If you have ever dreamed of losing yourself in an enchanted forest, surrounded by virgin nature and magical trails, the Anaga Rural Park is the perfect place. Located in the northeast of Tenerife, this park is a natural gem that combines mountains, prehistoric laurel forests, stunning cliffs, and hidden beaches.
In this comprehensive guide, you will discover everything about Anaga Rural Park: how to get there, the best hiking trails, must-see viewpoints, and tips to make the most of this natural paradise.
1️⃣ What is Anaga Rural Park and why is it a must-visit destination?
The Anaga Rural Park is a protected area declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2015. It is one of the oldest natural spaces in Tenerife, covering over 14,500 hectares of rugged mountains, deep ravines, and unique biodiversity.
📍 Location: It is located in the northeast of the island of Tenerife, encompassing municipalities such as La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Tegueste.
💚 Why visit it?
✔️ It is the most extensive laurel forest in Tenerife.
✔️ It has spectacular hiking routes for all levels.
✔️ It is home to unique species of flora and fauna.
✔️ It features viewpoints that offer stunning views.
2️⃣ How to Get to Anaga Rural Park
🚗 By Car
If you rent a car in Tenerife, getting to Anaga is easy:
- From Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 30 minutes via TF-12.
- From San Cristóbal de La Laguna: 40 minutes.
- From Puerto de la Cruz: 1 hour.
⛽ Tip: Fill up the tank before going, as there are no gas stations within the park.
🚌 By Public Transport
If you prefer public transport, the best options are:
- Line 946 (Santa Cruz Interchange → Cruz del Carmen).
- Line 947 (La Laguna Interchange → Afur and Taborno).
3️⃣ The Best Hiking Trails in Anaga
If you are a hiking enthusiast, Anaga is a true paradise. Here are the most recommended trails:
📍 1. Sentidos Trail (Easy)
🔹 Distance: 1.5 km
🔹 Duration: 30 minutes
🔹 Ideal for: Families and beginners
This short trail is perfect for those who want to enjoy the laurel forest without much effort. There are informational panels and sections adapted for people with reduced mobility.
📍 2. Enchanted Forest Route (Intermediate)
🔹 Distance: 6 km
🔹 Duration: 2 hours
🔹 Ideal for: Nature lovers
Walking this trail is like entering a fairy tale, surrounded by moss-covered trees and giant ferns. A prior permit is required, which can be requested on the Tenerife Cabildo website.
📍 3. Pico del Inglés Path (Easy-Intermediate)
🔹 Distance: 4 km
🔹 Duration: 1.5 hours
🔹 Ideal for: Spectacular photographs
One of the routes with the best views in the park. From the Pico del Inglés Viewpoint, on clear days, you can see up to Teide and the coast of Tenerife.
📍 4. Benijo Beach Route (Intermediate)
🔹 Distance: 7 km
🔹 Duration: 3 hours round trip
🔹 Ideal for: Sea and adventure lovers
This route descends through ravines to the famous Benijo Beach, one of the most photogenic beaches in Tenerife. Don’t forget to bring enough water and sunscreen.
4️⃣ Fauna and Flora: The Laurel Forest Paradise
Anaga Rural Park is home to a millennial laurel forest, a vegetation that existed during the age of dinosaurs.
🌳 Notable Flora:
✔️ Laurel forest (beech, laurels, vine plants).
✔️ Giant ferns and moss on the trunks.
✔️ Cardoons and tabaibas in drier areas.
🦜 Typical Fauna:
✔️ Blue Grosbeak, an endemic species of the Canary Islands.
✔️ Native bats that help control insects.
✔️ Giant lizards of Tenerife.
5️⃣ Must-See Viewpoints in Anaga
To capture the best panoramic views, don’t miss these viewpoints:
📍 Cruz del Carmen Viewpoint – Views of the La Laguna valley.
📍 Pico del Inglés Viewpoint – One of the most impressive panoramas.
📍 El Bailadero Viewpoint – Perfect for watching the sunrise over the Atlantic.
📸 Photographic Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the fog and get the best photos.
6️⃣ Practical Tips for Visiting Anaga
✔️ Wear appropriate clothing: Changing weather, light jacket, and comfortable footwear.
✔️ Don’t litter: Respect nature and follow conservation rules.
✔️ Check the weather: There may be fog or sudden rains.
✔️ Bring food and water: There are not many options to buy within the park.
7️⃣ Myths, Legends, and Curiosities of Anaga
🔹 The Guanches and the Sacred Mountains
It is said that the ancient Guanches, the aborigines of Tenerife, considered these mountains a sacred place. Some believe that on certain nights, mysterious chants are heard among the fog.
🔹 The Ghost Town of Taganana
Taganana is one of the oldest villages in Anaga, founded in the 16th century. It is said that on stormy nights, strange lights are seen among the mountains.
8️⃣ Traveler Experiences: Opinions and Recommendations
🗣️ “Anaga is the most magical place in Tenerife. We did the Sentidos Trail and it was amazing to see the moss-covered trees.” – María R.
🗣️ “The route to Benijo Beach was tough, but it was worth it. The sunset there is impressive.” – Carlos M.
9️⃣ Is it Worth Visiting Anaga Rural Park?
✅ Definitely, yes. Anaga is a natural treasure where you can disconnect, hike, and discover stunning landscapes. If you visit Tenerife, this park should be on your must-see list.
🌿 Ready for the adventure? Don’t forget your camera, because Anaga is a place that will leave you speechless.
We hope this guide to must-see spots in Anaga Rural Park has inspired your adventure, but if you have any questions or suggestions, please leave us your comments below.
