Anaga Rural Park
Tenerife | GPS: 28.5355571, -16.2389586
Anaga is one of the most distinctive landscapes in Tenerife: a jagged mountain massif in the island’s northeast where steep ridges, deep valleys, ancient laurel forest and tiny settlements create a mood that feels far removed from the coast below. It is one of the island’s best areas for walking and one of its strongest arguments for Tenerife as a nature destination.
The scenery is older, greener and more rugged than many first-time visitors expect. Clouds, mist and sudden sun breaks are all part of the experience, and the shifting weather only adds to the atmosphere.
Why go
Anaga is about hiking, viewpoints, winding roads and the pleasure of moving through a landscape that still feels remote. Some people come for a single short walk near Cruz del Carmen, while others treat the whole area as a full-day road trip of trails, lookouts and coastal stops.
Villages and coast
Part of the region’s appeal is the way the mountains drop towards old hamlets and rough Atlantic shoreline. Places like Taganana and the beaches around the north edge of Anaga give the area a human scale and keep it from being only a hiking zone. It is a place to walk, then stop for lunch, then keep exploring.
Plan before you hike
Anaga rewards preparation. Parking is limited, some routes close for restoration or weather reasons, and conditions can differ sharply from Santa Cruz or the south coast. Public transport can be the smarter option on busy days. Wear proper footwear, check trail status first and do not underestimate the terrain.
Last updated: May 2026