Anaga Mountains

Ancient cloud forest, steep ridges and small villages in the northeast – a hikers' paradise.

Weather changes fast: bring a jacket and sturdy shoes.

What to expect

The Anaga mountains in the north-east are among the oldest on the island and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This is home to the laurel forest (laurisilva), a cloud forest from a long-gone geological era, with moss-covered trees, steep ridges and deep ravines. Small villages such as Taganana, Chinamada with its cave houses or Afur are scattered across the slopes; on the coast there are black beaches such as Benijo.

Weather and best time

The trade winds pile up the clouds here: mist, drizzle and fast-changing weather are normal, while the coast can be sunny. Trails are slippery in these conditions. Spring and autumn are usually the most pleasant; in summer visibility is clearer. Take your time – one day covers the highlights, two are better for hiking.

Getting there and practical

From La Laguna a winding mountain road leads to the visitor centre near Cruz del Carmen and to viewpoints; the road to Taganana is narrow and slow. Parking is limited, so come early at weekends. Many trails are marked and link villages; buses serve only some of the places.

Tips and notes

Pack sturdy shoes, a rain jacket and a warm layer even if it is warm below. In mist do not walk alone on unmarked paths, and download an offline map because mobile reception is patchy. A fish lunch in Taganana or Benijo rounds off the day. Follow the rules on parking, trails and nature protection, take nothing away and leave no litter.