Anaga Mountains
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where ancient forests meet dramatic coastline
A Primeval Paradise
The Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga) on Tenerife's northeastern tip represent a true natural jewel, protected as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This pristine area offers breathtaking views, picturesque hiking trails, unique flora and fauna, traditional villages, and an escape into one of Europe's last remaining ancient laurel forests. Rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, these mountains harbor ecosystems that have survived since the Tertiary period, earning them recognition as one of the most biodiverse regions in Europe. The combination of misty laurisilva forests, rugged peaks, hidden valleys, and remote villages creates an otherworldly landscape that feels like stepping back in time millions of years.
Spectacular Viewpoints
The Anaga Mountains are renowned for their numerous miradors (viewpoints) offering spectacular panoramas of mountains, ocean, and traditional villages.
Mirador de Jardina
Located at the beginning of the TF-12 road, this viewpoint offers magnificent views of the Aguere Valley, La Laguna city, and Mount Teide in the background (on clear days). Easily accessible by car with a small parking area.
Visit early morning for the clearest views of Mount Teide across the island.
Mirador Cruz del Carmen
One of the most popular and well-equipped viewpoints. Features a visitor center, restaurant, parking, and toilets. Panoramic views stretch across La Laguna, the Anaga mountains, and the coast. It's also a popular starting point for many trails.
Stop at the visitor center first for maps and current trail conditions. The restaurant serves excellent local food if you're hungry after hiking.
Mirador Pico del Inglés
Situated at nearly 1,000m above sea level, this viewpoint provides some of the most impressive views in Anaga. On clear days, you can see the coastline, jagged mountain peaks, and even La Laguna and Mount Teide. Located near the characteristic 'Fairy Tunnel' (Túnel de las Hadas).
Drive through the mystical Fairy Tunnel on your way here - it's a magical experience when mist rolls through the forest.
Mirador del Bailadero
Offers expansive views of deep ravines and the rugged Anaga coastline. An excellent stopping point to admire the landscape. Accessible by car.
Perfect for sunset photography with dramatic lighting over the ravines.
Mirador de Benijo
Provides spectacular views of Benijo Beach and the dramatic cliffs of Anaga's northern coast. Accessible by car after passing through Taganana.
Time your visit with low tide to see the black sand beaches and rock formations at their best.
Hiking Paradise
The network of trails offers routes for all levels, from easy forest walks to challenging mountain traverses. Each trail reveals different aspects of Anaga's diverse landscapes.
Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of Senses)
Short, easy trail starting near Cruz del Carmen. Perfect for families and beginners, with interactive points stimulating the senses. Leads through dense laurel forest with variants ranging from 340m to 1,272m.
Easy
15 minutes to 1 hour
340m - 1.27km
Some sections are adapted for people with limited mobility. Choose your variant based on time and energy levels.
Cruz del Carmen to Chinamada
Popular moderate difficulty trail leading through laurel forest, terraced fields, offering views of Chinamada village with its cave houses. Lollipop-shaped route (loop at the end).
Moderate
5-6 hours
12km round trip
1,100m total ascent/descent
Can be slippery after rain. Stop for lunch in Chinamada - local restaurants serve traditional food.
Taganana to Afur
Moderate difficulty trail often done as a loop. Leads from Taganana to Afur village, often descending to Tamadite Beach (rocky). Offers varied landscapes: ocean views, ravine crossings, and forest sections.
Moderate
6 hours
13.21km loop
800m
Requires good fitness and caution on steep, potentially slippery sections.
Las Carboneras to Taborno
Medium to high difficulty trail. Leads through rocky landscapes offering views of Roque de Taborno. Some sections are steep and require confidence.
Medium-High
3.5-5+ hours
5.66km or 10km loop
Not for those afraid of heights. The views of Roque de Taborno ('Tenerife's Matterhorn') are spectacular.
Benijo Loop
Moderate to difficult trail starting near Benijo Beach. Leads through mountains and along the coast, offering dramatic ocean and rock formation views.
Moderate-Difficult
2.5-3 hours
6.5km
Combines beach and mountain scenery - bring swim gear if you want to cool off at Benijo Beach.
Traditional Mountain Villages
The Anaga Mountains harbor traditional villages that have preserved their authentic character. These settlements offer glimpses into traditional Canarian mountain life.
Taganana
Charming coastal village with traditional houses and narrow streets. Known for fresh seafood restaurants and as a gateway to northern beaches.
Restaurants:
Mesón Los Angeles, Restaurante Roques Casa Pepe
Specialties:
Fresh fish, traditional Canarian dishes
Chinamada
Famous for its unique cave houses carved into the rock. This remote village offers insight into traditional mountain life.
Restaurants:
Restaurante La Cueva
Specialties:
Papas arrugadas with mojo, local stews
Afur
Small mountain settlement maintaining traditional agriculture on terraced slopes. Peaceful atmosphere with basic amenities.
Restaurants:
Casa Jose Cañon
Specialties:
Simple local meals, traditional soups
Las Carboneras
Remote mountain village offering authentic rural experience. Terraced agriculture and traditional architecture dominate the landscape.
Specialties:
Local produce, traditional preparations
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Anaga is one of the world's few places where ancient laurel forest (laurisilva) survives - a relic of subtropical forests from the Tertiary period.
Unique Ecosystem
Home to numerous endemic plant and animal species, including many bird species found nowhere else.
Living Forest
The evergreen laurel forest thrives on the humid mountain slopes, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Global Importance
UNESCO status emphasizes Anaga's global significance for biodiversity conservation.
Essential Information
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the mildest temperatures and most stable weather. Winter (December-February) is cooler and more humid with frequent fog. Summer (June-August) can be hot, especially on lower trails.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, plenty of water, snacks, map (don't rely solely on phones due to limited signal), first aid kit, sunscreen, rain/wind protection.
Driving Conditions
Mountain roads are narrow, winding, with limited visibility on curves and no shoulders. Drive slowly, watch for other vehicles, cyclists, locals, and animals. Parking is limited near popular trails and villages.
Public Transport
TITSA buses serve Cruz del Carmen and some villages like Taganana, Afur, and Las Carboneras from La Laguna and Santa Cruz. Lines to Cruz del Carmen include 076, 077, 273, 274, 275 from La Laguna and 945, 947 from Santa Cruz.
Mountain Cuisine
Local restaurants serve traditional Canarian dishes made with local products:
- Papas arrugadas: Salted potatoes with mojo sauces
- Carne de cabra: Traditional goat meat dishes
- Fresh fish: In coastal villages like Taganana
- Local wines: From terraced vineyards
- Gofio: Toasted grain flour used in many dishes
Cruz del Carmen Visitor Center
Start your Anaga adventure here. The center provides:
- • Detailed hiking maps and trail information
- • Current weather and trail conditions
- • Educational exhibits about local ecology
- • Restaurant and facilities
- • Expert advice from park staff
Weather Considerations
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for:
- • Sudden fog limiting visibility
- • Slippery trails after rain
- • Cool temperatures at altitude
- • Strong winds on exposed ridges
Always check weather forecasts before hiking!
Why Visit Anaga?
The Anaga Mountains offer an unparalleled natural experience on Tenerife. This ancient landscape combines primeval forests, dramatic coastlines, and traditional villages in a way found nowhere else in Europe. Whether you're hiking through mist-shrouded laurel forests, standing on clifftop viewpoints, or exploring remote villages where time seems to have stopped, Anaga provides authentic adventures far from mass tourism. The combination of accessible day hikes and challenging mountain trails, coupled with the area's extraordinary biodiversity and cultural heritage, makes it an essential destination for nature lovers and hikers visiting Tenerife.