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Insider Tips About Visiting the Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife (2024)

Insider Tips About Visiting the Anaga Rural Park In Tenerife (2024)

The Anaga Rural Park is a spectacular area of northeast Tenerife in the Canary Islands. Although the well-known Teide National Park sees more visitors, the Anaga Rural Park is perhaps even more impressive in terms of natural beauty. The area boasts incredible mountains, known as the Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga in Spanish) and also stunning laurel forests, collectively known as the Anaga Forest.

In this guide, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about visiting the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife. We’ll start by telling you about all of the best things to do during a visit. This will include information about the best Anaga hiking trails, viewpoints (Miradors), places to swim, places to eat and the most scenic roads. We’ll then cover all of the nitty-gritty practical information about how to get there, how to get around and where to stay.

Before reading this guide about the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife, feel free to watch our Tenerife Hiking YouTube video. You’ll find four of the Anaga hikes mentioned in this guide in the production.

About the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife

The Anaga Rural Park was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (AKA Macizo de Anaga Biosphere Reserve) in 2015. That’s because it’s home to the largest number of endemic species (meaning species are only found there and nowhere else) in Europe. Indeed, this is just one reason why it’s worth visiting Anaga in Tenerife.

The Anaga Rural Park covers most of the northeast corner of Tenerife, spanning approx. 140 km². The area spreads over three municipalities, including the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, San Cristobal de La Laguna and Tegueste.

Personally, Beck and I think Anaga is the ideal place to visit in Tenerife. Whether you like hiking, scenic driving, enjoying viewpoints, swimming or eating local cuisine, this area of outstanding natural beauty will cover all bases. Indeed, if we had to choose our favourite area in the Canary Islands, we think it could be the Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife!

Now you know a little more about the area, let’s look at all of the tips, tricks and secrets, to ensure you have an awesome time when visiting Anaga, Tenerife. Of course, feel free to visit the Anaga Rural Park Visitor Centre (Centro de Visitantes del Parque Rural de Anaga) for maps or additional information. The visitor centre is located here in Cruz del Carmen.

FYI – Anaga in Tenerife goes by many names. Most commonly, Anaga Rural Park (Parque Rural de Anaga or Parque Rural Anaga in Spanish). But, it’s also known as Anaga Country Park, Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga Biosphere Reserve), Anaga Park (Parque de Anaga) and Anaga National Park (Parque Natural Anaga).

Read our big Tenerife Hiking Guide

Anaga Tenerife Map

Below, you’ll find a map of the entire area of Anaga in Tenerife. Click on the map to access an interactive Google Maps. As you can see from the map below, Anaga Rural Park is located northeast of the major cities of San Cristobal de La Laguna and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Indeed, this is where you’ll find the mind-blowing Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga), forests and beaches.

Best Things to Do in the Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife

When it comes to the best things to do in Anaga, Tenerife, there are so many places to explore. As mentioned, we’re going to focus on the best Anaga Rural Park hiking, scenic driving, swimming and even places to eat. Let’s start with the best walks in Anaga, Tenerife.

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9 Best Anaga Tenerife Hikes

There are plenty of awesome Anaga hiking routes. We’ve handpicked the nine best Anaga Rural Park trails for you to explore. This includes five mountain trails and four forest trails.

FYI – Beck and I personally completed many of these hiking trails. If you’re particularly interested in one of the hikes below and want more details about how to get there, what to expect and to access specific Anaga Tenerife hiking maps, just click on the link to that guide. That way, you’ll be able to see the individual article we wrote about that route and all the in-depth information to go with it.

Anaga Mountains: Hiking Macizo de Anaga

The rugged green peaks, deep ravines and unique landforms make Tenerife’s Anaga Mountains, the most impressive mountain range in Tenerife. Thankfully, there are numerous trails to help you explore these epic mountains. Without further ado, let’s get stuck into five of the best hikes in the Anaga Mountains. We’ll start with our favourite – the Chinamada Trail (PR-TF 10).

1. Chinamada Trail (Punta del Hidalgo to Chinamada)

  • Type: Out & Back
  • Distance: 10.5km
  • Time: 3.5–5.5 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 700m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Punta del Hidalgo

Known as PR-TF 10 (according to the Tenerife Footpath Network), the Chinamada Trail stretches from Punta del Hidalgo to Cruz del Carmen. Chinamada is actually located between these two towns. There are many trail variations involving PR-TF 10. But, an increasingly popular option is the out and back hike from Punta del Hidalgo to Chinamada. Beck and I absolutely loved this hike. You’ll explore a mesmerising gorge called Barranco del Río, which provides stellar coastal and mountain views.

Of course, if time allows, we recommend doing the entire PR-TF 10 route in either direction. Albeit, the typical direction is from Cruz del Carmen to Punta del Hidalgo. After completing the hike in Punta del Hidalgo, it’s possible to get a bus back to Cruz del Carmen.

Bonus tip: make sure to walk to Mirador Aguaide in Chinamada for some of the best views of the Anaga Mountains in Tenerife.

Read more: Chinamada Trail From Punta del Hidalgo – The Ultimate Guide

Dan stands at a unnamed viewpoint on the Chinamada Trail, between Punta del Hidalgo and Cruz del Carmen, in the Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga), Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife.

2. Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo (or to Faro de Anaga)

  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 5.2km
  • Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 400m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Benijo

One of the best hikes in the Anaga Mountains is the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo hike. Basically, this hike is a shorter trail variation of the classic Playa de Benijo to Faro de Anaga Loop Trail. The main reason you should do the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo hike is to do a shorter walk to reach the legendary Mirador Cabezo del Tejo. We think Mirador Cabezo del Tejo is hands-down the best Mirador in the Anaga Mountains.

Otherwise, if you’re keen to explore more of the epic coastline and see the Faro de Anaga Lighthouse, then we recommend the Playa de Benijo to Faro de Anaga Loop Trail. By the way, keep an eye out for the awesome dragon trees around El Draguillo.

Read more: Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo – The Epic Mirador Cabezo del Tejo

Dan stands next to a signpost. with the vast ocean behind him.

3. Roque de Taborno Circuit Trail

  • Type: Circuit
  • Distance: 4km
  • Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 270m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Taborno

One of the most underrated hikes in the Anaga Mountains in Tenerife is the Roque de Taborno Citcuit Trail. Sure, lots of people are aware of the legendary rocky monolith called Roque de Taborno. It’s easy to see the incredibly shaped landform from many different parts of the Anaga Mountains. But, not many people do the awesome hike around the mythical monolith in the Macizo de Anaga.

Other than exploring this wondrous natural attraction, you’ll also enjoy spellbinding coastal and mountain views along the trail. Indeed, one of the best viewpoints along the walk is found at Mirador Fuente del Lomo.

Read more: Roque de Taborno – The Ultimate Tenerife Hiking Guide

Before heading into the Anaga Forest, Dan explores Roque Taborno in the Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga) in the Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife.

4. Taganana to Playa de Tamadite (PR-TF 8)

  • Type: Out & Back
  • Distance: 8.9km
  • Time: 3–4 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 4200m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Taganana, Tenerife

Starting in the town of Taganana, you’ll pick up the PR-TF 8 (Pista del Chorro). The trail descends and winds its way through the mountainous coastal region to Playa de Tamadite. Indeed, Playa de Tamadite is one of the most picturesque beaches in the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife. It’s a pebble beach, that’s dwarfed by the large Anaga Mountains looming in the distance.

Another trail option of PR-TF 8 is a circular walk, taking in Taganana, Playa de Tamadite and the town Afur. Click here for trail specs and a map of this trail variation.

5. Igueste to Atalaya de los Ingleses

  • Type: Out & Back
  • Distance: 5.5km
  • Time: 2 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 600m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Igueste

All of the Anaga Mountain hikes discussed so far take place on or near the northern coastline. But, the Igueste to Atalaya de los Ingleses hike takes place on the opposite side of the peninsula, near the southern border. By doing this lesser-known Anaga Mountains hike, you’ll explore a different area of the park. Indeed, it’s an area, that not as many tours explore. Although similar to other more popular Anaga Mountains hikes discussed, you’ll experience more of the same – epic coastal and mountain views. Particularly, from Atalaya de los Ingleses, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coast.

Anaga Forest Trails

Now that we’ve covered all of the best Anaga Mountain hikes, let’s look at the best forest trails. Anaga is covered by large areas of pristine laurel forests. In fact, Anaga has the highest concentration of laurel forests in Tenerife. Personally, Beck and I really enjoyed exploring the Anaga Forest in Tenerife. Sure, it wasn’t as exhilarating and awe-inspiring as hiking in the Anaga Mountains. But, by exploring the Anaga Forest, you’ll get to see various endemic plants and trees. Because of the serenity of your surroundings, you’ll definitely be left with a sense of relaxation and calmness after trekking through the Anaga Forest.

6. Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses)

One of the most well-known Anaga Forest trails is Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses). Starting near Mirador Cruz del Carmen and the Anaga Rural Park Visitor Centre, you’ll find the trailhead for Sendero de los Sentidos. Essentially, there are three interconnected tracks, which explore the heart of the Anaga Forest in Cruz del Carmen.

Indeed, your senses will be stimulated! Interestingly, the tracks follow the Antiguo Camino Real (Old Royal Road). Previous generations used this track to get between San Cristobal de La Laguna and the Anaga Mountains!

Read more: Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses) in Anaga, Tenerife

Dan walks on Sendero de los Sentidos in Anaga Forest, Tenerife, near Mirador Cruz del Carmen and Sendero Hija Cambada.

7. Sendero Hija Cambada

Sendero Hija Cambada is another trail starting near Mirador Cruz del Carmen. It’s an even shorter track that leads you through similarly quiet and charming woodland terrain, typical of the Anaga Forest in Tenerife. Although you’ll cross the road a few times, Sendero Hija Cambada is considered another relaxing walk. But, make sure to visit early to avoid the rush!

8. El Bosque de los Enigmas (The Forest of Enigmas)

  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 5km
  • Time: 1–2 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 200m
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trailhead: Mirador de Zapata

Another nearby trail is El Bosque de los Enigmas (The Forest of Enigmas). Similar to Sendero de los Sentidos and Sendero Hija Cambada, this Anaga Forest trail is another relatively short and simple trail. Indeed, it’s an easy stroll suitable for children. During this walk, you’ll enjoy more of the splendid ancient laurel forest.

So, why is it called ‘The Forest of Enigmas’? Well, there are many signs and information boards along the trail, which tell you about the mystery of the forest! So, other than enjoying a peaceful ambience, you’ll learn about the origin and history of the Anaga Forest.

9. Sendero el Bosque Encantado (Enchanted Forest Trail)

  • Type: Loop
  • Distance: 6km
  • Time: 1.5–2.5 hours
  • Accumulated elevation gain: 400m
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Bosque Encantado (La Ensillada) – El Pijaral

The Enchanted Forest in Anaga is perhaps the most beautiful laurel forest in Tenerife. You’ll find many large ferns and moss-covered trees. If you head there early in the morning and experience the right weather conditions, you’ll see a magical mist that covers the forest floor. Certainly, it looks and feels unreal, maybe even enchanted!

Keep in mind that to visit the Enchanted Forest in Anaga, you’ll need to book a free permit online. To conserve and protect the areas, numbers are limited to 45 visitors per day. You can find Anaga Rural Park permits for the Enchanted Forest here. Unfortunately, permits do book out in advance, so you’ll need to be prepared and book around 1–3 months in advance. Thankfully, there are no other places that require Anaga Rural Park tickets to visit.

Best Viewpoints in Anaga, Tenerife

There are numerous Miradors in the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife, which provide utterly spectacular views. Often, these viewpoints will give you fantastic coastal views, mountain views or both! Some of the best Miradors are found along the hiking trails mentioned above. Whilst other epic viewpoints are simply found in a town, on the roadside or in dedicated areas with infrastructure such as parking to facilitate your visit.

Below, we’ll go through a mix of the best viewpoints, with some found on hiking trails and others on the side of the road. For each Mirador, we’ll provide a link to a map, showing exactly where it’s located in Anaga, Tenerife.

Mirador Cabezo del Tejo

Mirador Cabezo del Tejo is definitely the best viewpoint in the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife. Located on the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo hike, you’ll enjoy the most astonishing and breathtaking views of Macizo de Anaga, towering over the ocean.

Location: Google Maps

Beck at Mirador Cabezo del Tejo during the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo hike in the Anaga Mountains (Macizo de Anaga), Anaga Rural Parl, Tenerife.

Mirador de Jardina

Mirador de Jardina is found on the brilliant Anaga Mountain Road, which cuts through the heart of the Anaga Rural Park. You’ll find most viewpoints along this section of the road, between San Cristobal de La Laguna and Cruz del Carmen, usually facing in a southwards direction. This means you’ll enjoy views of San Cristobal de La Laguna and Mount Teide – the highest mountain in Tenerife.

Location: Google Maps

Mirador Cruz del Carmen

Mirador Cruz del Carmen is one of the most popular viewpoints in the area. Located in Cruz del Carmen, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of Mount Teide. As mentioned, some of the awesome Anaga Forest trails such as Sendero de los Sentidos and Sendero Hija Cambada are located near this viewpoint. So, there’s plenty in the area to keep you busy, other than just visiting the Mirador.

Location: Google Maps

Miradro Cruz del Carmen, in the Anaga Forest, in Cruz del Carmen in Tenerife

Mirador Llano de Los Loros

By doing Sendero de los Sentidos, you’ll arrive at Mirador Llao de Los Loros. Specifically, along Sendero de los Sentidos Track 3, you’ll find the wondrous lookout. Personally, Beck and I visited around sunrise, which was truly magical.

Location: Google Maps

Views of the Anaga forest and mountains in the Anaga Rural Park from Mirador Llano de Los Loros in Tenerife

Mirador de Pico del Ingles

Mirador Pico del Inglés is another sensational viewpoint located near Cruz del Carmen. From this lookout, you’ll have sweeping views of the incredible Macizo de Anaga. Keep an eye out for Roques de Anaga, the Afur ravine, and, of course, Mount Teide.

Location: Google Maps

Mirador del Risco Mogote

Mirador del Risco Mogote AKA Mirador Risco Magoje and Mirador Risco Amogoje is a lesser-known lookout point in Taganana. You’ll pass this viewpoint if you’re driving to the beaches on the north coast, such as Playa de Benijo. Make sure to stop in at this lookout for mesmerising mountainous and coastal views.

Location: Google Maps

Best Beaches and Pools: Where to Swim in Anaga, Tenerife

Now you know about the best hikes and viewpoints in Anaga, Tenerife, let’s look at the best places to swim! Below, we’ll look at which beaches and natural pools you should visit.

In terms of the best natural pools, we recommend visiting Piscina Natural Punta del Hidalgo and Piscina Natural de Bajamar. Given the terrain of the pebble beaches in Anaga, you’ll find the natural pools can be easier to swim in. But, it’s hard to beat the beauty and remoteness of the beaches. Below, we’ll focus on the best beaches to visit in Anaga, Tenerife.

Notable mentions go to Playa de Antequera and Playa de Roque Bermejo, which are beaches that you’ll need to hike to. Indeed, the remoteness and difficulty to access these particular beaches, make them even more special to visit. Certainly, even in the peak season, these beaches should be quieter than the more popular beaches listed below.

Beck at Playa del Roque de las Bodegas.

Playa de Benijo

Playa de Benijo is a beautiful black sand beach, located in Benijo. The beach is accessible by car; although, there’s just a steep staircase that you’ll need to descend to reach the beach. We recommend exploring the beach after doing the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo hike.

Playa de Almáciga

Just around the corner from Playa de Benijo, you’ll find Playa de Almáciga. This beach is slightly less known than Playa de Benijo. But, we think this black sand beach is just as impressive.

Playa del Roque de las Bodegas

Just west of both Playa de Benijo and Playa de Almáciga, you’ll find the larger Playa del Roque de las Bodegas. Given its larger size, Playa del Roque de las Bodegas sees more visitors. With ample roadside parking, accessing the beach is super easy. If you’re not keen on a dip, simply head to one of the cafes opposite the beach to enjoy the views. That’s exactly what Beck and I did!

Playa de Tamadite

Unlike the other three beaches mentioned above, Playa de Tamadite isn’t easily accessible. To reach Playa de Tamadite, you’ll need to hike through the Macizo de Anaga from either Afur or Taganana. Given the strong currents and remoteness of the beach, swimming here isn’t permitted. But, Playa de Tamadite offers an enthralling natural setting for those who put in the effort to visit.

Playa de Las Teresitas

All of the black sand beaches mentioned above are found on the northern coastline of Anaga, Tenerife. Conversely, Playa de Las Teresitas is located on the southern coast, just north of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The other main difference is that this beach is a golden sand beach. It’s a popular beach to visit as it’s probably the safest and easiest beach to swim at.

Best Scenic Roads in Anaga, Tenerife

There are many picturesque roads that meander and wind their way through the Anaga Mountains in Tenerife. If you love a scenic drive, then you’ll have much to enjoy as you cruise along the stunning stretches of road in the area. Of course, by simply visiting the Anaga Rural Park, you’ll use these roads to access the best hikes, beaches and viewpoints. In particular, there are two worthwhile roads to explore, in their own right. These include the Anaga Mountain Road (T-12) and TF-134.

Viewpoint from the T-12
Views from Anaga Mountain Road (TF-12)

Anaga Mountain Road (TF-12)

The Anaga Mountain Road (TF-12) connects San Cristobal de La Laguna with El Bailadero, Tenerife. Along this road, you’ll pass many of the Miradors mentioned above such as Mirador de Jardina. This is also the road you’ll take to access Cruz del Carmen and the many surrounding Anaga Forests. Also, if you’re travelling to Benijo from San Cristobal de La Laguna, you’ll use the Anaga Mountain Road to get to TF-134 – the other epic mountain road.

FYI – whilst driving along TF-12, we recommend a slight detour to visit Camino Viejo al Pico del Inglés on TF-114. By doing so, you’ll drive on an epic road that’s surrounded by high walls and overhanging trees.

TF-134

The TF-134 road connects Taganana with Benijo. You’ll need to take this road if you plan on doing the Playa de Beinjio to El Draguillo hike (which we highly recommend). Otherwise, if you’re simply visiting beaches such as Playa del Roque de las Bodegas or Playa de Almáciga, you’ll also use this road. Compared with the Anaga Mountain Road, you’ll enjoy more in the way of stunning coastal views.

Things to Know Before Visiting Anaga in Tenerife

Now you know what to see and where to visit, let’s go through all of the practical information regarding logistics. Let’s start by looking at transport options for getting to and exploring Anaga, Tenerife.

How to Get to Anaga in Tenerife

It’s possible to reach the Anaga Rural Park by either driving there yourself or by using public transport. Let’s explore these two options below.

Car Hire For Tenerife

The easiest and quickest way to get to Anaga in Tenerife is to drive there yourself. If you’re visiting from abroad, you’ll probably need to hire a car.

Car Hire

DiscoverCars.com

If you don’t have your own car, you should hire one using Discover Cars. Personally, we use Discover Cars and highly recommend them for finding your ideal car hire at an affordable price. Booking online is super easy and the free cancellation policy is great.

To find out more about renting a car with Discover Cars, read our Discover Cars review and Discover Cars Insurance review.

Public Transport: Bus

If you don’t have a car, don’t worry, it’s possible to reach Anaga Rural Park by bus. Thankfully, there are bus services reaching all corners of Anaga, including services to Benijo, Cruz del Carmen and Igueste. Although, it would be quite time-consuming to visit from places in south Tenerife such as El Médano, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, Los Cristianos and Las Americas, as you’d need to catch several buses via Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristobal de La Laguna.

With that said, you’ll have a more direct journey from both Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristobal de La Laguna, depending on exactly where you’re visiting in the Anaga Rural Park. We recommend using Google Maps or the official Titsa bus company website to plan your journey.

Of course, we recommend driving as that’s much more convenient and time efficient. Additionally, you’ll have more freedom and flexibility to explore Anaga Rural Park at your pace, without restriction.

Where to Stay in Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife

When it comes to the best area to stay to explore Anaga in Tenerife, you can either stay in or just outside the Anaga Rural Park.

Staying in the Anaga Rural Park would be an excellent option if you want to really immerse yourself in this natural space. Although, accommodation options are fairly limited and can be pricier.

Below, we’ve handpicked the best budget, mid-range and luxury options for staying in the Anaga Rural Park.

Budget – Albergue Montes de Anaga

Room at Albergue Montes de Anaga

When it comes to a budget stay in the Macizo de Anaga, the standout option is Albergue Montes de Anaga. This hostel offers not only cheap dorm rooms; but, also affordable private rooms. The hostel is beautifully placed in Chamorga, in the heart of Anaga, Tenerife.

Mid-range – Casa Campo y Playa Taganana

Room at Casa campo y Playa Taganana

You’ll enjoy an excellent value for money stay at Casa Campo y Playa Taganana. Located in the coastal area of Taganana, this stylish two-bedroom house features a lovely private terrace and a fully equipped kitchen.

Luxury – Casa Rural Chamorga

Room at Casa Rural Chamorga

If you’re after a country house in the Macizo de Anaga, we recommend Casa Rural Chamorga

Luxury – San Andres Beach View Apartment

Room at San Andres Beach View Apartment

If you want to stay on the coast, then we recommend San Andres Beach View Apartment. This apartment is really impressive regarding amenities, facilities and natural setting.

Where to Stay Near Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife

Most people exploring the Anaga Rural Park will base themselves in either San Cristobal de La Laguna or Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Certainly, from either location, the Anaga Mountains and Forest are just a stone’s throw away. Additionally, these fairly densely populated towns have much more in the way of accommodation options.

San Cristobal de La Laguna

Simply known as La Laguna, this colonial-style town is the ideal base for exploring Anaga, Tenerife. Indeed, Beck and I based ourselves in San Cristobal de La Laguna during our time exploring Anaga in Tenerife.

Budget – Patio Hostel

Room at Patio Hostel

If you’re looking for the best budget option in La Laguna, then look no further than Patio Hostel. Featuring a garden, terrace, shared lounge/kitchen, a tour desk and free luggage storage, you’ll have everything you need for a pleasant stay.

Mid-range – Estudio La Concepción

Room at Estudio La Concepción

Personally, Beck and I stayed at Estudio La Concepción. This small apartment has all the necessary amenities. This includes a well-equipped kitchen, a private bathroom and a cosy living space with a comfortable bed. Certainly, this is one of the best value for money stays in La Laguna.

Luxury – La Laguna Gran Hotel

Room at La Laguna Gran Hotel

The highly rated and popular La Laguna Gran Hotel is the obvious choice when it comes to a more luxurious stay. The hotel has excellent facilities, including a restaurant, fitness centre, bar and swimming pool. Surely, it’s one of the best places to stay in La Laguna.

Search for other accommodation options in San Cristobal de La Laguna here.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Other than staying in San Cristobal de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (AKA Santa Cruz) is another popular base for exploring Macizo de Anaga. Being the capital city of Tenerife, you’ll have the greatest range of accommodation options. With so many options to consider, we’ve narrowed down the list for you below.

Budget – Hotel Océano Centro

Room at Hotel Océano Centro

This hotel is a great budget option. You’ll find rooms at Hotel Océano Centro are even cheaper than hostels in the area. Additionally, people rave about the great location near the beach.

Mid-range – AC Hotel Tenerife by Marriott

Room at AC Hotel Tenerife by Marriott

It’s hard to beat AC Hotel Tenerife by Marriott when it comes to value. The hotel offers free bikes, private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Also, you’ll find a highly-rated restaurant and bar on-site.

Luxury – Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey

Room at Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey

Expect exceptional service at Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey. Despite being an older colonial-style building, the hotel has lovely modern decor. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar.

Search for other accommodation options in Santa Cruz de Tenerife here.

Where to Eat in Anaga, Tenerife

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best places to eat traditional Canaries cuisine in the Anaga Rural Park.

  • Restaurante Cruz del Carmen: conveniently located along the Anaga Mountain Road next to the visitor centre, this restaurant is a popular choice for visitors exploring the Anaga Forest.
  • Casa Santiago: a less touristy option along the Anaga Mountain Road would be Casa Santiago. This restaurant is one of the most highly regarded in Anaga Rural Park.
  • Restaurante La Ola: located along TF-134, you’ll find this highly-rated restaurant opposite Playa de Almáciga.

Bonus tip: if you’re a shoestring traveller or you simply have a busy itinerary exploring Macizo de Anaga, then we recommend packing your own food and drinks. We recommend buying your groceries from Lidl – a franchise budget supermarket that has locations all over the island. Of course, you won’t find a Lidl in the Anaga Rural Park. So, you’ll need to head to one in Santa Cruz de Tenerife beforehand.

What to Pack and Wear

These are our gear essentials for visiting the Anaga Mountains in Tenerife.

Osprey Skarab 30
Osprey Skarab 30

The Osprey Skarab 30 is our go-to hiking backpack for day hikes. This well-designed unisex backpack is comfortable and spacious, so you’ll have plenty of space to pack everything without feeling the strain on your upper back.

Osprey Ultralight Raincover
Osprey Ultralight Raincover

A waterproof backpack cover is an absolute must when you’re adventuring outdoors. The Osprey Ultralight Raincover Medium is a high-quality waterproof cover that’ll keep your backpack bone dry.

GRAYL Reusable Water Bottle
GRAYL Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best water filter bottle that allows you to purify 710mL (12 ounces) of water. This bottle will make water safe to drink wherever you’re hiking.

BUFF Original Ecostretch
BUFF Original Ecostretch

The BUFF Original Ecostretch is a great option when it comes to multifunctional headwear. We use the Ecostretch as a neck gaiter to keep the sun off our necks and it helps us keep warm in cooler climates.

Sony Cybershot RX100 VII
Sony Cybershot RX100 VII

Capture epic photos and videos with the Sony Cybershot RX100 VII. This is hands-down the best compact camera. We love using this simple point-and-shoot camera when we’re hiking as it’s lightweight and durable.

To find out more about all of the gear that we use and recommend, read our guides about our favourite hiking gear, travel gear and camera gear. Otherwise, read our comprehensive travel packing checklist.

FAQs About Anaga, Tenerife

Below, we’ve answered a few of the most frequently asked questions about the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife

Is Anaga Rural Park Free?

Yes!

How to Get to Anaga Tenerife?

Please read How to Get to Anaga in Tenerife.

Which Beach Is Best in Anaga Tenerife?

You’ll have to visit and let us know! Personally, we really liked Playa del Roque de las Bodegas.

Best Anaga Tours

Other than self-exploring, you’ll find excellent organised private and group tours that visit Macizo de Anaga in Tenerife. In particular, Get Your Guide offers highly-rated tours of the Anaga Rural Park. By doing a tour with a local guide, you’ll learn even more about the Macizo de Anaga Biosphere Reserve. This will include learning information about the history of the area as well as learning about the flora and fauna.

We’ve heard great things about GetYourGuide’s Anaga Rural Park Private Tour. Operated by Feel Tenerife, you’ll explore the sublime Anaga Mountains and Forest, whilst visiting remote towns and feasting on local cuisine.

Otherwise, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly tour, we recommend either the Half-Day Hiking in the Anaga Mountains or the 2 Hour Hiking Tour in Anaga Forest.

Bonus Tips

  • Anaga Rural Park weather: the temperatures in Tenerife are usually very dry and hot. So, make sure to pack plenty of water and wear long sleeves, sunscreen and a hat. Although, typically, Anaga Mountains weather is generally cooler than on the coast. Of course, mountain weather is often unpredictable. So, be prepared and have your waterproofs packed, particularly if you’re exploring in the winter.
  • Visit Teide National Park and Teno Rural Park: other than the Anaga Rural Park, make sure to visit Tenerife’s other excellent national and rural parks.
  • Anaga Mountains trail closures: it’s common for trails to close due to landslides or because of track maintenance. We recommend calling the staff at the Macizo de Anaga Biosphere Reserve (+34 922 633 576) or emailing them (rbmacizodeanaga@tenerife.es) to check whether trails are open or closed.

Did you find our guide about the Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife helpful? If so, please let us know in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.

Daniel Piggott

Dan is a travel blogger, physiotherapist, hiker, natural wonder seeker and world traveller. He loves writing travel guides to help his readers explore the most beautiful destinations in the world.

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  1. MR S SINGH says:

    Hi guys

    Amazing information i must say you have covered so much information

    Looks like theres so much to see , we only have say 6 hours or so as we are travelling other areas, mount teide etc

    I just wanted to know if we do the hike re 2. Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo where is the nearest place we can park our hired car?

    Or if this isnt a good option what would you say for beginners/moderate walkers?

    we actually do like the sound of the 6. Sendero de los Sentidos (Path of the Senses) , so can both of above be done on same day ??

    Please advise especially parking?

    • Daniel Piggott says:

      Hi there,

      Thanks for reading our blog!

      For the Playa de Benijo to El Draguillo Hike, it’s possible to park near the trailhead here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mwK9VkzcMEWHEnDdA

      But, parking does fill up quickly, so you’ll want to arrive early.

      Despite being a relatively short walk regarding distance, it’s quite steep at times with considerable elevation gain. So, just bear this in mind!

      It’s definitely possible to do this walk and Sendero de los Sentidos on the same day.

      Have a great time in Tenerife.

      Cheers,
      Dan

  2. Eva says:

    I just spent a couple of days researching hiking in Tenerife for my upcoming trip and I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for your blogs/hiking guides. These are hands down the most comprehensive and informative summaries I have come across 🙂 thanks a lot!!!

    • Daniel Piggott says:

      Hi Eva,

      It’s our pleasure, we’re glad you’ve found our guides helpful.

      Have a great time hiking in Tenerife.

      Cheers,
      Dan