While the Trail of the Senses is most popular, the Anaga forest also features other scenic hiking routes that are quieter with fewer tourists, so consider tackling them if time permits.
If you’d like additional knowledge about the numerous pathways in Anaga, Tenerife, you can examine the official website. You can also locate an authorized trail map here.
PR-TF-8 – Afur – Tamadiste – Taganana
This is one of the routes we followed within Anaga Rural Park, and it’s a lovely trail that passes between cliffs and laurel woods. Throughout the entire circular path, you’ll have sights of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a 9-mile trail ranked as intermediate difficulty.
The formal starting point is Afur, a small village surrounded by cliffs. From here, you must take the route that passes through the Anaga mountains towards Tamadite Beach, considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife.
To access the beach, you must descend the Afur ravine, so I advise wearing comfortable shoes with good traction, especially if it has rained and the ground is damp. What makes Tamadite such a worthwhile beach is its gorgeous clifftop scenery. Just be aware that swimming is prohibited due to the strong currents.
After visiting Tamadite, one must ascend the ravine, but the efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views. The panoramic scene from the Roques de Anaga viewpoint is especially beautiful, with cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean visible in the background.
Continue alongside the path up until you arrive at Taganana, an ancient village with stunning samples of conventional Canarian structure. From Taganana, you’ll return to Afur, the formal endpoint of this hiking course in Anaga, Tenerife.
El Pijaral – A hike through the enchanted Anaga forest
The El Pijaral route is another trail in Anaga, Tenerife worthy of doing. In this case, you must request a permit since access is limited to 45 people per day to protect and preserve the area, which was declared an Integral Natural Reserve. Be aware that you must submit your request within 15 days of your trip through this link.
This route is also known as the Enchanted Forest Path, and it’s one of the most stunning trails in Tenerife because it appears like a fictional setting. The moderately easy 4.3-mile circular route travels through giant ferns, yew trees, and laurel forests. The best part of this path is the mist that makes the forest look mysterious and magical.
The enigma forest – One of the best forest in Anaga, Tenerife
Another trail in Anaga Rural Park worth traversing is Bosque de los Enigmas, an easy circular route of approximately 3 miles. It’s an excellent option if you want to take a nature walk as a family.
The name comes from the mystery clues about this forest located along the path, allowing visitors to discover more regarding the origin and history of this place. At the same time, walkers get to pass through the lovely laurel forest, providing the ideal setting for a tranquil and relaxing stroll.
The landscape of El Teide in Tenerife, specifically, undergoes a drastic alteration at night, so participating in a night tour of Teide can provide a completely different perspective of this otherworldly terrain. If you`re interested in such an experience, I strongly recommend this excursion.
Best beaches in Anaga Rural Park
For visitors who favor a guided mountain trek in Fuerteventura, I recommend this excursion. Regardless of your choice, I assure you that after achieving the summit about 400 feet elevated, you’ll be rewarded with remarkable views that you’ll always remember.
Benijo Beach
Benijo Beach is one of the best beaches in Anaga Rural Park thanks to its wild and pristine landscape. While it’s not the best for swimming, especially when there are strong waves, it’s a very quiet place. Plus, you can see Roque Benijo and Roque La Rapadura, making this beach one of the must-sees in Anaga, Tenerife.
Reaching it requires approximately a 15 minute walk from the El Mirador restaurant, where visitors can park their vehicles.
Tamadiste
Tamadiste or Tamadite Beach is another worth visiting Anaga beach. Most people arrive here by pursuing the PR-TF-8 trail, which is the circular route through Afur, Tamadiste, and Taganana.
Swimming is not allowed on this beach because of the strong currents, but the scenery is surrounded by cliffs, so it’s a magnificent place to visit.
Roque de las Bodegas
If you’re looking for a beach where you can enjoy swimming in Anaga Rural Park, then Roque de las Bodegas is the best choice for that activity.
The black sand beach is located at the foot of the Anaga massif, so it’s the ideal place to observe the landscape. Also, the waves aren’t as strong here, and while you can swim, you should still be careful.
You can arrive at Roque de las Bodegas Beach by motor vehicle, although you’ll need to take some staircases from the parking area to the beach .
Best viewpoints in the Anaga Forest
The strongAnaga forest” has many excellent vantage points where one can view the magnificent scenery. You can make the most of your stroll along one of the tracks I mentioned and experience the laurel woods while getting spectacular views. Below are the premier viewpoints to check out.
Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, a must-see in Anaga, Tenerife
The Cruz del Carmen viewpoint is one of the most popular lookout areas in the Anaga Rural Park. You’ll find it along the Trail of the Senses, so you’ll be able to access it using any of the three interconnected paths.
From here, spectacular views of Vega Lagunera and La Laguna with Mount Teide in the background can be seen.
Mirador de Pico del Inglés, a magical place in Anaga Rural Park
The Pico del Inglés viewpoint is another popular overlook on Anaga mountain. To reach there, you must scale Mount Las Mercedes, which you can access from La Laguna.
Of course, the climb is worthwhile because you’ll see all of northern and central Tenerife from above. Some notable sights to search for including the Roques de Anaga, the Afur ravine, the Aguere and Güímar valleys, and Mount Teide.
Llano de los Loros viewpoint, an incredible view of the Anaga mountains
Finally, one viewpoint in Anaga, Tenerife that you must see is the Llano de los Loros lookout. Similar to Cruz del Carmen viewpoint, it`s part of the Trail of the Senses, although in this case you need to follow Trail 3 to reach it.
From this view, you can see Santa Cruz de Tenerifeand the Tahodio ravine .
Where to stay in Anaga Rural Park
If you wish to make the most of your time visiting Anaga, Tenerife, I recommend staying overnight at nearby lodging. We booked an evening at the Montes de Anaga hostel, and it without a doubt offers the best option as it`s situated in Anaga Rural Park.
Should this hostel become unavailable, a few other acceptable options near the Anaga forest still exist. One alternative is the Islanaga Tenerife Rural House, situated a brief drive away from the park. It features rooms for couples and families, also welcoming pets.
The text contained alternative lodging options near Taganana on Tenerife. It first discussed booking Casa Campo y Playa Taganana, located right in the town, which could be convenient for hiking route PR-TF-8. It next mentioned Casanaga as another good lodging option in Anaga, particularly for couples near the area`s attractions and beach
Where to eat in Anaga, Tenerife
There exist numerous dining establishments in Anaga, Tenerife, so you won’t face any difficulties finding nourishment. However, and particularly if you’re going hiking, I suggest carrying snacks and water in your backpack, so you’re prepared at all times!
In Taganana, you’ll come across a handful of restaurants that present good value for money, such as the Playa Casa Africa Restaurant, where they serve fish and seafood meals, along with some traditional Canarian cuisine such as potatoes with mojo sauce. Two other superb options are the Guachinche Bibi y Mana Restaurant and La Ola Restaurant.
If you want to dine in Afur, I recommend Restaurante Historias Para No Dormir, which offers delicious meals at a very affordable price. I also can’t forget El Mirador Restaurant, which I recommend if you’re going to be on Benijo Beach.
I have no doubts that you will surely locate excellent dining establishments near the Anaga Rural Park and the surrounding towns. Additionally, most of them offer traditional Canarian dishes, and at a very reasonable cost .
Anaga Rural Park map
In this map of Anaga, Tenerife, you’ll find all the points of interest in the park, as well as the hiking trails, hotels, and dining establishments I mentioned. I suggest keeping this map handy as you plan your visit, as it’ll make it much easier for you to locate all the places in Anaga that you’d like to see.
I hope this guide helped provide more information about the Anaga Rural Park and convinced you to visit this beautiful attraction. If you have any other questions, leave me a comment below and I’ll do my best to assist you. Safe travels!
