Most people come to Tenerife for the sunshine.
Then they discover the island has more than 1,000 kilometres of marked walking trails, and suddenly the beach isn’t quite so important.
One of the things I love about Tenerife is just how quickly the scenery changes. In the space of an hour, you can be walking across lava fields, wandering through ancient forests or standing on a cliff looking out over the Atlantic.
If you’re planning to get your walking boots out this summer, here are five routes that are well worth considering.
1. Alto de Guajara: One of the best views of Mount Teide
If you want one of the finest views in Teide National Park, it’s hard to beat Alto de Guajara.
At 2,715 metres, it’s the highest point on the edge of Las Cañadas Caldera and offers spectacular views across Mount Teide, Pico Viejo and much of the national park.
There’s also a bit of history up there. The remains of a small hut used by French astronomer Jean Mascart during his observations of Halley’s Comet in 1910 can still be found near the summit.
Route details
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2km each way
- Walking time: Around 1 to 2 hours uphill
An early morning start is definitely recommended, particularly during the summer.
2. San José de Los Llanos to Chinyero
If volcanic landscapes are more your thing, this walk takes you through the lava fields created by the 1909 Chinyero eruption, the last volcanic eruption recorded in Tenerife.
The contrast between the black lava and the surrounding Canary Island pine forest makes this one of the island’s most distinctive walks.
It’s also fairly straightforward, making it suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.
Route details
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 4.3km
- Walking time: Around 1 hour 30 minutes
3. Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo
This is one of those walks that really shows off the variety Tenerife has to offer.
Starting in the ancient laurel forests of Anaga, the trail gradually descends to the coast, passing through traditional villages such as Las Carboneras and Chinamada, famous for its cave houses carved into the rock.
It’s one of the best ways to experience the Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Route details
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 10.4km
- Walking time: Around 4 hours
4. Malpaís de Güímar
If you’re looking for something a little easier, the circular walk around Malpaís de Güímar is a great option.
The route crosses dramatic lava fields filled with native plants before reaching Cueva Honda, an impressive volcanic cave stretching for more than 100 metres.
There’s very little climbing, making it ideal for families or anyone wanting a gentler walk.
Just bear in mind there’s very little shade, so avoid the hottest part of the day.
Route details
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Distance: 6.1km
- Walking time: Around 3 hours
5. Cuevas Negras and Talavera, Los Silos
The northwest of Tenerife often gets overlooked, which is a shame because it’s home to some beautiful countryside.
The historic trails around Los Silos pass through forests, ravines and traditional farmland, offering a completely different side of the island.
Cuevas Negras
- Distance: 5.7km
- Walking time: Around 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Talavera
- Distance: 5km
- Walking time: Around 2 hours 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
A few words of advice
Summer is still a great time for walking in Tenerife, but a bit of planning goes a long way.
Set off early, take plenty of water, wear decent footwear and don’t underestimate the sun, even if it feels quite pleasant when you leave the car.
Do that, and you’ll discover a side of Tenerife that many holidaymakers never get to see.